Briggs & Stratton NSPVH21675, SPVH21675 User Manual

Models

SPVH21675 (7800441)

NSPVH21675 (7800449)

21” VARIABLE SPEED

REAR DISCHARGE

WALK BEHIND

MOWERS

Manual No. 7102869 (Rev. ‘-’, 10/22/2008)

TP10009165

NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. * Actual sustained engine power will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmental factors. Please refer to ‘Engine Power Rating Information’ for further details.

Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for

SNAPPER is a trademark of Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC Jefferson, WI, USA.

Briggs & Stratton Yard Power Products Group

PRODUCT REGISTRATION

IMPORTANT: KEEP THIS INFORMATION FOR YOUR PERSONAL RECORDS (Complete the following information on your Snapper purchase)

Date of Purchase__________________________________________________________________

Retailer_________________________________________________________________________

Retailer's Phone Number___________________________________________________________

Equipment

Model Number______________________________________________________________

Serial Number ______________________________________________________________

Engine

Model_________________________Type__________________Trim___________________

It is very important that you register your purchase with Snapper to ensure warranty coverage. Please mail your product registration card to:

Snapper at P.O. Box 1379, McDonough, Georgia 30253.

You can contact us at our website (www.snapper.com), or if you would like to speak with a Customer Service Representative, call us at the Snapper Customer Relations Center at 1-800-935-2967. For faster service please have your Serial Number and Model Number available.

This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with the

machine and how to avoid them. This machine is designed and intended only for finish cutting of established lawns and is not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read and understand these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this equipment. Save these instructions for future reference.

Thank You for purchasing this quality-built Snapper mower. We’re pleased that you placed your confidence in the Snapper brand. When operated and maintained according to the instructions in this manual, your Snapper mower will provide many years of dependable service.

WARNING

Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer or other reproductive harm.

Table of Contents

Operator Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Important Operator Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Features and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Pre-Start Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Propelling Mower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Handle Height Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Cutting Height Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Recycling Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Installing the Discharge Deflector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Removing the Recycling Plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Installing the Grass Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Change Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Check Mower Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Check Engine Drive Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Service - Periodic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Wheel Drive Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Storage Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Mower Blade Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Blade Sharpening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Wheel Drive Control Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Belt Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Engine Drive Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Rear Cover Removal & Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Service Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Slope Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

WarrantyTroubleshootingMaintenanceOperationFeatures and Controls

Operator Safety

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Operator Safety

! !

IMPORTANT OPERATOR SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects

that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).

PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

1. KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated and turn machine OFF if anyone enters the area.

3. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate machine.

4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.

5. DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets and hazards before and while backing.

6. USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1. 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.

2. Mow across slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. DO NOT mow steep slopes or other areas where stability or traction is in doubt. Refer to the Slope Guide at the back of this manual.

3. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments; these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.

PREPARATION

1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in this manual and on the mower, engine and attachments. Know the controls and the proper use of the mower before starting.

2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine and only after proper instruction.

3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved in a large percentage of mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running.

PREPARATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note the location of holes, stumps, and other possible hazards.

6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area. Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop mower if anyone enters the area.

7. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other safety devices frequently for proper operation and location.

8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged.

9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

12. Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent injury from thrown objects going through weak or torn spots.

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

2. Use only an approved fuel container.

3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.

4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.

5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place the containers on the ground away from the vehicle before filling.

Operator Safety

! !

IMPORTANT OPERATOR SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (Continued)

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE (Continued From Previous Page)

7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel equipment using a portable container, rather than a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in enclosed vehicles or trailers.

9. 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

10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

11. DO NOT overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten securely.

OPERATION

1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of discharge area while engine is running.

2. STOP engine when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads, and under any conditions where thrown objects might be a hazard.

3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

4. DO NOT operate mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5. After striking a foreign object or if mower vibrates abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and secure spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and repair the damage before starting.

6. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or embankments. Operator could lose footing or balance.

7. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall grass can hide obstacles. Keep away from ditches, washouts, culverts, fences and protruding objects.

8. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Always be sure of your footing. Keep a firm hold on the handle and walk, never run. Slipping could cause injury.

