Snapper Lawn Mower R204513E User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for  
20” STEEL DECK  
WALK MOWERS  
SERIES 13  
MODEL  
R204513E  
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION  
R
20  
45  
13  
E
MODEL DESIGNATION  
CUTTING WIDTH  
ENGINE OPTIONS  
SERIES DESIGNATION  
ENGINE HORSE POWER  
R – Recycling Model  
20 – 20” Cutting Width  
13 - Series Designation  
E – Electric Start Model  
45 – 4.5 HP (Engine Horse Power)  
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Walk Behind, read this manual carefully and pay  
particular attention to the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3. Remember that all power  
equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance  
with the operating instructions and common sense.  
COPYRIGHT © 1999  
SNAPPER INC.  
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED  
MANUAL No. 7-2036 .(REV. 1, 5/17/99)  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
OPERATION  
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE  
6. Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Tall grass can  
hide obstacles.  
4. Keep all bolts, especially blade bolts, nuts and  
screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins  
are in proper position.  
7. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or  
embankments. Operator could lose footing or  
balance.  
8. DO NOT mow on wet grass Always be sure of  
your footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and  
walk; never run. Slipping could cause injury.  
STOP blade and engine whenever you leave the  
operating position behind the handle for any  
reason, including clearing grass, emptying  
5. Service engine and make adjustments only  
when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug  
wire from spark plug and secure wire away from  
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.  
6. DO NOT change engine governor speed  
settings or overspeed engine.  
7. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear  
or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and  
exposure to moving parts. Replace with new  
bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace  
slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.  
8. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the  
blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use  
CAUTION when handling them.  
9. NEVER test for spark by grounding spark plug  
next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite  
gas exiting engine.  
10. Have machine serviced by an authorized  
SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have  
the dealer install any new safety devices.  
11. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts  
to assure that original standards are  
maintained.  
grass  
bag  
and  
making  
wheel height  
adjustments, repairs, or inspections.  
9. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make  
certain blade and all moving parts have  
STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug  
wire away from plug to prevent accidental  
starting.  
10. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to  
complete STOP before removing grass bag  
and/or clearing grass.  
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE  
1. Never store machine or fuel container inside  
where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or  
pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace,  
clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow  
engine to cool before storing machine in an  
enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of  
children in  
building.  
a
well ventilated, unoccupied  
2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or  
excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine  
overheating.  
3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an  
approved container outdoors and away from  
open flame.  
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS................................................2-3  
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................ 4  
DEALER SET-UP AND CHECKLIST.....................................................5-6  
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION.............................................................. 8  
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.......................................9-12  
Pre-start Checklist...................................................................................................... 9  
Starting & Stopping Engine & Blades ................................................................. 9-11  
Adjusting Handle Height.......................................................................................... 11  
Adjusting Cutting Height ......................................................................................... 12  
Recycling Operation................................................................................................. 12  
Recycling Cover Installation/Removal ................................................................... 12  
SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS................................13-14  
Changing Engine Oil................................................................................................ 13  
Checking Mower Blade............................................................................................ 13  
Annually (End of Each Season) .............................................................................. 14  
Engine................................................................................................................... 14  
Air Filter................................................................................................................ 14  
Engine Oil............................................................................................................. 14  
Storage Procedure ................................................................................................... 14  
SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR......................................... 15  
Mower Blade Repair/Replacement.......................................................................... 15  
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 16  
SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 17  
Maintenance/Replacement Parts ............................................................................ 17  
WARRANTY............................................................................................ 18  
PRIMARY MANTENANCE .................................................................19-22  
4
DEALER SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS for SNAPPER  
20” STEEL DECK WALK BEHIND MOWERS  
This SNAPPER Walk Behind Mower uses a handle engine control bail system to kill the engine for the SAFETY  
of the operator. These mowers are designed for quick set-up. The checklist on Page 6 should be filled out by  
the dealer as the items are checked off and/or performed and the Consumer/Operator Product Registration card  
filled out and sent to the Customer Service department at SNAPPER when completed. CAUTION: Cutting blades  
are extremely sharp. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working with blades. Be careful to avoid  
cutting yourself on sharp edges of blade.  
PUSH MODELS  
LOWER HANDLE  
STEP 1: Remove machine from shipping carton. Machine  
LOOSEN TWO  
is shipped in carton with handles folded Remove and  
discard cardboard from between all handles. Raise upper  
handle until it is in line and seats into lower brackets.  
Securely tighten handle T-Knobs on both sides. See  
Figure 1.  
