Owner's Manual
Husqvarna
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
6.5 Horsepower
Power-Propelled
22" Multi-Cut
Model No.
917.375363
• Espahol, p. 19
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Husqvarna, Charlotte, NC 28269
Visit our website: www.husqvarna.com
U.S.A.
Warranty ................................................... 2
Safety Rules .......................................... 2-4
Product Specifications .............................. 5
Assembly / Pre-Operation ........................ 6
Operation ............................................. 7-11
Maintenance Schedule ........................... 11
IMPORTANT: Thiscutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing ob-
jects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
ALook for this symbol to point out im-
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTIONH! BECOME ALERTH!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
AWARNING: In order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting, ad-
justing or making repairs, always disconnect
spark plug wire and place wire where itcannot
come in contact with plug.
AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
AWARNING: 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.
_i, CAUTION: Muffler and other engine
parts become extremely ,4q_'r_
hot during operation and
remain hot after engine
has stopped. To avoid
severe burns on contact,
stay away from these areas.
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 dis-
charge opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who
are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which
could be picked up and thrown by blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop the machine if
anyone enters the area.
Maintenance ...................................... 11-14
Service and Adjustments ................... 14-16
Storage .............................................. 16-17
Troubleshooting ................................. 17-18
Repair Parts ....................................... 36-43
• Do not operate the mower when bare-
foot or wearing open sandals. Always
wear substantial foot wear.
• Do not pull mower backwards unless abso-
lutely necessary.Always look down and be-
hind before and while moving backwards.
• Never direct discharged material toward
anyone.Avoiddischarging material against
a wall or obstruction. Material may richo-
chet back toward the operator. Stop the
blade when crossing gravel surfaces.
• Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories ap-
proved by the manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning
the mower or unclogging the chute.
• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait
until the blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mech-
anism or drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and
check immediately for the cause. Vibra-
tion is generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glass-
es with side shields when operating mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip &
fall accidents which can result in severe
injury. All slopes require extra caution. If
2 you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
DO:
• Mowacrossthefaceof slopes:never
up anddown.Exerciseextreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
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.
III, 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. Neverassume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small children.
• Never allow children to operate machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
Use extreme care in handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes
and other sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with
the engine running. Allow engine to
cool before refueling.
• Never refuel the machine indoors.
• Never store the machine or fuel contain-
er where there is an open flame, spark
or pilot light such as a water heater or
on other appliances.
• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place containers on the ground
away from your vehicle before filling.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the
ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
• 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.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas
cap and tighten securely.
V. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run machine inside a closed area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running. Disconnect the
spark plug wire, and keep the wire away
from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spill-
age. Allow machine to cool before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine is running.
• Grass catcher components are subject to
wear, damage, and deterioration, which
could expose moving parts or allow objects
to be thrown. Frequently check compo-
nents and replace with manufacturer's
recommended parts, when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor set-
ting or overspeed the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruc-
tion labels, as necessary.
AWARNING: This lawn mower 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 Husqvarna or
other authorized service center (See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).
3
SECTION 1: LIMITED WARRANTY
Husqvama Forest & Garden Company CHusqvama')
warrants Husqvarna product to the original purchaser
to be free from defects in material and workmanship
from the date of purchase for the "Warranty Period" of
the product as set forth below:
2 YEAR NON-COMMERCIAL WARRANTY: Automatic
Mower, Riding lawn mowers, yard and garden tractors,
walk behind mowers, tillers, chain saws, trimmers,
brushcutters, clearing saws, snow blowers, handheld
blowers, backpack blowers, hedge trimmers, electri-
cal products and power-assist collection systems for
noncommercial nonprofessional noninstitutional or
nonincome producinq use, except as herein stated.
Emission control system components necessary to
comply with CARB-TIER-II and EPA regulations.
Husqvarna Safety Apparel carries a 90-day warranty
from the date of the customer's original purchase for
defects in material and workmanship. Normal wear,
tear or abuse is not covered under warranty. Product
must be returned to Charlotte with a warranty claim
form. All care and maintenance instructions must be
followed as stated by the manufacturer on the care la-
bel. The fit of the protective apparel/boot is not covered
under warranty.
SECTION 2: HUSQVARNA'S OBLIGATIONS UNDER
THE WARRANTY
Husqvama will repair or replace defective components
without charge for parts or labor if a component fails
because of a defect in material or workmanship during
the warranty period.
SECTION 3: ITEMS NOT COVERED BYTHIS WAR-
RANTY
The following items are not covered by this warranty:
(1)Normal customer maintenance items which become
worn through normal regular use, including, but
not limited to, belts, blades, blade adapters, bulbs,
filters, guide bars, lubricants, rewind springs, saw
chain, spark plugs, starter ropes and tines;
(2) Natural discoloration of material due to ultraviolet
light;
(3) Lawn and garden attachments are covered by a
third party which gives a warranty, all claims for
warranty should be sent to the manufacturer; and
(4)Emission Control System components necessary
to which are manufactured by third party engine
manufacturer.
