55B21HV
Owner’s Manual
532 18 90-56 12.29.03 BY |
Printed in U.S.A. |
Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
DO NOT:
•Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance.
•Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
•Do not mow on wet grass.Reduced footing could cause slipping.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar |
III. CHILDREN |
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with the instructions, to operate the machine. |
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to |
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Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, |
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the presence of children. Children are often attracted to |
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bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown |
the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that |
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by the blade. |
children will remain where you last saw them. |
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• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mow- |
• Keep children out of the trimming area and under the |
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ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. |
watchful care of another responsible adult. |
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• Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing |
• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the |
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open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear. |
area. |
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• Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely nec- |
• Before and while walking backwards, look behind and |
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essary. Always look down and behind before and while |
down for small children. |
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moving backwards. |
• Never allow children to operate the machine. |
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Do not operate the mower without proper guards, |
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• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, |
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plates, grass catcher or other safety protective devices |
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trees, or other objects that may obscure vision. |
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in place. |
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• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation |
IV. SERVICE |
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and installation of accessories. Only use accessories |
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. |
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approved by the manufacturer. |
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They are fl ammable and vapors are explosive. |
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• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, |
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- Use only an approved container. |
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or roads. |
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- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the |
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• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equip- |
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engine running. Allow engine to cool before |
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ment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the |
refueling. Do not smoke. |
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chute. |
- Never refuel the machine indoors. |
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Shuttheengine(motor)offandwaituntilthebladecomes |
- Never store the machine or fuel container inside |
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where there is an open fl ame, such as a water |
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to complete stop before removing grass catcher. |
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heater. |
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• Mow only in daylight or good artifi cial light. |
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• Never run a machine inside a closed area. |
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• Do not operate the machine while under the infl uence |
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• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine |
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of alcohol or drugs. |
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(motor) running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and |
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Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of |
keep the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental |
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your footing: keep a fi rm hold on the handle and walk; |
starting. |
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never run. |
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachement |
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• Disengage the self-propelled mechanism or drive clutch |
bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition. |
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on mowers so equipped before starting the engine (mo- |
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper |
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tor). |
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operation regularly. |
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• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, |
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• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris |
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stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the |
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build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to |
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cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. |
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cool before storing. |
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• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side |
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• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. |
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shields when operating mower. |
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Repair, if necessary, before restarting. |
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II. SLOPE OPERATION |
• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while |
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Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents |
the engine (motor) is running. |
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• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam- |
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which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra |
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age, and deterioration, which could expose moving |
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caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. |
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parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check |
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DO: |
components and replace with manufacturer’s recom- |
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• Mow across the face of slopes:never up and down. Exer- |
mended parts, when necessary. |
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cise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes. |
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) |
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• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. |
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing |
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them. |
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Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide |
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• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed |
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obstacles. |
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the engine. |
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Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new lawn mower. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/department. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this lawn mower.
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.
SERIAL
NUMBER: _________________________________
DATE OF PURCHASE: _______________________
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERSWILL BE FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHEDTOTHE REAR OFTHE LAWN MOWER HOUSING.
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
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.
CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine has stopped.To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Capacity |
1.0 Quarts |
and Type: |
(Unleaded Regular Only) |
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Oil Type (API-SF-SJ): |
SAE 10W-30 |
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Oil Capacity: |
18.5 Ounces |
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Spark Plug: |
NGK BPR6ES (Gap: .030") |
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Valve Clearance: |
Intake: 0.015 mm |
(± 0.04 mm) |
Exhaust: 0.020 mm |
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Blade Bolt Torque: |
36-44 ft. lbs. (49-60 N-m) |
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CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
•Read and observe the safety rules.
•Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower.
•Follow the instructions under “Maintenance” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ......................................................... |
2-3 |
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS....................................... |
3 |
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES................................. |
3 |
ASSEMBLY ................................................................. |
4-5 |
OPERATION ............................................................. |
6-11 |
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... |
12 |
MAINTENANCE...................................................... |
12-14 |
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ |
14-16 |
STORAGE ............................................................... |
16-17 |
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................. |
18 |
REPAIR PARTS....................................................... |
19-23 |
WARRANTY................................................................. |
24 |
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Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: THIS LAWN MOWER IS SHIPPED WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE IN THE ENGINE.
Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON
1.Remove loose parts included with mower.
2.Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down fl at.
3.Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.
4.Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thorougly for additional loose parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Figs. 1 and 2)
IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLE CAREFULLY SO AS NOT TO PINCH OR DAMAGE CONTROL CABLES.
1.Raise lower handle to operating position and align hole in handle with one of the height positioning holes in the handle bracket.
2.Insert handle bolt through handle and bracket and secure with knob.
3.Repeat for opposite side of handle.
4.Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.
5.Remove packing material from around control bar.
Your handles may be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to“ADJUST HANDLE”in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
OPERATOR PRESENCE
CONTROL BAR
UPPER HANDLE
LOWER HANDLE |
LIFT UP |
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LIFT
UP
MOWING
POSITION
FIG. 1
BOLT
KNOB
HANDLE
BRACKET
FIG. 2
4
ASSEMBLY
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER |
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(See Figs. 3 and 4) |
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1. Slide grass catcher bag over the frame. Make sure |
DOOR |
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the rear handle is on top (the same side as the front |
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handle) and the strap is on the bottom. |
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2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame. |
GRASS |
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NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold them in warm water |
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CATCHER |
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for a few minutes. If bag gets wet, let it dry before using. |
FRAME |
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3. Close grass catcher door. |
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NOTE: When fully closed, door will “snap” shut over frame |
VINYL |
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and vinyl bindings. |
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BINDINGS |
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REAR |
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HANDLE |
BAG |
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FIG. 4
STRAP
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert mower to bagging or discharging, see “TO CONVERT MOWER” in the Operation section of this manual.
