MTD Edger Series 521 User Manual

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty  
OPERATOR’S MANUAL  
Lawn Edger — Model Series 521  
IMPORTANT  
READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION  
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any uniiproved 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.  
PRINTED IN U.S.A  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019  
FORM NO. 769-00527H  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Please take a moment to review your safety labels.  
1
Safety  
Labels  
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  
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.  
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-  
nents contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and  
birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
2
DANGER: 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.  
Safe  
Operation Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.  
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable  
Children  
vapors will accumulate in the area.  
Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not  
Practices  
9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while  
alert to presence of children. Children are  
often attracted to power equipment such  
engine is hot or running. Allow engine to  
cool at least two minutes before refueling.  
as lawn edgers. They do not understand  
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no  
the dangers. Never assume that children  
more than ½ inch below bottom of filler  
will remain where you last saw them.  
neck to provide for fuel expansion.  
1. Keep children out of the mowing area  
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.  
and under watchful care of a responsible  
12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine  
and equipment. Move unit to another area.  
Wait 5 minutes before starting engine.  
adult other than the operator.  
2. Be alert and turn lawn edger off  
if a child enters the area.  
WARNING  
13. Never store the machine or fuel container  
near 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 lawn edger free of  
grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil  
or fuel spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris.  
15. Allow a lawn edger to cool at least 5  
minutes5 minutes before storing.  
General Operation:  
3. Before and while moving backwards, look  
behind and down for small children.  
This symbol points  
out important safety  
instructions which,  
if not followed,  
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 lawn edger.  
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 an edger. Children 14 years old and  
over should read and understand operation  
instructions and safety rules in this manual and  
should be trained and supervised by a parent.  
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.  
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety  
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,  
understand, and follow all instructions on the  
machine and in the manual(s) before operation. Be  
completely familiar with the controls and the proper  
use of this machine before operating it. Keep  
this manual in a safe place for future and regular  
reference and for ordering replacement parts.  
2. This machine is a precision piece of power  
equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise  
extreme caution at all times. Your unit has  
been designed to perform one job: to edge  
lawn. Do not use it for any other purpose.  
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate  
this machine. Children 14 years old and over  
should read and understand the instructions in  
this manual and should be trained and supervised  
by a parent. Only responsible individuals who  
are familiar with these rules of safe operation  
should be allowed to use this machine.  
4. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object  
injury, stay in operator zone behind handles  
and keep children, bystanders, helpers and pets  
at least 75 feet from lawn edger while it is in  
operation. Stop machine if anyone enters area.  
5. Thoroughly inspect the area where the  
equipment is to be used. Remove all stones,  
sticks, wire, bones, toys and other foreign  
objects which could be tripped over or picked  
Operation  
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:  
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.  
When you see  
this symbol.  
HEED ITS WARNING  
Your  
Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
in this manual  
5. 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.  
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.  
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes  
and other sources of ignition.  
and on the machine.  
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects  
can cause serious personal injury.  
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles  
during operation and while performing  
an adjustment or repair to protect your  
eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can  
cause serious injury to the eyes.  
sight to cutting blade is blocked by guards.  
24. Always stop engine when edging or  
trimming is delayed or when transporting  
machine from one location to another.  
Never leave a running machine unattended.  
Stop the engine, disconnect spark plug  
wire and ground against the engine  
2
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and  
close-fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and  
pants that cover the arms and legs and  
steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never  
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals,  
slippery or light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.  
8. Never attempt to make any adjustments while  
the engine is running, except where specifically  
recommended in the operator’s manual.  
9. 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. Washer  
your skin and change clothes immediately.  
10. Do not put hands or feet near rotating  
parts. Contact with the rotating blade  
to prevent unintended starting.  
25. Only use parts and accessories made for  
this machine by the manufacturer. Failure  
to do so, can result in personal injury.  
26. If situations occur which are not covered in  
this manual, use care and good judgment.  
Call 1-800-800-7310 for Customer Support  
and the name of your nearest dealer.  
Safe  
Operation  
Practices  
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  
WARNING  
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  
can amputate hands and feet.  
This symbol points  
out important safety  
instructions which,  
if not followed,  
11. The blade control handle is a safety device.  
Never bypass its operation. Doing so, makes the  
machine unsafe and may cause personal injury.  
12. Never operate without blade guard, debris shield  
and blade control handle in place and working.  
13. Never operate with damaged safety devices.  
Failure to do so, can result in personal injury.  
14. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly  
ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon  
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.  
15. Do not operate machine while under  
the influence of alcohol or drugs.  
(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 lead to improper  
performance and compromise safety!”  
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.  
4. Lawn edger 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.  
16. Muffler and engine become hot and  
can cause a burn. Do not touch.  
17. Never operate this machine without good visibility  
or light. Always be sure of your footing and keep  
a firm hold on the handles. Walk, never run.  
18. Do not operate this machine if it has been  
dropped or damaged. Return machine  
to your nearest authorized servicing  
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,  
disconnect the spark plug wire and ground  
against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the  
lawn edger for any damage. Repair the damage  
before starting and operating the lawn edger.  
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting  
height adjustment while the engine is running.  
9. Many components on your new edger can  
wear with continued use. For safety protection,  
frequently check all edger 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 labels, as necessary.  
12. Observe proper disposal laws and  
When you see  
this symbol.  
HEED ITS WARNING  
dealer for examination and repair.  
29. Do not operate this machine with a damaged  
or excessively worn cutting blade.  
20. Never attempt to clear material from the  
blade guard while the engine is running.  
Shut the engine off, disconnect the spark  
plug wire and ground against the engine  
to prevent unintended starting.  
Your  
Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
in this manual  
21. Do not overload machine capacity by  
attempting to edge at too fast of a rate.  
22. Stay alert for uneven sidewalks, terrain etc.  
Always push slowly over rough surfaces. Do  
not use this machine on gravel surfaces.  
23. Do not operate machine in rain  
or wet soil conditions.  
regulations. Improper disposal of fluids  
and materials can harm the environment.  
Always operate machine from behind the handles  
and on the machine.  
and position yourself where the direct line of  
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Securing the Handle  
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE  
or OIL. After setting up the unit, service engine with  
gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine  
manual packed with your unit.  
1
3
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the edger is  
observed from the operating position.  
Assembling  
Your New  
Edger  
Positioning the Edger Handles  
Remove and discard any packaging cardboard that  
may be present between the upper handle and the lower  
handle.  
1. Pivot the upper handle upward until it snaps into place.  
See Fig. 3–1.  
2
2. Tighten the hand knobs, which are located on both the  
left and right sides of the handle.  
Figure 3–1  
WARNING  
The edger blade  
WILL rotate when the  
starter rope is pulled.  
Attaching the Starter Rope  
1. Locate the rope guide found on the right side of the  
upper handle. Loosen, but do NOT remove, the wing  
knob which secures the rope guide to the upper  
handle. See Fig. 3–2.  
1
2. Stand behind the unit and hold the blade control  
against the upper handle.  
3. Gently pull the starter rope out of the engine.  
2
WARNING: The edger blade WILL rotate  
when the starter rope is pulled.  
4
IMPORTANT:  
This unit is shipped  
WITHOUT GASOLINE  
or OIL. After setting  
up the unit, service  
engine with gasoline  
and oil as instructed  
in the separate engine  
manual packed with  
your unit.  
NOTE: The starter rope will not pull out of the engine  
unless the blade control (refer to Figure 3–2) is depressed  
against the upper handle.  
3
4. Slip the starter rope through the top of the rope guide.  
Retighten the wing knob which secures the rope guide  
to the upper handle.  
Figure 3–2  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Blade Control  
4
Blade Depth Control Lever  
(Transport Position Shown)  
Know Your  
Edger  
Primer  
Starter Rope/  
Recoil Starter  
Curb Height  
Adjustment Lever  
WARNING:  
Be familiar with all  
controls and their  
proper operation.  
Know how to stop the  
machine and disengage  
them quickly.  
Figure 4–1  
WARNING: Be familiar with all controls  
Blade Depth Control Lever  
and their proper operation. Know how  
to stop the machine and disengage  
them quickly.  
The blade depth control lever is located on the right side  
of the upper handle. It is used to control the depth of the  
cut. The further forward the blade depth control lever is  
moved, the deeper into the soil the edger blade will cut.  
See Fig. 4–1.  
NOTE: Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your  
edger for a detailed description of all engine-related  
controls and components.  
NOTE: Refer to the  
Engine Manual packed  
with your edger for a  
detailed description of all  
engine-related controls  
and components.  
Curb Height Adjustment Lever  
Starter Rope / Recoil Starter  
The curb height adjustment lever is found on the rear  
portion of the edger. When placed in an applicable notch,  
it aids in stabilizing the edger while edging grass along a  
curb. See Fig. 4–1.  
