Troy Bilt Lawn Mower 753B User Guide

Operator’s Manual  
Wide-CutTM 33"  
Combination Mower  
Models 753B  
F753B  
(fuel tank styles vary by engine model)  
IMPORTANT:READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY  
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-cov-  
ered 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 by contacting the service department at Troy-Bilt LLC, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.  
TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131, CLEVELAND, OH 44136-0019  
PRINTED IN USA  
FORM NO. 770-10602F  
(12/2003)  
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Section  
Safety  
1
Safety Alert Symbol  
This is a safety alert symbol. It is used in this  
Owner’s Manual to alert you to potential  
hazards. Whenever you see this symbol, read and obey the  
safety message that follows it. Failure to obey the safety  
message could result in personal injury or property  
damage.  
WARNING:  
The engine exhaust from this product contains  
chemicals known to the State of California  
to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproduc-  
tive harm.  
IMPORTANT  
Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers  
This cutting 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.  
5. Be sure the area is clear of other  
people before mowing. Stop mower  
if anyone enters the area. Keep by-  
standers at least 25 feet away from  
the area of operation.  
whenever you leave the unit, before  
cleaning the mower or unclogging  
the chute.  
I. GENERAL OPERATION  
1. Read, understand, and follow all in-  
structions on the machine and in the  
manuals. Be thoroughly familiar with  
the controls and the proper use of  
the mower before starting.  
6. Do not operate the mower when  
barefoot or wearing open sandals.  
Always wear substantial foot wear.  
2. Do not put hands or feet near or  
under rotating parts. Keep clear of  
the mower blade and discharge  
opening at all times.  
12. Shut the engine off, wait until the  
blade comes to a complete stop, and  
disconnect the spark plug wire be-  
fore installing or removing the  
7. Do not pull mower backwards  
unless absolutely necessary. Look  
down and behind before and while  
moving backwards.  
mulcher cover or the optional grass  
catcher. Make certain that the grass  
catcher is securely attached before  
operating the mower. Empty the  
grass catcher after each use–  
8. Do not operate the mower without  
proper guards, plates, grass catcher  
or other safety protective devices in  
place.  
3. Only allow responsible individuals,  
who are familiar with the instruc-  
tions, to operate the mower.  
9. Refer to provided instructions for  
proper operation and installation of  
accessories. Only use accessories  
approved by Garden Way  
decomposing debris could generate  
enough heat to catch fire.  
4. Clear the area of objects such as  
rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,  
which could be picked up and  
thrown by the blade.  
13. Mow in daylight or good artificial  
light.  
Incorporated.  
14. Do not operate the mower while  
under the influence of alcohol or  
drugs.  
10. Stop the blade when crossing gravel  
drives, walks, or roads.  
11. Stop the engine and disconnect the  
spark plug wire from the spark plug  
1
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Section 1: Safety  
15. Never operate mower in wet grass.  
Always be sure of your footing; keep  
a firm hold on the handle and walk;  
never run.  
II. SLOPE OPERATION  
IV. SERVICE  
1. Use extra care in handling gasoline  
and other fuels. They are flammable  
and their vapors are explosive.  
Slopes are a major factor related to  
slip and fall accidents which can result  
in severe injury. All slopes require  
extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a  
slope, do not mow it.  
16. Disengage the Wheel Drive Lever on  
self-propelled models before starting  
the engine.  
a) Use only an approved container.  
b) Never remove gas cap or add  
fuel when the engine is running.  
Allow engine to cool before refu-  
eling. Do not smoke.  
17. If the unit should start to vibrate ab-  
normally, stop the engine and dis-  
connect the spark plug wire. Then  
check immediately for the cause.  
Vibration is generally a warning of  
trouble.  
c) Never refuel the machine  
indoors.  
DO:  
d) Never store the machine or fuel  
container inside where there is  
an open flame, such as a water  
heater, etc.  
Mow across the face of slopes; never  
up and down. Exercise extreme cau-  
tion when changing direction on  
slopes. Avoid slopes greater than  
18. Always wear safety goggles or safety  
glasses with side shields when oper-  
ating mower.  
e) Move mower away from any  
gasoline fumes before starting  
the engine.  
19. Watch for traffic when operating  
near, or when crossing roadways.  
o
15 .  
Remove objects such as rocks, tree  
limbs, etc.  
20. Never attempt to carry children or  
other passengers on the mower.  
They could fall off and be seriously  
injured, or they could interfere with  
the safe operation of the mower.  
2. Never run an engine inside a closed  
area.  
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall  
grass can hide obstacles.  
3. Never make adjustments or repairs  
with the engine running. Disconnect  
the spark plug wire and keep the  
wire away from the plug to prevent  
accidental starting.  
DO NOT:  
21. Check the operation of the Operator  
Presence Control Bar before each  
use. See the Maintenance Section of  
this manual for instructions. If the  
engine runs longer than three sec-  
onds after the Operator Presence  
Control Bar is released, the system  
is not working properly. Immediately  
contact your local service dealer or  
the factory Technical Service  
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches,  
or embankments. The operator could  
loose footing or balance.  
4. Keep all nuts and bolts, especially  
the blade attachment bolts, tight and  
keep equipment in good condition.  
Do not mow excessively steep slopes.  
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced  
footing could cause slipping.  
5. Never tamper with safety devices.  
Check their operation regularly.  
III. CHILDREN  
6. Keep mower free of grass, leaves or  
other debris build-up. Clean up oil or  
fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool  
before storing.  
Tragic accidents can occur if the opera-  
tor is not alert to the presence of chil-  
dren. Children are often attracted to the  
mower and to the mowing activity.  
Never assume that children will remain  
where you last saw them.  
Department for instructions. Do not  
use the mower until the mechanism  
is repaired.  
7. After striking an object, stop the en-  
gine and disconnect the spark plug  
wire. Inspect the mower and repair,  
if necessary, before restarting.  
22. The mower is equipped with a safety  
discharge chute, comes with special  
mulcher covers, and offers an op-  
tional grass catcher. The safety dis-  
charge chute must be working prop-  
erly at all times. Never attempt to  
disconnect or otherwise cause this  
discharge chute to cease working. If  
used, mulcher cover or grass  
1. Keep children out of the mowing  
area and under the watchful care of  
a responsible adult.  
8. Never attempt to make mower cut-  
ting height adjustments while the  
engine is running.  
2. Be alert and turn mower off if chil-  
dren enter the area.  
9. Grass catcher components are sub-  
ject to wear, damage and deteriora-  
tion, which could expose moving  
parts or allow objects to be thrown.  
Frequently check components and  
replace with factory recommended  
parts, when necessary.  
3. Before and while moving backwards,  
look behind and down for small  
children.  
catcher attachment must be installed  
properly and function correctly. Do  
not use your equipment otherwise.  
4. Never allow children to operate the  
mower.  
23. Never run the engine in an enclosed  
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon  
monoxide, a deadly gas that is odor-  
less, colorless, and tasteless. Always  
run the engine outdoors and make  
sure there is adequate ventilation.  
5. Use extra care when approaching  
blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other  
objects that may obscure vision.  
2
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Section 1: Safety  
13. To access the underside of the  
mower, tip the mower rearward. Do  
not tip the mower forward or on ei-  
ther of its sides, unless specifically  
advised to do so in this manual.  
b) Do not use a battery charger  
other than the one provided with  
the mower.  
c) The battery contains toxic mate-  
rials. Do not damage the battery  
case. If the case is broken or  
damaged, avoid contact with the  
battery contents.  
10. Mower blades are sharp and can  
cut. Wrap the blade or wear gloves,  
and use extra caution when servic-  
ing them.  
14. Maintain or replace safety and in-  
structional decals. Refer to the sep-  
arate Parts Catalog for replacement  
decal information.  
d) Properly dispose of a damaged  
or worn out battery. Check with  
local authorities for proper dis-  
posal methods.  
11. Do not change the engine governor  
setting or overspeed the engine.  
15. For units equipped with electric  
start:  
12. Do not touch engine parts which  
may be hot from operation. Allow  
parts to cool completely before in-  
specting, cleaning or repairing the  
mower.  
a) Batteries produce explosive  
gases. Keep sparks, flame,  
cigarettes, etc., away. Ventilate  
the area when charging the bat-  
tery. Do not charge the battery in  
an airtight space.  
e) Do not short circuit the battery.  
Severe burns and fire can result.  
SAFETY DECALS  
Make certain all safety decals on this equipment are kept clean and in good condition. The decals are shown (at reduced sizes)  
below. If you need a replacement decal, please refer to the Parts Catalog that accompanied this Manual.  
WARNING  
PINCH POINTS  
Do not operate with-  
out all belt guards  
in place.  
On left side of mower deck  
Beneath belt/pulley cover  
On Control Panel (for electric start model)  
On discharge chute  
On Control Panel (for recoil start model)  
3
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Section  
Assembly  
2
ASSEMBLY STEPS  
WARNING  
STEP 1: Unpacking Mower  
B
To prevent personal injury or property  
damage, do not attempt to start the  
engine until all assembly steps are  
complete and you have read and  
understand the safety, controls and  
operating instructions in this manual.  
A
NOTE: LEFT and RIGHT sides of the unit  
are as viewed from the operator’s posi-  
tion behind the handlebars.  
A
F
1. Cut straps, if present, securing unit  
to pallet. Leave unit on pallet during as-  
sembly (to safely remove unit from pal-  
let, wait until you have completed as-  
sembly steps 1-4).  
B
C
INTRODUCTION  
Please carefully follow these assembly  
steps to properly prepare your machine  
for use. We recommend that you read  
this Section in its entirety before begin-  
ning assembly.  
2. Remove any protective packaging  
from around the handlebars. Cut the  
plastic tie straps holding the control rods  
and struts to the handlebars.  
Figure 2-1  
NOTE: All references to left, right, front  
and rear of the machine are determined  
by standing behind the handlebars and  
facing the direction of forward travel.  
