Troy Bilt Lawn Mower 430 Series User Guide

Operator’s Manual  
21” Rear & Side Discharge  
Mulching Lawn Mower  
Model Series 430  
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.  
Warning: This unit 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 engine authorized  
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.  
TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019  
769-00010D
(10/15/2004)  
PRINTED IN U.S.A.  
FORM NO.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES  
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, 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  
WARNING: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation 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.  
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or  
emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other  
reproductive harm.  
objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to  
General Operation  
the eyes.  
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety  
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-  
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,  
fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover  
understand, and follow all instructions on the  
the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are  
machine and in the manual(s) before operation. Be  
recommended. Never operate this machine in bare  
completely familiar with the controls and the proper  
feet, sandals, slippery or light weight (e.g. canvas)  
use of this machine before operating it. Keep this  
shoes.  
manual in a safe place for future and regular  
reference and for ordering replacement parts.  
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or  
under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade can  
2. This machine is a precision piece of power  
amputate hands and feet.  
equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise  
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause  
extreme caution at all times. Your unit has been  
blade contact or thrown object injuries.  
designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not  
use it for any other purpose.  
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate  
10. 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  
this machine. Children 14 years old and over  
falling; release the handle immediately.  
should read and understand the operation  
instructions and safety rules in this manual and  
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you  
are walking. If you must back the mower away from  
should be trained and supervised by a parent. Only  
a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to  
responsible individuals who are familiar with these  
avoid tripping and then follow these steps:  
safe operation rules should use this machine.  
a. Step back from the mower to fully extend  
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment  
your arms.  
is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire,  
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure  
bones, toys and other foreign objects which could  
footing.  
be tripped over or picked up and thrown by the  
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than  
blade. Thrown objects can cause serious personal  
half way toward you.  
injury. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge  
d. Repeat these steps as needed.  
of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders  
5. Do not operate the mower while under the influence  
and the like. Also, avoid discharging material  
of alcohol or drugs.  
against a wall or obstruction which may cause  
6. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on  
discharged material to ricochet toward operator.  
units so equipped while starting engine.  
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object  
7. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never  
injury, stay in the operator zone behind the handles  
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes  
and keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at  
least 75 feet from the machine while it is in  
operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.  
the safety device inoperative and may result in  
personal injury through contact with the rotating  
blade. The blade control handle must operate  
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles  
easily in both directions and automatically return to  
during operation and while performing an  
the disengaged position when released.  
adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown  
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
8. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always 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.  
Do Not:  
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or  
embankments, you could lose your footing or  
balance.  
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as  
shown on the slope gauge.  
9. Mow in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never  
run. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives,  
walkways or roads.  
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could  
cause slipping.  
10. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally,  
stop the engine and check immediately for the  
cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.  
11. 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.  
12. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,  
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control  
handle or other safety protective devices in place  
and working. Never operate mower with damaged  
safety devices. Failure to do so, can result in  
personal injury.  
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 remain where you last saw them.  
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under  
the watchful care of a responsible adult other than  
the operator.  
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the  
area.  
3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind  
and down for small children.  
4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,  
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may  
obscure your vision of a child who may run into the  
mower.  
13. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a  
burn. Do not touch.  
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines.  
They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.  
6. 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 supervised by a parent.  
14. Only use parts and accessories made for this  
machine by the original equipment manufacturer  
(O.E.M). Failure to do so can cause personal injury.  
15. If situations occur which are not covered in this  
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your  
dealer for assistance. Telephone 1-800-520-5520 for  
the name of your nearest dealer.  
Service  
Safe Handling of Gasoline  
Slope Operation  
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall  
accidents which can result in severe injury. Operation  
on slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a  
slope, do not mow it. Before operating this unit on a  
slope or hilly area, use the slope gauge on page 6 to  
measure slopes. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees,  
do not mow it.  
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use  
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is  
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.  
Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is  
spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.  
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.  
3. Use only an approved gasoline container.  
4. 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.  
5. If possible, remove gas-powered equipment from  
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this  
is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a  
trailer with a portable container, rather than from a  
gasoline dispenser nozzle.  
Do:  
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.  
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction  
on slopes.  
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or  
bumps which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall  
grass can hide obstacles.  
3. 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.  