NUTS  
RAISE  
HANDLE  
BAR  
T-KNOBS  
LOWER  
BRACKETS  
FIGURE 2  
HANDLE  
FIGURE 1  
IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or  
spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air  
filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all.  
If contamination does occur the air filter will have to be  
replaced.  
ROPE GUIDE  
STARTER  
ROPE  
STEP 2: Tip mower back against the upper handle to gain  
access to cutting blade. Remove foam shipping block  
from cutting blade. This must be removed before starting  
the engine.  
T-HANDLE  
STEP 3: Handle height is adjustable for different height of  
operators. Loosen the two nuts on the inside of each of  
the lower handles. See Figure 2. Move the handle up or  
down to the desired height. Retighten all nuts securely  
after adjustment.  
FIGURE 3  
STEP 4: Pull blade control against upper handle, pull rope  
start handle and loop into rope guide. See Figure 3.  
STEP 5: Set-up is now complete for push models  
Proceed to checklist found on page 6 of this instruction  
to prepare mower for use.  
5
DEALER CHECKLIST for SNAPPER  
20” STEEL DECK WALK BEHIND MOWERS  
The following must be achieved upon the purchase of the mower. It is very important that  
the Dealer performs and accomplishes the set-up and the operational tests as listed below.  
SET-UP (Details on Page 5 of this Instruction)  
_____ FOAM SHIPPING BLOCK removed from cutting blade.  
_____ UPPER HANDLE & LOWER HANDLE secured in place and hardware tightened securely.  
_____ SIDE CHUTE, RECYCLING COVER or GRASS BAG installed on mower.  
_____ BLADE retaining bolt(s) checked and tighten securely.  
LUBRICATION  
_____ ENGINE OIL added to bring level up to full mark on 4-cycle engines (Refer to Engine Manual).  
OPERATIONAL TEST  
_____ ENGINE started, engine control settings checked and adjusted as needed.  
CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) COMPLIANCE TEST  
_____ BLADE CONTROL stops engine when released.  
DEALER’S RECORDS & FINAL CHECK  
_____ PERSONALLY HANDED Operator’s Manual & Mower Safety Booklet to purchaser.  
_____ INSTRUCTED purchaser to read and follow instructions in Operator’s Manual.  
_____ DEMONSTRATED proper starting procedure and operation of mower to purchaser.  
_____ INSTRUCTED purchaser how to service air cleaner, maintain oil level (4-cycle).  
_____ ASSISTED purchaser in completing Product Registration Card.  
CONSUMER/OPERATOR PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD  
Purchase Date ___________________ Model _______________________ Serial No.________________________  
Retailers Name ___________________________________ Signature _____________________________________  
Address _____________________________________ City ____________________ State _______ Zip _______  
MOWER WILL BE USED COMMERCIALLY? _______ YES _____ NO  
Purchaser’s Name _________________________________ Signature ____________________________________  
Address ____________________________________ City _____________________ State _______ Zip _______  
IMPORTANT: This form is to be retained by the Dealer for future reference regarding Warranty, proof of  
purchase, traceability for product recall or service, etc. Complete the Product Registration Card and Mail to  
Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, P.O. BOX 1379, McDonough, Georgia, 30253.  
6
NOTE: This page is left blank so dealer can remove page 5 for future reference  
regarding Warranty, proof of purchase, traceability for product recall or  
service, etc.  
7
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION  
BLADE  
CONTROL  
SWITCH  
BOX  
ROPE START  
T-HANDLE  
BLADE  
CONTROL  
CABLE  
T-KNOB  
UPPER  
HANDLE  
FUEL FILLER CAP  
T-KNOB  
ENGINE  
LOWER  
BRACKET  
OIL FILL CAP  
& DIPSTICK  
RECYCLING  
COVER  
MOWER  
DECK  
COVER  
KNOBS  
FIGURE 1.1  
1.1 INTRODUCTION  
1.2 NOMENCLATURE  
This manual has been prepared for the operators of  
the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. Its  
purpose, aside from recommending operating and  
routine service requirements, is to promote safety  
through the use of accepted operating practices.  
Read, Understand and Follow the “IMPORTANT  
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3 of this  
manual and all safety messages on the mower and  
attachments before operating the mower.  
The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows  
the essential parts of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND  
MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of  
the mower become thoroughly familiar with the  
controls, parts and operation of the mower before  
operating. Specific details involving the engine are  
found in the separate engine owner’s manual. Study  
these manuals before operating and keep both  
handy for future reference.  
8
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST  
2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower  
Make the following checks and perform the service  
required before each start-up.  
2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter  
and covers to make sure all are in place and securely  
tightened.  
outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure  
cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine  
Owners Manual for specifications.  