A
STEP 2: Attach Handlebars  
to Engine Deck  
NOTE: Four screws (D, Figure 2-2) are  
used to connect the handlebars to the  
engine deck. At the factory, two of these  
screws (front) are threaded directly into  
lock nuts welded to the back sides of the  
deck. The remaining two screws (rear)  
secure the lower handle to the deck.  
E
INSPECTION AFTER DELIVERY  
Inspect the shipping crate and machine  
immediately after delivery. Make sure  
neither the carton/crate nor the contents  
have been damaged.  
D
D
Figure 2-2: Attach handlebars and struts  
to engine deck.  
1. Remove and save the two 5/16"-18 x  
3/4" screws (front) mentioned in the  
NOTE above.  
If you find or suspect any damage, con-  
tact the carrier (trucking company)  
immediately. Inform them of the specific  
damage and that you wish to file a claim.  
To protect your rights, be sure to put  
this in writing to the carrier within 15  
days. The carrier will let you know how  
to proceed with your claim. Please let us  
know if you need any assistance.  
side of the unit.  
7. Position a handlebar strut’s smaller  
hole (A, Figure 2-1) over the screw (B,  
Figure 2-1) on the INSIDE of the con-  
sole, with the strut’s flat side against the  
console.  
2. Loosen, but do NOT remove, the two  
5/16"-18 x 3/4" screws (rear). Leave the  
cardboard insert found between the left-  
hand handlebar and engine deck, in  
place.  
8. Using the nut removed earlier, secure  
the strut to the console/handlebar.  
3. Carefully pivot the handlebars over  
the engine and position the handlebar  
ends (E, Figure 2-2) against the sides of  
the engine deck. Do not alloow the han-  
dlebars to rub against the engine while  
pivoting them.  
9. Align the loose end of the left-hand  
handlebar strut (A, Figure 2-2) over the  
front hole in the handlebar end. Secure  
the strut and handlebar to the deck with  
the 5/16"-18 x 3/4" screw (D, Figure 2-2)  
removed earlier.  
TOOLS/MATERIALS NEEDED:  
Wire Cutter  
Two 7/16” Wrenches  
• 3/8” Wrench  
4. Loosely secure the right-hand handle-  
bar end to the deck by reinserting the  
screw (D, Figure 2-2) removed earlier.  
Do not secure the left-hand handle at  
this point in assembly.  
• 1/2” Wrench  
Scissors or Pen Knife  
Needle-nose Pliers  
Tire Gauge  
10. Remove the screw (front) that is  
loosely securing the right-hand handle-  
bar end to the deck. and repeat 6-9 on  
the right-hand side of the unit.  
5. Remove the cardboard insert from  
between the left-hand handlebar and  
engine deck  
11. On both sides of the unit, securely  
tighten the screws (D, Figure 2-2) at the  
lower ends of the handlebar before tight-  
ening the screws (B & F, Figure 2-1) on  
the console.  
6. Remove the nut from the lower screw  
(B, Figure 2-1) which secures the con-  
sole to the handlebar on the left-hand  
4
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Section 2: Assembly  
STEP 3 ATTACHING THE BATTERY  
CABLES (MODEL F753B)  
The positive battery terminal is marked  
Pos. (+). The negative battery terminal is  
marked Neg. (–).  
The mower is shipped with the positive  
(Red) cable secured to the positive ter-  
minal (+) on the battery. Attach the  
ground (Black) cable to the negative ter-  
minal (–) on the battery, as follows:  
1. Remove the plastic battery cover (G,  
Figure. 2-3) by unthreading the two wing  
nuts (H, Figure. 2-3) which secure it to  
the battery hold-down rods (I, Figure. 2-  
3)  
STEP 4: Attach Control Rods  
A. Attach Wheel Drive Control Rod  
WARNING  
Control rods are adjusted at the fac-  
tory and should not require additional  
adjustment during assembly. After as-  
1. Locate the wheel drive control rod (F,  
Figures 2-4A & 2-7) and remove the an-  
gled end from the left handlebar by re-  
moving the hairpin clip which secures it  
to the Wheel Drive Control lever (V,  
Figure 2-4A)  
sembling  
unit,  
control  
rod  
adjustment should be checked (and  
re-adjusted, if necessary) according to  
information in Maintenance Section.  
2. At left side of engine deck, insert  
swivel block (H, Figures 2-4 & 2-5) on  
wheel drive control rod into wheel drive  
control arm (U, Figure 2-4).  
Failure to follow this instruction could  
result in severe personal injury or  
property damage.  
3. Add a 5/16" washer (A, Figure 2-4)  
and secure with a hairpin clip (B).  
2. Add one 5/16" washer and secure  
2. Remove the hex bolt and hex nut  
from the ground cable / heavy black wire  
(E, Figure. 2-3).  
3. Secure the ground cable to the nega-  
tive battery terminal (–) with the bolt and  
hex nut just removed.  
with hairpin clip.  
4. At upper end of control rod, re-insert  
the angled end into the Wheel Drive  
Control lever (V, Figure 2-4A) and re-  
attach with hairpin clip (BB) removed  
earlier.  
C. Attach Blade Drive Control Rod  
1. Locate the blade drive control rod (C,  
Figure 2-5). Insert one end of control rod  
into blade drive bracket (D, Figure 2-5).  
Add one 5/16" washer and attach with  
hairpin clip (CC).  
B. Attach Operator Presence Control  
Rod  
4. Resecure the battery cover.  
IMPORTANT:  
1. Locate the Operator Presence Control  
rod (E, Figures. 2-4 and 2-5). At bottom  
of control rod, insert swivel block (G,  
Figures 2-4 & 2-5) into control arm (T,  
Figure 2-4).  
• If the battery is put into service after  
the date shown on top of battery,  
charge the battery as instructed in the  
Maintenence section of this manual  
prior to operating the mower.  
2. Insert the other end of rod into bot-  
tom end of Blade Drive Control lever (J,  
Figure 2-5). Add one 5/16" washer and  
attach with hairpin clip (AA).  
D. Attach and Adjust Gear Select Lever  
NOTE: The retaining plate (N, Figure 2-5)  
mentioned in the following steps is se-  
cured to the rear of the mower with two  
screws (O, Figure 2-5) and 1/4-20 lock-  
nuts. Remove the retaining plate and  
save it, along with the two screws, be-  
fore proceeding with assembly.  
Black  
(Negative Cable)  
H
G
H
W
E
U
I
F
Red  
(Positive Cable)  
H
A, B  
G
T
Figure 2-4: Left-hand control rods detail.  
Figure 2-3: Connect wire terminals to battery terminals.  
5
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Section 2: Assembly  
BB  
L
W
V
J
AA  
V
F
Figure 2-4A: Attach wheel drive control rod  
to lever.  
I
1. Remove the vinyl grip (B, Figure 2-6)  
from the gear select lever (I). Place the  
wood edge against the edge of the grip  
and slowly pull off the grip.  
E
C
2. Insert nylon bushing (Z, Figure 2-6)  
up into console (L).  
F
3. Slide spring and washers (J) down  
onto gear select lever.  
4. Insert gear select lever (I) up through  
nylon bushing (Z) in handlebar console  
(L). Guide pin (K) on gear select lever into  
groove in shift quadrant (P).  
CC  
H
D
5. Hold lower part of gear select lever (I,  
Figure 2-7) against bracket (M). Position  
retaining plate (N), removed earlier, as  
shown in Figure 2-7 (plate below  
bracket). Secure plate with two 1/4"-20 x  
1/2" screws (O) and 1/4”-20 locknuts re-  
moved earlier.  
N
G
M
P
O
Figure 2-5: Rear view of control rods.  
6. Slide grip (B, Figure 2-6) back onto  
gear select lever (I).  
B
I
7. Rotate gear select lever (I, Figures 2-  
6 & 2-7) clockwise until spur (K - short  
rod) on gear select rod stops in the neu-  
tral position detent on the shift pattern  
quadrant (Figure 2-6).  
L
Z
8. Move shift arm (X, Figure 2-7) from  
side to side as necessary into each trans-  
mission gear detent until transmission is  
in neutral.  
J
P
K
NOTE: Moving shift arm (X) all the way to  
the left, and then one notch back to the  
right, should put transmission into neu-  
tral. When transmission is in neutral, unit  
will move freely when pushed while hold-  
ing the Operator Presence Control lever  
(W, Figure 2-5) down. If transmission is  
NOT in neutral, there will be a slight drag  
on the wheels when pushing unit.  
Pin (K) must be in this detent  
when transmission neutral is  
adjusted.  
Figure 2-6: Detail – Gear Select Lever in Neutral (N) position.  
6
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Section 2: Assembly  
9. When shift arm (X) is in neutral posi-  
tion, rotate shift link (P) toward end of  
gear select lever rod (I). Adjust length  
of shift link (P) as necessary to fit into  
hole in bottom of gear select lever (I).  
STEP 6: Check Motor Oil Level  
WARNING  
1. Move mower to a level area. Press  
and hold Operator Presence Control  
lever (W, Figure 2-5) to move mower.  
Do not use the mower if the wheels  
continue to turn after releasing the  
Operator Presence Control and the  
Wheel Drive Control.  
2. The mower is shipped with oil in the  
engine. However, you MUST check the  
oil level according to the instructions pro-  
vided in the separate Engine Owner’s  
Manual included in the unit’s literature  
package before starting the mower.  
NOTE: Pin (K) on Gear Select Lever (I)  
must be held in the neutral position  
detent on the shift quadrant (see Figure  
2-6) while shift link (P, Figure 2-7) is  
adjusted.  
Severe personal injury or property  
damage could result if this instruction  
is not followed.  
10. Insert hooked end of shift link (P,  
Figure 2-7) into hole in bottom end of  
gear select lever (I) and secure with  
hairpin clip (Q).  
I
O
NOTE: It may be necessary to lift gear  
select lever (I) to install shift link (P).  
11. Remove unit from shipping crate.  
To remove, hold down Operator  
Presence Control lever (W, Figure 2-5)  
which releases the wheel brake.  
N
M
12. With unit on level ground, hold  
down Operator Presence Control lever  
(W, Figure 2-5) and push unit forward  
and backward. The wheels should move  
freely. If not, adjust length of shift link  
(P, Figure 2-7) as necessary.  
