Husqvarna 961430099 User Manual

Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is accept­able for use in this machine. The use of any gasoline ex­ceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.

Vous pouvez utiliser de l’essence contenant jusqu’à
10 % d’éthanol (E10) avec cet appareil. L’utilisation
d’essence contenant plus de 10 % d’éthanol annulera
la garantie du produit.

586 38 16-32

Operator’s Manual

Manuel de L’Opérateur

HU800H / 961430099

Please read the operator's manual carefully and make sure

you understand the instructions before using the machine.

Lisez très attentivement et soyez certain de comprende

ces instructions avant d’utiliser cette machine.

English/French

SAFETY RULES

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.

Look for this symbol to point out im­ por tant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BE COME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFE TY IS IN VOLVED.

WARNING: In order to prevent ac ci den­ tal starting when setting up, trans port­ ing, ad just ing or making repairs, always
dis con nect spark plug wire and place
wire where it can not come in contact
with plug.

CAUTION: Muffl er 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.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle
com po nents contain or emit chem i­cals known to the State of Cal i for nia
to cause can cer and birth defects or
oth er re pro duc tive harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to
the State of Cal i for nia to cause can cer
and birth defects or oth er re pro duc tive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

WARNING: This lawn mower is equipped
with an internal com bus tion engine and
should not be used on or near any
un im proved forest-covered, brush­covered or grass-cov ered 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 muffl er is available through

your nearest authorized service center.

I. CHILDREN

WARNING: CHILDREN CAN
BE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR
KILLED BY THIS EQUIPMENT.
Carefully read and follow all of
the safety instructions below.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that
children be a minimum of 12 year of age before operating
a pedestrian controlled lawn mower and a minimum of 16
years of age before operating a riding lawn mower.

Tragic accidents can occur if the op er a tor is not alert to
the presence of children. Children are often attracted to
the ma chine and the mowing activity. Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of a re spon si ble adult other than the
operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if chil dren enter the area.

• Before and while walking back wards, look behind and
down for small chil dren.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

II. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all in struc tions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be
thor ough ly 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 in struc tions, 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. Stay behind the handle when the
engine (motor) is running.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mow­ing. Stop ma chine if anyone enters the area.

• Do not operate machine bare footed or while wearing
sandals. Al ways wear substantial footwear with good
ankle support while mowing.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely nec es­ sary. Always look down and behind before and while
moving backwards.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Ma­terial may richochet back toward the operator. Stop
blade when crossing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate the mower without proper guards,
plates, grass catcher or oth er safety protective devices
in place.

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

• Stop the blade(s) when crossing grav el drives, walks,
or roads.

• Never leave a running machine unattended.

• Stop the engine (motor) and wait until the blade comes
to a complete stop before clean ing the machine, re­moving the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge
chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artifi cial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the infl uence
of alcohol or drugs.

2

• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure
of your footing: keep a fi rm hold on the handle; walk,
never run.

• Disengage the drive system, if so equipped, before
starting the engine (motor).

• If the equipment should start to vi brate abnormally,
stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the
cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

• Always wear eye protection when op er at ing machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

• When loading or unloading this machine, do not exceed
the maximum recommended operation angle of 15°.

• Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
while operating this machine, including (at a minimum)
sturdy footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection.
Do not mow in shorts or open toed footwear.

Always let someone know you are outside mowing.

III. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fall accidents,
which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: nev er up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps or hidden objects. Uneven
terrain could cause a slip and fall accident. Tall grass
can hide obstacles.

DO NOT:

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments.
You could lose your footing or balance.

• Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes.
Poor footing could cause a slip and fall accident.

IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely fl ammable
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 container where there
is an open fl ame, spark or pilot light such as a water
heater or on other appliances.

• Never fi ll 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 fi lling.

• 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 overfi ll fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten
securely.

V. GENERAL SERVICE

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
(motor) running. Dis con nect the spark plug wire, and
keep the wire away from the plug to prevent ac ci den tal
starting.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment
is in safe working condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation reg u lar ly. Never do anything to interfere with
the intended function of a safety device or reduce the
protection provided by a safety device.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to
cool before storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair, if nec es sary, before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while
the engine is running.

