Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
20-inch Rotary Mower — Model Series 020
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 unimproved forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester
for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland,
Ohio 44136-0019.
FORM NO. 770-10419E
12/19/2006
PRINTED IN U.S.A
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
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Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes.
1
Slope
Gauge
WARNING
Do not mow on inclines
with a slope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise
of approximately 2-1/2
feet every 10 feet).
Operate WALK-BEHIND
mowers across the
face of slopes, never
up and down slopes.
3
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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. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
Safe
Operation
Practices
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during opera-
Children
tion and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect
Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not alert to presence
of children. Children are often attracted to mower and mowing
your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious
injury to the eyes.
activity.They do not understand the dangers. Never assume
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.
that children will remain where you last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful
care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down
for small children.
4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
your vision of a child who may run into the mower.
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines.They can
suffer burns from a hot muffler.
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under cutting
deck. Contact with blade can amputate hands and feet.
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.
WARNING
10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the
handle immediately.
6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power
mower. 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.
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
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and
then follow these steps:
General Operation
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
mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.
a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way
toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
manual before at-
tempting to operate
this machine. Failure
to comply with these
instructions may result
in personal injury. When
you see this symbol.
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so
equipped while starting engine.
14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt
to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device
inoperative and may result in personal injury through
contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle
must operate easily in both directions and automatically
return to the disengaged position when released.
15. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal
injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.
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. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys
and other foreign objects, which could be tripped over or
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can
cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern
to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material
against a wall or obstruction, which may cause discharged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.
HEED ITS WARNING!
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use
of this power machine
to persons who read,
understand
16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.
17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the
engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is
generally a warning of trouble.
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
5. 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 mower
while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters
area.
and on the machine.
4
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19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclog-
ging the chute.
6. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
7. Never fuel machine indoor because flammable vapors will
accumulate in the area.
The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after
the engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body in
the blade area until you are sure the blade has stopped
rotating.
8. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or
running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before
refueling.
2
20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield, discharge
cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or other safety
protective devices in place and working. Never operate
mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can
result in personal injury.
9. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.
10. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
11. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.
Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting
engine.
Safe
Operation
Practices
21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
12. 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.
13. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.
22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.
23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for
assistance.
14. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.
Slope Operation
General Service:
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which
can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your
safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to
measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly
area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.
WARNING
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the
blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the
spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.
This symbol points
Do:
out important safety
instructions, which if
not followed, could
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps
which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade
for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with
the original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only,
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!”
4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equip-
ment is in safe working condition.
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, discon-
nect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the
damage before starting and operating the mower.
endanger the personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Read and follow all
3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately, and
the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.
instructions in this man-
ual before attempting to
operate this machine.
Failure to comply with
these instructions may
result in personal injury.
When you see this
Do Not:
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you
could lose your footing or balance.
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
the slope gauge.
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause
slipping.
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjust-
ment while the engine is running.
Service
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. Wash your skin and change clothes
immediately.
symbol.
HEED IT’S WARNING!
9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail
shield are subject to wear and damage which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components and re-
place 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!”
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use
of this power machine
to persons who read,
understand
2. Use only an approved gasoline container.
3. 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.
4. 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.
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or over-rev the
engine.The governor controls the maximum safe operating
speed of the engine.
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
11. Maintain or replace safety labels, as necessary.
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.
and on the machine.
5. 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.
5
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Loose Parts
Carton contents include: Wheels, Handles (upper & lower), Blade Control Handle, Chute Deflector & a Hardware
Pack. Be certain to remove all loose parts before discarding the carton. Follow instructions below to attach these loose
parts to your mower safely and properly for best performance.
3
Hardware Pack
Setup and
Adjustment
GROUP 6
Qty. 2
Qty. 2
Qty. 2
Qty. 2
Qty. 2
Qty. 4
IMPORTANT
This unit is shipped
without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Fill up
gasoline and oil as
instructed in the engine
operation section
Qty. 4
Qty. 4
Qty. 4
BEFORE operating
your mower.