Q
Y
X
P
13. Put the Gear Select Lever in neutral  
(N), release all of the control levers and  
try to push the unit forward and back-  
ward. The wheels should not turn. If  
they do turn, an adjustment is neces-  
sary. DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT  
UNTIL THE WHEEL BRAKE MECHANISM  
HAS BEEN ADJUSTED AND IS WORK-  
ING PROPERLY. See Wheel Brake  
Adjustment” in Section 5 Maintenance.”  
Figure 2-7: Detail – Transmission Neutral Adjustment.  
Keep oil level at the FULL mark on the  
dipstick to avoid engine damage.  
Change oil according to schedule and  
instructions in Section 5 Maintenance.”  
STEP 7: Check Tire Pressure  
1. Use a tire gauge to check the air  
pressure in the rear tires. The air pres-  
sure should be between 15-20 PSI (20  
PSI maximum).  
STEP 5: Secure Wire Harness  
1. At the unattached end of the electrical  
wire harness, there are four wires at-  
tached to a large plastic connector and  
two wires attached to a small plastic  
connector. . Plug the large connector  
into the bottom of the ignition keyswitch  
that is located on the underside of the  
handlebar console (not pictured).  
2. Keep both tires equally inflated to  
help prevent machine from pulling to  
one side.  
STEP 8: After Assembling and  
Before Using Unit  
1. Read this entire Owner’s Manual for  
proper safety, operation and mainte-  
nance information.  
3. Use two cable ties to secure the wire  
harness to the right handlebar and away  
from any moving parts. Place the ties  
an equal distance apart.  
2. Make sure spark plug wire is con-  
nected to spark plug before starting unit.  
7
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Section  
Features and Controls  
3
the lever will also disengage the Blade  
MOWER FEATURES AND  
CONTROLS  
This section describes the various  
features and controls on the unit. Refer  
to the next section Operation” for  
detailed operating instructions. Also,  
read the separate Engine Owner’s  
Manual for a detailed explanation of the  
proper use of the engine controls.  
WARNING  
Drive Control, which will apply a brake  
that stops the blades within three (3)  
seconds.  
Before operating mower, be sure to  
read all safety, controls and operating  
instructions in this Manual and on  
decals located on machine.  
Blade Drive Control  
Use this lever (B, Figure 3-1) to en-  
gage drive to the mower blades.  
To engage the blades, first engage the  
Operator Presence Control (A, Figure 3-  
1). Then, push the spring-loaded Blade  
Drive Control lever (B) forward until it  
stays in the engaged position.  
Severe personal injury or property  
damage could result if this instruction  
is not followed.  
Operator Presence Control  
IMPORTANT: THE MOWER IS  
EQUIPPED WITH A BLADE-BRAKE-  
CLUTCH CONTROL SYSTEM WHICH IS  
DESIGNED TO STOP THE MOWER  
BLADES WITHIN THREE (3) SECONDS  
AFTER RELEASE OF THE OPERATOR  
PRESENCE CONTROL. THIS SYSTEM  
WILL STOP THE BLADES BUT NOT THE  
ENGINE. THEREFORE, YOU CAN DISEN-  
GAGE THE BLADE DRIVE AT ANYTIME  
WITHOUT HAVING TO STOP AND  
RESTART THE ENGINE. THIS FEATURE  
IS PARTICULARLY USEFUL WHEN YOU  
NEED TO CROSS GRAVEL DRIVES OR  
ROUGH TERRAIN AND YOU DO NOT  
WANT THE SPINNING BLADES  
TO STRIKE STONES OR HIDDEN  
OBSTACLES.  
The Operator Presence Control lever  
(A, Figure 3-1) regulates the operation of  
the rear wheel brake and the separate  
Blade Drive Control. Always engage this  
control before engaging the separate  
blade drive or wheel drive controls.  
Always disengage this control before  
starting the engine.  
To engage the Operator Presence  
Control, press and hold the lever against  
the handlebar grip. Doing so releases  
the brake on the rear wheels, allowing  
the wheels to turn. The engaged position  
also permits the separate Blade Drive  
Control to lock in its engaged position  
(allows the mower blades to turn).  
Releasing the lever (disengaged  
To stop the blades, release the  
Operator Presence Control (A). Doing so  
will disengage the Blade Drive Control  
(B) and automatically apply the brake  
that stops the blades.  
Always disengage the Blade Drive  
Control before starting the engine. This  
helps to ensure that the blades will not  
start turning when the engine starts.  
position) applies the rear wheel brake  
and quickly stops the wheels. Releasing  
WARNING  
A – OPERATOR  
PRESENCE CONTROL  
The blade-brake-clutch control system  
should stop the mower blades within  
three (3) seconds after release of the  
Operator Presence Control.  
B – BLADE  
DRIVE CONTROL  
C – GEAR  
SELECT LEVER  
Disengage  
Engage  
If the blades do not stop within three  
(3) seconds, put the Engine Throttle  
Control in the STOP position.  
Disconnect the spark plug wire and do  
not operate the mower until the blade-  
brake-clutch control system has been  
repaired.  
Disengage  
Engage  
Figure 3-1  
8
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Section 3: Features and Controls  
Operating Symbols Various symbols are used on the mower to indicate control settings (your model may not have all of the  
symbols). These symbols are shown below with a description of their meaning.  
ENGINE  
STOP  
ENGINE  
START  
ENGINE  
RUN  
FAST  
SLOW  
ENGAGE  
DISENGAGE  
CHOKE  
Presence Control along with the Wheel  
Drive Control.  
trated) on the right side of the mower  
deck show the cutting height settings  
ranging from A (highest) to G (lowest).  
Gear Select Lever  
Use this lever (C, Figure 3-1) to select  
any of four forward ground speeds (1 -  
Slow, 2 and 3 - Medium, 4 - Fast), N  
(Neutral) and R (Reverse). The gear shift  
pattern is shown in Figure 3-2.  
To avoid damaging the transmis-  
sion, do not shift gears when the  
mower is moving.  
For forward travel, use one of the four  
numbered settings. To select reverse,  
shift to neutral and then pull up on the  
lever. Turn the lever to the R (reverse)  
position and release the lever.  
Put the lever in N (neutral) to manu-  
ally push the mower and when the  
mower is not in use.  
When starting the engine, the Wheel  
Drive Control should be disengaged (re-  
leased). This helps to ensure that the  
wheels will not start turning when the  
engine starts.  
E – CUTTING HEIGHT  
CONTROL LEVER  
CAUTION  
Do not engage the Wheel Drive Control  
without first engaging the Operator  
Presence Control. Doing so could  
result in wear or damage to the wheel  
brake mechanism.  
Figure 3-4  
Mulcher Cover  
The mulcher cover (F, Figure 3-5) is  
pre-installed at the factory. It must be  
kept in place when using the unit as a  
mulching mower. The mulcher cover is  
designed to keep the discharge chute  
raised up while you mow. When the  
cover is removed for side-discharge  
mowing, the discharge chute lowers.  
Refer to “4. Select Mulching or Side-  
Discharge Mowing” in the Operation  
Section for mulcher cover installation  
instructions.  
A – OPERATOR  
PRESENCE CONTROL  
Figure 3-2:  
Shift pattern  
on console.  
Disengage  
Engage  
Engage  
Wheel Drive Control  
Use this lever (D, Figure 3-3) to en-  
gage and disengage drive to the wheels.  
To engage the wheels, first select a  
forward or reverse gear with the Gear  
Select Lever and squeeze the Operator  
Presence Control (A, Figure 3-3). Then,  
squeeze the Wheel Drive Control lever  
(D) against the handlebar grip. The  
ground speed can be varied by increas-  
ing or decreasing pressure on the lever.  
To avoid sudden acceleration, slowly  
squeeze the lever when first engaging  
the wheels.  
Disengage  
D – WHEEL  
DRIVE CONTROL  
Figure 3-3  
F
Cutting Height Control Lever  
Figure 3-5  
Use this lever (E, Figure 3-4) to adjust  
the cutting height from 1 to 4 inches.  
Note that actual cutting heights will vary  
according to soil conditions.  
Turn the lever clockwise to raise the  
height or counterclockwise to lower the  
height. A decal and pointer (not illus-  
Release the Wheel Drive Control to  
disengage the wheels. The wheels will  
gradually slow to a stop. NOTE: To stop  
the wheels quickly, release the Operator  
9
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Section 3: Features and Controls  
Engine Throttle Control  
H – IGNITION/STARTER  
SWITCH  
This lever (G, Figure 3-6) is used to  
adjust engine speeds and, on non-  
Electric Start models, to stop the engine.  
Always run engine at fast speed setting  
for best mower performance. The throt-  
tle settings are shown below.  
G – THROTTLE CONTROL  
CHOKE - Use when  
starting a cold engine.  
FAST - Use during mower  
operation.  
Figure 3-6  
SLOW - Use when idling  
engine.  
Engine Recoil Starter  
The recoil starter (I, Figure 3-7) is  
used to pull-start” the engine. Detailed  
instructions for using the recoil starter  
are found in the Operation Section of this  
Manual and in the Engine Owner's  
Manual. Do not pull the recoil starter  
until you have read the Operation  
Section.  
STOP - Stops engine  
(Non-electric Start Models  
Only)  
Ignition/Starter Switch -  
(Electric Start Model)  
This three-position switch (H, Figure  
3-6) is used to start and stop the  
engine on electric start models. The ig-  
nition key settings are shown below. Do  
not turn the key until you have read the  
Operation Section in this Manual.  
Always remove ignition key when  
leaving mower unattended or when in-  
specting, cleaning or servicing mower.  
I – RECOIL  
STARTER  
Figure 3-7  
STOP - Stops engine.  
RUN - After starting, key  
returns to run position.  
START - Starts engine.  
Release key when engine  
starts.  