• Grass catcher components are sub ject to wear, dam­ age, and de te ri o ra tion, which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check
com po nents and replace with man u fac tur er’s recom­mended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s)
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when ser vic ing
them.

• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES .........................................................2-3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 4-5

OPERATION .............................................................6-10

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 11

MAINTENANCE ...................................................... 11-14

SERVICE AND AD JUST MENTS ............................ 15-16

STORAGE ............................................................... 16-17

TROU BLE SHOOT ING ............................................ 17-18

WARRANTY ............................................................19-22

3

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new lawn

mower. It has been designed, engineered and man u fac tured
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 tech ni cians
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: _________________________________

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity 1.0 Quarts
and Type: (Unleaded Regular Only)

Oil Type (API SG–SL): SAE 30 (above 0°C / 32°F)
SAE 10W-30 (below 0°C / 32°F)

Oil Capacity: 0.58 Quarts
Spark Plug: NGK BPR5ES (Gap: .030")
Valve Clearance: Intake: 0.006 mm

(± 0.001") Exhaust: 0.008 mm
Blade Bolt Torque: 35–40 ft. lbs.

DATE OF PURCHASE: _______________________
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE FOUND

ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE LAWN
MOWER HOUSING.

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND
DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

ASSEMBLY

Read these instructions and this man u al in its entirety before
you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mow er.

IMPORTANT: THIS LAWN MOWER IS SHIPPED WITH­ OUT OIL OR GASOLINE IN THE ENGINE.

Your new lawn mower has been as sem bled at the factory
with the ex cep tion of those parts left unassembled for ship­ping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to com plete the as sem bly have been placed in
the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper operation of your
lawn mow er, all parts and hard ware you assemble must
be tightened se cure ly. Use the correct tools as nec es sary
to ensure proper tightness.

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 “Stor­ age” sec tions of this own er’s manual.

3. Remove protective padding, raise upper handle sec­tion into place on lower handle and tighten both upper
(“star”) knobs.

4. Remove any packing material from around control bar.

Your handles may be adjusted for your mowing comfort.
Refer to “ADJUST HANDLE” in the Service and Ad just ments
sec tion of this man u al.

OPERATOR
PRESENCE
CONTROL
BAR

MOWING

PO SI TION

TO RE MOVE LAWN MOW ER FROM CAR TON

1. Remove loose parts included with mower.

2. Cut down two end corners of car ton and lay end panel
down fl at.

3. Remove all packing materials ex cept padding be tween
upper and lower handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to up per handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thor­ougly for ad di tion al loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOW ER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Figs. 1 and 2)

IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLE CAREFULLY SO AS

NOT TO PINCH OR DAMAGE CON TROL CABLES.

1. Raise lower handle section to operating position and
align holes in lower handle with holes in handle brackets.

2. Insert handle bolts through lower handles and handle
brackets; secure with lower (“standard”) knobs.

LIFT

UP

LIFT
UP

LOWER HANDLE

“STANDARD” KNOB

UPPER

HANDLE

UPPER

HANDLE

“STAR”

KNOB

LOWER

HANDLE

FIG. 1

4

ASSEMBLY

BOLT

KNOB

HANDLE

BRACKET

FIG. 2

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
(See Fig. 3)

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.

INSTALL STARTER ROPE (See Fig. 4)

1. Loosen T-knob.

2. Hold control bar against upper handle.

3. Slowly pull engine starter rope out until rope will slip
into loop of rope guide.

4. Tighten T-knob.

CONTROL BAR

UPPER
HANDLE

VINYL
BINDINGS

FIG. 3

FRAME

HANDLE

FRAME

OPENING

ROPE GUIDE T-KNOB

ENGINE
STARTER
ROPE

FIG. 4

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 man u al.

5

OPERATION

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.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CON TROL BAR

DRIVE CONTROL LEVERS

STARTER
HANDLE

GRASS
CATCHER

WHEEL HEIGHT
ADJUSTER LEVER

HOUSING

EN GINE OIL CAP WITH DIPSTICK

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
NOTE: Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol

(E10) is acceptable for use in this machine. The
use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol
(E10) will void the product warranty.

MULCHER
DOOR

HANDLE KNOBS

GAS O LINE FILL ER CAP

FUEL VALVE LEVER

AIR FILTER

SPARK PLUG

MUFFLER

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. WARNING: The blade turns when the engine is running.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR – must be
held down to the handle to start the blade. Release to
stop the blade.

