Husqvarna 961430104, 961430103 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.
Esta máquina puede utilizar gasolina con un contenido de hasta el 10% de etanol (E10).
El uso de una gasolina que supere el 10% de etanol
(E10) anulará la garantía del producto.
115 63 64-49
Operator’s Manual
Manual de Operario
HU725AWD/BBC / 961450018
Please read the operator's manual carefully and make sure
you understand the instructions before using the machine.
Por favor lea cuidadosamente y comprenda
estas intrucciones antes de usar esta maquina.
English/Español
SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROW ING 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.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire where it cannot contact
spark plug in order to prevent ac ci den tal
starting when setting up, trans port ing,
adjusting or making re pairs.
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: This lawn mower is equipped with an in-
ternal com bus tion engine and should not be used on or
near any un im proved forest-covered, brush-covered 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.
A spark arrester for the muffl er is available through your
nearest authorized service center.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its con stit u ents,
and certain vehicle com po nents contain or emit chem i cals
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 ac ces so ries 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.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions 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 discharge 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 the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mow-
ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing
open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.
• 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 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
approved by the manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks,
or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equip ment, 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 catch er.
• Mow only in daylight or good artifi cial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the infl uence
of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure
of your footing: keep a fi rm hold on the handle and
walk; never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mechanism or drive clutch
on mowers so equipped before starting the engine (motor).
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally,
stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the
cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents
which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes: never up and down. Exercise extreme 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. Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the trimming area and under the
watchful care of another re spon si ble 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 the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
WARNING: CHILDREN CAN BE INJURED BY THIS
EQUIPMENT. 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.
2
• 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 short and/or, open toed footwear.
Always let someone know you are outside mowing.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
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; tighten securely.
V. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run a machine inside a closed area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
(motor) running. Disconnect spark plug wire, and keep
wire away from plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachement
bolts, tight and keep equipment 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 spillage. 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 (motor) is running.
• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam age, and deterioration, which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check
com po nents and replace with manufacturer’s rec om mend ed parts, when necessary.
• Mower blade is sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing it.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
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 Husqvarna or other
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: _________________________________
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.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Capacity 1.6 Quarts
and Type: (Unleaded Regular Only)
Oil Type (API SG–SL): SAE 30 (above 0°C/32°F);
SAE 5W-30 (below 0°C/32°F)
Oil Capacity: 18 Ounces
Spark Plug (Gap: 0.020"): Champion RJ2YLE
Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. lbs.
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES .........................................................2-3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................. 3
ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 4-5
OPERATION .............................................................6-11
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 12
MAINTENANCE ...................................................... 12-15
SERVICE AND AD JUST MENTS ................................. 16
STORAGE ............................................................... 17-18
TROU BLE SHOOT ING ............................................ 18-19
WARRANTY ............................................................20-23
3
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.
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.
OPERATOR
PRESENCE
CONTROL
BAR
LIFT
UP
MOWING
PO SI TION
LIFT
UP
UPPER
HANDLE
UPPER
HANDLE
“STAR”
KNOB
LOWER
HANDLE
LOWER HANDLE
“STANDARD” KNOB
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.
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.
FIG. 1
BOLT
KNOB
HANDLE
BRACKET
FIG. 2
4
ASSEMBLY
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.
FRAME
HANDLE
VINYL
BINDINGS
FIG. 3
FRAME
OPENING
INSTALL STARTER ROPE (See Fig. 4)
1. Loosen T-knob.
2. Place throttle control in STOP position.
3. Slowly pull engine starter rope out until rope will slip
into loop of rope guide.
4. Tighten T-knob.
THROTTLE CONTROL
“STOP” POSITION
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
BLADE
BRAKE/
CLUTCH
CONTROL
THROTTLE/
ENGINE
CONTROL
STARTER
HANDLE
GRASS
CATCHER
WHEEL HEIGHT
ADJUSTER (ON
EACH WHEEL)
GAS O LINE FILL ER CAP
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
DRIVE CONTROL LEVERS
HANDLE KNOBS
EN GINE OIL CAP
WITH DIPSTICK
HOUSING
AIR FILTER
MUFFLER
SPARK PLUG
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Husqvarna 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
held down to the handle to start the blade. Release to
stop the blade.
DRIVE CONTROL LEVERS – used to engage powerpropelled forward motion lawn mower.
BLADE / BRAKE CONTROL – used to engage the blade
after the engine is started.
THROTTLE / ENGINE CONTROL – used for starting &
stopping the engine; and allows you to select either FAST
or SLOW engine speed.
STARTER HANDLE – used for starting the engine.
MULCHER DOOR – allows conversion to discharge or
bagging operation.
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
THROTTLE/ENGINE CONTROL (See Fig. 5)
The engine is controlled by a throttle control located on the
side of the upper handle. START 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
START
BLADE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)
CAUTION: When the blade control is
engaged, the blade turns.
• To start the blade, push the blade/brake control lever
forward (1) and hold the operator presence control bar
down to the handle (2). To stop the blade, release the
operator presence control bar.
Allow a cold engine to warm up in high idle position for one
minute before engaging the blade.
NOTE: It is normal to hear the belt slip as the blade is
engaged and comes up to speed.
• Do not start the blade in uncut grass. Move the mower
out of uncut grass before starting the blade.