10  
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Section  
Operation  
4
9. Check the air pressure in the rear  
tires (15-20 PSI). Keep tires inflated  
equally.  
clean unleaded gasoline with a mini-  
mum octane rating of 77. Leave 1/2"  
of space for fuel expansion. Do not  
mix oil with gasoline. Do not use  
gasoline which contains Methanol.  
See the Engine Owner’s Manual for  
instructions and precautions regard-  
ing the use of gasolines that are  
blended with alcohols or ethers  
(called oxygenated or reformulated  
gasolines). Securely replace caps on  
fuel tank and fuel container.  
WARNING  
Before operating mower, be sure to  
read all safety, controls and operating  
instructions in this Manual and on  
decals located on machine.  
DANGER  
GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND  
ITS VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE. To help  
prevent severe personal injury or prop-  
erty damage:  
Severe personal injury or property  
damage could result if this instruction  
is not followed.  
• Follow gasoline safety rules in  
Section 1: “Safety” of this Manual and  
in the separate Engine Owner’s  
Manual.  
BEFORE OPERATING MOWER  
1. Pre-Operation Checklist  
With the spark plug wire disconnected  
from the spark plug, perform the follow-  
ing checks and services before each use:  
11. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug  
after completing above checklist.  
• Never remove the gasoline fill cap or  
add fuel when indoors or when engine  
is running or still hot. Allow engine to  
cool at least three (3) minutes before  
refueling.  
2. Set Mower Cutting Height  
1. Review Section 1: Safety” and Section  
3, Features and Controls” in this man-  
ual. Read the separate Engine Owner’s  
Manual provided with the unit.  
CAUTION  
To avoid personal injury, do not adjust  
cutting height while wheels or blades  
are turning. Release all handlebar  
controls and wait for all motion to stop  
before adjusting cutting height.  
• Keep smoking materials, sparks or  
flames far away from fuel tank and fuel  
container.  
2. Check unit for loose or missing hard-  
ware. Tighten or replace as needed.  
• Store gasoline in an approved fuel  
container and in a well-ventilated area.  
Store it safely out of the reach of chil-  
dren. Do not store gasoline where va-  
pors can reach an open spark or flame  
or where ignition sources are present  
(such as hot water or space heaters,  
furnaces, clothes dryers, stoves, elec-  
tric motors, etc.).  
3. With the unit on level ground, check  
the engine oil level according to the  
instructions in the Engine Owner’s  
Manual. The oil level should be at the  
FULL mark on the dipstick or up to the  
top of the oil fill hole on engines with-  
out a dipstick.  
1. Release all controls before adjusting  
the cutting height.  
2. Adjust the cutting height from 1 to 4  
inches by rotating the Cutting Height  
Control lever (Figure 3-4) either clock-  
wise to raise the height or counterclock-  
wise to lower the height. Note that ac-  
tual cutting heights will vary according  
to grass and soil conditions. A decal and  
pointer on the right side of the mower  
deck indicates the height setting.  
4. Check all levers for freedom of move-  
ment. Readjust or repair as needed  
before starting engine.  
• Fill tank to 1/2" below bottom of filler  
neck to allow for fuel expansion. Wipe  
up spilled gasoline immediately and  
move mower away from gasoline fumes  
before starting engine. Securely re-  
place caps on fuel tank and fuel  
container.  
5. Check that all guards and shields are  
in place and properly secured.  
6. Inspect the area to mowed and re-  
move any debris which could be  
picked up and thrown by the mower  
blades.  
3. In heavy or tall grass, it is usually  
better to make the first cut at a higher  
setting and then make a second cut at  
the desired height. In rough terrain, a  
higher setting is recommended as it will  
minimize the chances of the blade strik-  
ing the ground or hidden obstructions.  
10. Remove the fuel cap and check the  
level of gasoline according to the in-  
structions in the Engine Owner’s  
Manual. Clean around fuel fill area  
before removing fuel cap. Do not  
check fuel level or add fuel while in-  
doors or if engine is running or hot.  
Allow engine to cool for three (3)  
minutes. Fill the tank with fresh,  
7. Check that the mulcher cover is prop-  
erly installed in the discharge opening  
(see instructions in this Section).  
Remove the mulcher cover to use the  
side-discharge mowing feature.  
8. On electric start models, check that  
all wiring connections are clean and  
tight.  
11  
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Section 4: Operation  
3. Test Blade-Brake-Clutch  
Control System  
STARTING AND STOPPING  
THE ENGINE  
The mower is equipped with a blade-  
brake-clutch which is designed to stop  
the mower blades within three (3)  
seconds after release of the Operator  
Presence Control or the Blade Drive  
Control. Never tamper with, or attempt  
to defeat the purpose of this safety  
device.  
The control system is a mechanical  
device which is subject to wear.  
Therefore, test the operation of the  
blade-brake-clutch control system before  
each use of the mower. Refer to "Blade  
Brake Control Test" at the end of this  
Section.  
DANGER  
Do not operate the engine in an  
enclosed area. Engine exhaust  
contains carbon monoxide, a deadly  
gas that is odorless, colorless and  
tasteless. Always run engine outdoors  
and make sure there is adequate  
ventilation.  
A
B
Figure 4-1: Mulcher cover  
3. To remove the cover, slide the cover  
to the right (front of mower) to disen-  
gage the slot (B) from the mower deck  
and then pry the left-side of the cover  
out and off.  
To Start the Engine  
1. Move mower to a level area.  
2. Release all controls on mower to pre-  
vent wheels or mower blades from rotat-  
ing when engine starts.  
4. Select Mulching or Side-  
Discharge Mowing  
MOVING THE MOWER WITHOUT  
ENGINE POWER  
3. Move Engine Throttle Control (E,  
Figure 4-2) fully upward to choke setting  
to start a cold engine or to fast (rabbit)  
setting to start a warm engine.  
WARNING  
The mower can be manually pushed  
or pulled by putting the Gear Select  
Lever (C, Figure 4-2) in N (neutral) and  
pressing and holding the Operator  
Presence Control (A, Figure 4-2) down  
against the handlebar grip.  
Before installing or removing mulching  
cover, stop engine, wait for parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark plug  
wire. Remove ignition key on electric  
start models.  
WARNING  
To avoid injury:  
• Keep hands and feet clear of mower  
blades or other rotating parts.  
• Look behind you to be sure there are  
no obstacles before pulling recoil  
starter rope.  
To stop the wheels at anytime,  
release the Operator Presence Control.  
You can use the mower either as a  
mulching mower or as a side-discharge  
mower. To use the mulching feature, in-  
sert the mulcher cover as described  
below. Remove the mulcher cover to  
side-discharge grass clippings. The  
mulcher cover is designed to keep the  
discharge chute raised up while mowing.  
When the cover is removed, the dis-  
charge chute will lower itself for side-  
discharge mowing.  
C – Gear Select Lever  
E – Engine Throttle  
Control  
F – Ignition/Starter  
A – Operator  
To install or remove mulcher cover:  
Presence Control  
B – Blade Drive  
Control  
1. Stop the engine and wait for all parts  
to stop moving. Disconnect the spark  
plug wire from the spark plug. Remove  
the ignition key on electric start models.  
2. To install the cover, insert the right-  
side tab of the cover into the front sup-  
port bracket (A, Figure 4-1). Insert the  
cover into the discharge opening, mak-  
ing sure that the slot (B) in the left side  
of the cover is completely engaged in the  
rear edge of the deck opening.  
D – Wheel Drive Control  
Figure 4-2: Mower Controls  
12  
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Section 4: Operation  
4. To start engine using recoil starter:  
3. Move Throttle Control all the way  
down to stop position (Non-electric Start  
Models Only) or turn ignition key (elec-  
tric start models) fully counterclockwise  
to stop position.  
the mower, put lever in No. 1 setting.  
Select forward speeds according to  
mowing conditions and terrain. Use  
slower speeds on rough terrain or  
when grass is heavy or thick. The  
forward speed can be increased on  
smooth terrain or if the grass cover  
is light. Allow the wheels to stop  
completely before shifting from one  
forward speed into another.  
A. Stand on left side (as viewed from  
behind handlebars) of machine. Be  
sure your feet are safely away from  
the underside of the mower deck and  
all mower controls are released.  
Place one foot on top of tire.  
4. On electric start models, remove the  
ignition key before leaving the mower  
unattended.  
B. Grasp starter rope handle (Figure 3-  
7) and pull slowly until rope pulls  
slightly harder. Let rope rewind  
slowly. Then pull rope with a rapid,  
full arm stroke. Let rope return  
slowly. If engine fails to start after  
three pulls, repeat instructions start-  
ing with Step 2 (try setting throttle at  
fast setting).  
DANGER  
To avoid injury from rotating blades,  
keep face, hands and feet clear of  
mower blades at all times.  
C. To start the wheels, slowly squeeze  
WARNING  
Before engaging the Wheel Drive Lever  
for the very first time, check that the  
neutral (N) position on the Gear Select  
Lever is properly adjusted. See  
“Neutral Adjustment” in Section 5:  
Maintenance for the procedure to  
follow.  
ENGAGING THE BLADES  
To Engage the Blades  
1. Start engine as described in To Start  
the Engine” instructions. Put engine  
throttle in fast speed setting.  
C. When engine starts, operate in fast  
throttle setting (move throttle from  
choke setting to fast setting).  
5. To start engine using electric starter:  
Failure to follow this instruction could  
result in personal injury or property  
damage.  
A. Stand behind the handlebars and re-  
2. Press and hold Operator Presence  
Control (A, Figure 4-2) against handle-  
bar grip.  
lease all mower controls.  
B. Turn ignition key (F, Figure 4-2) fully  
clockwise to crank engine. To avoid  
damage to starter motor, do not  
crank engine for longer than five sec-  
onds at a time. Also, allow 15 sec-  
onds between each start attempt. If  
engine fails to start after three at-  
tempts, repeat instructions starting  
with Step 2 (try setting throttle at fast  
setting).  
3. Slowly push Blade Drive Control (B,  
Figure 4-2) fully forward until it stays in  
the engaged position. The blades are  
now rotating.  
the Wheel Drive Control (D, Figure 4-  
2). The harder you squeeze, the  
faster the wheels will turn. To avoid  
sudden acceleration, slowly squeeze  
the lever.  