6. 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.  
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other  
sources of ignition.  
lead to improper performance and compromise  
safety!”  
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable  
vapors will accumulate in the area.  
9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine  
is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two  
minutes before refueling.  
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½  
inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space for  
fuel expansion.  
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.  
12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and  
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5  
minutes before starting the engine.  
4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the  
blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when  
servicing them.  
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the  
equipment is in safe working condition.  
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their  
proper operation regularly.  
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,  
disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against  
the engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any  
damage. Repair the damage before starting and  
operating the mower.  
13. 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.  
14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass,  
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel  
spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris.  
15. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before  
storing.  
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height  
adjustment while the engine is running.  
9. 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  
equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only,  
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not  
meet the original equipment specifications may  
lead to improper performance and compromise  
safety!”  
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or  
overspeed the engine. The governor controls the  
maximum safe operating speed of the engine.  
11. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as  
necessary.  
General Service  
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly  
ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon  
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.  
2. 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 prevent unintended  
starting.  
3. 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 manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only,  
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not  
meet the original equipment specifications may  
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations.  
Improper disposal of fluids and materials can harm  
the environment.  
Your Responsibility  
Restrict the use of this power machine to persons  
who read, understand and follow the warnings and  
instructions in this manual and on the machine.  
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE  
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
Tighten the two wing nuts which are already on the  
handle. See Figure 2 .  
Removing Unit From Carton  
Remove staples, break glue on top flaps or cut tape  
at carton end and peel top flap to open carton.  
Remove loose parts if included with unit.  
Cut corners and lay carton down flat. Remove  
packing material.  
Tighten these  
wing nuts  
Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton  
thoroughly for loose parts.  
Lower  
Handle  
NOTE: Make sure not to crimp cables while removing  
Upper  
the loose parts or the entire unit from the carton.  
Handle  
Figure 2  
Hardware Pack  
NOTE: Make sure to route the cables outside the lower  
handle. Also do not crimp the cables while lifting the  
handle up.  
Please identify each piece  
of the hardware pack as  
Carriage  
Bolt  
Wing  
Nut  
shown here.  
1/4-20 (2)  
Remove the hairpin clips from the outer hole in the  
weld pins on the handle bracket assemblies. Using  
a pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower handle  
against the handle bracket assemblies. Insert the  
hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld pin.  
Repeat on other side. See Figure 3.  
1/4-20 (2)  
Tools Required  
Pair of Pliers  
Funnel  
After you have moved the hairpin clip, install the  
carriage bolt, (carriage bolt must go to the inside of  
handle) included in the hardware pack, in the upper  
hole on the handle mounting bracket. Secure with  
one plastic wing nut, also included in the hardware  
pack. See Figure 3. Repeat process on other side.  
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the mower  
is observed from the operating position.  
Assembling Handle  
For shipping purposes, the grass bag was placed  
on top of the unit. Remove it from the unit and set it  
out of the way. See Figure 1 .  
Carriage Bolt  
Upper  
Hole  
Handle  
Mounting  
Brkt.  
Wing Nut  
Move Hairpin Clip  
Figure 3  
Figure 1  
Raise the lower handle, as shown in Figure 1 , until  
it snaps into place.  
Raise the upper handle as shown in Figure 1 .  
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Fasten the cable to the lower handle with the two  
cable ties found on the lower handle. Pull the cable  
ties tight and trim off the excess. See Figure 4 .  
Insert frame into grass bag with the black plastic  
side on the bottom of bag. See Figure 6.  
Insert frame  
into bag  
Cable Tie  
Post on  
Cable Tie  
Grass Catcher  
Frame  
Grass  
Bag  
Figure 6  
Slip the side openings of the plastic channel on the  
bag over the hooks on the grass catcher frame.  
Secure bag to the frame by working the six plastic  
channels on bag over frame.  
All the plastic channels attach from the outside of  
bag. See Figure 7 .  
Figure 4  
Attaching Starter Rope  
The rope guide is attached to the right side of upper  
handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures the rope  
guide. See Figure 5.  
Plastic  
Channel  
Grass Catcher  
With the spark plug wire disconnected and  
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the  
upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the  
engine. Release the blade control handle. Slip the  
starter rope into the rope guide. Tighten wing nut.  
