Owner’s Manual
¨SET-UP ¨OPERATION ¨MAINTENANCE
IMPORTANT: Read
Safety Rules and
Instructions Carefully
PRINTED IN CANADA
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OG-4905
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
• LOCATE YOUR MODEL NUMBER AND SERIAL NUMBER which appears on your unit and
record the information in the space provided below.
IMPORTANT: You must have these numbers, along with the date and proof of
purchase to receive warranty or service.
• If you are having difficulty assembling this product or if you have any questions regarding the
controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
• Customer Support can be reached by dialing: 1-800-668-1238
• Please have your model number and serial number ready when you call.
NOTE: Although both numbers are important, you will be asked to enter only your
serial number before your call can be processed.
This is where your model number will be,
record model number here:
This is where your serial number will be,
record serial number here:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
SLOPE GAUGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
ADJUSTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
LUBRICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
MAINTENANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
OFF SEASON STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
REPLACEMENT PARTS/PIÈCES DÉTACHÉES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
WARRANTY: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
TROUBLE SHOOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
2
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This unit has been inspected against the manufacturers quality check list. In case of a discrep-
ancy, please call us. We will make every effort to ship the part(s) by courier within one working
day of your call.
IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not fol-
lowed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others.
Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this
machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol—
heed its warning.
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe op-
eration in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error
on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of
amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following
safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
GENERAL OPERATION
• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and
close-fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and
pants that cover the arms and legs and
steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals,
slippery or light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions
on the machine and in the manual(s) before
attempting to assemble and operate. Keep
this manual in a safe place for future and
regular reference and for ordering replace-
ment parts.
• Many injuries occur as a result of the mower
being pulled over the foot during a fall
caused by slipping or tripping. Do not hold
on to the mower if you are falling; release
the handle immediately.
• Be familiar with all controls and their proper
operation. Know how to stop the machine
and disengage them quickly.
• Never allow children under 14 years old to
operate this machine. Children 14 years old
and over should read and understand the
operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and su-
pervised by a parent.
• Never pull the mower back toward you while
you are walking. If you must back the
mower away from a wall or obstruction first
look down and behind to avoid tripping and
then follow these steps:
a) Step back from the mower to fully extend
your arms.
• Never allow adults to operate this machine
without proper instruction.
b) Be sure you are well balanced with sure
footing.
• To help avoid blade contact or a thrown ob-
ject injury, keep bystanders, helpers,
children and pets at least 75 feet from the
machine while it is in operation. Stop ma-
chine if anyone enters the area.
c) Pull the mower back slowly, no more than
half way toward you.
d) Repeat these steps as needed.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the
equipment is to be used. Remove all stones,
sticks, wire, bones, toys and other foreign
objects which could be tripped over or
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown
objects can cause serious personal injury.
• Do not operate the mower while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts
or under the cutting deck. Contact with the
blade can amputate hands and feet.
• A missing or damaged discharge cover can
cause blade contact or thrown object inju-
ries.
• Plan your mowing pattern to avoid dis-
charge of material toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid dis-
charging material against
a
wall or
• Do not engage the self-propelled mecha-
nism on units so equipped while starting
engine.
obstruction which may cause discharged
material to ricochet back toward the opera-
tor.
• Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting
height adjustment while the engine is run-
ning.
• Always wear safety glasses or safety gog-
gles during operation and while performing
an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes.
Thrown objects which ricochet can cause
serious injury to the eyes.
• The blade control handle is a safety device.
Never attempt to bypass its operation.
Doing so makes the safety device inopera-
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tive and may result in personal injury
through contact with the rotating blade. The
blade control handle must operate easily in
both directions and automatically return to
the disengaged position when released.
DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes; never up
and down. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes. Watch for
holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
objects which can cause you to slip or trip.
Tall grass can hide obstacles. Always be
sure of your footing. A slip and fall can
cause serious personal injury. If you feel you
are losing your balance, release the blade
control handle immediately, and the blade
will stop rotating within 3 seconds.
• Never operate the mower in wet grass. Al-
ways be sure of your footing. A slip and fall
can cause serious personal injury. If you feel
you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the
blade will stop rotating within three seconds.