To Stop the Blades  
To stop the blades, release the Operator  
Presence Control.  
D. TO STOP THE WHEELS:  
To stop drive power to the wheels,  
release the Wheel Drive Control. The  
wheels will gradually slow to a stop.  
C. When engine starts, release key and it  
will return to the run (middle) posi-  
tion.  
TO ENGAGE THE WHEELS  
To quickly stop the wheels, release  
both the Wheel Drive Control and  
the Operator Presence Control.  
CAUTION  
• To avoid damaging the transmission,  
do not shift gears while in motion.  
D. Operate engine at fast throttle setting  
(move throttle from choke setting to  
fast setting).  
3. FOR REVERSE TRAVEL:  
• To avoid damaging the wheel brake  
mechanism, do not engage the Wheel  
Drive Control without first engaging the  
Operator Presence Control.  
A. Stop the mower blades and wheels by  
NOTE: If the electric start system is not  
functioning, the engine can be started  
with the recoil starter. To do so, first put  
the ignition key in the run (middle) posi-  
tion. Then follow Steps 1-4 above.  
Leave the key in the run position during  
engine operation.  
WARNING  
To avoid injury or property damage:  
• Look behind the mower before  
and during reverse operation.  
1. Start engine as described in To  
Start the Engine” instructions.  
• Stop the mower blades before operat-  
ing in reverse.  
2. FOR FORWARD TRAVEL:  
To Stop the Engine  
1. Release all mower controls to stop  
wheels or mower blade.  
A. Press and hold Operator Presence  
Control (A, Figure 4-2) against han-  
dlebar grip.  
releasing the Operator Presence  
Control (A, Figure 4-2).  
2. Move throttle control down to slow  
(turtle) position. (Whenever possible,  
gradually reduce engine speed before  
stopping engine.)  
B. Put the Gear Select Lever (C, Figure  
4-2) into one of the numbered set-  
tings (1 - Slow, 2 and 3 - Medium, 4  
- Fast). When first practicing with  
B. Press and hold Operator Presence  
Control against handlebar grip.  
13  
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Section 4: Operation  
C. Put the Gear Select Lever (C, Figure  
4-2) in R (reverse) setting by first  
moving lever to N (neutral). Then  
pull lever up, turn it to R position,  
and release lever.  
Mow When  
Lawn Is Dry  
WARNING  
To avoid injury or property damage:  
• Maximum safe operating angle  
is 15o.  
For best results, avoid cutting grass  
when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form  
clumps which interfere with the cutting  
action. The best time to mow is in the  
late afternoon or early evening when the  
grass is usually dry.  
D. To start the wheels, slowly squeeze  
Wheel Drive Control (D, Figure 4-2).  
To avoid sudden acceleration, slowly  
squeeze the lever.  
• Exceeding maximum safe operating  
angle may cause tipping or loss of  
footing.  
• Do not mow wet slopes.  
E. TO STOP THE WHEELS:  
• Mow across slopes, not up and down.  
1
3
To stop drive power to the wheels,  
release the Wheel Drive Control. The  
wheels will gradually slow to a stop.  
• Exercise extreme caution when  
changing direction on slopes.  
Cut Top 1/3 of  
Grass Blades  
To quickly stop the wheels, release  
both the Wheel Drive Control and  
the Operator Presence Control.  
Mulching Leaves  
Cutting more than 1/3 of grass length  
may cause the grass to become exces-  
sively dry. In tall grass, it may be neces-  
sary to mow at a higher setting and then  
mow again at the desired height. NOTE:  
The cutting height is critical to achieving  
a well-groomed lawn. You should exper-  
iment with various settings to find that  
“just right” cutting height.  
The mower can be used to mow fallen  
leaves. The leaf particles filter down into  
the lawn and provide added fertilizer.  
Return the Gear Select Lever to the  
N (neutral) position when you have  
completed reverse operation. Allow  
the wheels to stop completely be-  
fore shifting from R (reverse) into a  
forward speed.  
The leaves must be dry in order to be  
mulched.  
Use a slower ground speed if the  
leaves are not mulched into fine parti-  
cles.  
• If you mulch oak leaves (which add acid  
to the soil), add lime to the lawn in the  
spring to reduce the acidity of the soil.  
MAKING TURNS  
Vary Cutting Pattern  
The mower turns easily by pushing  
the handlebars in the opposite direction  
that you want to turn. The differential  
mechanism inside the transaxle will  
allow the inside turning wheel to stop or  
slow down while the outside turning  
wheel is powered by the drive system.  
Reduce the wheel speed before turn-  
ing the mower. For tight turns, disen-  
gage the Wheel Drive Control and manu-  
ally push the mower through the turn (if  
needed, put the Gear Select Lever in  
neutral so the wheels turn freely).  
Keep Mower Blades Sharp  
Vary the cutting pattern from week to  
week to help prevent matting of the  
grass. One week, mow from north to  
south, the next week mow from east to  
west. Overlap several inches when  
mowing to obtain an even appearance.  
For best mower performance, keep the  
blades sharp. Dull blades will tear,  
bruise and split the ends of grass. See  
blade sharpening instructions in Section  
5: Maintenance.  
Clean Mower Frequently  
Mowing on Slopes  
Clean the underside of the mower deck  
frequently to remove grass build-up.  
See mower cleaning instructions in  
Section 5: Maintenance.  
Precision Trimming  
MOWING TIPS AND HINTS  
Do not mow excessively steep slopes  
(see WARNING statement that follows).  
Slow down and exercise extreme caution  
when changing direction on slopes.  
Before mowing on slopes, check the en-  
gine oil level and make sure that the level  
is at the FULL mark. Maintaining a FULL  
oil level is particularly important when  
operating on slopes as oil can be drained  
away from vital engine parts.  
For precision trimming, use the slow-  
est gear and inch the mower along by  
“feathering” the Wheel Drive Control  
lever. Or, disengage the wheel drive by  
releasing the Wheel Drive Control so that  
you can manually maneuver the mower  
(if needed, put the Gear Select Lever in  
neutral so that the wheels turn freely).  
WARNING  
To avoid injury or property damage:  
• Before mowing, thoroughly inspect  
area where mower is to be used and  
remove all stones, sticks, wires,  
bones, nails and other foreign objects.  
• Disengage mower blades before  
crossing gravel drives, roads, or side-  
walks to prevent blades from throwing  
stones or other hazardous objects.  
14  
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Section 4: Operation  
3. Start the engine.  
BLADE BRAKE CONTROL TEST  
4. Press the Operator Presence Control  
down against the handlebar grip and  
push the Blade Drive Control fully for-  
ward until it stays in the engaged posi-  
tion.  
When the Operator Presence Control  
is released during operation of the  
mower, the engine does not stop, but  
the blades should stop within three (3)  
seconds. The following test provides a  
visual test of whether the Blade Brake  
Control System is functioning. Perform  
this test before each use of the mower.  
5. Put the Gear Select Lever in the No. 1  
setting.  
6. Engage the wheels with the Wheel  
Drive Control and drive the mower for  
several feet. Then release the Operator  
Presence Control.  
1. Park mower on a portion of lawn  
which has not been recently mowed.  
A. Look at the lawn just mowed. The  
lawn should be cut up to the point  
where the Operator Presence Control  
was released.  
2. Set the cutting height so the mower  
cuts 1/3 of the grass height.  
WARNING  
To avoid personal injury or property  
damage, make sure that the mower is  
on grass, and that the test area is clear  
of foreign objects and bystanders be-  
fore you begin the Blade Brake Control  
Test.  
B. Press the Operator Presence Control  
against the handlebar grip but DO  
NOT re-engage the Blade Drive  
Control. Drive the mower forward  
for several more feet. Release the  
Operator Presence Control and look  
at the lawn. The grass should NOT  
have been cut. This indicates that  
the Operator Presence Control has  
disengaged the blade drive and  
stopped the blades.  
If the Operator Presence Control or the  
Blade Drive Control are not adjusted  
correctly, the blades may continue to  
rotate after release of the Operator  
Presence Control. If the blades do not  
stop within three (3) seconds of release  
of the Operator Presence Control, move  
the Engine Throttle Control to the STOP  
position, disconnect the spark plug  
wire, and move the wire away from the  
spark plug. Do not operate the mower  
until the Blade Brake Control System  
has been repaired.  
7. If the mower cuts the grass in Step  
6-B, the Operator Presence Control is  
NOT disengaging the blade drive.  
Immediately stop the engine, discon-  
nect the spark plug wire, and move the  
wire away from the spark plug.  
8. Do not use the mower until the Blade  
Brake Control System has been in-  
spected, adjusted or repaired by an au-  
thorized dealer.  
Failure to do this could result in per-  
sonal injury or property damage.  
15  
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Section  
Maintenance  
5
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
Carefully read this Section on mower  
and engine maintenance and service.  
Performing the required maintenance  
according to schedule will ensure the  
proper performance and long life of your  
machine.  
Maintenance Chart. Refer to Engine  
Owner's Manual for oil capacity.  
5. Twist oil drain fixture (C) to the open  
position. Pull out. Drain oil completely.  
6. Push in and twist oil drain fixture to  
the closed position. Remove drain  
hose. Replace protective cap (A).  
OIL TYPE: Use clean, high quality deter-  
gent oil having an A.P.I. service classifi-  
cation of SE, SF or SG. Use no special  
additives with oil. Refer to the Engine  
Owner’s Manual for recommended SAE  
viscosity grades that match the starting  
temperature anticipated before the next  
oil change.  
7. Refill engine with fresh oil and se-  
curely replace dipstick.  
WARNING  
NOTE: Please dispose of all waste mate-  
rials in an ecologically responsible man-  
ner. Use proper waste material storage  
containers.  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing  
the machine, shut off engine, make  
sure that all moving parts have come to  
a complete stop, disconnect spark plug  
wire and move wire away from spark  
plug. Remove ignition key on electric  
start models.  
Checking Oil Level:  
1. Park machine on level ground.  
2. Stop engine, wait for parts to stop  
moving, and disconnect spark plug  
wire.  