2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and  
engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass,  
oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and cooling  
fins clear at all times.  
2.1.2. Check blade control to insure it works freely.  
See Figure 2.1.  
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION  
2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE  
(Recoil Start)  
1. Move engine speed control (Located on the side of  
the engine) to the “FAST” rabbit position.  
2. Push primer button three times to start a cold  
engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start  
warm engine. See Figure 2.3.  
BLADE CONTROL  
SHOWN IN “OFF”  
POSITION  
IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing  
the blade control.  
TURTLE  
RABBIT  
FIGURE 2.1  
2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.  
2.1.4. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring  
level up to the full mark. Refer to Engine Owner’s  
Manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.2.  
PRIMER  
BUTTON  
MOVE TO FAST  
(RABBIT) POSITION  
DIPSTICK  
PUSH BUTTON  
THREE TIMES  
ENGINE SPEED  
CONTROL  
FIGURE 2.3  
3. Pull blade control against handle.  
4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.  
5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until  
engine runs smooth.  
MAXIMUM OIL  
LEVEL  
MINIMUM  
OIL LEVEL  
FIGURE 2.2  
9
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION  
2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE  
WARNING  
(120 Volt Electric Start)  
To avoid electrical shock or injury, make sure power  
cord is away from cutting blade before attempting to  
start engine.  
WARNING  
The 120 volt electric start models are supplied with  
a 10 foot three-wire power cord. The plug is  
designed to operate on 120 volt AC household  
current. It must be properly grounded at ALL times  
to avoid the possibility of electric shock, which may  
cause injury to the operator. Follow ALL  
instructions carefully as set forth below. Determine  
that your house wiring system is a three-wire  
grounded system. Ask a licensed electrician if you  
are not sure. If your house wiring system is not a  
three-wire grounded system, DO NOT use this  
electric start mower under any condition. If your  
system is grounded and a three-hole receptacle is  
NOT available, one should be installed by a licensed  
electrician.  
TURTLE  
RABBIT  
MOVE TO FAST  
(RABBIT) POSITION  
ENGINE  
SPEED  
CONTROL  
IMPORTANT: If using a power cord other than the one  
supplied with machine, then use a power cord that is heavy  
enough to carry the correct amount of current to the mower.  
See chart, (OPTIONAL POWER CORDS) for correct size to  
use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere  
rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge cord.  
FIGURE 2.4  
OPTIONAL POWER CORDS  
MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD SETS  
PUSH BUTTON  
TO START  
ENGINE  
120 Volt  
Total Length of Cord in Feet  
SWITCH  
BOX  
Rating - Amps  
25 ft.  
50 ft.  
100 ft. 150 ft.  
More  
Than  
0
6
10  
Not More  
Than  
American Wire Gauge  
6
10  
12  
16  
18  
18  
16  
14  
16  
16  
16  
12  
16  
14  
14  
14  
12  
12  
Not Recommended  
12  
1. Move engine speed control (Located on the side  
of the engine) to the “FAST” rabbit position. See  
Figure 2.4.  
PULL BLADE  
CONTROL BACK  
AGAINST HANDLE  
ELECTRIC  
POWER CORD  
NOTE: DO NOT use primer when using the electric starter.  
DO NOT use primer to restart a warm engine.  
FIGURE 2.5  
IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing  
the blade control.  
(Starting procedure is continued on next page)  
2. Connect power cord to the handle mounted  
switch box. See Figure 2.5.  
3. Plug opposite end of power cord into a three  
hole grounded 120 Volt, AC receptacle.  
10  
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION  
2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE  
WARNING  
Before attempting any adjustments to the cutting height,  
STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the  
spark plug and secure wire away from plug. DO NOT make  
any adjustments with engine or blade running. Be  
extremely careful when performing adjustments around  
engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe  
burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or  
working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely  
sharp and can cause severe injury.  
(120 Volt Electric Start)  
4. Stand in operator’s position. Move blade control  
against handle and hold in place. See Figure 2.5.  
WARNING  
To avoid electrical shock or injury, make sure power  
cord is away from cutting blade before attempting to  
start engine.  
2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT  
The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as  
follows:  
5. Depress starter button on switch box until engine  
starts. See Figure 2.5. NOTE: If after 5 seconds of  
cranking the engine and it does not start, release the  
starter button. Attempt starting again after waiting for  
approximately 20 seconds.  
6. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until  
engine runs smooth. If engine fails to start, check the  
power cord. Be sure it is inserted securely into the AC  
receptacle and into the switch box.  
1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as  
shown in Figure 2.7.  
2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the  
desired position is achieved.  