• Mow only in daylight or in good artificial
light. Walk, never run.
DO NOT:
• Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives,
walks or roads.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or em-
bankments, you could lose your footing or
balance.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate ab-
normally, stop the engine and check
immediately for the cause. Vibration is gen-
erally a warning of trouble.
• Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees
as shown on the slope gauge.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing
could cause slipping.
• Shut the engine off and wait until the blade
comes to a complete stop before removing
the grass catcher or unclogging the chute.
The cutting blade continues to rotate for a
few seconds after the engine is shut off.
Never place any part of the body in the
blade area until you are sure the blade has
stopped rotating.
CHILDREN
• Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
not alert to the presence of children. Children
are often attracted to the mower and the
mowing activity. They do not understand the
dangers. Never assume that children will re-
main where you last saw them.
• Never operate mower without proper trail
shield, discharge cover, grass catcher, blade
control handle or other safety protective de-
vices in place and working. Never operate
mower with damaged safety devices. Failure
to do so, can result in personal injury.
a) Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of a respon-
sible adult other than the operator.
b) Be alert and turn mower off if a child en-
ters the area.
• Muffler and engine become hot and can
cause a burn. Do not touch.
c) Before and while moving backwards, look
behind and down for small children.
• Only use parts and accessories made for
this machine by the manufacturer. Failure to
do so, can result in personal injury.
d) Use extreme care when approaching
blind corners, doorways, shrubs, trees, or
other objects that may obscure your vi-
sion of a child who may run into the
mower.
• If situations occur which are not covered in
this manual, use care and good judgment.
Contact your customer support department.
e) Keep children away from hot or running
engines. They can suffer burns from a hot
muffler.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and
fall accidents which can result in severe in-
jury. Operation on slopes requires extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do
not mow it. For your safety, use the slope
gauge included as part of this manual to
measure slopes before operating this unit on
a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater
than 15 degrees, do not mow it.
• Never allow children under 14 years old to
operate a power mower. Children 14 years
old and over should read and understand
the operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and su-
pervised by a parent.
SERVICE SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE:
• To avoid personal injury or property damage
use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gas-
oline is extremely flammable and the vapors
are explosive. Serious personal injury can
occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or
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your clothes which can ignite. Wash your
skin and change clothes immediately.
GENERAL SERVICE:
• Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly
ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains car-
bon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
a) Use only an approved gasoline container.
b) Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place containers on the ground
away from your vehicle before filling.
• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting,
make certain the blade and all moving parts
have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug
wire and ground against the engine to pre-
vent unintended starting.
c) When practical, remove gas-powered
equipment from the truck or trailer and
refuel it on the ground. If this is not possi-
ble, then refuel such equipment on a
trailer with a portable container, rather
than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
• Check the blade and engine mounting bolts
at frequent intervals for proper tightness.
Also, visually inspect blade for damage
(e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade
with the original equipment manufacturer’s
(O.E.M.) blade only, listed in this manual.
“Use of parts which do not meet the original
equipment specifications may lead to im-
proper performance and compromise
safety!”
d) 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.
e) Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes
and other sources of ignition.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap
the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra
caution when servicing them.
f) Never fuel machine indoors.
g) Never remove gas cap or add fuel while
the engine is hot or running. Allow en-
gine to cool at least two minutes before
refueling.
• Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be
sure the equipment is in safe working condi-
tion.
h) Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no
more than ½ inch below bottom of filler
neck to provide space for fuel expansion.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation regularly.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the en-
gine, disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground against the engine. Thoroughly in-
spect the mower for any damage. Repair the
damage before starting and operating the
mower.
i) Replace gasoline cap and tighten se-
curely.
j) If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine
and equipment. Move unit to another
area. Wait 5 minutes before starting the
engine.
