TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed
to an authorized Service Center.
PROBLEM
CAUSE
CORRECTION
Loss of power
1. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in heavy grass.
2. Cutting too much grass.
3. Dirty air filter.
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
5. Too much oil in engine.
6. Walking speed too fast.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Raise cutting height.
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level.
6. Cut at slower walking speed.
Poor cut –
uneven
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Wheel heights uneven.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
3. Clean underside of
mower housing.
Excessive
vibration
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Contact a qualified service
center.
Starter rope
hard to pull
1. Engine flywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to
when control bar is released.
upper handle before
pulling starter rope.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
2. Contact a qualified service
center.
DELUXE PUSH ROTARY
LAWN MOWER
3. Blade adapter broken.
4. Blade dragging in grass.
3. Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.
Grass catcher
not filling
(If so equipped)
1. Cutting height too low.
2. Lift on blade worn off.
3. Catcher not venting air.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Replace blade.
3. Clean grass catcher.
Hard to push
1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
1. Raise cutting height.
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in grass.
3. Grass catcher too full.
4. Handle height position not
right for you.
2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to suit.
WARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it
should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California
Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply
on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest
authorized service center.
193732 Rev. 3 03.26.07 BY
Printed in U.S.A.
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• Removeobstacles(rocks, treelimbs, etc.)
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
away from your vehicle before filling.
• Removegas-poweredequipmentfromthe
truckortrailerandrefuelitontheground. If
thisisnotpossible, thenrefuelsuchequip-
mentwithaportablecontainer, ratherthan
from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
of the fuel tank or container opening at
all times until fueling is complete. Do not
use a nozzle lock-open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap
and tighten securely.
STORAGE
Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
Operator
presence
control bar
MOWING
DO NOT:
storage at the end of the season or if the
unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
POSITION
• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot-
ing could cause slipping.
FOLD
FORWARD
FOR
Upper
handle
III. CHILDREN
LAWN MOWER
STORAGE
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
notalerttothepresenceofchildren.Children
are often attracted to the machine and the
mowing activity. Never assume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
When lawn mower is to be stored for a pe-
riod of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all
dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean,
dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See “CLEAN-
ING” in the Maintenance section of this
manual).
Handle
knob
V. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run machine inside a closed area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
theengine(motor)running.Disconnectthe
spark plug wire, and keep the wire away
fromtheplugtopreventaccidentalstarting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
Lower handle
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Replace if necessary.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
2 POSITION / “ADJUSTABLE” HANDLES
When setting you handles up from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into mowing position.
• Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small children.
• Neverallowchildrentooperatethemower.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation regularly.
3 POSITION HANDLES
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
• Keepmachinefreeofgrass,leaves,orother
debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage.
Allow machine to cool before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine is running.
• Grass catcher components are subject to
wear, damage, and deterioration, which
couldexposemovingpartsorallowobjects
tobethrown.Frequentlycheckcomponents
and replace with manufacturer’s recom-
mended parts, when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor set-
ting or overspeed the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruc-
tion labels, as necessary.
When setting up your handle from the stor-
age position, the lower handle will require
manually locking into the mowing position.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
Use extreme care in handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes
and other sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with
the engine running. Allow engine to cool
before refueling.
• Never refuel the machine indoors.
• Never store the machine or fuel contain-
er where there is an open flame, spark
or pilot light such as a water heater or on
other appliances.
HANDLE
3 POSITION “EZ”
Your handle may be folded for storage as
shown.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower
handle towards each other until handle
clears the handle brackets and swing
handles forward over mower.
Knob
Bolt
Handle
adjustment
bracket
• Loosen upper handle mounting hard-
ware enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding handles for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold
handles as shown or you may damage the
control cables.
• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place containers on the ground
SQUEEZE
TO FOLD
3 POSITION “QUICK”
CONGRATULATIONSonyourpurchaseofanewLawnMower. Ithasbeendesigned, engi-
neered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.
Should you experience any problems you cannot easily remedy, please contact your
nearest authorized service center. They have competent, well trained technicians and
the proper tools to service or repair this unit.
Lower handle
Handle pin
SQUEEZE
Handle
adjustment
bracket
• Read the SAFETY RULES and this Operator's Manual in its entirety before you at-
tempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower to insure proper operation and to
prevent injury to yourself and others. Save this manual for future reference.
• Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those
parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation
of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely.
Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
• All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag.
18
3
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3 POSITION “EZ”
REAR DEFLECTOR (IF EQUIPPED)
TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON
The handle on your lawn mower has three
(3) height positions - adjust to height that
suits you.
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower
into the operator mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
• Remove all loose parts from carton.
• Remove lawn mower housing with care. Avoid touching blade under housing. Always
wear gloves or other protection when working under or lifting mower.
• Remove knob and carriage bolt on one
side of the lower handle.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU ASSEMBLE OR OPERATE YOUR LAWN
MOWER
• While holding handle assembly, remove
knob and carriage bolt from opposite
side, align hole in handle with desired
hole in handle bracket and reassemble
bolt and knob and tighten securely.
• Align opposite side of handle with same
positioning hole and secure with bolt and
knob.
Do I have a side or rear discharge lawn
mower?
What is the right and left side of the
lawn mower?
When right hand (RH) or left hand (LH) is
mentioned in this manual, it means when
you are in the operating position (standing
behind the handle).
Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower. If the opening is on the right
side of the mower housing, it is a side
discharge mower. If the opening is at the
back of the mower housing, it is a rear dis-
charge mower. Only rear discharge lawn
mowers have a grass catcher included with
the mower. Approved grass catchers for
side discharge mowers may be purchased
from your nearest authorized dealer.
Do I have a mulching lawn mower?
Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower. Raise the discharge guard
(rear door on rear discharge mowers). If
the opening is closed off by a plate, then
your lawn mower is mulcher ready. To
convert to a discharging mower, see the
Operation section of this manual.
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
The carburetor has been preset at the fac-
tory and adjustment should not be neces-
sary. However, minor adjustment may be
required to compensate for differences in
fuel, temperature, altitude or load.
• The air filter must be assembled to the
carburetor when running engine.
What kind of engine is on my lawn
mower?
High
When learning how to operate your new
lawn mower, you will need to know what
kind of engine powers the mower. A decal
on the engine will indicate the manu-
facturer and type or brand name of the
engine.
Bolt
Med.
Low
• Best carburetor adjustment is obtained
when fuel tank is 1/4 full.
Handle
adjustment
bracket
• In order for the engine to run, the opera-
tor presence control bar must be held
in the operating position. Therefore,
and assistant will be required to hold
the control bar in the operating position
when making final adjustment to the
carburetor.
BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES
See the ADJUSTMENT section of your
engine manual for further instructions.
FRONT
Knob
3 POSITION “QUICK”
ENGINE SPEED
The handle on your lawn mower has three
(3) height positions - adjust to height that
suits you.
The engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
as it may result in personal injury. If you
believe the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized engine service center for repair
and adjustment.
LEFT
HAND
SIDE
RIGHT
HAND
SIDE
TECUMSEH
ENGINES
HONDA
ENGINES
• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower
handle towards each other until the pin
in handle can be inserted into one of the
three height adjustment holes.
High
Handle pin
®
Handle
adjustment
bracket
BACK or REAR
(Operating Position)
Medium
THROTTLE CONTROL
If it becomes necessary to adjust or re-
place the throttle control, see the ADJUST-
MENT section of your engine manual.
SQUEEZE
Low
ASSEMBLY
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
CAUTION: Do not operate this lawn
mower without the discharge guard or an
entire approved grass catcher in place.
These guards are for your protection and
are required by the American National
Standards Institute and Consumer Prod-
ucts Safety Commission.
2 POSITION / “ADJUSTABLE” HANDLES
• Raise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in operating position.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with plug.
4
17
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Operator
presence
control bar
MOWING
AIR FILTER
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.
• Clean the underside of your lawn mower
by scraping to remove buildup of grass
and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
ALL HANDLES
POSITION
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Clean the element after every 25 hours of
operation or every season. Replace the air
filter every 100 hours of operation or every
season, whichever occurs first. Service air
cleaner more often under dusty conditions.
See the maintenance section of your
engine manual.
• Raise upper handle section into place on
lower handle, remove protective padding
and tighten both handle knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding opera-
tor presence control bar to upper handle.
• Your lawn mower handle can be ad-
justed for your mowing comfort. Refer to
“ADJUST HANDLE” in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
LIFT
UP
LIFT
UP
Upper
handle
We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean your lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter, and
carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can shorten engine life.