3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to  
maintain desired position.  
LOWER HANDLE  
2.3 STOPPING  
Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade  
control. See Figure 2.6.  
LOOSEN TWO  
NUTS  
BLADE CONTROL  
SHOWN IN “OFF”  
POSITION  
FIGURE 2.6  
FIGURE 2.7  
11  
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed setting.  
WARNING  
4. Proceed mowing slowly. If grass is very dense, lower  
each rear wheel latch one notch lower than the front  
wheel latches to improve recycling performance.  
Before attempting any adjustments to the cutting height,  
STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the  
spark plug and secure wire away from plug. DO NOT make  
any adjustments with engine or blade running. Be  
extremely careful when performing adjustments around  
engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe  
burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or  
working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely  
sharp and can cause severe injury.  
2.7 RECYCLING COVER  
(REMOVAL/INSTALLATION)  
1. REMOVAL: The recycling cover is secured in  
place with two knobs. To remove the cover, unscrew  
the two knobs and lift off the cover. See Figure 2.9.  
2. INSTALLATION: When reinstalling the cover,  
the deck sidewall should fit between the tab and  
outside of cover. Tighten knobs securely. See  
Figure 2.10.  
2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT  
1. FRONT WHEELS: Reposition the front axle by  
raising the front wheels off the ground, then pull in the  
spring loaded bushings until they clear the brackets.  
Move bushings to the desired height of cut position  
and release the bushings. See Figure 2.8.  
SILHOUETTE  
OF CUTTING  
DECK  
2. REAR WHEELS: Reposition the rear axle by  
raising the rear wheels off the ground, then pull in  
the spring loaded bushings until they clear the  
brackets. Move bushings to the desired height of  
cut position and release the bushings. Position the  
rear bushings in to the same notches corresponding  
with notches for the front wheels to maintain the  
level of the deck. See Figure 2.8.  
NOTE: There are four cutting height adjustment notches  
on each wheel. The top notch is the lowest cutting height  
and the lowest notch is the highest.  
REMOVE BOTH KNOBS  
BY TURNING  
COUNTER-CLOCKWISE  
RECYCLING  
COVER  
LOWEST  
POSITION  
AXLE  
BUSHING  
FIGURE 2.9  
FRONT  
WHEEL  
CARRIAGE BOLT & NUT  
(USED WITH SIDE  
DISCHARGE CHUTE  
ONLY!)  
TURN KNOBS  
CLOCKWISE  
WHEN  
REINSTALLING  
DECK SIDE  
WALL  
HIGHEST  
POSITION  
FIGURE 2.8  
2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION  
NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum  
of 1/3 of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when  
grass is dry.  
RECYCLING  
COVER  
TAB (SHOWS VIEW FROM  
UNDERNEATH RECYCLING COVER)  
1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch  
4).  
FIGURE 2.10  
2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” (Rabbit)  
position.  
12  
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE  
3.1 INTRODUCTION  
5. Lower the mower down and place the piece of  
wood under left rear wheel. Reach under mower  
and remove drain plug and allow oil to drain out  
completely in pan. Some oil may spill onto hands,  
immediately wipe hands clean with cloth rags.  
6. Tilt mower back up and replace drain plug.  
Tighten securely but do not over tighten.  
To retain the quality of the mower, use genuine  
SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact a local  
SNAPPER dealer for parts and service assistance.  
For the correct part or information for a particular  
mower, always mention model and serial number.  
3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS  
3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL  
7. Fill engine with oil as specified in Engine  
Owner’s Manual. Thereafter, change oil after each  
25 hours of use.  
WARNING  
IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or  
spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air  
filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all.  
If contamination does occur the air filter will have to be  
replaced.  
Before attempting any adjustments or repairs, STOP  
the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the  
spark plug and secure wire away from plug. Wear  
heavy leather gloves when handling or working  
around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp  
and can cause severe injury. Engine oil is extremely  
hot and can cause severe burns. Allow engine oil to  
cool before draining to prevent injury.  
3.2.2 CHECK MOWER BLADE  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away  
from plug.  
2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels for access to  
the blade cap screw. Do not tilt mower with spark  
plug or carburetor down. See Figure 3.2.  
3. Check torque of blade retaining cap screw.  
Recommended torque should be 30 to 40 ft. lbs.  
See Figure 3.2.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away  
from plug. The items needed to perform oil change  
are: cloth rags, (1) 3/8” drive ratchet with a short  
extension and (1) shallow pan.  
2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels for access to  
the oil drain plug located underneath the mower  
deck. Do not tilt mower with spark plug or  
carburetor down. See Figure 3.1.  