• Grass catcher components, discharge cover,
and trail shield are subject to wear and
damage which could expose moving parts
or allow objects to be thrown. For safety
protection, frequently check components
and replace immediately with original equip-
ment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only,
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do
not meet the original equipment specifica-
tions may lead to improper performance
and compromise safety!”
k) Never store the machine or fuel container
inside where there is an open flame,
spark or pilot light as on a water heater,
space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or
other gas appliances.
l) To reduce fire hazard, keep machine free
of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up.
Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove
any fuel soaked debris.
m) Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes
before storing.
• Do not change the engine governor setting
or overspeed the engine. The governor con-
trols the maximum safe operating speed of
the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction la-
bels, as necessary.
• Observe proper disposal laws and regula-
tions. Improper disposal of fluids and
materials can harm the environment.
SI-102
7.23.03
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OWNER'S
MANUAL
WARNING - Your Responsibility:
SAFETY LABEL
Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who
read, understand and follow the warnings and instruc-
tions in this manual and on the machine.
SLOPE GAUGE
(Keep this sheet in a safe place for future reference.)
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SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE
brackets. Place the hairpin clips in the inner
hole. See Figure 2.
or OIL. After assembly, service engine with
gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
• Place one carriage bolt (found in the hard-
ware pack included with your unit) in the
upper hole of the right handle mounting
bracket from the inside outward. Secure
with one plastic wing nuts. Repeat process
on other side. See Figure 2.
NOTE: Reference to right or left
hand side of the mower is observed
from the operating position.
HOW TO SET-UP YOUR LAWN MOWER
NOTE: Make certain the drive cable is
routed around the outside and above
the lower handle so it does not interfere
with attaching the grass bag.
Refer to Illustration Below
• Disconnect the spark plug wire and move it
away from spark plug as instructed in the
separate engine manual packed with your
unit.
• The rope guide (pigs tail) is part of the grass
catcher support rod attached to the lower
handle. See Figure 3. With the spark plug
wire disconnected and grounded as in-
structed in the separate engine manual,
hold the blade control handle against the up-
per handle, and pull the starter rope out of
the engine slowly until it extends past the
rope guide (pigs tail).
• Remove the carton inserts (if any). Remove
the loose parts which are in the carton, lift
the mower from the carton, or cut the cor-
ners of the carton and roll the mower out.
• Pull up and back on the upper handle to
raise the handle into the operating position.
See Figure 1. Make certain the lower handle
is seated securely into the handle mounting
brackets. Tighten the wing nuts on each side
of the handle. See Figure 2.
• Guide the starter rope around the rope guide
(pig tail) until the rope is securely in the cen-
ter.
• Remove the hairpin clips from the outer hole
in the weld pins on the handle mounting
• Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened
securely.
Upper
Handle
Wing Nut
Cutting Height
Adjustment Lever
Rope Guide
Lower Handle
Handle Mounting
Bracket
Blade Control Handle
Drive Clutch
Control
Shift Lever
Figure 1
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Upper Hole
Carriage
Bolt
Lower Handle
Lower
Handle
Recoil
Starter
Support
Rod
Rope
Guide
Weld Pin
Place the hairpin clips in the inner hole.
Figure 2
Wing Nut
Figure 3
Ignition Key (Switch)
CONTROLS
BLADE CONTROL HANDLE
WARNING: This control mechanism
is a safety device. Never attempt to
bypass its operations.
The blade control handle is located on the
upper handle of the mower. See Figure 1.
The blade control handle must be depressed
in order to operate the unit. Release the
blade control handle to stop the engine and
blade.
Figure 4-(Electric Start Units Only)
NOTE: Only move the shift lever when
the engine is running. Changing the
shift lever setting with the engine off
can cause damage to the mower.
WARNING: The blade will be rotat-
ing whenever the engine is running.
RECOIL STARTER
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVER
(Models: 959 & 979)
The recoil starter handle is attached to the
handle. See Figure 3. Stand behind the unit
in the operating position to start the unit.
The height adjuster determines the cutting
height of the mower. The adjuster is located
above the left rear wheel. To adjust the cut-
ting height, pull the lever out and away from
the mower and then move it forward or back
to select a new cutting height. See Figure 5.
IGNITION SWITCH (Electric Start Units
Only)
The ignition switch is located on the left side
of the handle panel. It is used for starting
only. See Figure 4.