The starter rope/recoil starter is used to start the engine.  
See Fig. 4–1  
Primer  
IMPORTANT:  
The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor and  
aid in starting the engine. Use it to start a cold engine,  
but do not use it to restart a warm engine after a short  
shutdown. See Fig. 4–1  
Become familiar with all the  
controls before operating  
the edger.  
NOTE: Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your  
edger for a detailed description of all engine-related  
controls and components.  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images may not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
IMPORTANT: Become familiar with all the controls  
before operating the edger.  
Blade Control  
Located on the upper handle, the blade control must be  
depressed against the upper handle in order to operate  
the unit. Releasing the blade control stops the engine  
and the edger blade. See Fig. 4–1.  
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The operation of any edger can result  
in foreign objects being thrown into the  
eyes, which can result in severe eye  
grip on starter handle throughout the entire stroke.  
7. Allow the starter handle to slowly return to the eyebolt.  
NOTE: If the engine fails to start after three pulls, depress  
the primer an additional two times before pulling the starter  
rope again.  
damage. Always wear safety glasses or  
eye shields. We recommend wide vision safety mask  
for over spectacles or standard safety glasses.  
5
Adjustment  
Stopping The Engine  
To stop the edger’s engine, release the blade control.  
Operation  
And  
WARNING: Do not lower blade if blade  
is over concrete, asphalt, rocks or  
the like. Blade can strike supporting  
surface, resulting in personal injury or  
property damage.  
NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit for  
more detailed instructions.  
WARNING: Rotating cutting blade may  
throw objects causing personal injury.  
Keep area clear of bystanders and do not  
operate without guards in place.  
Adding Gasoline And Oil  
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed  
in the Engine Manual packed with your edger. Read  
instructions carefully.  
Edging  
To begin edging, proceed as follows:  
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors,  
with engine running or until the engine  
has been allowed to cool for at least two  
minutes after running.  
1. Move unit to area to be edged, making sure that the  
left rear wheel is on a hard surface and the blade is  
over the area to be cut. See Fig. 5–1.  
WARNING  
Do not lower blade  
if blade is over  
concrete, asphalt,  
rocks or the like. The  
blade can strike the  
supporting surface,  
resulting in personal  
injury or property  
damage.  
2. With blade control lever in START position, make a  
pass along area to be edged before proceeding to the  
next notch. The further forward blade depth control  
lever is moved, the deeper or lower the blade will cut  
into the ground. Several passes may be necessary to  
obtain desired depth of cut. Do not lower blade more  
than one depth notch at a time without making a pass.  
3. For best results, proceed slowly along path being edged,  
slowly moving edger back and forth through cutting  
area, again making sure to keep the left rear wheel on  
the hard surface and the blade in the cutting path, close  
to but not touching the edge of the hard surface.  
Starting The Engine  
NOTE: Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your  
edger for a detailed description of all engine-related  
controls and components.  
To start the edger’s engine, proceed as follows:  
1. Attach the spark plug wire to the 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.  
2. Move the blade depth control lever back to the  
START position in the adjacent (top) notch.  
3. Depress the primer bulb three times, pausing two to  
three seconds between each push. In cold weather  
(below 50°F /19°C), it may be necessary to depress  
the primer bulb four or five times.  
Never fill fuel tank  
indoors, with engine  
running or until the  
engine has been  
allowed to cool for  
at least two minutes  
after running.  
4. Once you have finished edging selected area, raise the  
blade control lever back into the START position, move  
to the next area to be edged, and proceed again from  
step 1.the curb to be edged along.  
The “Blade Control”  
is a safety device.  
Never attempt to  
IMPORTANT: Using the primer to restart a warm engine  
after a short shutdown is usually not necessary. Doing so  
may result in a flooded engine.  
bypass its operation.  
Rotating cutting  
4. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control and  
hold it against the upper handle with your left hand.  
blade may throw  
objects causing  
personal injury.  
Keep area clear of  
bystanders and do  
not operate without  
guards in place.  
WARNING: This control mechanism is  
a safety device. Never attempt to bypass  
its operation.  
5. With your right hand, grasp the recoil starter handle and  
slowly pull the rope outward until engine reaches the  
start of its compression cycle (the rope will pull slightly  
harder at this point).  
6. After slowly allowing the rope to recoil, pull the rope  
with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keep a firm  
Figure 5–1  
8
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Edging Along A Curb  
The right, rear wheel of the edger can be lowered into one  
of five positions to ease the task of edging along a curb.  