4. Check blade for sharpness, wear and damage. See  
Section on Blade Wear Limits.  
MAKE SURE THAT  
BLADE HUB IS  
SEATED  
BLADE  
HUB  
BETWEEN  
FLANGES  
FLANGE  
BLADE  
CONE WASHER  
(Widest Part Up)  
REMOVE OIL  
PLUG  
CAPSCREW TORQUE  
30-40 FT. LBS.  
FIGURE 3.2  
FIGURE 3.1  
3. Place shallow pan underneath the approximate  
center of the oil drain plug.  
4. Loosen with ratchet and short extension, but do  
not remove oil drain plug. Loosen plug until you can  
turn it with your fingers.  
13  
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE  
3.3 ANNUALLY (END OF EACH SEASON)  
Perform all maintenance as described in the maintenance  
schedule.  
3.3.1. Engine  
Service engine according to engine owner’s manual.  
3.3.2. Air Filter  
Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.  
3.3.3. Engine Oil  
Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.  
3.4 STORAGE PROCEDURE  
Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for directions  
regarding engine storage preparations. Prepare the  
mower for “end of season” storage as follows:  
1. Drain fuel from fuel tank and let engine run until  
all fuel is out of the carburetor.  
2. Disconnect and remove the spark plug wire  
away from spark plug before any other  
preparations are made!  
3. Tape all openings closed to prevent spraying  
water into exhaust or air intakes during washing.  
4. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels and thoroughly  
clean the underside of the deck. Do not tilt mower  
with spark plug or carburetor down. Scrape away  
any accumulation of grass with a putty knife and or  
wire brush.  
5. Lubricate all exposed metal with a light coating  
of oil to prevent corrosion.  
6. Loosen handle knobs. Carefully fold the handles  
forward, “flexing” the control cables to prevent cable  
damage.  
7. Store the mower in a shed or other dry area,  
protected from weather.  
14  
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR  
WARNING  
MAKE SURE THAT  
BLADE HUB IS  
SEATED  
BETWEEN  
FLANGES  
Before attempting any adjustments or repairs, STOP  
the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the  
spark plug and secure wire away from plug. Be  
extremely careful when performing adjustments around  
engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe  
burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or  
working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely  
sharp and can cause severe injury.  
BLADE  
HUB  
FLANGE  
4.1 MOWER BLADE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT  
4.1.1. STANDARD BLADE WEAR LIMIT  
1. Inspect blade frequently for signs of excessive wear  
or damage. See Figure 4.1.  
BLADE  
CONE WASHER  
(Widest Part Up)  
NEW BLADE  
CAPSCREW  
FIGURE 4.2  
WEAR LIMIT  
(NOTCH STARTS)  
NOTE: DO NOT  
SHARPEN BEYOND  
ORIGINAL  
CUTTING EDGE.  
DANGEROUS CONDITION !  
DO NOT USE ON MOWER !  
REPLACE WITH NEW BLADE.  
22-28º  
BLADE TIP  
FIGURE 4.1  
WARNING  
END VIEW  
OF BLADE  
Never use a cutting blade that shows signs of  
excessive wear or damage. Refer to Section on  
MOWER BLADE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT for proper  
blade inspection and service procedures.  
ORIGINAL CUTTING EDGE  
4.1.2. BLADE SHARPENING  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away  
from plug.  
IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or  
spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air  
filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all. If  
contamination does occur the air filter will have to be  
replaced.  
FIGURE 4.3  
5. Check blade for balance. If necessary, correct  
balance by grinding heavy end of blade.  
6. Reinstall blade. Refer to Figure 3.2. Check torque  
of blade retaining cap screw. Recommended torque  
should be 30 to 40 ft. lbs.  
2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels.  
3. Remove blade. See Figure 4.2.  
4. Sharpen blade on a grinding wheel at an angle of 22  
to 28 degrees. DO NOT sharpen blade beyond the  
original cutting edge. See Figure 4.3.  
15  
TROUBLESHOOTING  
PROBLEM  
PROBABLE CAUSE  
CORRECTIVE ACTION  
1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel.  
2. Push primer three times.  
3. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug.  
4. Replace with new spark plug.  
Engine Will Not Start  
Using Recoil Starter  
1. Fuel tank empty.  
2. Engine needs priming.  
3. Spark plug wire disconnected.  
4. Spark plug faulty.  
Engine Will Not Start  
Using Electric Starter  
1. Fuel tank empty.  
2. Engine needs priming.  
1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel.  
2. Push primer three times.  
3. Power cord not plugged into switch box or AC outlet. 3. Plug in power cord to switch box & AC outlet.  
4. Power cord damaged or severed.  
5. Spark plug wire disconnected.  
4. Use new power cord of proper amperage.  
5. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug.  