Slip rope into  
rope guide  
Wing Nut  
Figure 7  
Attaching Grass Catcher  
Lift the rear discharge door and place the grass  
catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of discharge door so  
that it rests on the grass catcher. See Figure 8.  
Rope  
Guide  
Figure 5  
Assembling Grass Catcher  
NOTE: If your mower’s grass catcher has been already  
assembled before shipping, proceed to the next  
section. If it is unassembled, follow the steps below.  
Figure 8  
Removing Grass Catcher  
Lift the rear discharge door on the mower, and lift  
the grass catcher up.  
Release the rear discharge door.  
8
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
           
Converting to Side-Discharge  
Your mower has been shipped as a mulcher. To  
convert it to a side-discharge mower, lift the  
mulching plug. Slide the two hooks on the side-  
discharge deflector under the hinge pin on the  
mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug.  
Mulching  
Plug  
Hinge  
Pin  
Side  
Chute  
Deflector  
Figure 9  
Do not remove the side mulching plug at any time,  
even when you are not mulching.  
WARNING: Never operate the mower  
without the mulching cover, the grass catcher  
bag, or the discharge chute properly installed.  
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER  
Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustrations in Figure  
10 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments.  
Blade Control  
Handle  
Recoil Starter  
Grass Catcher  
Spark Plug  
Height Adjustment  
Mulch Plug  
Lever  
Figure 10  
Blade Control Handle  
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle  
of the mower. The blade control handle must be  
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the  
WARNING: The blade control handle is a  
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its  
operations. The blade will be rotating whenever  
the engine is running.  
blade control handle to stop the engine and the blade.  
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever  
Primer  
This lever, located at each wheel, lets you adjust cutting  
height of the grass. Remember to put all four levers at  
the same height to avoid uneven cut.  
The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor. Use  
it to assist in starting a cold engine, but do not use it  
when restarting a warm engine after a short shutdown.  
Mulching Plug  
Throttle Control  
The engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle  
for maximum engine and cutting performance.  
The mulching plug is used only for mulching purposes.  
Instead of collecting the grass clippings in a grass  
catcher, some mower models have the option of  
recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is  
called mulching.  
Recoil Starter  
The recoil starter is attached to the handle. Stand  
behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start engine.  
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
Push the primer three times. Wait two seconds  
Gas and Oil Fill-Up  
between each push. In temperatures below 55° F,  
prime five times. Do not prime to restart a warm  
engine after a short shutdown.  
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors, or  
when engine is running or hot. Do not smoke  
when filling up the fuel tank.  
Standing behind the mower, depress the blade  
control handle and hold it against the upper handle.  
Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until  
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope  
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope  
rewind slowly. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous,  
full arm stroke. Keeping a firm grip on the starter  
handle, let the rope rewind slowly.  
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as  
instructed in the separate engine manual packed  
with your mower. Read instructions carefully.  
Before Starting Mower  
Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain  
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is  
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark  
plug.  
NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit  
for more detailed instructions.  
Stopping Engine  
Starting Engine  
Release blade control handle to stop the engine  
and the blade.  
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the  
operator is standing near the lawn mower while  
starting engine or operating mower.  
Disconnect spark plug wire and move away from  
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.  
WARNING: Never run engine indoors or in  
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine  
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an  
odorless and deadly gas.  
WARNING: Keep hands, feet, hair and  
loose clothing away from any moving parts on  
engine and lawn mower.  
10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Operating Your Lawn Mower  
Bagging Grass Clippings  
Once the engine has started, squeeze the blade  
control handle against the upper handle to run the  
lawn mower.  
You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings  
while you are operating the mower.  
Attach the grass catcher following instructions on  
page 8 of this manual. Grass clippings will  
automatically collect in the bag as you run mower.  
Operate mower till the grass bag is full.  
Stop the engine completely by releasing the control  
handle. Make sure that the unit has come to a  
complete stop.  
Do not operate the mower without the mulching  
cover, the grass catcher bag, or the discharge  
chute properly installed.  
Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire,  
or other objects which could damage lawn mower  
or engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown  
by the mower in any direction and cause serious  
personal injury to the operator and others.  
For best results, do not cut wet grass because it  
tends to stick to the underside of the mower,  
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings,  
poor mulching conditions, and could cause you to  
slip and fall. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass  
may require a narrower cut.  
Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away  
from the mower to dispose of the grass clippings.  
Using the Mulcher  
For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass  
because it tends to stick to the underside of the  
deck, preventing proper mulching of grass  
clippings. New or thick grass may require a  
narrower cut. The ground speed should be  
adjusted to the condition of the lawn. If mowing has  
been delayed and the grass has been allowed to  
grow in excess of 4", mulching is not  
For a healthy lawn, always cut off one-third or less  
of the total length of the grass. Lawn should be  
trimmed in fall as long as there is growth.  
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,  
stop the engine. Remove spark plug wire from  
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for  
any damage. Repair the damage before  
restarting and operating the mower. Extensive  
vibration of the mower during operation is an  
indication of damage.  
recommended. Mow using the grass bag (if so  
equipped) to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4"  
maximum before mulching.  
Adjusting Cutting Height  
Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on  
page 14 for instruction on how to adjust the cutting  
height and the handle height.  
For best results in mowing, keep the cutting height  
position high until you have determined which  
cutting height is preferred.  
11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
IMPORTANT: Make sure to avoid muffler and  
WARNING: Always stop engine and  
disconnect spark plug wire before performing  
any maintenance or adjustments on the mower.  
surrounding areas while the mower engine is hot  
because temperature of these areas of the engine may  
exceed 150o F.  
WARNING: Never tip mower more than 90  
degrees in any direction and do not leave it  
tipped for long. Oil can drain into the upper part  
of the engine causing a starting problem.  
Lubrication  
Wheels  
Lubricate the wheels and bearings, if so equipped,  
at least once a season with light oil or engine oil.  
Also, if the wheels are removed for any reason,  
lubricate the surface of the axle and inner surface  
of the wheel with light oil.  
Cleaning the Lawn Mower  
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use  
to prevent any build-up of grass. If this debris  
accumulates, it will cause rust and corrosion.  
Chute Deflector & Rear Discharge Door  
Lubricate the torsion springs and the pivot point on  
each end of the rear discharge door using a light oil.  
This will prevent rusting.  
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure  
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may  
cause damage to bearings or the engine. The use of  
water will result in shortened life and reduced  
serviceability.  
Engine  
Follow the engine manual instructions and  
recommended schedule for lubricating engine.  
Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from the  
mower, or place a piece of plastic under gas cap.  
Tilt the mower so that the side with the air cleaner is  
facing up. Hold the mower firmly.  
Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a  
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.  
Pivot Points  
Lubricate the pivot points on the discharge chute  
door, blade control handle and the cutting height  
adjustment lever at least once a season with light  
oil. The blade control handle must operate freely in  
both directions. The cutting height adjustment  
levers should be able to move easily.  
Put mower back on its wheels, remove plastic from  
under gas cap, and put gas cap back on.  
Engine Maintenance  
A list of key maintenance jobs required for good  
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the  
engine manual for detailed list and instructions.  
Lubricate  
Change engine oil as specified in the engine  
manual. Check oil level before starting engine  
every time.  
Follow engine manual  
for lubrication  
Service foam filter in the air cleaner as specified in  
the engine manual. Service air filter more frequently  
in extremely dusty conditions.  
Lubricate  
Clean engine periodically. Remove dirt and debris  
with a cloth or brush.  
Clean spark plug and reset the gap to.030” at least  
once a season or every 50 hours of operation.  
Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if  
necessary. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters  
can create a fire hazard.  
Lubricate  
Figure 11  
12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
SECTION 7: SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
NOTE: An unbalanced blade will cause excessive  
Blade Care  
vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause  
damage to the mower and could break causing  
personal injury.  
Periodically inspect the blade adapter and pulley for  
cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace  
when necessary.  
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round  
shaft screwdriver. See Figure 13. Remove metal  
from the heavy side until it balances evenly. It is  
recommended that the blade always be removed  
from the adapter for the best test of balance.  
WARNING: When removing the cutting  
blade for sharpening or replacement, protect  
hands by using heavy gloves or a thick rag to  
grasp the cutting blade.  
Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.  
Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter  
and the carburetor are up.  
1. Insert screw driver through hole  
Remove the bolt and blade bell support which hold  
the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft.  