Qty. 4
Qty. 2
Qty. 2
Qty. 2
Qty. 1
Qty. 1
Qty. 1
For ease-of-assembly, identify the pieces in the hardware pack according to the chart below:
Tools Required
7/16” Wrench
•
•
•
Adjustable Wrench
1/2” Wrench
•
•
9/16” Wrench
5/8” Wrench
6
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NOTE: Reference to right, left, front and rear of the lawn
mower is in relation to the operating position.
Flange Lock Nut
Flat Washer
Attaching the Chute Deflector
3
NOTE: Use a 7/16” wrench and the hardware in Group 1
to complete the following steps.
Setup and
Adjustment
1. Align the holes on the chute deflector with the
corresponding holes on the deck surface.
2. Insert carriage bolts up through the underside of the
deck and through the chute deflector. See Figure 3-1.
3. Secure each bolt with a washer and lock nut.
Carriage Bolt
Attaching Handles
Figure 3-1
NOTE: Use an adjustable wrench, a 1/2” wrench and the
hardware in Group 2 to complete the following steps.
Lower Handle
1. Lift the rear of the deck and place it on a block of
wood to secure it.
IMPORTANT
This unit is shipped
without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Fill up
gasoline and oil as
instructed in the engine
operation section
2. Place the lower handle over the deck and align the
holes on the deck with the corresponding holes on
the handle.
Flange Nut
Shoulder
Screw
3. Secure the lower handle to the deck using the hex
screws, shoulder screws, and flange lock nuts.
See Figure 3-2.
BEFORE operating
your mower.
Upper Handle
1. Place the upper handle in position over the lower
handle keeping the blade control handle facing up.
Hex
Screw
2. Secure the upper handle to the lower handle using
the carriage bolts, lock washers, and lock nuts from
group 4 of the hardware pack. See Figure 3-3.
Figure 3-2
Carriage
Bolt
Flange Lock Nut
Lock Washer
Figure 3-3
ꢀ
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Attaching the Wheels
Wheel
NOTE: Use an adjustable wrench, 7/16” wrench and the
hardware in Group 3 to complete the following steps.
Deck
3
The holes in the deck provide three cutting heights. Use
corresponding holes when attaching all four wheels (i.e.
for the lowest cutting position, assemble each wheel
at the highest hole on the deck). Refer to the Cutting
Height Adjustment section for more information.
Flange
Lock Nut
Shoulder
Screw
Lock
Nut
large
washer
Setup and
Adjustment
small washer
large washer
1. Secure each wheel to the deck as shown in Figure
3-4.
NOTE: The cupped side of each washer should be
pressed against the deck.
small
washer
Attaching the
Blade Control Handle
Shoulder Screw
Figure 3-4
NOTE: If the blade control is secured and in place
on the upper handle, you may skip the following three
steps. If, however, the blade control became displaced
either during shipping or during assembly, reattach it as
follows:
Straight End
1. Insert the curved end of the blade control into the
center hole located on the right side of the upper
handle. See Figure 3-5.
Curved End
2
2. Gently squeeze the blade control inward and insert
the straight end into the lower hole located on the left
side of the upper handle. See Figure 3-5.
1
3. Check to confirm that the blade control pivots freely
against the upper handle.
Attaching Blade-Brake Cable
Unwrap the blade-brake cable from the engine and route
the cable under the lower handle.
Figure 3-5
Attaching Z Fitting
1. To make it easier to attach the Z fitting, temporarily
remove the left side of the blade control as shown in
Figure 3-6.
Blade Control
Handle
2. Hook the Z end of the brake cable into the handle
from the outside to inside. See Figure 3-6.
Upper
Handle
3. Reattach the left side of the blade control.
Z fitting
Figure 3-6
ꢀ
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Securing Blade-Brake Cable
NOTE: Use the hardware in Group 6 to complete the
following steps.