Failure to follow these instructions can  
result in personal injury or property  
damage.  
Z
3. Clean area around dipstick (Z, Figure  
5-1) to prevent dirt from entering oil fill  
hole.  
NOTE: All references to left, right, front  
and rear of the machine are determined by  
standing behind the handlebars and facing  
the direction of forward travel.  
4. Remove dipstick. Oil level must be  
between ADD” and FULL” marks. Do  
not exceed FULL” mark on dipstick.  
Figure 5-1: Briggs and Stratton engine oil  
fill.  
5. To add oil, pour slowly into dipstick  
opening. While adding, check oil level  
frequently by securely replacing dipstick  
and removing to read oil level. Wipe dip-  
stick clean each time oil level is  
checked.  
IMPORTANT: REFER TO  
C
MAINTENANCE CHART IN THIS  
SECTION FOR A LISTING OF REGU-  
LARLY SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE  
PROCEDURES.  
A
B
D
6. After filling to “FULL” mark, securely  
replace dipstick.  
ENGINE SERVICE  
Routine engine service is described  
below. For more complete engine ser-  
vice information, refer to the engine  
manual provided with your machine.  
For complete engine service, contact an  
authorized engine dealer.  
Changing Oil:  
Change oil while engine is still warm  
from recent operation. Warm oil flows  
more freely and carries away more im-  
purities.  
Figure 5-2: Oil drain.  
1. Stop engine, wait for parts to stop  
moving, and disconnect spark plug  
wire.  
ENGINE OIL  
OIL LEVEL: With mower on level  
ground, the engine oil level must be be-  
tween the "ADD" and "FULL" marks on  
the dipstick at all times. Check before  
each use and every 5 operating hours.  
2. Remove dipstick (Z, Figure 5-1).  
3. Remove protective cap (A, Figure 5-  
2) to expose oil drain port (B).  
4. Push oil drain hose (D) (included in  
hardware bag with unit) onto oil drain  
port. Route other end of hose to an ap-  
propriate oil collection receptacle.  
OIL CHANGE: On a new engine, change  
oil after first 2 hours of use, then change  
oil regularly as specified on the  
16  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
ENGINE CLEANING  
WARNING  
Stop engine, wait for parts to stop  
moving, disconnect spark plug wire,  
and allow engine to cool before in-  
specting or cleaning engine.  
Charge battery only with charger sup-  
plied with machine. Do not short circuit  
battery wires. Remove any jewelry be-  
fore working on or near the battery or  
electric start system. Failure to follow  
these instructions could result in per-  
sonal injury or property damage.  
D
E
Daily or more often, before running en-  
gine, remove grass and chaff from recoil  
finger guard or rotating screen to prevent  
engine damage caused by overheating.  
Also keep cooling vanes, governor link-  
age, springs and controls free of debris.  
B
A
Figure 5-3: Briggs and Stratton air cleaner  
assembly.  
BATTERY (if applicable)  
Daily or more often, before running en-  
gine, clean muffler area (be sure muffler  
is cool) to remove all grass and com-  
bustible debris. If engine is equipped  
with a spark arrestor screen, remove as-  
sembly every 50 hours for cleaning and  
inspection. Replace if damaged.  
Charge battery if unit is to be stored for  
longer than three weeks. During the  
mowing season, the battery is kept  
charged by the charging system on the  
engine.  
detergent and warm water. Squeeze dry  
in a clean cloth.  
4. Saturate foam pre-cleaner in clean  
engine oil. Wrap in clean, absorbent  
cloth and squeeze to remove all excess  
oil.  
To Charge Battery:  
1. Plug charger connector into wire har-  
ness connector located below ignition  
switch in handlebar console.  
Grass or chaff may clog engine's air  
cooling system, especially after pro-  
longed operation cutting tall, dry grass.  
See Engine Owner's Manual for instruc-  
tions on cleaning underneath the engine  
blower housing.  
5. Replace paper cartridge (B), if  
necessary.  
6. Reassemble air cleaner components.  
Tighten knobs/screws (D) securely.  
Secure cover assembly (E) on air  
cleaner body.  
2. Plug charger into 120V wall outlet.  
(Note that battery charger is designed for  
use indoors and should not be exposed to  
rain or snow.)  
AIR CLEANER SERVICE  
3. Charge battery for 24-48 hours if unit  
is to be stored for longer than three  
weeks.  
SPARK PLUG  
Improper air cleaner maintenance can  
cause engine damage. Refer to the  
Engine Owner's Manual for more com-  
plete air cleaner service information.  
Inspect the spark plug (Figure 5-4) after  
every 100 hours of operation. Be sure  
the gap is set at .030". Do not reuse plug  
if it is severely worn or damaged.  
4. After charging, unplug charger from  
outlet, then unplug charger from con-  
nector on wire harness located below  
handlebar console.  
SERVICE SCHEDULE:  
Outer foam pre-cleaner - wash and re-oil  
every 25 operating hours or every sea-  
son, whichever occurs first.  
Best results are obtained with a new  
plug. See Engine Owner's Manual to de-  
termine proper replacement plug. Use  
of incorrect plug can cause engine dam-  
age.  
CARBURETOR  
Inner paper cartridge - clean or replace  
every 100 operating hours or every sea-  
son, whichever occurs first.  
The carburetor is adjusted at the factory.  
It should not need to be reset. If black  
exhaust is noted, check the air cleaner  
first. An over-rich mixture is usually  
caused by a poorly serviced or clogged  
air cleaner element, not an improperly  
adjusted carburetor. If readjustment is  
necessary, refer to Engine Owner's  
Manual or contact your engine dealer.  
NOTE: Do not clean spark plug in ma-  
chines which use abrasive grit. Clean  
spark plug by scraping or wire brushing,  
or washing with a commercial solvent.  
To Service Air Cleaner (Figure 5-3):  
1. Stop engine, wait for parts to stop  
moving, and disconnect spark plug  
wire.  
2. Unscrew mounting screws and/or re-  
move knobs (D). Remove covers (E).  
Remove paper cartridge (B) and foam  
pre-cleaner (A). Separate foam pre-  
cleaner from paper cartridge.  
.030" Feeler Gauge  
3. Wash foam pre-cleaner (A) in liquid  
Figure 5-4: Spark plug.  
17  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
The belt cover must be removed to per-  
form several maintenance procedures.  
5. Loosen four mounting bolts (L) se-  
curing spindle housing (beneath mower  
deck) to mower deck.  
ENGINE STORAGE  
If engine will be unused for 30 days or  
more, prepare it for storage by following  
the recommended procedures found in  
the Engine Owner’s Manual.  
To Remove Belt Cover:  
6. Slide spindle housing (with pulley at-  
tached) toward center.  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
7. Replace belt (N) with new belt.  
IMPORTANT: SET BLADES PERPEN-  
DICULAR (90°) TO EACH OTHER.  
MOWER SERVICE  
2. Remove four screws (R, Figure 5-5)  
and remove cover.  
The following maintenance/repair proce-  
dures can be performed by either the  
owner or an authorized service dealer.  
See an authorized service dealer for  
complete mower service.  
8. Rotate arm (K) to move spindle  
housing and apply tension to belt. Belt  
cogs and pulley grooves must mesh to-  
gether. When applying moderate finger  
tension (8-12 lbs.), belt should deflect  
approximately 1/2” (12.7 mm) at (P),  
midpoint of deck.  
To Reinstall Belt Cover:  
1. Position belt cover in place.  
2. Secure with the four screws removed  
earlier.  
TIPPING MOWER FOR SERVICE  
WARNING  
9. Tighten bolts (L) to 15 ft.-lbs. (20.3  
Before servicing underside of mower,  
stop engine, wait for all parts to stop  
moving, and disconnect spark plug  
wire. Remove ignition key from  
keyswitch on electric start models.  
Failure to follow this instruction could  
result in personal injury or property  
damage.  
Nm). Tighten screw (J).  
10. Blades must not contact deck.  
Check and readjust as needed.  
11. Reinstall blade drive belt and belt  
cover (removed earlier).  
R
FRONT  
P
N
O
L
J
When servicing the underside of the  
mower for any reason, the mower  
should only be tipped backward on its  
rear wheels (and securely propped up to  
prevent it from falling). Tipping the  
mower forward or to either side could  
result in damage to engine.  
Figure 5-5: Belt cover removal.  
M
BLADE SPINDLE BELT  
REPLACEMENT  
Follow this procedure to remove and re-  
place the blade spindle drive belt (re-  
move blade drive belt first; see Blade  
Drive Belt Replacement” in this Section).  
K
BLADES  
MUST BE PERPENDICULAR  
TO EACH OTHER  
TIP: Before tipping mower, install a  
small plastic sandwich style bag under  
the gas cap and tighten securely. This  
will virtually eliminate any fuel seepage  
from the cap. Be sure to remove the  
plastic bag before re-using mower.  
Figure 5-6: Blade Spindle Belt.  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving and disconnect spark plug  
wire.  
2. Remove belt cover (see Belt Cover  
Removal).  
BELT COVER REMOVAL  
3. Align sight holes (O, Figure 5-6) in  
pulley with spindle housing-to-mower  
deck mounting bolts (L).  
WARNING  
Do not operate unit without belt cover  
installed. Failure to follow this instruc-  
tion could result in personal injury or  
property damage.  
4. Loosen screw (J) and rotate arm (K)  
to the rear.  
18  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
BLADE DRIVE BELT  
REPLACEMENT  
Blade Drive Disengaged  
Follow this procedure to remove and re-  
place the blade drive belt. An assistant  
will be needed.  
A
To Remove Belt:  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
Blade Drive Engaged  
2. Disengage blade drive control (Figure  
5-7) by releasing all controls on the  
mower.  
RIGHT VIEW  
Figure 5-7: Blade Drive Control.  
3. Remove belt cover (see Belt Cover  
Removal).  
4. Loosen belt guides (B and C,  
Figure 5-8).  
5. Move flap bracket (N, Figure 5-8) out  
of the way by loosening two screws (M).  