STARTER HANDLE – used for starting the engine.
MULCHER DOOR – allows conversion to discharge or

bagging operation.
DRIVE CONTROL LEVERS – used to engage power­propelled forward motion lawn mower.

6

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

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum per­formance. Speed is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

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 un der
any cir cum stanc es 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 mower handle to start and operate the
mower.

DRIVE CONTROL (See Fig. 4)

• Self-propelling is controlled by hold ing the operator
presence control bar down to the handle and pulling
either drive control lever rearward to the handle. The
further toward the handle a lever is pulled, the faster
the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either the operator pres­ence control bar or a drive control lever are released. To
stop forward motion without stop ping engine, re lease a
drive control lever only. Hold op er a tor presence control
bar down against handle to con tin ue 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.

Use ear pro­tectors to
avoid damage
to hearing.

2. Rotate turnbuckle on 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 re placed.

ADJUSTMENT TURNBUCKLE

FIG. 5

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 6)

All four wheels are adjusted by a single lever.

• Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To raise mower, move
lever forward to desired position. To lower mow er, move
the lever toward the rear.

WHEEL
AD JUST ER
LEVER

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR

DRIVE
CONTROL
LEVERS

TO ENGAGE

DRIVE CONTROL

DRIVE CONTROL

DISENGAGED

FIG. 4

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT (See Fig. 5)

Over time, the drive control system may become “loose”,
resulting in decreased speed. There is a turnbuckle on
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.

LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD
TO RAISE MOWER

FIG. 6

7

OPERATION

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a
mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging:

REAR BAGGING (See Fig. 7)

• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass
catcher frame hooks onto the grass bag brackets.

• To convert to mulching or dis charg ing operation, remove
grass catch er and close rear door.

REAR DOOR

GRASS BAG
BRACKET

GRASS

CATCHER

HANDLE

GRASS

CATCHER

FRAME HOOK

FIG. 7

SIDE DIS CHARG ING (See Fig. 8)

• Rear door must be closed.

• Open mulcher door and install dis charge defl ector
under door as shown.

• Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

• To convert to mulching or bagging operation, dis charge
defl ector must be removed and mulcher door must be
closed and locked.

UNLOCK
LATCH

OPEN MULCHER
DOOR

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

1. Rear door closed.

2. Mulcher door closed and locked.
FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Grass catcher installed.

2. Mulcher door closed and locked.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Rear door closed.

2. Discharge defl ector installed.

INSTALL
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without rear door closed or ap proved
grass catch er in place. Nev er at tempt
to op er ate the lawn mow er with the rear
door re moved or propped open.

MOWER IS NOW READY FOR
DISCHARGING OPERATION

FIG. 8

8

OPERATION

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 9)

1. Lift up on grass catcher using the frame han dle.

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from under lawn
mower han dle.

3. Empty clippings from bag using both frame handle and
bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause
unnecessary wear.

GRASS

CATCHER

FRAME

HANDLE

BAG
HANDLE

FIG. 9

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL (See Fig. 10)

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. For
type and grade of oil to use, see “EN GINE” in the Mainte­nance section of this manual.

CAUTION: DO NOT overfi ll engine with
oil, or it will smoke on startup.

GASOLINE
FILLER CAP

OIL FILL
CAP/DIP­STICK

FIG. 10

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open fl ame.

Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol
or using ethanol or methanol) can at­tract moisture which leads to separation
and for ma tion 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 stor age 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
In struc tions for additional information.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level.

2. Remove oil fi ll cap/dipstick from oil fi ll spout.

3. You recieve a container of oil with the unit. Slowly
pour the entire container down the oil fi ll spout into the
engine.

4. Insert and tighten oil fi ll cap/dipstick.

IMPORTANT:

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill
to full line on dipstick.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or
each season. You may need to change the oil more
often under dusty, dirty conditions. See “TO CHANGE
ENGINE OIL” in the Maintenance section of this manual.

ADD GASOLINE (See Fig. 10)

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank fi ller neck. Do not over­fi ll. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with
a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quan ti ties that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.