Engine Stalls or Stops  
After Running  
1. Blade control is released or is not being held  
securely against handle.  
1. Blade control should be held securely against  
handle at all times during operation of  
mower.  
2. Fuel tank empty.  
2. Fill with fuel to proper level.  
3. Clean free of all debris.  
4. Service spark plug.  
5. Drain and clean fuel system.  
1. Clean or replace filters.  
3. Engine air pre-cleaner and or air cleaner dirty.  
4. Spark plug defective or gap set improperly.  
5. Water, debris or stale fuel in fuel system.  
1. Engine air pre-cleaner or air cleaner dirty  
2. Spark plug faulty.  
Engine Loses Power  
Excessive Vibration  
2. Service spark plug.  
3. Water, debris or stale fuel in fuel system.  
1. Damaged, out of balance or bent mower blade.  
2. Loose blade components.  
3. Loose or missing air lift (if equipped).  
1. Cutting height too low or high.  
2. Engine speed too slow.  
3. Forward ground speed too fast.  
4. Terraced cut, side to side.  
5. Excessive deck pitch, front to rear.  
6. Cutting blade dull or damaged.  
1. Engine speed too slow.  
3. Drain and clean fuel system.  
1. Service mower blade.  
2. Service and tighten loose parts.  
3. Replace air lifts. Tighten to proper torque.  
1. Adjust cutting height.  
2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” position.  
3. Move ground speed control to a slower speed.  
4. Adjust height of cut with height adjust bushings.  
5. Adjust height of cut with height adjust bushings.  
6. Sharpen cutting edges or replace blade.  
1. Move engine speed control to “FAST” position.  
2. Mow when grass is dry.  
Cutting Grass  
Improperly  
Poor Grass Discharge  
2. Grass is wet.  
3. Excessively worn or damaged blade.  
4. Build up of grass clippings and debris under deck.  
5. Improper blade installed on deck.  
6. Blade installed improperly on deck.  
1. Leaking engine case.  
3. Service mower blade.  
4. Clean deck.  
5. Install proper SNAPPER blade.  
6. Install blade properly.  
1. Contact authorized SNAPPER dealer.  
2. Check and tighten drain plug.  
3. Make sure dipstick or oil filler cap is securely in  
place.  
Oil Leaking  
16  
SERVICE SCHEDULE  
ITEM  
SERVICE PERFORMED  
REF.  
Page 9  
EACH  
USE  
5
HRS  
25  
HRS  
50  
HRS  
100  
HRS  
EACH  
SEASON  
Check Oil Level  
Engine Oil  
X
Initial Oil Change  
Periodic Oil Change  
Page 9  
X
Page 13  
X*  
Clean Sponge Element  
Clean or Replace  
Replace  
Engine Manual  
& Page 14.  
Engine Manual.  
Air Pre-Cleaner  
Air Cleaner  
X**  
X**  
Engine Manual.  
Engine Manual  
Spark Plug  
X
Clean Shroud & Fins  
Engine Cooling  
System  
X**  
Check For Wear, Damage Page 15  
& Replacement  
Mower Blade  
X
X
Clean Debris  
Accumulation  
Page 14  
Mower Deck  
* Change oil every 25 hours when operating under heavy load or high temperatures.  
**Clean more often under dusty conditions or when air debris is present  
4.2.  
MAINTENANCE/REPLACEMENT PARTS  
MAINTENANCE PARTS  
Blade Control Cable  
3-5493  
Cutter Blade (Mulching)  
Parts Manual for 20” Steel Deck Walk Behind Mower Series 13  
1-7167  
06058  
17  
3 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY  
For three (3) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential, non-commercial use, SNAPPER, through  
any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge (except for taxes where applicable), any part or parts found  
upon examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.  
For ninety (90) days from purchase date for the original purchaser's commercial, rental, or other non-residential use,  
SNAPPER, through any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge, any part or parts found upon  
examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.  
All transportation costs incurred by the purchaser in submitting material to an authorized SNAPPER dealer for  
replacement under this warranty must be paid by the purchaser.  
This warranty does not apply to engines and their components, and batteries, as these items are warranted separately.  
This warranty does not apply to parts that have been damaged by accident, alteration, abuse, improper lubrication,  
normal wear, or other cause beyond the control of SNAPPER. This warranty does not cover any machine or component  
part that has been altered or modified changing safety, performance, or durability.  