See Figure 12. Remove the blade and adapter from  
the crankshaft.  
2. Blade should be parallel to ground  
Screw  
Blade  
Driver  
Blade Adapter  
Ground  
Figure 13  
Blade  
Blade  
Bell  
Before reassembling the blade and the blade  
adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft  
and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light  
oil (or engine oil). Also lubricate the bolt holes and  
bolt.  
Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the  
“star” away from the engine. Refer to Figure 12.  
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 center bolt to 450 in. lbs. min., 600  
in. lbs. max.  
Support  
Hex Bolt  
Figure 12  
To Sharpen Blade:  
The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a  
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the  
blade while it is still on the mower.  
Follow the original angle of grind as a guide. Make  
sure that each cutting edge receives an equal  
amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade.  
IMPORTANT:To ensure safe operation, all nuts and  
bolts must be checked periodically for correct tightness.  
13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending  
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.  
Replacing Rear Flap  
To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire  
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 14 .  
Rear Discharge  
Door  
Handle  
Bracket  
Handle  
Bracket  
Rear Flap  
Figure 14  
SECTION 8: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS  
Adjusting Handle Height  
Adjusting Cutting Height  
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher  
height position. To lower height, proceed as follows:  
IMPORTANT: All wheels must be placed in the same  
relative position. For rough or uneven lawns, move the  
height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will  
help stop scalping of the grass.  
Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.  
Remove the upper handle by removing the hand  
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay upper handle out of  
the way, being careful not to bend or kink cables.  
Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the  
handle brackets. Refer to Figure 3 .  
Remove the carriage bolts and wing nuts from the  
handle brackets. Press out on the legs of the lower  
handle. Remove lower handle from the mower.  
Turn the lower handle  
An adjusting plate and  
thumb lever at each wheel  
position provides cutting  
height adjustment. Each  
adjusting plate has nine  
height positions. Height of  
cut will change when you  
move the thumb lever  
from one position to  
another.  
Adjustment  
Lever  
around so the notch on  
the bottom of the lower  
handle is facing forward  
as shown in the box  
Simply depress the  
lever towards the  
wheel and move the lever assembly to desired  
position. See the illustration in the box above.  
here. Reassemble,  
Notch  
Lower  
Handle  
placing the bottom  
holes in the handle over  
the weld pins in the  
handle mounting  
bracket.  
Adjusting Carburetor  
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner may cause an engine to run  
rough too. Make sure that the air cleaner is clean and  
attached to the carburetor before deciding to adjust the  
carburetor.  
Reassemble the upper  
handle to the lower handle.  
Insert hairpin clips in the inner holes of the weld  
pins and replace the carriage bolts and wing nuts  
on the handle brackets. Attach the starter rope as  
instructed in the “Assembling Your Lawn Mower”  
section.  
WARNING: If any adjustments are made to  
the engine (e.g. carburetor) while the engine is  
running, keep clear of all moving parts. Be  
careful of heated surfaces like the muffler.  
To adjust carburetor, please follow the engine manual.  
14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
SECTION 9: OFF-SEASON STORAGE  
Prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the  
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or  
more. Store the mower in a clean, dry area.  
Store unit in a clean, dry area. Do not store next to  
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer or rocksalt.  
Clean underside of the mower according to  
instructions on page 12.  
Gasoline  
Do not store gasoline from one season to another.  
Gasoline, stored more than one month, may affect  
engine performance.  
Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust  
and/or dirt in the gasoline will cause problems.  
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure  
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may  
cause damage to bearings or the engine. The use of  
water will result in shortened life and reduce  
serviceability.  
Engine  
Lubricate the mower as instructed on page 12.  
You can fold your mower’s handle for convenience  
of storage.  
Inspect and replace/sharpen blade, if required.  
Refer to page 13.  
Follow recommendations in the accompanying  
engine manual for off-season storage of the  
engine.  
Mower  
NOTE: If storing the mower in an unventilated or metal  
storage shed, make sure to rustproof the equipment  
with a light oil or silicone.  
SECTION 10: TROUBLE-SHOOTING GUIDE  
Problem  
Possible Cause  
Corrective Action  
Engine fails to start  
1. Blade control handle disengaged  
2. Spark plug wire disconnected  
3. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel  
4. Blocked fuel line  
1. Engage blade control handle.  
2. Connect wire to spark plug.  
3. Fill up tank with fresh gasoline.  
4. Clean fuel line.  
5. Faulty spark plug  
6. Engine flooded  
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.  