TO STOP ENGINE (See Fig. 11)

• To stop engine, release operator presence control bar.
Wait until blade and all moving parts have stopped and
turn fuel valve to OFF position if you do not intend to
re start the engine soon.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 11)

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the engine, a small

amount of smoke may be present during the initial use of
the product and should be considered normal.

1. Be sure fuel valve is in the ON po si tion.

2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the han dle
and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope
to snap back.

9

OPERATION

OFF

ON

FUEL VALVE LEVER

FIG. 11

MOWING TIPS

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 clippings. It may also be
necessary to reduce 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 cutting conditions,
the engine speed should be set in the fast position.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can become fi lled 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 fl ow
and extend engine life.

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 recutting 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 (See Fig. 12). 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 mulching, reduce your width of cut by
overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

MAX 1/3

FIG. 12

• 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 second cut, mow
across (perpendicular) to the fi rst cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow
north to south one week then east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting and graining of
the lawn.

10

Check for Loose Fasteners
Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *
Check Tires
Check Drive Wheels ***
Clean Lawn Mower ****
Clean under Drive Cover ***
Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***
Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade
Lubrication
Clean and Recharge Battery **

Check Engine Oil level
Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Filter
Inspect Muffler
Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer

BEFORE

EACH

USE

AFTER

EACH

USE

EVERY

10

HOURS

EVERY

25 HOURS

OR SEASON

EVERY

100

HOURS

BEFORE

STORAGE

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.

(if so equipped)
Electric-Start mowers

Power-Propelled mowers
Use a scraper

to clean under deck

*

**

***

****

MAINTENANCE

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
mower 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
Ad just ments section of this manual.

• At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or
replace air fi lter element and check blade for wear. A
new spark plug and clean/new air fi lter 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

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”).

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE PLASTIC WHEEL
BEARINGS. VISCOUS LU BRI CANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST
AND DIRT THAT WILL SHORT EN THE LIFE OF THE SELF­LU BRI CAT ING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEEL THEY MUST BE
LU BRI CATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POW DERED GRAPHITE

TYPE LUBRICANT SPAR INGLY.

LUBRICATION CHARTGENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

➁

REAR DOOR HINGE

➀

HANDLE BRACK ET MOUNT ING PINS

➀

SPRAY LUBRICANT

➀

SEE “ENGINE” IN MAINTENANCE SECTION

➁

11

ENGINE OIL

MULCHER

➀

DOOR

HINGE PIN

MAINTENANCE

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing any main­ te nance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chem i­ cals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and
other hazards that may cause tire damage.

DRIVE WHEELS

Check rear drive wheels each time you mow to be sure they
move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash,
grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the drive wheel and dust
cover area and must be cleaned out to free drive wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, check both rear
wheels.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Re place
a bent or dam aged blade.

CAUTION: Use only a replacement
blade approved by the manufacturer of
your mower. Using a blade not approved
by the manufacturer of your mower is
hazardous, could damage your mower
and void your warranty.

5. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened
washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.

6. Use block of wood between blade and lawn mower
housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is 35–40 ft. lbs.

IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS HEAT TREATED. IF BOLT
NEEDS REPLACING, REPLACE ONLY WITH APPROVED BOLT.

CRANK-

BELT RE­TAINER

BLADE
ADAPTER

DEBRIS
SHIELD

BLADE

HARDENED

WASHER

LOCK WASHER

BLADE BOLT

SHAFT

KEY WAY

KEY

TRAILING

EDGE

TO REMOVE BLADE (See Fig. 13)

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 fi lter and
carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade and mower hous ing
to prevent blade from turning when re mov ing 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 and attaching hardware (bolt, lock
wash er and hardened wash er).

6. Remove debris shield.

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside
hub of blade adapter. The key must be in good condition
to work properly. Replace adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE (See Fig. 13)

1. Position the blade adapter on the engine crank shaft.
Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned; and that the drive belt is inside the tab of the
belt retainer.

2. Install debris shield.

3. Position blade on the blade adapter.

IMPORTANT: TO ENSURE PROPER AS SEM BLY, CENTER
HOLE IN BLADE MUST ALIGN WITH STAR ON BLADE
ADAPTER.

4. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (opposite sharp edge)
is up toward the engine.

FIG. 13

TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 14)
NOTE: We do not recommend sharp en ing blade - but if

you do, be sure the blade is balanced. An un bal anced
blade will cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.