FRONT
HANDLE
DOOR
FIG. 3
5
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER.
Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
DRIVE CONTROL LEVER
THROTTLE / ENGINE CONTROL
HANDLE
KNOB
GRASS
CATCHER
ENGINE OIL CAP
WITH DIPSTICK
MULCHER DOOR
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR
BLADE / BRAKE CONTROL
STARTER HANDLE
DRIVE COVER
GASOLINE FILLER CAP
FUEL VALVE LEVER
AIR FILTER
DUAL POINT HEIGHT
ADJUSTER LEVER
MUFFLER HOUSING
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Our rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR – must be |
BLADE / BRAKE CONTROL – used to engage the |
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held down to the handle to start the blade. Release to |
blade after the engine is started. |
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stop the blade. |
STARTER HANDLE – used for starting the engine. |
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THROTTLE / ENGINE CONTROL – used for starting |
DRIVE CONTROL LEVER – used to engage power-pro- |
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and stopping the engine; and allows you to select either |
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pelled forward motion lawn mower. |
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FAST or SLOW engine speed. |
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DUAL POINT HEIGHT ADJUSTER – used to adjust cutting |
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MULCHER DOOR – allows conversion to discharge or |
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6 height of lawn mower. |
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bagging operation. |
OPERATION
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask over spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
THROTTLE / ENGINE CONTROL (See Fig. 5)
The engine is controlled by a throttle control located on the side of the upper handle. Choke position is for starting a cold engine; fast position is for starting a warm engine, normal cutting, trimming and better grass bagging; SLOW position is for light cutting, trimming and fuel economy, and STOP position is for stopping the engine.
FAST SLOW
STOP
CHOKE
FIG. 5
BLADE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)
CAUTION: When the blade control is engaged, the blade turns. When the blade control is disengaged, the blade stops.
•Your lawn mower has a blade/brake clutch fastened to the engine crankshaft, which starts or stops the blade. To start the blade, hold the operator presence control bar down to the handle and push the blade/brake control lever forward until it latches. To stop the blade, release the operator presence control bar.
Do not start the blade in deep, uncut grass. Move lawn mower out of uncut grass before starting blade.
CAUTION: Federal regulations require this blade/brake control to minimize the riskofbladecontactinjury. Donotunder anycircumstancesattempttodefeatthe function of this control.
OPERATOR PRESENCE |
BLADE / BRAKE |
CONTROL BAR |
CONTROL LEVER |
TO |
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ENGAGE |
BLADE |
BLADE |
DISENGAGED |
FIG. 6
DRIVE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)
•Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pulling the drive control lever rearward to the handle. The farther toward the handle the lever is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.
•Forward motion will stop when either the operator presence control bar or drive control lever are released. To stop forward motion without stopping blade, release the drive control lever only. Hold operator presence control bar down against handle to continue mowing without self-propelling.
NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will not roll backwards, push the mower forward slightly to disengage drive wheels.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR |
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DRIVE |
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CONTROL |
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LEVER |
ADJUSTMENT |
TO ENGAGE |
DRIVE |
BUTTON (ON |
DRIVE |
CONTROL |
UNDERSIDE) |
CONTROL |
DISENGAGED |
FIG. 7
DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT (See Fig. 7)
Over time, the drive control system may become “loose”, resulting in decreased speed. There is a button on the underside of the drive control housing to increase tension on the drive cable. Proceed as follows:
1.Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
2.Pull out button on underside of drive control, then push it back in.
3.Operate mower to test drive speed. If there is no increase, your drive belt is worn and should be replaced.
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OPERATION
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 8)
Both front wheels are adjusted by a single lever on the left front wheel. Likewise, both rear wheels are adjusted by a single lever on the left rear wheel.
•Pull adjuster lever toward wheel.To raise mower, move lever forward to desired position.To lower mower, move the lever toward the rear.
Be sure to adjust both front and rear wheels to the same height.
HEIGHT ADJUSTER LEVER
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
LEVER FORWARD
TO RAISE MOWER
FIG. 8
TO CONVERT MOWER (See Figs. 9 thru 11)
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to rear bagging or side discharging:
REAR BAGGING
•Remove knob securing mulcher door to lawn mower housing.
•Open mulcher door and insert tabs of discharge chute into hinge bracket opening and position rear of chute over threaded stud.
DISCHARGE CHUTE TABS
HINGE BRACKET |
MULCHER DOOR |
FIG. 9
•Secure rear of discharge chute to lawn mower housing with knob.
•Place rear handle of grass catcher on the crossbar of the lawn mower's lower handle as shown.
•Lift the round door of the discharge chute and place the grass catcher into place on the discharge chute.
NOTE: Be sure round door of discharge chute rests on grass catcher as shown.
•Mower is now ready for rear bagging operation.
•To convert to mulching operation, remove grass catcher and discharge chute. Secure mulcher door to mower housing with knob.
•To convert to side discharging operation, remove grass catcher and discharge chute. Install side discharge defl ector and secure it to lawn mower housing with knob.
REAR HANDLE |
CROSSBAR |
GRASS |
CATCHER |
ROUND |
DOOR |
KNOB |
DISCHARGE |
CHUTE |
THREADED |
STUD |
MULCHER |
DOOR |
FIG. 10
SIDE DISCHARGING
•Grass catcher and discharge chute must be removed.
•Open mulcher door and install front of side discharge defl ector beneath it as shown.
•Secure rear of side discharge defl ector to lawn mower housing with knob.
•Mower is now ready for side discharging operation.
•To convert to mulching operation, side discharge de- fl ector must be removed and mulcher door secured to mower housing with knob.
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