3
WARNING: The cable must be routed
properly to avoid contact with all sharp
edges and hot surfaces. Such contacts
damage the cable and render the
controls inoperative.
stud inside
snap fitting
Setup and
Adjustment
Upper
Handle
Snap
Fitting
1. Press the stud found inside the snap fitting into the
hole found on the left side of the upper handle, as
shown in Figure 3- 7.
2. Secure the cable to the lower left handle with a cable
tie. See Figure 3-8. Trim off the extra length of the
cable tie.
Figure 3-ꢁ
Attaching Starter Rope
NOTE: Use a 7/16” wrench and the hardware in
Group 5 to complete the following steps.
1. Attach the eye bolt to the upper handle and loosely
thread the lock nut on to secure it. Do NOT tighten.
See Figure 3-9.
Lower
Handle
2. With the spark plug wire disconnected and grounded,
depress the blade control and pull the rope out of the
engine.
3. Loop the rope through the eye bolt. See Figure 3-9.
Cable Tie
4. Tighten the eye bolt to the handle using the lock nut.
DO NOT overtighten.
Cutting Height Adjustment
1. Remove the carriage bolts and related hardware from
the wheels. See Figure 3-10.
Figure 3-ꢀ
2. Reattach the wheels with carriage bolts at another
hole. Remember to attach ALL wheels at the same
relative position to ensure an even cut. Refer to
instructions for Attaching The Wheels earlier in this
section. For a higher cutting height, use the lower
hole on the deck. For a lower cutting height, use the
upper hole.
1
Flange
Lock Nut
Eye Bolt
low
3
medium
high
Figure 3-9
Figure 3-10
9
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KnowYour Lawn Mower
Blade Control
4
Operating
Your Lawn
Mower
Recoil Starter
WARNING
This blade control is a
safety device. Do not
bypass its operations.
Use extreme care
when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive. Never fuel
the machine indoors
or while the engine
is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes and
other sources of
Figure 4-1:The main components on the mower.
Now that you have assembled your lawn mower, it’s important to become aquainted with its controls and features.
Blade Control
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
The blade control is attached to the upper handle.
Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to
operate the unit. Release it to stop the engine and
blade.
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine
manual for this.
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the
engine manual. See engine manual for location of gas
and oil fill.
WARNING: This blade control is a safety
device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations.
ignition.
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is
hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes
and other sources of ignition.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle.
Stand behind the unit, depress blade control, and pull
the recoil starter rope to start the unit.
10
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WARNING: The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can damage
your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses
while operating the mower or while performing any
adjustments or repairs on it.
4
2
Starting Engine
Operating
Your Lawn
Mower
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the
operator is standing near the lawn mower
while starting engine or operating mower.
Never run engine indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep
hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any
moving parts on engine and lawn mower.
1
3
3
1. Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds
between each push. See Figure 4-2. In temperature
around 55°F or below, prime five times. Do not prime
to restart a warm engine.
Figure 4-2:To start mower, prime the engine, squeeze blade
control handle, and pull recoil starter.
NOTE: For the location of the primer on your mower,
refer to the engine manual shipped with your unit.
WARNING
The operation of any
lawn mower can result
in foreign objects
UsingYour Lawn Mower
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade
control against upper handle. See Figure 4-2.
Be sure the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other
objects which could damage the lawn mower or the
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the
mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury
to the operator and others.
3. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp
recoil starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid,
continuous, full arm stroke. See Figure 4-2. Keeping
a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind
slowly. Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope
rewind each time slowly.
being thrown into
the eyes, which can
damage your eyes
severely. Always wear
safety glasses while
operating the mower,
or while performing
any adjustments or
repairs on it.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from the
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower
for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the mower. Extensive
vibration of the mower during operation is an
indication of damage. The unit should be promptly
inspected and repaired.
Stopping Engine
1. Release blade control to stop the engine and the
blade.
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and
ground against the engine.