GRASS CATCHER (IF SO EQUIPPED)
Grass catcher may be hosed with water
but must be dry when used.
CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
catcher material is subject to deterioration
and wear and should therefore be checked
to ensure compliance with original
manufacturer specifications.
NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
wheels on your lawn mower may not be
adjusted to the same position as the front
wheels. Before operating mower adjust all
wheels to the same cutting height.
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
Handle
knob
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plug at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, whichever occurs first.
Set spark plug gap according to engine
manual specifications.
Lower handle
3 POSITION “EZ” HANDLES
INSTALL REAR WHEELS
(HIGH WHEEL MOWERS ONLY)
• Raise lower handle section to operating
position and align hole in handle with
one of three height positioning holes.
• Insert handle bolt through handle and
bracket and secure with knob.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of grass build-up and
Some high wheel models require washers
whichwillbeprovidedinapartsbag. Ifprovid-
ed,installwashersontheaxlefirstasshown.
• Install one (1) rear wheel on the axle of
rear wheel adjuster.
• Install3/8-16locknutandtightensecurely.
• Repeat procedure for other rear wheel.
• Repeat for opposite side of handle.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
Knob
Bolt
CAUTION: Before performing any service or adjustments:
• Release operator presence control bar.
Wheel
assembly
Axle
Handle
adjustment
bracket
• Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
Mowing
position
Mowing
position
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See “TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT” in
the Operation section of this manual.
Wave
Washers
Hairpin
Handle
bracket
Flanged
locknut
TO ADJUST HANDLE
2 POSITION HANDLES
cotter
3 POSITION “QUICK” HANDLES
Mounting
pin
The handle can be mounted in a high or
low position. The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle.
• Remove upper handle and all parts at-
tached to lower handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
• Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
• Turn lower handle over to raise or lower
handle.
• Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
• Raise lower handle section to operating
position and squeeze the bottom ends
of lower handle towards each other until
the pin in handle can be inserted into
one of the three height adjustment holes.
LOW POSITION
HIGH POSITION
ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
(REAR DISCHARGE MOWERS ONLY)
Handle pin
SQUEEZE
IMPORTANT: If your model lawn mower
is mulcher ready, the mulcher plate or plug
must be removed before using mower as
a bagger. To convert mower to bagging or
discharging, see the Operation section in
this manual.
Look at the different grass catcher illustra-
tions that follow. Determine which type
of grass catcher you have and follow the
appropriate instructions.
Handle
adjustment
bracket
TURN LOWER
HANDLE OVER
TO ADJUST HEIGHT
• Reassemble hairpin cotters onto mount-
ing pins.
• Reassemble upper handle and all parts
removed from lower handle.
16
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“FABRIC TOP” GRASS CATCHERS
TO ASSEMBLE AND ATTACH GRASS
CATCHER
• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
HINGE BRACKET MOUNTED
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when perform-
ing any maintenance.
Rear door
TIRES
Hinge bracket
Blade adapter
Key
Crankshaft
keyway
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
Grass
catcher
frame
Lockwasher
Blade
• Lift the rear door on the mower housing.
• For HINGE BRACKET mounted catcher,
place the grass catcher frame onto the
formed tabs on the rear door hinge
bracket.
• For HANDLE BRACKET mounted
catcher, place frame side hooks into
slots in handle brackets.
• For DOOR PIVOT PIN mounted catcher,
place the grass catcher frame hooks
onto the door pivot pins.
• For DOOR SLOT mounted catcher,
place the grass catcher frame hooks into
the slots of the rear door.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept
sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.
CAUTION: Use only a replacement
blade approved by the manufacturer of
your mower. Using a blade not approved
by the manufacturer of your mower is
hazardous, could damage your mower and
void your warranty.
Blade
bolt
Hardened
washer
Trailing edge
Crankshaft
Formed tabs
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to
sharpen while on the mower.
TO REMOVE BLADE
HANDLE BRACKET MOUNTED
Handle bracket hooks
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
Rear
door
Grass
catcher
handle
NOTE: The grass catcher is secured to the
lawn mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
• To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
Frame
handle
Catcher frame side hook
ENGINE
DOOR PIVOT PIN MOUNTED
Pivot pins
Read the maintenance section of your
engine manual.
Rear
door
Grass
catcher
handle
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.
The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
LUBRICATION
Change the oil after the first two hours of
operation and every 25 hours thereafter or
at least once a year if the lawn mower is
not used for 25 hours in one year. Refer to
engine manual.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
(SEE ENGINE MANUAL)
• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Catch oil in a suitable container.