Batteries have a one (1) year prorated warranty period with free replacement if required during the first ninety (90) days  
from the original purchase date. SNAPPER will not be responsible for any installation cost incurred. The battery warranty  
only covers original equipment batteries and does not cover damage to the battery or machine caused by neglect or  
abuse, destruction by fire, explosion, freezing, overcharging, improper maintenance, or use of improper electrolyte.  
There is no other express warranty.  
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY  
Implied warranties, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to three  
(3) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential or other non-commercial use, and ninety  
(90) days from purchase for the original purchaser's commercial, rental or other non-residential use, and to the  
extent permitted by law, any and all implied warranties are excluded. This is the exclusive remedy. Liabilities for  
consequential damages, under any and all warranties are excluded.  
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, or do not allow the exclusion or  
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.  
WARNING: THE USE OF REPLACEMENT PARTS OTHER THAN GENUINE SNAPPER PARTS MAY IMPAIR THE  
SAFETY OF SNAPPER PRODUCTS AND WILL VOID ANY LIABILITY AND WARRANTY BY SNAPPER  
ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF SUCH PARTS.  
IMPORTANT: Please fill out the attached SNAPPER Product Registration Card immediately and mail to:  
Snapper’s Product Registration Center, P.O. Box 1379, McDonough, Georgia 30253  
18  
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE  
An illustration of how  
dirt can damage your  
engine  
&
how  
reasonable maintenance  
can protect it!  
Snapper uses the  
best  
engines  
available  
and  
components  
in  
their products in  
order to provide  
long, satisfactory  
service. However,  
proper  
essential  
care  
is  
in  
prolonging engine  
life. Dirt is your  
engine’s  
enemy  
number 1!  
The engine on your Snapper  
product spends its entire life  
operating close to the ground at  
high speed creating  
storm of dust and dirt!  
a
virtual  
19  
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE  
Knowing the dirt will  
quickly ruin an engine,  
manufacturers equip their  
engine with extremely  
efficient air cleaners to  
filter out the harmful dirt.  
The engine must gulp  
about 12,000 gallons  
of air for every gallon  
of fuel used. Because  
of  
environment, the air  
available to your  
its  
working  
Snapper engine is  
heavily saturated with  
airborne dirt particles.  
Damage caused by a poorly serviced air  
cleaner is not covered under the engine  
warranties. So, save yourself unnecessary  
expenses and undue aggravation by keeping  
the air cleaner properly serviced at the  
intervals specified in the engine owner’s  
manual.  
As the dirt particles are stopped, they build up  
and begin to clog the outside of the air filter.  
This reduces the amount of air available to the  
engine and causes an over-rich fuel mixture  
which results in the following adverse effects:  
It doesn’t take long to service an air cleaner.  
Follow the specific instructions in the engine  
owner’s manual for the type filter used.  
Prevent dirt from falling into the carburetor  
intake when servicing your air cleaner. Make  
sure components are installed in correct  
sequence after servicing to prevent unfiltered  
air from entering the engine. Some servicing  
hints on several common types are:  
An improperly serviced, dirt  
clogged air cleaner will:  
1. Increase fuel  
consumption.  
2. Cause power loss.  
3. Result in hard  
starting.  
4. Create smoke from  
unburned fuel.  
5. Produce carbon  
build-up internally.  
6. Foul spark plug  
electrodes.  
7. Score cylinder walls.  
8. Burn valves.  
9. Wear out the engine  
pre-maturely.  
10. COST YOU MONEY!  
20  
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE  
Air is also needed to keep  
your engine cool. Dirt, dust &  
debris build up restricts and  
clogs cooling air intake  
screens and fins. Clean  
screens and fins at frequent  
intervals. The engine blower  
housing and shrouds should  
be removed at least once  
each season or more often  
under dry, dusty conditions  
for a thorough cleaning of  
fins.  
Failure to keep external surfaces  
Generally, wash foam-type filters in  
a dishwashing detergent and water  
solution. Rinse and wring dry, then  
saturate with oil and squeeze out  
excess. Failure to re-oil this type  
filter will ruin the engine.  
clean not only presents fire  
hazards, but causes overheating  
and resulting engine damages  
such as:  
1. Distorted valve  
guides.  
2. Sticking Valves.  
3. Scuffed, scored  
cylinder walls.  
4. Over-speeding.  
5. Loss of power.  
6. Complete failure  
of engine.  
Clean paper elements by tapping  
lightly. Blowing with air will rupture  
paper elements.  
Use a flashlight to detect clogged  
or torn paper elements – replace if  
damaged in any way.  
Dirt  
can  
also  
be  
introduced into an engine  
in dirty fuel from  
a
contaminated container.  
Always use clean fresh  
fuel  
container  
from  
a
to  
clean  
guard  
against dirt, sludge and  
water contamination.  