1
5
Adjustment  
To adjust the height of curb wheel, proceed as follows:  
3
1. Lower the right, rear wheel by moving the curb height  
adjustment lever slightly to the left. See Fig. 5–2.  
2. Pivot the right, rear wheel into an applicable position  
in relation to the height of the curb to be edged along.  
See Fig. 5–2  
Operation  
And  
3. Release the curb height adjustment lever to lock the  
wheel in position. See Fig. 5–2.  
2
Figure 5–2  
WARNING  
Disconnect the  
spark plug wire and  
ground against the  
Disconnect the spark  
plug wire and ground  
against the engine  
before performing the  
following steps.  
Trenching (Optional)  
You can utilize the edger’s optional trenching feature in  
order to create a wider cutting path for such things as  
laying wire for landscape lighting. This additional blade is  
available separately.  
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug wire and  
ground against the engine before performing the  
following steps.  
The edger blade is  
sharp. Wear leather  
work gloves to protect  
your hands when  
working around the  
edger blade.  
WARNING: The edger blade is sharp. Wear leather  
work gloves to protect your hands when working  
around the edger blade.  
1. Use two wrenches (one wrench to prevent hex bolt  
head from spinning and the other to unthread the  
flange nut) to remove flange nut that secures edger  
blade, leaving the edger blade in place. See Fig. 5–3.  
5. Install an additional edger blade available separately.  
6. Secure with the flange nut removed earlier.  
Figure 5–3  
IMPORTANT: Use a torque wrench to tighten the flange  
nut to between 37 foot-lbs. and 50 foot-lbs.  
IMPORTANT: Make certain that drive belt is seated  
correctly on blade spindle and that it is riding smoothly  
on spindle sheaves and is not pinched between them.  
Repeat first three steps if belt is pinched.  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug  
wire and ground against the engine  
before performing any adjustment,  
repairs or maintenance.  
6
Lubrication  
Engine  
Maintaining  
& Servicing  
Your Edger  
Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your edger for a detailed  
description of all engine-related service specifications.  
Wheels  
Lubricate the wheels and bearings at least once a season  
with a light oil. Also if the wheels are removed for any  
reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner  
surface of the wheel with light oil.  
Pivot Points  
Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control bail, blade  
depth control lever, and if applicable, the blade adjustment  
lever, and curb height adjustment lever with light oil at  
least once a season.  
WARNING  
Lubricate  
Disconnect the spark  
plug wire and ground  
against the engine  
before performing  
any adjustment,  
repairs or mainte-  
nance.  
Bearing Block  
Lubricate the bearing block every 25 hours or at least  
once a season. Simply apply oil at each end of the cover  
plate. See Fig. 6–1.  
Figure 6–1  
Replacing the Edger Blade  
WARNING: The edger blade is sharp.  
Wear leather work gloves to protect  
your hands when working around the  
edger blade.  
The edger blade  
is sharp. Wear  
leather work gloves  
to protect your hands  
when working around  
the edger blade.  
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug  
wire and ground against engine before  
performing the following steps.  
Disconnect the spark  
plug wire and ground  
against engine  
before performing the  
following steps.  
1. Use two wrenches (one wrench to prevent the hex bolt  
head from spinning and the other to remove the flange  
nut) to remove the edger blade. Refer to Fig. 6–2.  
2. Remove and discard the edger blade but retain the  
flange nut.  
3. Install the replacement edger blade and the flange nut  
removed earlier.  
IMPORTANT: Use a torque wrench to tighten the flange  
nut to between 37 foot-lbs. and 50 foot-lbs.  
IMPORTANT: Make certain that the drive belt is seated  
correctly on the blade spindle and that it is riding smoothly  
on the spindle sheaves and is not pinched between them.  
Repeat the first three steps if the belt is pinched.  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
Figure 6–2  
10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Replacing the Drive Belt  
IMPORTANT: To aid in reassembly, note the orientation  
of the drive belt on the two idler pulleys and the engine  
flywheel pulley prior to performing the following steps.  
Refer to Fig. 6–3.  
Flange lock nut  
6
The edger drive belt is subject to wear and should be  
replaced if any signs of cracking, shredding or rotting are  
present. To replace the belt, proceed as follows:  
Maintaining  
and Servicing  
Your Edger  
1. Working in front of the edger, loosen the flange lock  
nut on top of frame, allowing the idler pulley assembly  
to pivot slightly out from the frame. See Fig. 6–3.  
