Husqvarna 961450011 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.
115 53 97-31 Rev. 1
Operator’s Manual
Manuel de L’Opérateur
HU800AWD / 961450011
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
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 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 Quart
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 BPR6ES (Gap: .030")
Valve Clearance: Intake: 0.015 mm
(± 0.04 mm) Exhaust: 0.020 mm
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
OPERATION ...............................................................5-9
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 10
MAINTENANCE ...................................................... 10-13
SERVICE AND AD JUST MENTS ............................14-16
STORAGE ............................................................... 16-17
TROU BLE SHOOT ING ................................................. 18
WARRANTY ............................................................19-22
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.
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 hole in handle with one of three height positioning
holes.
2. Insert handle bolt through handle and bracket and
secure with knob.
3. Repeat for opposite side of handle.
4. Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
5. Remove any packing material from around control
bar.
OPERATOR
PRESENCE
CONTROL
BAR
LIFT
UP
MOWING
PO SI TION
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.
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.
FRAME
HANDLE
LIFT
UP
FIG. 1
UPPER
HANDLE
HANDLE
KNOB
LOWER
HANDLE
VINYL
BINDINGS
OPENING
FIG. 3
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.
4
FRAME
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.
DRIVE CONTROL
LEVERS
STARTER
HANDLE
GRASS
CATCHER
WHEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTER
(ON EACH WHEEL)
OPERATOR PRESENCE CON TROL BAR
HANDLE KNOB
GAS O LINE FILL ER CAP
FUEL SHUTOFF VALVE
AIR FILTER
DRIVE
COVER
HOUSING
EN GINE OIL CAP WITH DIPSTICK
MULCHER DOOR
MUFFLER
SPARK PLUG
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 ex-
ceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
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. WARNING: The blade turns when the engine is running.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR – must be held
down to the handle to start the engine. Release to stop
the engine.
STARTER HANDLE – used for starting the engine.
DRIVE CONTROL LEVERS – used to engage power-
propelled forward motion lawn mower.
MULCHER DOOR – allows con ver sion to discharging or
bagging operation.
5
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.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR
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)
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.
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
LEVER
PLATE
LEVER
FORWARD
TO RAISE
MOWER
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, disconnect spark plug wire from plug.
2. Rotate turnbuckle on drive control to increase drive
speed.
FIG. 6
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 discharging operation, remove
6
grass catch er and close rear door.
GRASS
CATCHER
FRAME HOOK
OPERATION
REAR DOOR
GRASS BAG
BRACKET
GRASS
CATCHER
HANDLE
UNLOCK
LATCH
OPEN MULCHER
DOOR
FIG. 7
SIDE DISCHARGING (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 side discharging operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging operation, dis charge
defl ector must be removed and mulcher door must be
closed and locked.
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
MOWER IS NOW READY FOR
DISCHARGING OPERATION
FIG. 8
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
with out rear door closed or ap proved
grass catcher in place. Never at tempt
to op er ate the lawn mow er with the rear
door re moved or propped open.
7
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 heavily from the
muffl er on startup.
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.
GASOLINE
FILLER CAP
ENGINE
OIL CAP
FIG. 10
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.
CAUTION: 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.
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
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. Move choke lever to ON ( ) position.
3. Hold operator presence control bar down to the han dle
and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope
to snap back.
NOTE: The choke lever automatically begins moving to
the OFF position when operator presence control bar is
held down to handle.
8
OFF
FUEL VALVE LEVER
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.
ON
( )
ON
FIG. 11
OFF
OPERATION
CHOKE LEVER
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
• Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it
may be nec es sary 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 re duce ground speed and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a sec ond time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, re duce the width of cut
by over lap ping previously cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions,
the engine speed should be set in the FAST po si tion.
• When using a rear discharge lawn mower in moist,
heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not enter the
grass catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing speed)
and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.
• If a trail of clippings is left on the right side of a rear
discharge mow er, mow in a clockwise direction with a
small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can become fi lled with
dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less
grass. To prevent this, reg u lar ly 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.
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.
9
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
ENGINE OIL
DOOR HINGE
REAR DOOR HINGE
HANDLE BRACK ET MOUNT ING PINS
10
SPRAY LUBRICANT
SEE “ENGINE” IN MAINTENANCE SECTION
MULCHER
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 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.
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.
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
SHAFT
KEY WAY
KEY
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Re place
bent or dam aged blades.
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 (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.
DEBRIS
SHIELD
BLADE
HARDENED
WASHER
LOCK WASHER
BLADE BOLT
TRAILING
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.
CENTER HOLE
5/8" BOLT OR PIN
BLADE
FIG. 14
11
EDGE
MAINTENANCE
• 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.
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 shown in the Repair Parts section of this
manual. 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
12
MAINTENANCE
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.
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
TAB
• 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.
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.
CARTRIDGE
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.
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
13
FIG. 18
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
CAUTION: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR 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 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 defl ector, 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's mowing position. If the defl ector becomes
damaged, it should be replaced.
REAR
BAFFLE
TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT (See Figs. 19 & 20)
1. Turn lawn mower on its side with air fi lter and car bu re tor up.
2. Remove blade bolt, lockwasher, hardened washer and
blade.
3. Remove debris shield.
4. Remove side bumper.
5. Remove rear baffl e.
6. Disconnect return spring from rear baffl e / rear gearcase
belt keeper.
7. Disconnect cable from rear gearcase.
SIDE
BUMPER
DEBRIS
SHIELD
BLADE
HARDENED WASHER
LOCKWASHER
BLADE BOLT
DRIVE
COVER
FRONT
BAFFLE
FIG. 19
14
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