• For engines without dipstick, remove
bottom oil drain plug.
• For engines with oil fill cap/dipstick,
remove bottom drain plug or remove en-
gine oil cap and turn mower on its side.
• After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely.
• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not overfill.
Vinyl
bindings
Frame
opening
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade adapter on the en-
gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter
and crankshaft keyway are aligned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op-
posite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock wash-
er and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
Catcher frame hook
catcher material is subject to deterioration
and wear and should, therefore, be
checked frequently for replacement. Any
replacement catcher should be checked to
ensure compliance with original manufac-
turer's specifi cations.
DOOR SLOT MOUNTED
Rear door slots
Grass
catcher
handle
CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower
without the discharge guard (rear door),
approved grass catcher, clipping deflector
or mulcher plate in place. Never attempt
to operate mower with the discharge guard
(rear door) removed or propped open.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. lbs.
• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole or
to “FULL” line on dipstick on models so
equipped. Keep oil at proper level.
Catcher frame hook
6
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UNITS WITH DECK-MOUNTED
BATTERY:
SPARK PLUG BOOT
MAINTENANCE
On some models a spark plug boot is
packed loose in the parts bag. If your
model has the boot, install on spark plug
wire and reconnect spark plug wire to
spark plug.
• After charging, connect engine connector
(male) to battery connector (female).
Your engine has an integral alternator for
partial charging. Connect your battery
charger to charge battery as required.
IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will
not charge a discharged battery.
BEFORE AFTER EVERY
EVERY
EVERY
100
BEFORE
STORAGE
EACH
USE
EACH
USE
10
25 HOURS
HOURS OR SEASON HOURS
Check for Loose Fasteners
Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *
Check Tires
Spark plug
Check Drive Wheels ***
Clean Lawn Mower ****
Clean under Drive Cover ***
Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***
Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade
Lubrication
ALL UNITS:
At the end of the mowing season the
battery should be charged for 48 hours to
protect the battery during winter storage.
CAUTION: Always disconnect the
engine connector from the battery con-
nector to prevent accidental starting when
transporting or storing your lawn mower
after the season.
Clean and Recharge Battery **
Check Engine Oil level
Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Filter
Boot
Inspect Muffler
Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer
HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY SWITCH
TO PREPARE BATTERY
(ELECTRIC START MODELS ONLY)
Engine
Harness
connector
(female)
connector
(male)
NOTE: Your battery must be charged
before you can start your lawn mower.
(if so equipped)
1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.
2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.
*
Electric-Start mowers
Power-Propelled mowers
Use a scraper
to clean under deck
**
UNITS WITH HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY
SWITCH:
***
****
5 - And after each 5 hours of use.
• Connect battery charger connector
(male) to harness connector (female).
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
LUBRICATION CHART
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to op-
erator abuse or negligence. To receive full
valuefromthewarranty,operatormustmain-
tain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air filter element, and
check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and clean/new air filter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
UNITS WITH DECK-MOUNTED
BATTERY:
• Disconnect engine connector (male)
from battery connector (female).
• Connect battery charger connector
(male) to battery connector (female).
➀ Wheel
Battery
charger
adjuster (on
each wheel)
Charger
connector (male)
➁ Engine oil
DECK-MOUNTED BATTERY
ALL UNITS:
• Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.
outlet.
• Leave battery charger connected for 24
hours before starting your engine for the
first time.
Battery charger
Battery
box
➀ Side dis-
charge mower
guard hinge rod
Charger
connector
(male)
Harness
connector
(female)
UNITS WITH HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY
SWITCH:
• After charging, disconnect harness
connector (female) from battery charger
connector (male).
➀ Rear dis-
charge mower
rear door
• Follow the Maintenance Schedule in this
manual.
hinge rod
Connect your battery charger to charge
battery after each use.
IMPORTANT: The engine will not recharge
your battery.
➀ Handle bracket mounting pins
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
Engine connector (male)
➀ Spray lubricant
See “ENGINE” in Maintenance section.
➁
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life
of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
(See “LUBRICATION CHART”).
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
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MOWING TIPS
FOR MULCHING MOWERS ONLY
- MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. See "CLEANING" in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
OPERATION
CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher
blade attachments on your mower. Such
attachments are hazardous, will damage
your mower and could void your warranty.