SECTION 4: EXCEPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS
This warranty shall be inapplicable to defects resulting
from the following:
(1)Accident, abuse, misuse, negligence and neglect,
including stale fuel, dirt, abrasives, moisture, rust,
corrosion, or any adverse reaction due to incorrect
storage or use habits;
(2) Failure to operate or maintain the unit in ac-
cordance with the Owner's/Operator's manual or
instruction sheet furnished by Husqvarna;
(3)Alterations or modifications that change the
intended use of the product or affects the product's
performance, operation, safety, or durability, or
causes the product to fail to comply with any ap-
plicable laws; or:
(4) Additional damage to parts or components due to
continued use occurring after any of the above.
REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED UNDER
THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF
THE PURCHASER. HUSQVARNA SHALL NOT BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUEN-
TIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THESE PRODUCTS
EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY AP-
PLICABLE LAW. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICU-
LAR PURPOSE ON THESE PRODUCTS IS LIMITED
IN DURATION TO THE WARRANTY PERIOD AS
DEFINED IN THE LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT.
HUSQVARNA RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE
OR IMPROVE THE DESIGN OF THE PRODUCT
WITHOUT NOTICE, AND DOES NOT ASSUME
OBLIGATION TO UPDATE PREVIOUSLY MANUFAC-
TURED PRODUCTS.
Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental
or consequential damages, or limitations on how long
an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or
exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives
you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
rights which vary from state to state.
SECTION 5: CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
The product must exhibit reasonable care, mainte-
nance, operation, storage and general upkeep as
written in the maintenance section of the Owner's/
Operator's manual. Should an operational problem
or failure occur, the product should not be used, but
delivered as is to an authorized Husqvama dealer for
evaluation. Proof of purchase, as explained in section
6, rests solely with the customer.
SECTION 6: PROCEDURE TO OBTAIN WARRANTY
CONSIDERATION
It is the Owner's and Dealer's responsibility to make
certain that the Warranty Registration Card is properly
filled out and mailed to Husqvama Forest & Garden
Company. This card should be mailed within ten (10)
days from the date of purchase in order to confirm the
warranty and to facilitate post-sale service.
Proof of purchase must be presented to the authorized
Husqvama dealer in order to obtain warranty service.
This proof must include date purchased, model num-
ber, serial number, and complete name and address of
the selling dealer.
To obtain the benefit of this warranty, the product
believed to be defective must be delivered to an
authorized Husqvarna dealer in a timely manner, no
later than thirty (30) days from date of the operational
problem or failure. The product must be delivered at
the owner's expense. Pick-up and delivery charges are
not covered by this warranty. An authorized Husqvama
dealer can be normally located through the "Yellow
Pages" of the local telephone directory or by calling
1-800-HUSKY62 for a dealer in your area.
HUSQVARNA
7349 Statesville Road
Charlotte, NC 28269
531 83 81-23 2002
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity/Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces
Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Champion J19LM or RJ19LM
Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.
• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower
housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Husqvarna retailers and
service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING
DEFLECTORS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS
AIR FILTERS
GRASS CATCHERS
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
WHEELS
FOR
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
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. 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. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with mower.
2. Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
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 thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle sec-
tion locks into place in mowing position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise up-
per handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD-
JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual.
Operator MOWING
I POSITION
control bar
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.
2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
i
Vinyl Frame
bindings opening
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert mower to
bagging or discharging, see "TO CON-
VERT MOWER" in the Operation section
of this manual.
UP
Upper
handle
Handle
knob
Lower handle
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL 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.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Drive
control
Operator presence control bar
Handle knob
Startel
handle
Grass
catchel
Gasoline filler ca
Mulcher dool
Housin( (on each wheel)
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
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 Com-
mission. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Engine oil cap with dipstick
Primer
Muffler
)ark
plug
Drive cover
Hheel adjuster
Operator presence control bar- must
be held down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Primer- pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting engine.
Mulcher door - allows conversion to
discharging or bagging operation.
Drive control lever- used to engage
power-propelled forward motion of mower.
The operation of any lawn
SAFE_YGLASSESmowercan resultin foreign
objectsthrownintotheeyes,
which can result in severe
eye damage. Always wear
safety glasses or eye shields while oper-
ating your lawn mower or performing any
adjustments or repairs. We recommend a
standard safety glasses or wide vision safety
mask worn over spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
A_:_CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the
risk of blade contact injury. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
DRIVE CONTROL
• Self-propelling is controlled by hold-
ing 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 engine,
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.