2. With your other hand, carefully reach under the  
rear of the unit and remove the belt from around the  
engine flywheel pulley. See Fig. 6–3.  
Engine flywheel  
pulley  
3. Remove the spindle sheaves belt guard by removing  
the two self-tapping screws which secure it to the  
blade plate assembly. See Fig. 6–4.  
Figure 6–3  
4. Carefully remove the belt from off of the pulleys,  
again making sure to note the orientation of the belt.  
Discard the belt. See Fig. 6–4.  
5. Working from the front of the edger, place the belt  
onto the spindle sheaves, route it back onto the  
two idler pulleys, and then place it onto the engine  
flywheel pulley.  
WARNING  
Never operate the  
edger without the  
spindle sheaves belt  
guard in place.  
IMPORTANT: Make certain that the “V” side of the belt  
is seated into the top pulley and the flat side of the belt is  
seated into the bottom pulley. See Fig. 6–3.  
Belt guard  
6. Reinstall the spindle sheaves belt guard with the self  
tapping screws removed earlier.  
7. Make certain that the drive belt is on the engine  
flywheel pulley and idler pulleys, and retighten the  
flange lock nut on the top of the frame.  
IMPORTANT: Make certain that the drive belt is seated  
correctly and that it is riding smoothly on the spindle  
sheaves and is not pinched between them. Repeat the  
first three steps if the belt is pinched.  
WARNING: Never operate the edger  
without the spindle sheaves belt  
guard in place.  
Engine flywheel  
pulley  
Figure 6–4  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Off-Season Storage  
Observe the following when preparing the edger for  
long-term storage:  
Notes  
7
1. Clean and lubricate unit thoroughly as instructed  
maintenance section of this manual.  
2. Refer to the Engine Manual packed separately  
with the edger for engine manufacturers’s  
storage instructions.  
Off-Season  
Storage  
3. Coat the edger blade with chassis grease to prevent  
rusting and corrosion.  
4. Store the edger in a dry, clean area. Do not store next  
to any corrosive materials, such as lawn fertilizer.  
5. Coat the edger, especially any springs and bearings  
with a light oil or silicone spray.  
IMPORTANT: When storing any type of power  
equipment in an poorly ventilated or metal storage shed,  
care should be taken to rustproof the equipment.  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Troubleshooting Guide  
8
Problem  
Possible Cause(s)  
Corrective Action  
Troubleshooting  
Guide  
Dirty air cleaner  
Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your unit.  
Push primer bulb two or three times.  
Engine fails to start  
Engine needs to be primed  
Fuel tank empty  
Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
Stale fuel in gasoline tank  
Spark plug wire disconnected.  
Spark plug fouled  
Drain gasoline and refill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
Connect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.  
Clean, adjust gap or replace spark plug.  
Engine flooded  
Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your unit.  
Spark plug wire loose  
Connect and tighten spark plug wire.  
Engine runs erratic  
Engine Overheats  
Stale fuel in gasoline tank  
Vent in gas cap plugged  
Water or dirt in fuel system  
Dirty air cleaner  
Drain gasoline & refill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
Clear vent of any debris.  
Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.  
Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your unit.  
Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your unit.  
For parts and/or  
accessories please  
call 1-330-220-4683,  
or 1-800-800-7310  
Carburetor out of adjustment  
Engine oil level low  
Air flow restricted  
Fill crankcase with proper oil.  
Clean the area around the engine’s cooling fins.  
Replace the engine’s air filter.  
Dirty air filter  
or visit  
Carburetor not adjusted properly  
Refer to the Engine Manual packed with your unit.  
com  
Edger blade bent or damaged  
Blade spindle bent or damaged  
Replace edger blade.  
Excessive Vibration  
Drivebelt Slips  
Contact an authorized MTD service dealer.  