• For most cutting conditions and better
bagging performance, the engine speed
should be set in the FAST position.
• Under certain conditions, such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise the mower
height on the first cut to reduce pushing
effort, to avoid overheating the engine,
and to avoid leaving clumps of grass
clippings. Make the second cut to the
desired height.
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into
the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any
adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide
vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
• The special mulching blade will recut the
grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn they will disperse into the grass
and not be noticed. Also, the mulched
grass will biodegrade quickly to provide
nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with
your highest engine (blade) speed as
this will provide the best recutting action
of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the early
afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried, yet the newly cut area will not be
exposed to direct sunlight.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it
will be necessary to raise the height of
cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
from overloading the engine and leaving
clumps of mulched grass. For extremely
heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by
overlapping previously cut path and mow
slowly.
• Reinstall wheel components in the same
order as they were before removal.
Tighten securely.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
MODELS WITH REMOTE THROTTLE
• Make sure all wheels are at same height.
Engine speed is controlled by the throttle
control located on the upper handle.
• Move lever forward to FAST engine
speed for starting and better bagging.
• Move lever backward for SLOW engine
speed.
Flat washer
Wheel
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut.
• For side discharge lawn mowers, cut in
a counterclockwise direction, starting at
the outside of the area to be cut, in order
to spread grass clippings more evenly
and to put less load on the engine. To
keep clippings off of walkways, flower
beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock-
wise direction.
• Some models have engines equipped
with a choke feature. Move the lever all
the way forward to the CHOKE position
when starting a cold engine.
Bolt
3/8-16
Locknut
Spacer
SLOW
FAST
MODELS WITH “QUICK ADJUST”
WHEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTERS
CHOKE
(START)
NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
wheels on your lawn mower may not be
adjusted to the same position as the front
wheels. Before operating mower adjust all
wheels to the same cutting height.
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns.
MAX 1/3
• When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps
of cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing
speed) and/or run the lawn mower over
the area a second time.
• If a trail of grass clipping is left on the
right side of a rear discharge lawn mow-
er, mow in a clockwise direction with a
small overlap to collect the clippings on
the next pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-
come filled with dirt and dust with use
and the catcher will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before use.
Remote
throttle
control
• Tochangecuttingheight,squeezeadjuster
lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or
down to suit your requirements. Be sure
all wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when
plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-
position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever
to be positioned between the plate tabs.
MODELS WITH FIXED SPEED ENGINES
Engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Engine speed is
not adjustable.
• Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a second
cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the
first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting and
graining of the lawn.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
Plate tab
Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns. Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
MODELS WITH MANUAL ADJUST
BOLT-ON WHEELS
• Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and
reassemble in desired adjustment hole.
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever
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MULCHER PLUG BUILT INTO REAR DOOR
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
Read the engine manual packed with your
mower.
TO START ENGINE
CAUTION: The mower blade rotates
whenever the engine is running.
FOR MULCHING MOWERS ONLY
Most mulching mowers are shipped ready
to be used as a mulcher.
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.
• Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
“REAR DISCHARGE ONLY” MOWERS
• Move engine speed control to FAST
position (or to CHOKE/START position
on models equipped with choke feature).
• If your mower has a primer, to start a
cold engine, push primer as many times
as instructed in the engine manual
packed with your mower. Use a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has
already run for a few minutes.
• Hold operator presence control bar
down against handle.
MODELS WITH RECOIL STARTER
• Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow
starter rope to snap back.
MODELS WITH ELECTRIC STARTER
• Push the engine start button (or turn the
key on models so equipped).
IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more
than five continous seconds each time you
try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds between
each attempt.
Some models have a seperate mulcher
plug, other models have the mulcher plug
built into the rear door. To convert to bag-
ging or discharging, the plate or plug (if
so equipped) must be removed from the
discharge opening of the lawn mower.
• Open rear door and remove mulcher
plate or plug (if so equipped). Store
mulcher plate or plug in a safe place.
• You can now install grass catcher or
optional clipping deflector accessory.
• To return to mulching operation, install
mulcher plate or plug into discharge
opening of mower.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without mulcher plate/plug in place or ap-
proved clipping deflector or grass catcher
in place. Never attempt to operate the
lawn mower with the rear door removed or
propped open.
• Remove engine oil filler plug (oil fill cap/
dipstick on models so equipped).