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVER
(Model: 999)
DRIVE CLUTCH CONTROL
The rear wheel height adjuster determines
the cutting height of the mower. The adjuster
is located above the left rear wheel. To ad-
just the cutting height, pull the lever out and
away from the mower and then move it for-
ward or back to select a new cutting height.
See Figure 5.
Squeezing the drive clutch control engages
the drive system. Releasing the clutch
control disengages the drive system.
Release the clutch control to slow down
when negotiating an obstacle, making a turn
or stopping.
SHIFT LEVER
The front wheel cutting height is determined
by the selection of one of six positions in
each caster assembly. See Figure 6.
The shift lever is located on the drive clutch
control housing on the upper handle. See
Figure 1. This lever is used to select the
forward speed of the mower. When changing
your speed selection, release the drive
clutch control.
To adjust, remove the wing nut from the axle
bolt. Slide the axle bolt and spring washer
from the assembly and select
a
cutting
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LOWER
Locking Pin
Axle Bolt
and
Spring
Washer
HIGHER
Figure 6
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
Figure 5
BEFORE STARTING
MODELS WITH ELECTRIC START ONLY:
height. With the spring washer on the axle
bolt reinsert in the square hole desired,
through the wheel assembly and secure with
the wing nut previously removed.
WARNING: The battery contains
corrosive fluid and toxic material.
HANDLE WITH CARE. Keep away
from children. Do not puncture, dis-
assemble, mutilate or incinerate.
Explosive gases could be vented
during charging or discharging. Use
in a well-ventilated area, away from
sources of ignition.
IMPORTANT: All wheels must be placed in
the same relative position.
NOTE: For rough or uneven lawns,
move the height adjustment lever to a
higher position. This will help stop
scalping.
• Charge battery for 16 hours before initial
use. DO NOT CHARGE LONGER THAN 20
HOURS.
CASTER LOCK
WARNING: When operating mower
on hills, front wheels should be
locked in the straight ahead posi-
tion.
IMPORTANT: Use only the battery
charger supplied with this mower.
To charge the battery, first remove the pro-
tective cap from the end of the battery pack
lead. Always plug charger lead into battery
pack lead before inserting battery charger
plug into 120 volt standard household outlet.
See Figure 7.
The casters can be locked in a straight
ahead position or can be left to swivel freely.
Lift and place the lock pins in the larger
holes for locked, straight ahead operation,
place pins in smaller holes to allow casters
to rotate freely.
OPERATION
Protective
Cap
IMPORTANT: Move the shift lever ONLY
when the engine is running. Shifting the
speeds with the engine off can cause dam-
age to the unit. Disengage the drive clutch
control before changing the speed selection.
Battery
pack
lead
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the separate engine manual
packed in your mower. Read instructions
carefully.
Figure 7
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank in-
doors, with engine running or until
the engine has been allowed to
cool for at least two minutes after
running.
After charging, disconnect battery charger
plug from household outlet first, then discon-
nect charger lead from battery pack lead.
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WARNING: Do not remove the bat-
tery pack from the handle panel for
any reason other than replacement.
When replacing the battery pack,
refer to instructions in Maintenance
section.
Blade Control Handle
Drive
Clutch
Handle
NEUTRAL TEST FOR ALL MODELS:
Six Speed
Shift Lever
• Before each use, check for proper drive
clutch operation by performing the following
before starting the engine:
With the drive clutch control released, push
mower forward. It should move freely.
Recoil Start
Handle
If it does not and the rear wheels tend to
lock up, the clutch may not be releasing
completely. Do not start the engine until cor-
rections have been made. Check the control
cable for severe bend, kinks and binding, or
grass build-up in the pulley groove. Refer to
the "Adjustment" section for any additional
information.
Figure 9-RECOIL START MODEL SHOWN
• Standing behind the unit, depress the blade
control handle and hold it against the upper
handle as shown in Figure 9.
ELECTRIC START MODELS ONLY:
• Turn the ignition key to the right to start the
engine. Release the key after engine starts.
See Figure 4.
TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE BLADE
WARNING: When starting the unit
for the first time, place mower in
first speed (slow) position. Face the
mower against a solid object such
as a wall, fence, etc. Start the unit,
and if it shows any signs of motion
with the drive clutch control disen-
gaged, shut the engine off immedi-
ately. Make certain the drive clutch
control is adjusted so the drive belt
is as loose as possible. Refer to the
Adjustment Section.
NOTE: The engine on your unit is
provided with an auxiliary recoil
starter system. To start the engine
using the auxiliary start system, pro-
ceed as follows for recoil start
models:
RECOIL START MODELS ONLY:
• Grasp the recoil starter handle as shown and
pull slowly until resistance is felt, then pull
rapidly to start engine and avoid kickback.
Return it slowly to the rope guide bolt. See
Figure 9.
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit
is equipped with a rubber boot over the end
of the spark plug wire, make certain the
metal loop on the end of the spark plug wire
(inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely
over the metal tip on the spark plug. See
Figure 8.
• To engage the drive, squeeze the drive clutch
control handle (see Figure 9) towards the up-
per handle. Release the drive clutch control
to slow down when negotiating an obstacle,
making a turn, or stopping.
• The six speed shift lever is located on the
drive clutch control housing on the upper
handle. See Figure 9. This lever is used to se-
lect the operating speed of the mower.
Release the drive clutch control when chang-
ing speeds.
Metal
Loop
on Spark
Plug Wire
Rubber Boot
WARNING: THIS CONTROL MECHA-
NISM IS A SAFETY DEVICE. NEVER
ATTEMPT TO BYPASS ITS OPERA-
TIONS.
Figure 8
• If your unit is equipped with a primer, prime
engine as instructed in the separate engine
manual packed with your unit.
The blade control handle must be depressed
in order to operate the unit. Release the
blade control handle to stop the engine and
blade.
• If your unit is equipped with a two speed
control on the engine refer to the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
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TO STOP ENGINE
Wing Nuts
• Release the blade control handle to stop the
engine and blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the
engine is shut off.
• Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine as instructed in the sepa-
rate engine manual to prevent accidental
starting while equipment is unattended.
Mulching
Baffle
USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER
Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks,
wire, or other objects which could damage
lawn mower or engine. Such objects could
be accidentally thrown by the mower in any
direction and cause serious personal injury to
the operator and others.
Figure 10
Bagging Adapter
For the best results, do not cut wet grass be-
cause it tends to stick to the underside of the
mower, preventing proper mulching of grass
clippings. In addition, wet grass could cause
you to slip and fall. New grass, thick grass or
wet grass may require a narrower cut.
For best results, cut off one-third or less of
the total length of the grass. Lawn should be
cut in the fall as long as there is growth.
Figure 11
The mower is designed to be operated at full
throttle to give you the best cut and do the
most effective job of mulching.
Flap
Bagging
Adapter
WARNING: If you strike a foreign
object, stop the engine. Remove
wire from spark plug, thoroughly in-
spect the mower for any damage,
and repair the damage before re-
starting and operating the mower.
Extensive vibration of the mower
during operation is an indication of
damage. The unit should be
promptly inspected and repaired.
BAGGING GRASS CLIPPINGS
Figure 12
This mower can bag grass clippings. Follow
steps 1 through 3 to ready the mower for
bagging.
EMPTYING YOUR GRASS BAG
Lift grassbag from the bagging adapter using
the lower handle. While holding the lower
handle lift up the rear section of the
grassbag. The bag will open and the grass
clippings will fall out. See Figure 13. When
replacing your grassbag be sure the top of
the bag rests on the wire support between
the handles.
1. Remove wing nuts holding mulching baffle
(see Figure 10) or side discharge chute
(see Figure 14) in place. Then remove
baffle or discharge chute.
2, Replace with bagging adapter (see Figure
11). Attach using wing nuts. Be sure that
inner lip of attachment goes under the
edge of the deck.
3. Lift flap and slide bag onto adapter. See
Figure 12.