6. Wait a few minutes and start again.  
Engine runs erratic  
1. Spark plug wire loose  
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel  
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.  
2. Clean fuel line, fill tank with clean, fresh  
gasoline.  
3. Vent in gas cap plugged  
4. Water or dirt in fuel system  
5. Dirty air cleaner  
3. Clear vent.  
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.  
5. Clean air cleaner. Refer to engine manual.  
Engine overheats  
1. Engine oil level low  
2. Air flow restricted  
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.  
2. Clean lawn mower engine.  
Occasionalskip athigh 1. Spark plug gap too close  
speed  
1. Adjust gap to.030 inches.  
Idles poorly  
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty, or gap too wide  
2. Dirty air cleaner  
1. Reset gap or replace spark plug.  
2. Clean air cleaner.  
Excessive vibration  
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced  
2. Bent cutting blade  
1. Tighten blade and adapter, balance blade.  
2. Replace blade.  
3. Bent engine crankshaft  
3. Contact your nearest service center  
Fails to mulch grass  
1. Wet grass  
2. Excessively high grass  
1. Wait until grass is dry to cut.  
2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then  
mow again at desired height.  
3. Dull blade  
3. Sharpen or replace blade.  
Uneven cut  
1. Wheels not in same height position  
1. Reposition all wheels at same height.  
2. Sharpen or replace blade.  
2.  
Dull blade  
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.  
15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
SECTION 11: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL SERIES 430  
30  
9
1
10  
6
11  
3
2
8
5
49  
4
18  
19  
53  
50  
14  
7
52  
15  
13  
40  
37  
54  
42  
38  
41  
40  
51  
12  
39  
36  
31  
33  
44  
47  
43  
25  
35  
34  
31  
32  
28  
48  
29  
26  
25  
27  
25  
20  
25  
45  
22  
21  
24  
43  
17  
16  
23  
46  
16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Model Series 430  
Ref.  
No.  
Ref.  
No.  
Part No.  
Description  
Part No.  
Description  
1.  
747-1161A  
710-1205  
720-0279  
710-1174  
720-0284  
749-1092A  
749-0928A  
726-0240  
747-04080  
Control Handle  
29. 738-0507B  
30. 731-04204  
31. 720-0426  
32. 732-04175  
33. 687-02074  
687-02075  
Shld. Bolt.5" Dia. x.357"  
Deluxe Bail Cover  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
7.  
8.  
9.  
Rope Guide  
Handle Knob 1/4-20 Thd.  
Curved Hd. Bolt 5/16-18 x 2"  
Hand Knob  
Spring Lever Knob  
Rear Spring Lever  
Height Adj. Assy. Comp. - RH  
Height Adj. Assy. Comp. - LH  
Pivot Arm - RH  
Upper Handle  
Lower Handle  
34. 687-02071  
687-02070  
Cable Tie  
Pivot Arm - LH  
Grass Catcher Frame  
Control Cable - 40”  
Grass Bag  
35. 782-5002B  
36. 710-0654A  
37. 731-04150  
38. 710-0286  
39. 710-1652  
40. 710-04371  
41. 712-04064  
42. 787-01231  
43. 734-04014  
44. 736-0270  
45. 687-02055  
46. 731-04177  
47. 710-0599  
48. 738-04136  
49. 736-0451  
Front Baffle  
10. 746-1130  
11. 664-04011  
12. 714-0104  
13. 732-04090A  
14. 732-04089A  
15. 731-04134A  
16. 732-1014  
17. 747-0710  
18. 732-0700  
19. 731-04998  
20. 748-0377C  
21. 710-1257  
22. 736-0524A  
23. 17032A  
Hex L-Wash.Scr. 3/8-16 x 1"  
Rear Baffle  
Int. Cotter Pin 5/16" Dia.  
Door Spring - R.H.  
Door Spring - L.H.  
Rear Discharge Door  
Torsion Spring  
Screw, 1/4-20 x.500"  
HexIndWash. Scr. 1/4-20:.625  
Screw, 1/4-15 x 1.250  
Flange Lock Nut, 1/4-20  
21” Deck  
Hinge Pin  
Wheel Complete  
Wire Rod  
Bell Washer 1/4" I.D.  