Operating Tips
•
For best results, do not cut wet grass.
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the lawn
mower while starting
engine or operating
mower. Never run
•
New grass, thick grass, or wet grass may require a
narrower cut.
•
•
•
For a healthier lawn, never cut more than one-third of
the total length of the grass.
Your lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there
is growth.
engine indoors or
Adjust ground speed according to condition of lawn.
in enclosed, poorly
ventilated areas. En-
gine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly
gas. Keep hands, feet,
hair and loose clothing
away from any moving
parts on engine and
lawn mower.
11
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Lubrication
•
Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once
a season with light oil. The blade control must operate
freely in both directions. See Figure 5-1.
5
•
Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light
oil (or motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate surface of the axle bolt and inner surface of
the wheel with light oil. See Figure 5-1.
Maintaining
Your Lawn
Mower
•
Follow the accompanying engine manual for engine
lubrication schedule and instructions.
Deck Care
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to
prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow
steps below for this job.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn
mower, or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the
side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.
Figure 5-1: Lubrication areas on the mower.
WARNING
WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90
degrees in any directions and do not leave
the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain
into the upper part of the engine causing a starting
problem.
General Recommendations
Always stop engine,
disconnect spark
plug, and ground
against engine before
performing any type
of maintenance on
your machine.
WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect
spark plug, and ground against engine
before cleaning, lubricating, or performing any kind
of maintenance on your machine.
3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.
4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you
had put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to
remove it now.
•
•
Always observe safety rules when performing
maintenance work.
The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover
items that have been subjected to operator abuse or
negligence. To receive full value from warranty, op-
erator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed
here.
Engine Care
Never tip the mower
more than 90º in
A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the
accompanying engine manual for a detailed list and
instructions.
any direction and do
not leave the mower
tipped for any length
of time. Oil can drain
into the upper part of
the engine.
1. Maintain oil level as instructed in engine manual.
•
•
Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine
warranty.
2. Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely
dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and
flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be
serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the engine
manual.
All adjustments should be checked at least once
each season.
3. Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.
Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of
each mowing season. Check engine manual for correct
plug type and gap specifications.
4. Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to
permit proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt and
combustible debris from muffler area.
NOTE: Do not use a pres-
sure washer or garden hose
to clean the mower. These
may cause damage to the
engine. The use of water will
result in shortened life and
reduce serviceability.
12
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Blade Care
WARNING: When removing the cutting
blade for sharpening or replacement,
protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or
use a heavy rag to hold the blade.
5
Maintaining
Your Lawn
Mower
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,
especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when
necessary.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Turn
mower on its side making sure that the air filter and
the carburetor are up.
2. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine
crankshaft. See Figure 5-2.
3. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft. See
Figure 5-2.
Figure 5-2:The blade and corresponding hardware.
4. The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade
while it is still on the mower. When sharpening the
blade, follow the original angle of grind. Grind each
cutting edge equally to keep the blade balanced.
WARNING
Off-Season Storage
The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn
mower for storage.
When removing the
cutting blade for
•
•
•
•
•
Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in
the lubrication instructions.
sharpening or replace-
ment, protect your
hands with a pair of
heavy gloves or use a
heavy rag to hold the
blade.
5. Remove blade from the adapter and balance on a
round shaft screwdriver for testing balance. Remove
metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to
clean your unit.
Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause
excessive vibration when rotating at high
speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could
break causing personal injury.
Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive
vibration when rotat-
ing at high speeds. It
may cause damage
to mower and could
break causing per-
sonal injury.
When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly
ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to
rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat
the equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of
your lawn mower before storage.
6. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner
surface of the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the
blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft.
7. Place the blade on the adapter such that the side
of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number)
faces ground when the mower is in the operating
position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and
seated on blade adapter flanges.
8. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches
on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.
9. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450
in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically
check the blade bolt for correct torque.