• Slowly add oil. For type and grade of
oil to use, see “ENGINE” in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
• Fill to the top of slot in filler hole (to
“FULL” line on dipstick on models so
equipped). Do not overfill.
• Replace plug (oil fill cap/dipstick on
models so equipped) and tighten.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil
as needed.
• To change oil, see Maintenance section
of this manual.
FILL GASOLINE TANK
• Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, un-
leaded gasoline. DO NOT USE PRE-
MIUM GASOLINE. BE CAREFUL NOT
TO OVERFILL TANK.
WARNING: Alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation
and formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system
of an engine while in storage. To avoid
engine problems, the fuel system should
be emptied before storage of 30 days
or longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the
engine and let it run until fuel lines and
carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
“SIDE DISCHARGE ONLY” MOWERS
MULCHER PLATE TYPE
ALL MODELS
MULCHER "PLATE"
To convert to bagging or discharging,
mulcher plate must be removed from un-
derside of lawn mower.
• Remove the four (4) screws and lock nuts
securing the mulcher plate to the mower.
• Store mulcher plate and hardware in a
safe place.
• Mower can now be used for side
discharging or optional grass catcher
accessory can be attached.
• To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate and tighten hard-
ware securely.
• For engines equipped with choke, slowly
move engine speed control lever to
FAST after engine starts.
TO STOP ENGINE
• To STOP engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
NOTE: For engines with a primer, it may
be necessary to repeat priming steps
in cooler weather. In warmer weather,
overpriming may cause flooding and
engine will not start. If you do flood
engine, wait a few minutes before
attempting to start and DO NOT repeat
priming steps.
Slots
Screw and
lock nut
Mulcher
plate tabs
MULCHER "PLUG"
Operator
presence
control bar
Recoil
starter
handle
Mulcher plate
Mulcher plug
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12
9
MULCHER PLUG TYPE “A”
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear mulcher plate or plug in place
or approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
To convert to mulching operation, mulcher
plug must be installed into discharge open-
ing of mower.
• Open discharge guard.
• Insert tab of mulch plug into housing
opening.
• Align hooks of mulch plug over hinge
rod of discharge guard. Push mulch plug
down until mulch plug is seated in hous-
ing opening.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass
catcher or mulcher plug in place.
MOWER IS
NOW READY
FOR MULCHING
OPERATION
Open mulcher door
Discharge deflector
GRASS CATCHER
(REAR BAGGING MODELS ONLY)
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
• Simply open rear door and lift grass
catcher up and away from mower.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying. It will cause unnecessary wear.
CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
catcher material is subject to deterioration
and wear and should, therefore, be
checked frequently for replacement. Any
replacement catcher should be checked
to ensure compliance with original
manufacturer's specifi cations.
CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower
without the rear door, approved grass
catcher or clipping deflector in place.
Never attempt to operate mower with the
rear door removed or propped open.
Hinge rod
Discharge
guard
“COMBI-CUT” MOWERS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Open rear door and remove mulcher
plate. Store mulcher plate in a safe
place.
• You can now install grass catcher.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, install mulcher plug into rear
discharge opening of mower, making
sure all tabs are seated properly.
Housing
opening
Hooks
Mulcher plug
Tab
MULCHER PLUG TYPE “B”
To convert to bagging or discharging:
• Lift discharge guard and remove
mulcher plug.
• Mower can now be used for side dis-
charging or optional grass catcher can
be attached.
• To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plug as shown, making
sure tab is seated properly.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass
catcher or mulcher plug in place.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL
BAR
Your lawn mower is equipped with an op-
erator presence control bar which requires
the operator to be positioned behind the
lawn mower handle in order to start and
operate the lawn mower.
CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the
risk of blade contact injury. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN
CONVERTING YOUR “COMBI-CUT”
LAWN MOWER
Slots
FOR MULCHING -
Mulcher
plate tabs
• Rear mulcher plate installed and rear
door closed.
• Mulcher door closed.
SIDE DISCHARGING
• Mulcher plate must be installed into rear
discharge opening of mower (see above
instructions).
• Open mulcher door and install discharge
deflector under door as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door must be
closed.
Lift
discharge
guard
FOR REAR BAGGING -
• Rear mulcher plate removed.
• Grass catcher installed.
• Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
• Rear mulcher plate installed and rear
door closed.
• Discharge deflector installed.
Install
mulcher plug
Tab
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