• To keep drive control engaged when
turning corners, push down on the
handle to lift the front wheels off the
ground while turning lawn mower.
DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT
Over time, the drive control system may
become "loose", resulting in decreased
speed. There is a turnbuckle on the
underside of the drive control housing to
increase tension on the drive cable. Pro-
ceed as follows:
1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug
wire from spark plug.
2. Turn nut on underside of drive control
to increase drive speed.
3. Operate mower to test drive speed.
Readjust as required.
4. If condition fails to improve after the
above steps (forward speed remains
the same), your drive belt is worn and
should be replaced.
O erator presence control bar
Drive
TO Iever
ENGAGE DRIVE
Adjustment DRIVE CONTROL
turnbuckle CONTROL DISENGAGED
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit
your requirements. Medium position is
best for most lawns.
• To change cutting height, squeeze ad-
juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your requirements. Be
sure all wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging
or discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Open rear door, remove mulcher plug.
Store mulcher plug in a safe place.
• You can now install the grass catcher or
optional clipping deflector.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, install mulcher plug into rear
discharge opening of mower.
control
Plate tab
Mulcher plug
SIDE DISCHARGING
• Mulcher plug must be installed into rear
discharge opening of mower.
• Open mulcher door and install dis-
charge deflector under door as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door closed.
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN
CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.
2. Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
1. Rear mulcher plug removed.
2. Grass catcher installed.
3. Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.
_ Discharge deflector installed.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without mulcher plug or approved
grass catcher in place. Never attempt to
operate the lawn mower with the rear door
removed or propped open.
Discharge deflector
I
TO E M PTY
GRASS CATCHER
1. Lift up on grass catcher using the
frame handle.
2. Remove grass catcher with clippings
from under lawn mower handle.
3. Empty clippings from bag.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-
ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.
\
Grass
catcher
frame
Open mulcher door
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. For type and grade of oil to
use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler
on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.
3. You receive a container of oil with the
unit. Slowly pour the entire container
down the oil fill spout into the engine.
NOTE:Initialoil fill requiresonly 18 oz.
dueto residualoilin enginefromthe
manufacturers100%qualitytesting.When
changingoil you mayneed 20oz.
4. Insertandtightendipstick.
IMPORTANT:
• Checkoil levelbeforeeachuse. Addoil
if needed. Fillto fulllineondipstick.
• Changetheoil afterevery25 hoursof
operationor eachseason.Youmay
needto changetheoil moreoften
underdusty,dirtyconditions.See"TO
CHANGEENGINEOIE'inthe Mainte-
nancesection ofthis manual.
,gine
oil cap
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present during the initial use of the prod-
uct and should be considered normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an
engine which has already run for a few
minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. If you do
flood engine, wait a few minutes before
attempting to start and do not repeat
priming steps.
Gasoline
filler cap
Primer
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck.
Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-
ness.
A CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
A CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha-
nol) can attract moisture which leads to
separation and formation of acids during
storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage. To
avoid engine problems, the fuel system
should be emptied before storage of 30
days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start
the engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
MOWING TIPS
A CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher
blade attachments on your mower. Such
attachments are hazardous, will damage
your mower and could void your warranty.
• Under certain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass clip-
pings. It may also be necessary to re-
duce ground speed and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a second time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most cut-
ting conditions, the engine speed should
be set in the FAST position.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-
come filled with dirt and dust with use
and catchers will collect less grass. To
prevent this, regularly hose catcher off
with water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend
engine life.
TO STOP ENGINE
• To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar.
10
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the
Maintenance section of this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into
the grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always
mulch with your highest engine (blade)
speed as this will provide the best recut-
ting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the early
afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried, yet the newly cut area will not be
exposed to direct sunlight.
• For best results, adjust the lawn mower •
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it
will be necessary to raise the height of
cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
from overloading the engine and leaving
clumps of mulched grass. For extremely
heavy grass, reduce your width of cut
by overlapping previously cut path and
mow slowly.
Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a sec-
ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to
the first cut path.
MAX 1/3
Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting and
graining of the lawn.
MAINTENANCE BEFOREAFTEREVERY EVERY EVERYBEFORE
EACH EACH 10 25 HOURS 100
SCHEDULE USE USE HOURSORSEASONHOURSSTORAGE
Check for Loose Fasteners
_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *
Check Tires
_ Check Drive Wheels
Clean Lawn Mower ....
M Clean under Drive Cover ***
O Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***
W Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade
_ ubrication
Clean and Recharge Battery **
Check Engine Oil level
E Change Engine Oil
N Clean Air Filter
_ Inspect Muffler
N Replace Spark Plug
E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer
* (if so equipped)
** Electric-Start mowers
*** Power-Propelled mowers
**** Use a scraper
to clean under deck
1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.
2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.