Hinged Mulching Plug  
Side Chute Deflector  
Hex Hd Self-Tp Scr. 1/4-20 x.5"  
Shoulder Screw  
Rear Flap  
Blade Adapter w/Star  
Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 2.5" Lg.  
Blade Bell Support  
Deflector Chute Adapter  
21" Mulching Blade w/Star  
Flange Nut 3/8-16 Thd.  
Height Adj. Plate  
Pivot Arm Assembly - LH  
Pivot Arm Assembly - RH  
Front Spring Lever  
Shoulder Washer  
24. 742-0741  
25. 712-0431  
26. 15261C  
710-0703  
Hex Carriage Screw 1/4-20  
Wing Nut  
50.  
51. 712-0397  
52. 750-04162  
53. 747-04035  
54. 687-02069  
687-02068  
Spacer,.375OD x.50ID  
Rear Door Pivot Rod  
Rear Handle Bracket Assembly - LH  
Rear Handle Bracket Assembly - RH  
27. 687-02076  
687-02077  
28. 732-0404  
17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
NOTES  
18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
NOTES  
19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by Troy-Bilt LLC  
with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the  
United States, its possessions and territories.  
e.  
Troy-Bilt does not extend any warranty for products  
sold or exported outside of the United States, its  
possessions and territories, except those sold through  
Troy-Bilt’s authorized channels of export distribution.  
Replacement parts that are not genuine Troy-Bilt parts.  
Transportation charges and service calls.  
“Troy-Bilt” warrants this product against defects in material  
and workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing  
on the date of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or  
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in  
materials or workmanship. This limited warranty shall only  
apply if this product has been operated and maintained in  
accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the  
product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse,  
commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,  
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of  
other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the  
installation or use of any part, accessory or attachment not  
approved by Troy-Bilt for use with the product(s) covered by  
this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting  
damage.  
f.  
g.  
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of  
merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose,  
applies after the applicable period of express written  
warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other  
express warranty, whether written or oral, except as  
mentioned above, given by any person or entity,  
including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product,  
shall bind Troy-Bilt. During the period of the warranty, the  
exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product  
as set forth above.  
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the  
sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Troy-Bilt  
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or  
damage including, without limitation, expenses incurred  
for substitute or replacement lawn care services or for  
rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted  
product.  
Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in  
material and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from  
the date of purchase. Normal wear parts include, but not  
limited to items such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade  
adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower  
skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of  
incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how  
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or  
limitations may not apply to you.  
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,  
WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized  
service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your  
Yellow Pages, or contact Troy-Bilt LLC at P.O. Box 361131,  
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-866-840-6483 or 1-  
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the  
amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration  
of safety features of the product shall void this warranty.  
You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage, or injury to  
you and your property and/or to others and their property  
arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product.  
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the  
following cases:  
a.  
The engine or component parts thereof. These items  
may carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer  
to applicable manufacturer’s warranty for terms and  
conditions.  
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than  
the original purchaser or to the person for whom it was  
purchased as a gift.  
b.  
c.  
Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a  
separate one year warranty.  
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This  
limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may  
also have other rights which vary from state to state.  
Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,  
blade sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch  
adjustments, deck adjustments, and normal  
deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or  
exposure.  
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of  
Purchase to obtain warranty coverage.  
d.  
Service completed by someone other than an  
authorized service dealer.  
Troy-Bilt LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-866-840-6483, 1-330-558-7220  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

ATI Technologies Lawn Mower Lawn Mower User Manual
Craftsman Lawn Mower 900370520 User Guide
Craftsman Lawn Mower Accessory 486245992 User Guide
Dixon Lawn Mower 52 21 KAW 52 HONDA 52 20 KOH 52 25 KOH 60 25 KOH 60 25 B&S User Guide
Husqvarna Lawn Mower 16 AWD User Guide
Husqvarna Lawn Mower RZ5422 User Manual
McCulloch Lawn Mower M11597 96011023700 User Guide
Mountfield Lawn Mower MP84401 05 User Guide
Scag Power Equipment Lawn Mower SWZ36 14KA User Guide
Snapper Lawn Mower 1690785 User Guide