B
6. Remove belt (A, Figure 5-8) from  
around sheaves.  
J
G
To Install Belt:  
H
1. Route belt (A, Figure 5-8) around  
sheaves as shown.  
2. Have an assistant hold down  
K
Operator Presence Control and then  
push the Blade Drive Control forward  
until it latches in place (Figure 5-7).  
I
C
L
3. With the Blade Drive Control lever en-  
gaged, adjust and tighten belt guide (B)  
to 1/32 - 1/16" away from tensioned  
belt. (Be sure that belt does not contact  
belt guide when belt is under tension.)  
Secure belt guide (C) rotated into posi-  
tion as shown in Figure 5-8.  
X
4. Disengage Blade Drive Control.  
5. Re-tighten two screws (M, Figure  
5-8) that secure flap bracket (N).  
A
6. Reinstall belt cover securely.  
N
M
M
Figure 5-8: Blade drive.  
19  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
BLADE BRAKE REPLACEMENT  
Follow this procedure to install a new  
blade brake.  
Adjust idler in direction  
of arrow to tighten blade  
drive belt  
To Remove Blade Brake:  
D
F
J
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
1/8"  
E
2. Remove belt cover as described in  
Belt Cover Removal” instructions.  
3. Remove hardware (G, Figure 5-8)  
securing blade brake (H).  
4. Remove old brake (H) from idler  
arm (I).  
Figure 5-9: Blade drive adjustment.  
To Install Brake:  
1. Position new brake (H) in place on  
idler arm (I).  
6. Test the operation of the blade brake  
(see Blade Brake Control Test” in the  
Operation section).  
and make sure the Operator Presence  
Control latches (A and B, Fig. 5-10) are  
fully engaged at point (C). If they are not  
fully engaged, improper operation or  
premature wear could result. To adjust,  
loosen hex nut (D) and shorten length of  
control rod (E). To avoid over-adjusting,  
turn rod only 1 to 2 turns per adjust-  
ment.  
2. Center brake in sheave groove and  
secure brake (H) with hardware (G) re-  
moved earlier.  
7. If the drive belt slips during opera-  
tion, it may be necessary to  
relocate idler (J, Figure 5-9) in the slot  
provided in the mounting bracket. With  
the engine stopped and the spark plug  
wire disconnected, loosen the hardware  
on the idler (J) and slide it forward to  
take up slack in the belt.  
3. Reinstall belt cover securely.  
4. Test operation of blade brake (see  
Blade Brake Control Test” in Operation  
section).  
3. Tighten hex nut securely after adjust-  
ing control rod.  
BLADE DRIVE BELT  
ADJUSTMENT  
If the blade drive belt is slipping due to  
lack of belt tension, follow the steps  
below.  
8. Engage the blade drive and measure  
the distance (X, Figure 5-8) between the  
centers of pulleys (K) and (L). The dis-  
tance should be 5-1/2 to 5-5/8". After  
obtaining the correct dimension, rein-  
stall the belt cover securely and test the  
operation of the blade brake.  
4. Test by releasing the Operator  
Presence Control. If properly adjusted,  
the Blade Drive Control will disengage  
when the Operator Presence Control is  
released. Re-adjust as necessary by  
repeating Steps 2 and 3.  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
C
BLADE DRIVE CONTROL LEVER  
ADJUSTMENT  
Make the following adjustment if the  
Blade Drive Control Lever releases dur-  
ing operation.  
2. Remove belt cover as described in  
Belt Cover Removal” instructions.  
A
E
3. With mower on level ground, adjust  
blade cutting height at about 3" (mea-  
sure from ground to flat portion of  
blade).  
B
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
4. With the Blade Drive Control (Figure  
5-7) in the disengaged position, set a  
gap of 1/8" between the spring (F, Figure  
5-9) and flat washer (E) by adjusting the  
nut (D).  
2. Engage the Operator Presence  
Control and the Blade Drive Control.  
Without releasing the controls, look in-  
side the cutout at the rear of the frame  
D
5. Reinstall the belt cover securely.  
Figure 5-10: Blade Drive Control Lever  
adjustment.  
20  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
WHEEL DRIVE BELT  
REPLACEMENT  
Follow this procedure to replace the  
wheel drive belt.  
Q
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
O
S
2. Release all mower controls.  
3. Remove belt cover as described in  
Belt Cover Removal” instructions.  
P
4. Locate wheel drive belt (O, Figure 5-  
11) and remove it from top sheave of  
engine sheave, backsided idlers (P and  
Q) and transmission sheave (R).  
R
5. Install new belt as shown in Figure 5-  
11. Belt must be installed inside out ”–  
V” side of belt lies against  
engine sheave only. Flat side of belt lies  
against transmission sheave (R) and  
back-sided idlers (P and Q).  
Figure 5-11: Wheel drive belt replacement.  
6. Make sure belt is inside belt guide (S,  
Figure 5-11).  
gage wheel drive by squeezing Wheel  
Drive Control until it contacts handlebar.  
7. Reinstall belt cover securely.  
4. Wheels should slip on paved surface.  
If they do not, an adjustment is required.  
8. An adjustment to the drive belt may  
be necessary. See Wheel Drive Belt  
Adjustment” in this Section.  
To Adjust Wheel Drive Belt:  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
WHEEL DRIVE BELT  
ADJUSTMENT  
2. Remove cotter pin (A, Figure 5-12A)  
from upper end of Wheel Drive Control  
rod. Slide rod out of lever assembly.  
The wheel drive belt requires an adjust-  
ment if loss of drive belt tension (slip-  
page) occurs. This is most noticeable  
when more traction is required (such as  
going up slopes).  
A
3. Loosen jam nut (D, Figure 5-12).  
4. Thread rod (E, Figure 5-12) one or  
two turns clockwise for more tension or  
counterclockwise for less tension.  
Figure 5-12A  
To Test Wheel Traction:  
1. Park machine on a paved (concrete,  
etc.) surface with front edge up against  
a sturdy wall, fence, etc.  
WHEEL BRAKE ADJUSTMENT  
5. Insert rod back into hole in Wheel  
Drive Control lever and install cotter pin.  
Bend ends of cotter pin to secure.  
This adjustment may be required if the  
machine does not hold on a hill with the  
Operator Presence Control disengaged,  
or if the brake drags with the Operator  
Presence Control engaged and the trans-  
mission in neutral.  
2. Put Gear Select Lever in No. 1 setting.  
6. Retest wheel traction. Repeat adjust-  
ment procedure, if necessary. Most  
comfortable operation will be obtained  
when the adjustment allows the lever to  
just make contact with the handgrip as  
sufficient wheel traction is achieved.  
When adjustment is complete, tighten  
jam nut (D) firmly against block (B).  
IMPORTANT: DO NOT PARK AGAINST A  
PAINTED OR SIDED WALL. TESTING  
THE WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM REQUIRES  
MACHINE TO BE FORCIBLY PUSHED  
AGAINST WALL. DAMAGE TO PAINT OR  
SIDING COULD RESULT.  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
3. With engine running, and machine  
placed firmly up against wall, hold down  
Operator Presence Control and fully en-  
2. Disengage (release) the Operator  
Presence Control (M, Figure 5-13).  
21  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
2. Rotate shift rod (I, Figures 5-14 and  
5-15) clockwise until it stops in the neu-  
tral (N) position (from forward gear  
positions).  
3. Hold down Operator Presence Control  
(M, Figure 5-13) and push unit forward  
and backward. Unit should move freely.  
If not, continue with Step 4.  
4. Remove cotter pin securing shift link  
(P, Figure 5-15) to shift rod (I).  
E
5. Move shift arm (X) back and forth as  
necessary into each detent until trans-  
mission is in neutral. NOTE: Moving  
shift arm (X) clockwise all the way to the  
left, and then one notch back counter-  
clockwise, should put transmission into  
neutral. When transmission is in neutral,  
unit will move freely when pushed while  
holding the Operator Presence Control  
lever down. If transmission is NOT in  
neutral, there will be a slight drag on the  
wheels when pushing unit.  
D
B
Figure 5-12: Wheel drive belt adjustment.  
M
6. When shift arm (X) is in neutral posi-  
tion, rotate shift link (P) until hooked  
end fits back into hole in bottom end of  
shift rod (I). NOTE: Shift rod (I) must be  
held in the neutral position (see Figure  
5-14) while shift link (P) is adjusted.  
7. Secure shift link (P) into shift rod (I)  
with cotter pin removed earlier.  
N
P
8. Re-check neutral by pushing unit  
back and forth and shifting lever (I) from  
reverse to neutral. A small fine-tune  
adjustment may be required.  
O
N
3/8"-  
5/16"  
I
O
Figure 5-13: Wheel brake adjustment.  
3. Slowly adjust at nut (O), if necessary,  
until the distance between the back of  
brake arm (N) and bracket (P) is 3/8-  
5/16". Use small adjustments (1/4 turn  
maximum). NOTE: It may be necessary  
to relieve spring tension when decreas-  
ing distance. To do so, have an assis-  
tant engage the Operator Presence  
Control while you adjust the nut.  
TRANSMISSION NEUTRAL  
ADJUSTMENT  
Follow this procedure to adjust neutral  
on the transmission.  
Detent for  
Neutral Position  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
Figure 5-14: Lever in neutral (N) position.  
22  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
I
Y
Replace if separation  
begins to form.  
X
P
Figure 5-15: Transmission neutral (N) adjustment.  
Sharpen blade cutting edge straight  
across, parallel to blade trailing edge.  
MOWER BLADES  
To Sharpen Blades:  
Grind or file the same amount from each  
blade end to maintain blade balance. An  
unbalanced mower blade produces ex-  
cessive vibration and may damage spin-  
dle bearings. Sharpen cutting edge  
straight across, parallel to rear edge of  
mower blade. See Figure 5-16. After  
sharpening, blade balance must be  
checked.  
Figure 5-16: Blade Inspection  
WARNING  
Mower blades are sharp.  
FRONT  
• When working near blades, wear  
heavy leather gloves or wrap blades in  
thick rags to protect yourself from the  
sharp edges.  