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BOTTOM
VIEW
Figure 13
Figure 15
SIDE DISCHARGE GRASS CLIPPINGS
DRIVE CLUTCH CONTROL ADJUSTMENT
This mower can also side discharge grass
clippings. Follow steps 1 and 2 to ready this
mower for side discharge operation.
Use the adjustment wheel located on the un-
derside of the clutch control housing to
tighten the drive belt if mower does not
self-propel with the drive clutch control en-
gaged, or if drive belt is slipping (unit
hesitates while engine maintains the same
speed). See Figure 15.
1. Remove mulching baffle or grass bag
adapter. See Figure 10.
2. Attach discharge chute with wing nuts. See
Figure 14.
In addition, the adjustment wheel may also
be used to determine the position in which
the drive clutch control is engaged. If it is
more comfortable to have the drive engaged
with the lever further away from the handle,
tighten the drive belt.
Side
Discharge
Chute
Make certain to retest the unit for neutral as
instructed in the operation Section. Move the
adjustment wheel in the opposite direction to
loosen the drive belt if necessary.
SIX SPEED SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT
Wing Nut
Periodic adjustment of the six speed shift ca-
ble may be required due to normal stretch
and wear on the cable. Adjustment is
needed if all six speeds cannot be obtained.
Figure 14
ADJUSTMENT
The adjustable cable bracket is located on
the left side of the mower, beside the engine.
To adjust, loosen the hex nut which secures
the adjustable cable bracket. See Figure 16.
Pull backward on the bracket (toward the
rear of the mower). Retighten the hex nut.
Test the speeds on the mower (engine must
be running).
CAUTION: DO NOT AT ANY TIME MAKE
ADJUSTMENTS TO LAWNMOWER WITH-
OUT FIRST STOPPING THE ENGINE AND
DISCONNECTING THE SPARK PLUG
WIRE
CAUTION: Before changing mowing
height, stop mower and disconnect
spark plug cable.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
Refer to the separate engine manual packed
with your mower for carburetor adjustment
information.
MODELS WITH SINGLE LEVER HEIGHT
ADJUSTERS:
Refer to “Controls Section” and Figure 5.
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replacement blade only. Possible damage re-
sulting from blade unbalance condition is not
the responsibility of the manufacturer.
ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for en-
gine maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the sepa-
rate engine manual packed with your unit.
Read and follow instructions carefully.
Hex Nut
Six Speed
Cable
Adjustable
Cable Bracket
Under normal conditions service air cleaner
as instructed in the separate engine manual
Figure 16
packed with your unit.
Clean every few
hours under extremely dusty conditions.
Poor engine performance and flooding usu-
ally indicates that the air cleaner should be
serviced.
LUBRICATION
CAUTION: DISCONNECT SPARK
PLUG WIRE BEFORE SERVICING.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the
gap reset once a season. Spark plug replace-
ment is recommended at the start of each
mowing season; check engine manual for cor-
rect plug type and gap specifications.
WHEELS - If your mower is equipped with
ball bearing wheels, lubricate at least once a
season with a light oil, all other types require
no lubrication. However, if the wheels are re-
moved for any reason, lubricate the surface
of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light automotive oil.
NOTE: This spark ignition system meets
all requirements of the Canadian Interfer-
ence-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or
brush. Keep the cooling system (blower hous-
ing area) clean to permit proper air circulation
which is essential to engine performance and
life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and
combustible debris from muffler area.
ENGINE - Follow engine manual for lubrication
instructions.
BLADE CONTROL - Lubricate the pivot points
on the blade control handle and the brake cable
at least once a season with light oil. The blade
control must operate freely in both directions.
DECK
TRANSMISSION
-
The transmission is
The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of
grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If
this debris is allowed to accumulate, it will in-
vite rust and corrosion, and may prevent
proper mulching.
pre-lubricated and sealed at the factory. It
does not require checking. If disassembled
for any reason, fill with 2 ounces of Alvania
grease, part number 737-0168.
MAINTENANCE
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower
and scraping clean with a suitable tool (make
certain the spark plug wire is disconnected).
For best results your blade should be sharp.
The blade may be resharpened by removing
it and either grinding or filing the cutting
edge keeping as close to the original bevel
as possible.