5 - And after each 5 hours of use.
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11
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, operator must
maintain unit as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
At least once a season, check to see if
you should make any of the adjustments
described in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
• At least once a year, replace the spark
plug, clean or replace air filter element
and check blade for wear. A new spark
plug and clean/new air filter element
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated
(See "LUBRICATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
@ Engine oil
Mulcher
door hinge
pin
(_ Rear door
hinge
(_ Handle bracket mounting pins
_ Spray lubricant
See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section. 1
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will 2.
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of
the self-lubricating bearings. Ifyou feel they 3.
must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly. 12
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when per-
forming any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time before
you mow to be sure they move freely.
The wheels not turning freely means trash,
grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel area
and must be cleaned to free drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be
sure to clean both front wheels.
1. Remove hubcaps, Iocknuts & washers.
2. Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
3. Remove any trash or grass cuttings
from inside the dust cover, pinion and/
or drive wheel gear teeth.
4. Put wheels back in place.
NOTE: If after cleaning, the drive wheels
do not turn freely, contact a Husqvarna or
other qualified service center.
BLADE CARE
For best results, blade must be kept sharp.
Replace a bent or damaged blade.
ACAUTION: Use only a replacement blade
approved by the manufacturer of you r mower.
Using a blade not approved by the manu-
facturer of your mower is hazardous, could
damage your mower and void your warranty.
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
5. Remove blade & attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer & hardened washer).
TO
REPLACE BLADE
Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
Be sure the trailing edge of blade (oppo-
site sharp edge) is up toward the engine.
Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
4. Useblockof woodbetweenbladeand
lawnmowerhousingandtightenthe
bladebolt,turningclockwise.
• The recommendedtighteningtorqueis
35-40ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT:Bladeboltis heattreated.
Ifboltneedsreplacing,replaceonlywith
approvedbolt shownin the RepairParts
sectionofthismanual.
Bladeadapter Key Crankshaft
Lockwasher_ _/
Blade \"_
bolt Hardened_/ \ i
washer Trailing edge Crankshaft
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
the blade - but if you do, be sure the blade
is balanced. Care should be taken to keep
the blade balanced.An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to mower or engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
GRASS CATCHER
• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
• Check your grass catcher often for dam-
age or deterioration. Through normal
use it will wear. If catcher needs replac-
ing, replace only with approved replace-
ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual. Give the lawn
mower model number when ordering.
GEAR CASE
• To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area around
the drive should be kept clean and free
of trash build-up. Clean under the drive
cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant to the
proper level at the factory. The only time
the lubricant needs attention is if service
has been performed on the gear case.
• If lubricant is required, use only Elf Mul-
tis EP00. Do not substitute.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SG-SL. Select the
oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100
c -1o -2; -1; ; ;o _o 1o 40
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.)improve starting in
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will
result in increased oil consumption when
used above 32°R Check your engine oil
level more frequently to avoid possible
engine damage from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of op-
eration orat least once a year if the mower
is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain
oil, empty fuel tank by running engine until
fuel tank is empty.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown
and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to re-
move any oil trapped inside of engine.
Container
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn
mower or side of engine.
5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout,
stopping every few ounces to check the
oil level with the dipstick.
6. Stop adding oil when you reach the
FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a
13 minute to allow oil to settle.
7. Continueaddingsmallamountsofoil,
recheckingthedipstickuntiloil level
settlesat FULL. DONOToverfill,or
enginewill smokeheavilyfromthe muf-
fleronstartup.
8. Alwaysbesureto retightenoil dipstick
beforestartingengine.
9. Reconnectsparkplugwireto sparkplug.
AIR FILTER
Yourenginewill notrunproperlyand may
bedamagedby usingadirty air filter.
Replacethe airfiltercartridgeevery 100
hoursof operationoreveryseason,which-
everoccursfirst. Serviceaircleanermore
oftenunder dustyconditions.
Back plate
/
Cart_
Slot
Cover
L,over tab
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.
2. Carefully remove cartridge.
3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur-
_iL face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean car-
tridge. They may cause deterioration of the
cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use
pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge.
4. Install cartridge, then replace cover.
Be sure tabs are aligned with slots in
the back plate. Fasten screw securely.
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plug at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, whichever occurs
first. Spark plug type and gap setting
are shown in the "PRODUCT SPECIFIC-
ATIONS" section of this manual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-grass
and trash. Clean the underside of your
mower after each use.
_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with plug.
• Clean the underside of your lawn
mower by scraping to remove build-up
of grass and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
• We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can result in short-
ened engine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at least twice a sea-
son. Scrape underside of cover with putty
knife or similar tool to remove any build-up
of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.
A WARNING: To avoid serious injury, before performing any service and adjustments:
1. Release control bar and stop engine.
2. Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower
into the operator mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
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