Be aware that fuel  
An engine must also have proper lubrication. All  
engines use some oil. On 4-cycle engine,  
CHECK OIL LEVEL BEFORE EACH START-UP.  
Wipe area clean around the oil check plug or  
dipstick opening to keep dirt from falling into  
the engine when checking the oil. Always check  
with the machine on a level surface. On engines  
with dipstick, keep the level up to, but not over,  
the FULL mark. When adding oil, allow time for  
all of the oil to flow down the fill tube to prevent  
a false full reading when the level could actually  
be low and result in engine damage.  
breaks  
down  
in  
storage and forms  
gummy compounds  
which  
will  
block  
carburetor passages.  
Never use fuel more  
than  
3
months old.  
Drain tank then run  
the engine out of fuel  
before storing during  
the off-season.  
21  
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE  
On 2-cycle engines, lubrication must be  
On 4-cycle engines with an oil  
level plug, don’t be fooled onto  
thinking the engine has  
sufficient lubricating oil if you  
can see “some” oil in the  
opening – the level should  
always be brought up to the  
point of overflowing at the  
top of the fill hole.  
provided by an exact mixture of gasoline  
and 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil. A 2-cycle  
engine that is mistakenly run on straight  
gasoline will be ruined in less than 5  
minutes! If you keep straight gasoline in  
addition to pre-mixed 2-cycle engine fuel,  
be sure the containers are clearly marked  
to avoid mix-up.  
Snapper 2-cycle engines require a 32 to 1  
mixture of gasoline and BIA certified TC-W  
oil such as Snapper’s 2-cycle engine oil.  
Many of the 2-cycle engine oils on the  
market today make fantastic claims, but for  
the best performance and long engine life,  
always use Snapper 2-cycle oil. Pre-mix the  
fuel and always shake the container before  
filling the tank.  
Change oil at regular intervals using a high  
quality oil such as Snapper’s small engine  
formulated 4-cycle engine oil. Refer to the  
engine owner’s manual for oil details.  
1. Engine Oil  
To full level (4-cycle).  
Properly mixed with gas  
(2- cycle).  
Read and follow all  
safety instructions in  
safety booklets and  
manuals.  
2. Air Cleaner  
3. Fuel Tank  
Clean and properly serviced.  
Full fresh clean gasoline.  
Fuel valve open.  
Cap vent open.  
Inline filter clean.  
4. Choke  
5. Primer (on  
some engines)  
Operating properly.  
Used properly.  
Keep in mind that dirt is your engine’s  
enemy #1 both internally and externally!  
Internally, dirt will quickly ruin an engine  
and externally it will cause overheating and  
resulting internal damages. Damage caused  
by improper lubrication, poor air cleaner  
service or overheating due to dirt cannot be  
covered under warranty.  
6. Safety Interlock In proper position.  
Switches  
All wires properly connected.  
7. Switch & Blade Switch On.  
Control  
Blade control properly  
positioned on walk mower.  
Wire connected.  
8. Spark Plug  
Good connection.  
9. Throttle Control Start Position.  
It only takes a few moments to service the engine  
(and equipment) on a routine basis but the rewards  
will be a quick starting, responsive engine that will  
provide long satisfactory service with minimum  
maintenance cost. The pre-start checklist in the next  
column and instructions in your Snapper Operator’s  
Manual are designated to help you keep your Snapper  
in top operating condition with minimum effort!  
10. Blade  
Properly installed and  
torqued.  
Sharpened.  
Good condition.  
Not clogged.  
11. Muffler  
Grass & leaves cleaned away.  
22  
SERVICE NOTES  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
23  
SERVICE NOTES  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
______________________________________________________________________________  
24  
Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for  
20” STEEL DECK  
WALK BEHIND MOWERS  
SERIES 13  
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State  
of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
WARNING:  
COPYRIGHT © 1999  
SNAPPER INC.  
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED  
MANUAL No. 7-2036 .(REV. 1, 5/17/99)  
25  

Bolens Lawn Mower LC 106 User Manual
Craftsman Lawn Mower 247370251 User Guide
Craftsman Lawn Sweeper 486242211 User Guide
Husqvarna Lawn Mower 210 C User Guide
LG Electronics Lawn Mower 34UM95 PD 34UM95 PE 34UM94 PD User Guide
McCulloch Lawn Mower 4051CM User Guide
Scag Power Equipment Lawn Mower SVR36A 20FX User Guide
Snapper Lawn Aerator 2623 User Manual
Snapper Lawn Mower LT140H33DB User Manual
Snapper Lawn Mower P21550V User Manual