13
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Remedy
Cause
Problem
Engine fails to start
1. Engage blade control.
1. Blade control disengaged.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
4. Engine not primed (if equipped with
primer).
6
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Prime engine as instructed in “Operat-
ing Your Lawn Mower”.
Trouble
Shooting
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Clean fuel line.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Blocked fuel line.
7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do
not prime.
7. Engine flooded.
8. Open fuel valve. See engine manual.
9. Choke engine. See engine manual.
8. Fuel valve (if equipped) closed.
9. Engine not choked (if equipped w/choke).
1. Spark plug wire loose.
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean,
fresh gasoline.
Engine runs erratic
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
3. Clear vent.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Refer to engine manual.
6. Refer to engine manual.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Engine oil level low.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Remove blower housing and clean.
3. Refer to engine manual.
For repairs beyond
the minor adjustments
listed here, contact
an authorized service
dealer.
Engine overheats
2. Air flow restricted.
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
1. Spark plug gap too close.
2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment
improperly set.
1. Adjust gap to .030-inch.
2. Refer to engine manual.
Occasional skips
(hesitates) at high speed
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.
1. Reset gap to .030-inch or replace
spark plug.
Idles poorly
NOTE: Specifications are
subject to change without
notification or obligation.
Images my not reflect your
exact model and are for
reference purposes only.
2. Refer to engine manual.
3. Refer to engine manual.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance
blade.
Excessive Vibration
2. See an authorized service dealer.
2. Bent cutting blade.
1. Wet grass.
1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait
until later to cut.
Mower will not mulch grass
2. Mow once at a high cutting height,
then mow again at desired height or
make a narrower cutting path.
3. Sharpen or replace blade.
2. Excessively high grass.
3. Dull blade.
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.
2. Dull blade.
1. Place all four wheels in same
height position.
Uneven cut
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
14
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Safety Labels Found OnYour Lawn Mower
ꢁ
Safety
Labels
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY,
DO NOT OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE
COVER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.
IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.
WARNING
ꢁ
DO NOT remove safety
(or any) labels from
mower for any reason.
E
R
AT
G
E
C
15
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Model Series 020
26
5
4
20
18
17
19
16
25
7
6
3
16
24
2
27
28
15
23
21
22
1
20
14
12
10
11
13
9
8
29
16
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ꢀ
Ref. Part No.
No.
Part Description
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
710-0654A Hex Ind. Washer Screw 3/8-16 x 1.0
782-0048 Cutting Deck: 20”
749-04037 Lower Handle
Parts List
749-1092A Upper Handle
747-1161A Control Handle (Bail)
731-0872B Rear Flap
17098
Hinge Clip
710-1044
Screw 3/8-24 x 1.5” Group 8
736-0524B Blade Bell Support
10 748-0376C Blade Adapter
To order replacement
parts, contact
1-800-800-7310
or visit
11 742-0640 Cutting Blade
12 731-0064 Discharge Chute
13 710-0932 Carriage Screw 1/4-20 x 1.0”
14 736-0173 Flat Washer
15 710-3008 Hex Screw 5/16-18 x .75”
16 712-04063 Flange Lock Nut 5/16-18
17 710-1205
18 710-0262 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5”
19 736-0119 Lock Washer
20 712-04064 Flange Lock Nut 1/4-20
21 734-1779 Wheel
Eye Bolt
22 738-0533 Shoulder Screw .498 x 1.635
23 736-0105 Bell Washer
24 712-04065 Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16
25 726-0157 Cable Tie
26 746-0946 Control Cable - 48.25”
746-0957 Control Cable - 37.25”
27 736-0331 Bell Washer
28 738-04033 Shoulder Screw, 5/16-18 x.428”
29 753-0588
Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 8-10)
1ꢁ
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NOTES
Use this page to make notes and write down important information.
1ꢀ
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NOTES
Use this page to make notes and write down important information.
19
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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 one (1) year 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-ꢀ00-ꢀ00-ꢁ310, 1-330-220-46ꢀ3
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