Belt worn or stretched  
Replace drive belt.  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
33  
35  
28  
39  
38  
32  
27  
24  
34  
29  
30  
26  
36  
37  
17  
19  
31  
23  
25  
A
3
18  
24  
10  
13  
4
2
9
1
5
8
6
16  
4
20  
12  
22  
21  
19  
14  
11  
7
21  
15  
41  
61  
45  
51  
44  
59  
A
46  
53  
48  
50  
49  
56  
52  
47  
54  
40  
60  
55  
58  
58  
43  
57  
42  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
9
Model 521  
Part List:  
Handle/Frame/  
Wheel Assembly  
Ref Part Number  
Part Description  
Hex Head Screw 3/8-16  
Axle .50 x 3.8  
Ref Part Number  
32 732-0369  
33 746-04052  
34 746-04036  
35 747-0976A  
36 749-04183  
37 749-04234  
38 781-0741A  
39 781-0742  
40 687-02126  
41 710-04389  
42 710-0599  
43 710-1143A  
44 712-0417A  
45 714-0104  
46 711-1017  
Part Description  
Compression Spring  
Control Cable (Tecumseh)  
Wheel Adjustment Cable  
Blade Control  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
710-0870  
711-04362  
711-04440  
726-0299  
732-04045  
734-1987  
734-1988  
736-0232  
738-0929  
Axle .50 x 9.25  
Push Cap 1/2” rod  
Torsion Spring  
Upper Handle  
Wheel 8x1.8  
Lower Handle  
For parts and/or  
accessories please call  
1-330-220-4683, or  
1-800-800-7310  
Wheel 7x1.8  
Depth Index Bracket  
Depth Index Lever  
Blade Plate Assembly  
Hex Screw, 5/16-18  
Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20  
Hex Screw, 5/8-18  
Flange Nut, 5/8-18  
Cotter Pin  
Wave Washer  
Shoulder Screw, 3/8-16  
Spacer  
10 750-04129  
11 750-04427  
12 750-04428  
13 787-01240  
14 710-0191  
15 710-0411  
16 710-0654A  
17 712-04065  
18 731-05063  
19 736-0452  
20 750-04142  
21 756-04148  
22 756-1150A  
23 787-01304  
24 710-0726  
25 710-1174  
Spacer, .525 x .775 x .1125  
Spacer, .525 x .775 x .3125  
Wheel Bracket  
Screw 3/8-24  
Screw 3/8-16  
Clevis Pin  
Screw, 3/8-16  
47 718-04012  
48 731-04207  
49 731-05064  
50 732-04169  
51 736-0342  
52 736-04088  
53 738-0706C  
54 741-0524  
55 750-04105  
56 750-0547  
57 754-04032B  
58 756-0449  
59 781-0080  
60 781-0427  
61 787-01075A  
Bearing Cup  
Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16  
Debris Guard  
Bearing Block  
Blade Guard  
Bell Washer, .396 x 1.140  
Pulley Mount Spacer  
Flat Idler Pulley, 2.5 OD  
Combination Flywheel Pulley  
Frame  
Compression Spring  
Flat Washer, .260 x.72  
Flat Washer .635x1.24x.181  
Shoulder Screw  
Bearing, .625 ID x 1.57 OD  
Spacer, .63 x 1.12 x 1.06  
Spacer, .64 x.88 x .50  
Belt  
Hex Screw, 5/16-12  
Carriage Bolt, 5/16-18  
Rope Guide (Eye Bolt)  
Hex Screw, 5/16-18  
Lock Flange Nut, 5/16-18  
Grip  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
26 710-1205  
27 710-3180  
28 712-04063  
29 720-0142  
30 720-0279  
31 720-04072  
Sheave  
Blade  
Belt Guard  
Cover Plate  
Wing Nut  
Hand Knob  
V-BELTS are specially designed to engage and  
disengage safely. A substitute (non-OEM) V-Belt can  
be dangerous by not disengaging completely.  
† Optional  
15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with respect  
to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its  
possessions and territories.  
e. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported  
outside of the United States, its possessions and territories, except  
those sold through MTD’s authorized channels of export distribution.  
“MTD” warrants this product against defects in material and workman-  
ship 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 war-  
ranty 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 MTD for use with the product(s) covered by this manual  
will void your warranty as to any resulting damage.  
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 are not limited to items such as: batter-  
ies, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats,  
snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.  
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 MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-  
0019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our  
f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.  
g. Transportation charges and service calls.  
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of mer-  
chantability 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 MTD. 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. MTD 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.  
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.  
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 shall not extend to anyone other than the original  
purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a gift.  
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.  
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.  
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one year  
warranty.  
c. 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.  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-4683  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Milwaukee Drill 54 06 2800 User Manual
Minolta Digital Camera XG 1 Body Only User Manual
Multi Tech Systems Network Card MT5634MSV User Manual
National Instruments Network Card 850 User Manual
Nilfisk ALTO Vacuum Cleaner 3308 User Manual
Olympus Camera Lens VM028402 User Manual
Onkyo Stereo System TX SR501 User Manual
Oregon Scientific Digital Camera DS6888 User Manual
Panasonic Car Video System CQRX65EU User Manual
Panasonic Home Safety Product EY3794 User Manual