9. ALWAYS stay behind handle when engine (motor) is running.

10. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP BLADE and STOP ENGINE before leaving the operators position for any reason.

11. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make certain engine, blade and all moving parts have STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug wire away from plug to prevent accidental starting.

12. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to complete STOP before removing grass bag and/or clearing grass.

13. DO NOT operate mower without the entire grass catcher, or guards in place discharge guard, rear guard or other safety devices in place and working. DO NOT point discharge at people, passing cars, windows or doors.

OPERATION (Continued From Previous Column)

14. DO NOT discharge material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back towards the operator.

15. Slow down before turning.

16. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing roadways.

17. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

18. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer. See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

1. DO NOT store mower or fuel container inside where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before storing machine in an enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of children in a well ventilated, unoccupied building.

2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine overheating.

3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved container outdoors and away from open flame.

4. Keep all bolts, especially blade bolts, nuts and screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins are in proper position.

5. Always provide adequate ventilation when running engine. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

6. Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug wire from spark plug and secure wire away from spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

7. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or overspeed engine.

8. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and exposure to moving parts. Replace with new bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.

9. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use CAUTION when handling them.

10. DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.

11. Have machine serviced by an authorized SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have the dealer install any new safety devices.

12. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to assure that original standards are maintained.

Features and Controls

A. Oil Fill Cap and Dipstick B. Fuel Filler Cap C. Recycling Cover D. Height Adjustment Lever E. Blade Control

F. Rope Start Handle G. Drive Handle H. Drive Handle Lock Lever I. Rear Discharge Door

IMPORTANT

The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific model. Contact your Snapper dealer if you have questions.

Features and Controls

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Pre-Start Check List

Make the following checks and perform the service required before each start-up.

1. Check the guards, deflectors, grass bag, and covers to make sure all are in place and securely tightened.

2. Check the blade control (A, Figure 1) and drive handle (B) to insure they work freely.

3. Check the cutting height. Adjust to the desired height. Refer to the Section ‘Cutting Height Adjustment’.

4. Check the engine oil and add oil as needed to bring the level up to the full mark (A, Figure 2). Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for oil specifications.

5. Add fuel to the tank after pushing the mower outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Fill the tank to 1-1/2 inches below the top of the filler neck (to allow for fuel expansion). Make sure the cap is tightened after fueling. Refer to the Engine Owners Manual for fuel specifications.

6. Clean the exterior surfaces of the cutting deck and engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass, oil, etc. Keep the engine air intake screen and cooling fins clear at all times.

Starting and Operation

Engine and Blade

1. Make sure the drive handle (A, Figure 3) is pulled fully back, and the drive handle lock lever (B) is pushed fully forward in the locked position.

2 Pull the blade control (C) against the handle.

3. Pull the rope start handle (D) to crank the engine.

4. After the engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until the engine runs smooth before beginning mower operation.

NOTE:

To stop the engine (and blade), release the blade

control.

Figure 2: Checking engine oil

Figure 1: Mower controls

Figure 3: Starting the mower

Operation

Starting and Operation (Continued)

Propelling the Mower

1. Start the engine. Refer to the Section entitled “Starting and Operation – Engine and Blade”.

2. Pull the drive handle lock lever (A, Figure 4) fully back to the unlock position.

3. Begin pushing the drive handle (B) forward to engage the wheel drive and propel the mower forward. Forward speed can be increased by pushing the drive handle farther forward, and decreased by pulling the drive handle back.

Stopping

1. Stop forward motion of the mower by pulling the drive handle fully back. Be sure to push the drive handle lock lever fully forward into the locked position.

2. Stop the engine and blade by releasing the blade control.

Handle Height Adjustment

The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as follows:

1. Remove the handle knobs, washers and carriage bolts

from the lower handle (A, Figure 5).

2. Align the handle assembly with one of the three handle

height adjustment holes (B) in the mounting brackets.

3. Replace the hardware removed in Step 1, tightening securely.

Figure 5: Adjusting the handle height

Figure 4: Drive handle

WARNING

DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or service with engine and blade running. STOP engine and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure away from spark plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all components to cool.

Operation

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