CAUTION: Federal regulations require
this blade/brake control to minimize
the risk of blade contact injury. Do
not under any circumstances attempt
to defeat the function of this control.
BLADE/BRAKE
CONTROL LEVER
FIG. 5
OPERATOR
PRESENCE
CONTROL BAR
TO ENGAGE BLADE
FIG. 6
7
OPERATION
DRIVE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)
• Self-propelling is controlled by pulling either drive control
lever rearward to the handle. The further toward the
handle a lever is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.
• To stop forward motion without stop ping blade, re lease
a drive control lever.
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
TO ENGAGE DRIVE CONTROL
ADJUSTMENT TURNBUCKLE
FIG. 8
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 9)
Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cut,
adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Me di um
position is best for most lawns.
• To change cutting height, pull up on adjuster lever,
move wheel up or down to suit your re quire ments and
release adjuster lever. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when lever inserts
into hole in plate.
DRIVE
CONTROL
LEVERS
DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED
FIG. 7
DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT (See Fig. 8)
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.
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.
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
LEVER
PLATE
LEVER FORWARD
TO RAISE MOWER
FIG. 9
8
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. 10)
• 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. 10
SIDE DIS CHARG ING (See Fig. 11)
• 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
INSTALL
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR
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.
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. 11
9
OPERATION
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 12)
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. 12
GASOLINE
FILLER CAP
FIG. 13
OIL FILL CAP/
DIPSTICK
ADD GASOLINE (See Fig. 13)
• 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.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL (See Fig. 13)
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 heavily from the
muffl er on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fi ll spout.
3. You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly
pour the entire container down the oil fi ll spout into the
engine.
NOTE: Initial oil fi ll requires only 18 oz. due to residual oil
in engine from the manufacturers 100% quality testing.
When changing oil you may need 20 oz.
4. Insert and tighten 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.
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.
10
OPERATION
TO STOP ENGINE (See Fig. 14)
• To stop engine, place throttle/engine control in STOP
position.
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 14)
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.
NOTE: Your engine is equipped with an automatic choke
system. No priming or choking is required before starting.
• To start a cold engine, place throttle/engine control in
START position. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has already run for a
few minutes.
• To start a warm engine, place throttle/engine control in
FAST position and pull starter handle quickly. Do not
allow starter rope to snap back.
FAST SLOW
STOP
START
• 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. 15). 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.
FIG. 14
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.
MAX 1/3
FIG. 15
• 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.
11
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
ENGINE OIL
➀
REAR DOOR HINGE
➀
HANDLE BRACK ET MOUNT ING PINS
➀
SPRAY LUBRICANT
12
➀
SEE “ENGINE” IN MAINTENANCE SECTION
➁
MULCHER
DOOR
HINGE PIN
MAINTENANCE
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
-20 0 30 40
80
100
-30
-20 0
20 30 40
F
C
32
-10
10
60
5W-30
SAE 30
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 wheels each time be fore you mow to be sure they
move freely.
The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings,
etc. are in the drive wheel or dust cover area and must be
cleaned to free drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be sure to clean
all wheels.
1. Remove hubcaps, locknuts and washers.
2. Remove wheels from wheel ad just ers.
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 qualifi ed service center.
BLADE CARE (See Fig. 16)
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.
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 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
bolts.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade
with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolts by turning counter-clockwise.
5. Remove blade.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade on the Blade Brake/Clutch.
2. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (opposite sharp edge)
is up toward the engine.
3. Install the blade bolts into Blade Brake/Clutch.
4. Use block of wood between blade and lawn mower
• The recommended tightening torque is 36–44 ft. lbs.
housing and tighten the blade bolts, turning clockwise.
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLTS ARE HEAT TREATED. IF BOLTS
NEED REPLACING, REPLACE ONLY WITH APPROVED BOLTS.
TRAILING
EDGE
BLADE BOLTS
BLADE
FIG. 16
TO SHARPEN BLADE
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, drive a nail into a beam or
wall. Leave about one inch of the straight nail ex posed.
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 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 CASES
• To keep your drive system working properly, the gear
cases 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 cases are 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
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.
13
MAINTENANCE
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°F. 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 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 Fig. 17)
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 remove any oil trapped inside of engine.
AIR FILTER (See Fig. 18)
Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged
by using a dirty air fi lter. Replace the air fi lter cartridge
every 100 hours of op er a tion or every season, which ev er
occurs fi rst. Service air cleaner more often under dusty
conditions.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to re move.
2. Carefully remove cartridge.
3. Clean by gently tapping on a fl at surface. If very dirty,
replace car tridge.
CAUTION: Pe tro leum 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 making sure the
tabs are aligned with the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely.
LIP
BACK PLATE
CONTAINER
FIG. 17
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of
engine.
5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fi ll 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 minute to allow oil to settle.
7. Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the
dipstick until oil level settles at FULL. DO NOT overfi ll, or engine will smoke heavily from the muffl er on
startup.
8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting
engine.
9. Re con nect spark plug wire to spark plug.
CARTRIDGE
SLOT
COVER
COVER
FIG. 18
TAB
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.
14
MAINTENANCE
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.
• We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean
lawn mower unless the electrical system, muffl er, air
fi lter and carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.
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.
HOSE
FITTING
FIG. 19
WATER WASHOUT FEATURE (See Fig. 19)
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.
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.
15
Loading...