• Wear eye protection when sharpening  
blades.  
IMPORTANT: PROFESSIONAL SHARP-  
ENING SERVICES OR YOUR AUTHO-  
RIZED DEALER ARE EQUIPPED TO  
SHARPEN MOWER BLADES SAFELY.  
BLADES  
MUST BE PERPENDICULAR  
TO EACH OTHER  
Examine mower blades before operation.  
For efficient mowing, cutting edges of  
blades should always be kept sharp.  
Check for blade wear or damage. See  
Figure 5-16. Replace a severely worn or  
damaged blade with a new one.  
Figure 5-17  
To Install Blades:  
Blades must be installed perpendicular  
to each other (see Figure 5-17).  
Torque to  
35 Ft. Lbs.  
Install mower blade as shown in Figure  
5-18 with flat side down. Install washer  
on bolt. Tighten bolts to a torque value  
of 35 ft. lbs. (47 Nm).  
To Inspect Blades:  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
NOTE: If top bolt is removed, reinstall  
using LOCTITE #242 thread sealant.  
Mower Blade  
2. Tip mower on rear wheels by follow-  
ing instructions “Tipping Mower For  
Service” in this Section of Manual.  
Washer  
To Remove Blades:  
Bolt  
Torque to  
35 Ft. Lbs.  
Remove bolt (Figure 5-18) and  
washer(s). Remove mower blade.  
Figure 5-18: Blade spindle.  
23  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
Failure to use this procedure could  
cause sparking, and the gas in either  
battery could explode.  
Battery Storage  
BATTERY MAINTENANCE  
Charge battery fully. The battery loses  
some of its charge each day when the  
unit is not used.  
IMPORTANT: NEVER store battery with-  
out a full charge. Recharge battery be-  
fore returning to service or every two  
months, whichever occurs first.  
When storing unit for extended periods,  
disconnect battery cables. Removing  
battery from unit is recommended.  
DANGER  
Use extreme caution when working on  
or near batteries. To help prevent per-  
sonal injury or property damage:.  
Cleaning  
Clean the battery by removing it from  
the tractor and washing with a baking  
soda and water solution. If necessary,  
scrape the battery terminals with a wire  
brush to remove deposits. Coat termi-  
nals and exposed wiring with grease or  
petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.  
• Batteries generate explosive gases.  
Keep sparks and flames away from  
the battery at all times. Ventilate the  
area when charging or using the bat-  
tery in an enclosed area.  
Battery Failures  
Some common causes for battery failure  
are:  
CLEANING UNDERSIDE OF  
MOWER DECK  
Battery Care in Service  
The battery is sealed and is mainte-  
nance-free. Acid levels cannot be  
checked.  
• incorrect initial activation  
• undercharging  
• overcharging  
WARNING  
Mower blades are sharp.  
When working near blades, wear  
heavy leather gloves or wrap blades in  
thick rags to protect yourself from the  
sharp edges.  
Always keep the battery cables and ter  
minals clean and free of corrosive  
build-up.  
• corroded connections  
• freezing  
IMPORTANT: These failures are NOT  
covered by your tractor’s warranty.  
After cleaning the battery and termi-  
nals,  
Battery Removal and Installation  
apply a light coat of petroleum jelly or  
grease to both terminals  
Always keep the rubber boot posi-  
tioned  
over the positive terminal to prevent  
shorting.  
When removing and installing the bat-  
tery, disconnect and connect the cables  
in this order to avoid sparking:  
Frequently check, and clean if necessary,  
the underside of the mower deck. Grass  
build-up in this area can affect the cut-  
ting performance. Before inspecting or  
cleaning, make sure that the engine is  
shut off and the spark plug wire is  
1. To remove the battery, first discon-  
nect the negative (-) cable from the  
grounding screw on the back of the bat-  
tery bracket post. Bend the cable away  
from any metal parts.  
Charging  
disconnected from the spark plug.  
If the tractor has not been put into use  
for an extended period of time, charge  
the battery with an automotive-type 12-  
volt charger for a minimum of one hour  
at six amps.  
Inspection/Cleaning of Mower Deck:  
2. Disconnect the negative (-) cable  
from the negative (-) battery post.  
1. Stop engine, wait for all parts to  
stop moving, and disconnect spark  
plug wire.  
3. Disconnect the positive (+) cable  
from the positive (+) battery post and  
bend it away from any metal parts.  
Cover the cable terminal with its rubber  
boot.  
Jump Starting  
2. Tip mower on rear wheels by follow-  
ing instructions "Tipping Mower For  
Service" in this Section.  
IMPORTANT: Never jump your tiller’s  
dead battery with the battery of a run-  
ning vehicle.  
4. Remove the battery clamp.  
3. Use a plastic or metal scraper to  
remove grass build-up from deck or  
blades.  
1. Connect end of one jumper cable to  
the positive terminal of the good battery,  
then the other end to the positive termi-  
nal of the dead battery.  
5. To install the battery, reverse the  
above steps. Be sure that the battery  
posts face to the rear of the tiller and  
that the positive (+) post is on the left  
side as you face forward from the han-  
dlebars.  
2. Connect the other jumper cable to the  
negative terminal of the good battery,  
then to the frame of the unit with the  
dead battery.  
24  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
Clean the exterior of the mower thor-  
oughly and touch up all chipped or  
scratched surfaces to prevent rust from  
forming.  
LUBRICATION  
OFF-SEASON STORAGE  
Oil and grease the mower according to  
the recommendations listed in the  
Lubrication Chart on the next page.  
Stop engine,waitforallparts to stop  
moving, and disconnect spark plug  
wire before performing any lubrication  
procedures.  
Stop engine, wait for all parts to stop  
moving, and disconnect spark plug  
wire before performing any storage  
procedures. Review the storage  
safety rules in the Safety Section of  
this Manual.  
• If engine will be unused for 30 days or  
more, prepare it for storage by following  
the recommended procedures found in  
the Engine Owner's Manual.  
The transmission has been factory  
sealed and requires no lubrication. If a  
leak should develop, contact the factory  
or your local authorized dealer for  
service information.  
• Inspect all parts for damage, breakage,  
and wear. Tighten or replace fasteners.  
Contact the factory or your local  
authorized dealer for factory-approved  
replacement parts.  
Lubrication Chart  
ITEM  
INTERVAL  
First 2 hours  
LUBRICATION TYPE  
AMOUNT REQUIRED  
Engine Crankcase  
Change Oil  
See Engine Manual  
25-50 hours  
Change Oil  
Change oil more often  
(Lubrication Intervals Vary  
with Operating Conditions  
and Type of Oil Used)  
in extremely dirty or  
dusty conditions.  
Front Wheel Bearings  
50 hours  
Grease  
Light Oil  
Grease  
1-3 Strokes*  
A Few Drops  
1-3 Strokes*  
Control Linkages/Pivots  
Transmission Output Shaft  
25 hours  
100 hours or Annually  
* A hand-type grease gun is recommended.  
25  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
ATTENTION! This chart describes service guidelines only. It does not provide complete service information. Complete service  
is available from your authorized mower or engine dealer. Before performing any of the maintenance procedures, refer to the  
appropriate information contained in this Manual or the Engine Owner’s Manual for the correct safety precautions and mainte-  
nance procedures.  
Maintenance Chart  
INTERVAL*  
ITEM  
SERVICE  
As Required  
Each use  
Mower Blade  
Loose or Missing Hardware  
Belts  
Engine Oil Level  
Controls  
Tighten or Replace  
Check  
Check  
Check for Proper Operation  
Check for Proper Cover Installation  
Mulching Cover  
1st 2 hours  
25 hours  
Engine Oil  
Change  
Engine Oil***  
Foam Air Filter****  
Mower Blade(s)  
Change  
Clean  
Sharpen and Balance  
Lube with Light Oil  
Control Linkages and Pivots  
50 hours  
Annually or 100 hours  
Monthly  
Engine Oil***  
Change  
Adjust Tension  
Clean  
Blade Drive Belt Adjust  
Engine Cooling Fins  
Grease Fittings**  
Grease  
Air Filter Element****  
Spark Plug  
Transmission Output Shaft  
Replace  
Clean/Replace, Re-gap  
Grease  
Linkages  
Belts  
Adjust  
Check/Replace, Adjust  
Annually or 50 hours  
Front Wheel Bearings  
Grease  
*Interval describes running time.  
**A hand-type grease gun is recommended when greasing your  
unit. High-pressure type grease guns could cause damage to fit-  
tings/seals.  
***Consult engine manual for more detailed engine service infor-  
mation.  
****Clean more often under dusty conditions or when airborne  
debris is present. Replace air cleaner parts, if very dirty.  
26  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, disconnect spark  
plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key (electric start models).  
WARNING  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
ATTENTION! This table describes service  
guidelines only. It does not provide com-  
plete service information. Complete service  
is available from your authorized mower or  
engine dealer. Before performing any of the  
corrections in this table, refer to the appro-  
priate information contained in this Manual  
or the Engine Owner’s Manual for the cor-  
rect safety precautions and operating or  
maintenance procedures.  
Symptom  
Troubleshooting Chart  
Possible cause  
Engine malfunction (refer to engine manual).  
Improperly adjusted drive linkage.  
Dirty engine cooling fins or flywheel screen.  
Faulty ignition.  
• • • • •  
• • •  
• •  
• • • • •  
• • • • •  
• • • •  
• •  
Faulty spark plug.  
Empty fuel tank.  
• •  
• •  
Battery or charging malfunction (if applicable).  
Improperly adjusted or dirty carburetor.  
Improper oil level.  
• • • •  
Dirty air cleaner element.  
• • •  
• • • •  
Improperly adjusted choke (if applicable).  
Transmission malfunction.  
• •  
• •  
Improperly adjusted drive linkage.  
Broken, loose or worn belt(s).  
Dull blade(s).  
• •  
• • •  
• • •  
Throttle control out of adjustment.  
Blade/brake system out of adjustment.  
Blade(s) out of balance.  
• •  
• •  
Loose hardware.  
• •  
27  
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