CUTTING BLADE
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect
and ground the spark plug wire and
remove ignition key before working
on the cutting blade to prevent acci-
dental engine starting. Protect hands
by using heavy gloves or a rag to
grasp the cutting blade.
Improper blade balance will result in exces-
sive vibration causing eventual damage to
the engine and mower. Be sure to carefully
balance blade after sharpening.
After prolonged use, especially in sandy soil
conditions, the blade will become worn and
lose some of the original shape. Cutting effi-
ciency will be reduced and the blade should
be replaced. Replace with an approved factory
Tip mower as specified in separate engine
manual. If it is not specified tip with carburetor
up.
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Remove the bolt and blade support which
holds the blade and adapter to the engine
crankshaft. Remove the blade and adapter
from the crankshaft.
After prolonged use, especially in sandy soil
conditions, the blade will become worn and
lose some of the original shape. Cutting effi-
ciently will be reduced and the blade should be
replaced. Replace with an approved factory re-
placement blade only. Possible damage
resulting from blade unbalance condition is not
the responsibility of the manufacturer.
WARNING: Periodically inspect the
blade adapter for cracks, especially if
you strike a foreign object. Replace
when necessary.
BELT REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
For best results your blade should be sharp.
The blade may be resharpened by removing it
and either grinding or filing the cutting edge
keeping as close to the original bevel as pos-
sible. It is extremely important that each
cutting edge receives an equal amount of
grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. Im-
proper blade balance will result in excessive
vibration causing eventual damage to the en-
gine and mower. Be sure to carefully balance
blade after sharpening. The blade can be
tested for balance by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the
heavy side until it balances evenly.
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground it against the engine.
2. Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plas-
tic beneath the cap to prevent gasoline
leakage.
3. Tip the mower on its side. Block securely.
4. Remove the blade and blade adapter as
described previously.
5. Move rear height adjuster to the highest
position. See Figure 21.
6. Using a 3/8" socket remove three hex
screws holding the baffle to the deck. See
Figure 19.
Before reassembling the blade and the blade
adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crank-
shaft and the inner surface of the blade
adapter with light oil. Install the blade adapter
on the crankshaft with the “star” away from the
engine. Refer to Figure 18. Place the blade
with the side marked bottom (or with part
number) facing away from the adapter. Align
the blade bell support over the blade with the
tabs in the holes of the blade and insert the
hex bolt. Tighten the hex bolt to the torque
listed below:
Hex
Screw
Hex
Screw
Hex
Screw
Blade Mounting Torque
Center Bolt 450 in. lb. min., 600 in.lb. max.
Figure 19
To insure safe operation of your unit, ALL
nuts and bolts must be checked periodically
for correct tightness.
CAUTION: Cutting grass in sandy
soil conditions causes abrasive
wear to the blade.
Blade Adapter
Blade
Baffle
Blade Bell
Support
Figure 20
7. Pivot baffle towards the rear of the mower.
See Figure 20.
Hex Bolt
8. Remove the hex bolt holding the transmis-
sion to the mower housing. See Figure
21.
Figure 18
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Six-Speed
Cable Slot
Rear Wheels Adjustment Lever
Belt
Control
Arm
Hex
Bolt
Baffle
Figure 23
Figure 21
Six-Speed
Cable Slot
9. Tilt the transmission forward and loosen
the idler pulley bolt and locknut ½ turn
using two 7/16" wrenches.
10. Using a pair of pliers, pull back and rotate
belt keeper bracket from the slot on idler
pulley.
Control
Arm
11. Slide the belt out from between the belt
keeper bracket and the idler pulley. See
Figure 22.
12. Squeeze the belt together and push belt
forward. Press the control arm inward to-
wards the deck and remove the six speed
cable from the slot. See Figure 23.
Figure 24
13. Pivot the control arm down away from the
pulley and belt. See Figure 24.
14. Lift off the lower pulley assembly and re-
move the old belt from around the
crankshaft. See Figure 25.
Transmission
Pulley
Belt
15. Place the new belt over the transmission
pulley. Start the belt in pulley groove and
rotate pulley until belt is seated in trans-
mission pulley. See Figure 25.