• The blade can be sharp ened with a fi le or on a grinding
wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter
steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone
bal anc er, follow the in struc tions supplied with bal anc er.)

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes
of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

• Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt
or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground.
If blade is bal anced, it should remain in a horizontal
po si tion. If either end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

CENTER HOLE

5/8" BOLT OR PIN

BLADE

FIG. 14

12

MAINTENANCE

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must
be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for damage or de te­ ri o ra tion. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher
needs replacing, replace only with ap proved replace­ment catcher. 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 fi lled 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.

ENGINE

Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control
devices and systems, which are being done at the custom­ers expense, may be performed by any non-road engine
repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must
be performed by an authorized engine manufacturer’s
service outlet.

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service
classifi cation SG–SL. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating temperature.

CONTAINER

FIG. 15

4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of
engine.

5. Fill engine with oil. Slowly pour oil down the oil fi ll spout
into the engine.

6. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle. Use guage on oil
fi ll cap/dipstick for checking level. Insert dipstick into
the tube and rest the oil fi ll cap on the tube. DO NOT
thread the cap into the tube when taking reading.

OIL FILL CAP /
DIPSTICK

NOTE: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve

starting in cold weather, and you should check your engine
oil level frequently to avoid possible engine damage from
running low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at least
once a year if the lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine
and after each fi ve (5) hours of continuous use. Tighten oil
plug securely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Figs. 15 & 16)

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 oil fi ll cap/dipstick; 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 remove any oil trapped inside of engine.

UPPER
MARK

LOWER
MARK

FIG. 16

7. Continue adding small amounts of oil and rechecking
the dipstick until it reads full. DO NOT overfi ll, or engine
will smoke on startup.

8. Always be sure to retighten oil fi ll cap/dipstick before
starting engine.

9. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

AIR FILTER (See Fig. 17)

Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged by
using a dirty air fi lter. Replace the air fi lter every 100 hours of
operation or every season, whichever occurs fi rst. Service
air cleaner more often under dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Remove cover.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a fl at surface. If very dirty,
replace cartridge.

13

MAINTENANCE

CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
ker o sene, are not to be used to clean
car tridge. They may cause de te ri o ra tion
of the cartridge. Do not oil car tridge.
Do not use pres sur ized air to clean or
dry car tridge.

4. Install cartridge, then replace cover.

SLOT

CARTRIDIGE

TAB

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER

Clean under drive cover at least twice a season. Scrape
underside of cover with putty knife or similar tool to remove
any build-up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.

WATER WASHOUT FEATURE (See Fig. 18)

Your lawn mower is equipped with a fi tting that allows quick
and easy cleaning of the underside of the housing. To use
this feature, proceed as follows:

1. Move lawn mower to an area of cut grass or another
hard surface.

NOTE: Water, grass and other debris will drain from beneath
the mower housing during the washout process.

2. Remove grass catcher and discharge chute assembly
from lawn mower.

3. Close mulcher door (if equipped).

4. Connect a garden hose to the fi tting where shown.

IMPORTANT: BE SURE THE GARDEN HOSE IS NOT ROUTED
UNDER THE LAWN MOWER HOUSING OR ENTANGLED IN
THE WHEELS.

5. Turn on water supply and check for leaks at the fi tting.

If no leaks are present, start engine (as described in the
Operation section of this manual) and let engine run until
the underside of the lawn mower is clean.

FILTER COVER

FIG. 17

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffl er as it could create a
fi re 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
fi rst. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in the
“PROD UCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS” section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER

HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP 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 fi nished surfaces / wheels free of gasoline, oil,
etc.

• With the exception of the water washout port (if
equipped), we do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean the outside of your lawn mower unless
the elec tri cal system, muffl er, air fi lter and carburetor
are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can
result in shortened engine life.

WARNING: Do not engage the drive
system during the washout process.

6. Shut off the engine.

7. Shut off water supply and remove hose from fi tting.

CAUTION: Do not remove hose from
fi tting while engine is running. Water
in engine can result in shortened en­gine life.

8. Start engine (as described in the Operation section
of this manual) and let engine run for a full minute to
remove excess water from mower.

HOSE

FITTING

FIG. 18

14