Belt Keeper
Bracket
Transmission
Idler Pulley
Bracket
16. Place belt between idler pulley and the
belt keeper bracket.
Idler Pulley
Bolt and
Locknut
Crankshaft
Lower Pulley
Half
Belt
Figure 22
Mower is shown tipped on engine for clarity.
Remember, only tip mower back on its han-
dle with the spark plug facing up.
Figure 25
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17. Using pliers, rotate the belt keeper bracket
so that it snaps into slot on the idler
bracket.
Upper Pulley
Half
18. Tighten the idler pulley bolt and locknut ½
turn using two 7/16" wrenches. See Figure
22.
Belt
19. Place belt between the two pulley halves on
the crankshaft. Make sure to route the belt
inside the belt guard pin. See Figure 26.
Lower
Pulley
Half
Belt Guard
Pin
IMPORTANT: For proper assembly, it
is essential to keep the assembly
positioned as shown in Figure 26.
Figure 26
20. Pinch belt together so that it is not in the pul-
ley groove, and the lower pulley can be
pushed towards the engine. See Figure 27.
Lower Pulley
Half
Belt
21. Pivot the control arm back to its original posi-
tion and reinstall the six-speed cable into the
slot.
22. Check and make sure the belt is routed in-
side the pulley halves and the belt guard
pin. See Figure 28.
Belt Guard
Pin
23. Reinstall the bolt securing transmission to
rear mower housing.
24. Pivot the baffle back to its original position
and secure with three hex screws earlier re-
moved. You will need a 3/8" socket for these
screws.
Figure 27
25. Lightly lubricate the crankshaft and reinstall
blade and blade adapter as described in the
“Cutting Blade” section.
26. Tip the mower back on its wheels.
27. Make certain to retest the unit for neutral as
instructed in the Operation Section.
BATTERY PACK REPLACEMENT (Electric
start Models Only)
Remove the battery pack from the handle panel
for replacement only. Do not separate the bat-
teries for any reason. Dispose of batteries
properly.
Figure 28
WARNING: Batteries contain sulfu-
ric acid which may cause burns. Do
not short circuit or mutilate in any
way. Do not put batteries in fire.
They may burst or release toxic ma-
terial.
Fuse Holder
Positive
terminal
When replacing battery pack in handle
panel, battery pack must be positioned with
the positive terminal to the right hand side
and the negative terminal to the left hand
side of panel. See Figure 29. Replacing the
battery pack incorrectly will cause serious
damage.
Negative
terminal
Figure 29
The positive lead on the wire harness has
the smaller connector. Connect the positive
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lead to the positive side of the battery pack,
then connect the negative side.
Recharge battery every two months and be-
fore returning to service. Refer to charging
instructions on page 9.
IN-LINE FUSE
NOTE: When storing any type of power
equipment in an unventilated or metal
storage shed, care should be taken to
rust-proof the equipment. Using a light
oil or silicone, coat the equipment, es-
pecially cables and all moving parts.
The unit is equipped with an in-line fuse. If
unit fails to start, check the fuse inside the
battery cover by turning the end of the fuse
holder and removing from the battery cover.
See Figure 29. Replace with standard auto-
motive 7-1/2 amp fuse.
CAUTION: Never fold or unfold
handle without disconnecting spark
plug.
OFF SEASON STORAGE
INSTRUCTIONS
NOTE: Be careful not to bend of kink
cables.
The following steps should be taken to pre-
pare lawn mower for storage.
1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as
described in the lubrication instructions.
NOTE: If the starter rope becomes dis-
connected from rope guide on handle,
disconnect and ground the spark plug
wire. Depress the bail and pull the
starter rope out from engine slowly. Slip
the starter rope into the rope guide bolt
on handle.
2. Refer to engine manual for correct engine
storage instructions.
3. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis
grease to prevent rusting.
4. Store mower in a dry, clean area.
STORAGE OF THE BATTERY
The battery must be stored with
charge. A discharge battery will freeze.
a
full
IMPORTANT: All batteries discharge
during storage.
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