MTD 050, 062 User Manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

20” and 22”

ROTARY

MOWERS

Model Series

050 thru 062

IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

Warning:

covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.

MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722

PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO.770-8550A

This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-

(10/97)

SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

WARNING:

THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHICH, IF
NOT FOLLOWED, COULD ENDANGER THE PERSONAL SAFETY AND/OR PROPERTY OF
YOURSELF AND OTHERS. READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE YOUR LAWN MOWER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH

THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE THIS
SYMBOL, HEED ITS WARNING.

WARNING:

The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

DANGER:

this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator
can result in serious injury. This lawn mower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing
objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in

1. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before operation. Be
completely familiar with the controls and the proper
use of this machine before operating it. Keep this
manual in a safe place for future and regular
reference and for ordering replacement parts.

• Your rotary mower is a precision piece of power
equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise
extreme caution at all times. Your unit has been
designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not
use it for any other purpose.

• Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
a power mower. Children 14 years old and over
should only operate mower under close parental
supervision. Only responsible individuals who are
familiar with these rules of safe operation should
be allowed to use your mower.

• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons,
particularly small children and pets. Stop engine
when they are in the vicinity of your mower to help
prevent blade contact or thrown object injury.
Although the area of operation should be
completely cleared of foreign objects, an object
may have been overlooked and could be
accidentally thrown by the mower in any direction
and cause serious personal injury to the operator
or any others allowed in the area.

• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close­fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover
the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are
recommended. Do not wear loose fitting clothes or
jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts.
Never operate a unit in bare feet, sandals, slippery
or light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

• Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
during operation or while performing an adjustment
or repair, to protect eyes from foreign objects that
may be thrown from the machine in any direction.

• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment
is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire,
bones, toys and other foreign objects which could
be picked up and thrown by the mower in any
direction and cause serious personal injury to the
operator or any others allowed in the area. Plan
your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material
toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like.
To help avoid a thrown objects injury, keep
children, bystanders and helpers at least 75 feet
from the mower while it is in operation.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Keep clear of discharge opening at all times
as the rotating blade can cause injury.

• Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being
pulled over the foot during a fall. Do not hang on to
the mower if you are falling; release the handle
immediately.

• Never pull the mower toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a
wall or obstruction first look down and behind, and
then follow these steps:

• Step back from the mower to fully extend your
arms.

• Be sure you are well balanced with sure
footing.

• Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half
way toward you.

• Repeat these steps as needed.

• Do not operate the mower while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.

2

• Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on
units so equipped while starting engine.

• The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes
the safety device inoperative and may result in
personal injury through contact with the rotating
blade. The blade control handle must operate
easily in both directions and automatically return to
the disengaged position when released.

• Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be
sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. Keep a firm hold on the
handle and walk, never run. If you feel you are
losing your footing, RELEASE THE BLADE
CONTROL HANDLE IMMEDIATELY and the
blade will stop rotating within three seconds.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks
or roads.

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

• Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes
to a complete stop before removing the grass
catcher or unclogging the chute. The cutting blade
continues to rotate for a few seconds after the
engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body
in the blade area until you are sure the blade has
stopped rotating.

• Never operate mower without proper guards, grass
catcher, plates or other safety protective devices in
place.

• Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.

• Only use accessories approved for this machine
by the manufacturer. Read, understand, and follow
all instructions provided with the approved
accessory.

• If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact
your dealer for assistance. Telephone [phone]­7310 for the name of your nearest dealer.

2. SLOPE OPERATION

For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of
this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit
on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15
degrees as shown on the slope gauge, do not operate
this unit on that area or serious injury could result.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes; never up and
down. Exercise extreme caution when changing
direction on slopes.

• Watch for holes, ruts, hidden objects, or bumps.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can
cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are
losing your balance release the blade control
handle immediately and the blade will stop in less
than 3 seconds.

DO NOT:

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

• Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as
shown on the slope gauge.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could
cause slipping.

3. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
the presence of children. Children are often attracted to
the mower 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 responsible adult other than
the operator.

• Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the
area.

• Before and while moving backwards, look behind
and down for small children or other objects.

• Never allow children under age 14 to operate the
mower. Children 14 years of age and above
should read and understand the operation
instructions and safety rules in this manual.

• Use extreme care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure your vision of a child or hazard.

4. SERVICE

• Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other
fuels. They are extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.

• Use only an approved gasoline container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine
is running. Allow engine to cool at least two
minutes before refueling.

• Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off any
spilled gasoline before starting the engine as it
may cause a fire or explosion.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.

• Never refuel machine indoors because flammable
vapors will accumulate in the area.

• Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame or spark such as a
gas water heater, space heater, or furnace.

• Never run an engine inside a closed area.

3

• To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass,
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or
fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool at least 5
minutes before storing.

• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep
the wire away from the spark plug to prevent
accidental starting.

• Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent,
cracked or worn). Replace with blade which meets
original equipment specifications listed in this
manual.

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

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.

WARNING - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY:

read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
remove the wire from the spark plug, and
thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage.
Repair the damage before starting and operating
the mower.

• Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear,
damage and deterioration, which could expose
moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components
and replace with manufacturer’s recommended
parts, when necessary.

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

• Do not change the engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine. Excessive engine speeds
are dangerous.

Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who

Figure 1 Safety Labels Found On Lawn Mower

4

15

°

SLOPE GAUGE

Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding

mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to

maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.

USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.

FOLD ON DOTTED LINE, REPRESENTING A 15

WARNING

°

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

OR A FENCE POST

SLOPE

CUT ALONG DOTTED LINE TO REMOVE SLOPE GAUGE

5

SECTION 2: CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Remove this sheet from your operator’s manual and lay the hardware on the illustration for identification
purposes. After Assembly, keep the Slope Gauge which is on the reverse side of this sheet for future use.

(Hardware pack may contain extra items which are not used on your unit. Part numbers are shown in
parentheses.)

ATTACHING THE

A

LOWER HANDLE

Hex

Bolts

3/8-24 x

1 1/2”

Long

(710-0459)

ATTACHING THE

B

UPPER HANDLE

Split Washers

5/16” I.D.

(736-0119)

SECURING THE CABLE

D

INSTALLATION OF WHEELS

E

Axle Bolts

Qty. 4

(738-0533)

Spacers 3/8” I.D. x

7/8” O.D.

(750-0910)

Cupped Washers

3/8” I.D. x 7/8” O.D.

(736-0105)

Hex Lock Nuts

3/8-24 Thread

(712-0355)

Cable Ties -- Qty. 3

Cupped Washers

3/8” I.D. x
1-1/8” O.D.
(736-0331)

ATTACHING THE

C

STARTER ROPE

(726-0240)

Curved

Head
Bolts

(710-1250)

Rope

Guide

(710-1205)

Hex Nuts

5/16-18 Thread

(712-0267)

Hex Lock Nut
1/4-20 Thread

(712-0324)

Cupped

Washers

3/8” I.D. x

7/8” O.D.

(736-0105)

Hex Nuts

3/8-16 Thread

(712-0798)

6

SECTION 3: FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new walk behind. It will help you assemble, prepare and
maintain your walk behind. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start to prepare your walk behind for its first use, please locate the model plate and copy the
information from it in this Operator’s Manual. The information on the model plate is very important if you need
help from your dealer or the MTD customer support department.

• Every walk behind has a model plate. You can locate it by standing behind the unit in the operating
position and looking down at the rear of the deck.

• The model plate will look like Figure 2.

This is where your model number will be.

XXX-X-XXX-X-XXX XXXXXXXXXXX

This is where your serial number will be.

Copy the model number here:

MTD PRODUCTS INC

CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136

Copy the serial number here:

Figure 2

SECTION 4: CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT

If you are having difficulty assembling this product or if you have any question regarding the controls,
operation or maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department. You can reach them by
calling:

1-800-800-7310

Before you call, make sure that you have your model and serial numbers ready. By having the model and
serial numbers ready, you help the Customer Support Representative give you faster service. To find your
unit’s model and serial number, see SECTION 2: FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER.

SECTION 5: UNPACKING

TO REMOVE UNIT FROM CARTON

1. Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut tape at
carton end and peel along top flap to open carton.

2. Remove loose parts if included with unit (i.e., owner’s
manual, etc.).

3. Cut along dotted lines and lay carton down flat.

4. Remove packing material.

5. Slide unit out of carton. Check carton thoroughly for
loose parts.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

(1) 1/2" Wrench
(2) 9/16" Wrenches
(1) Phillips Screwdriver
(1) 3/4" or Adjustable Wrench
(Two 6" Adjustable Wrenches may be used instead of the
above.)

DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE

Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the spark
plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it against the
engine. See Figure 3.

Spark

Plug

“V” Slot

on Engine

Briggs & Stratton

Engines

Retaining

Post

Spark

Plug
Wire

Tecumseh

Engines

Spark

Plug

7

Figure 3

SECTION 6: ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT:

GASOLINE or OIL. After assembly, service engine
with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.

NOTE:

mower is observed from the operating position.
This owner’s guide covers various models of

mowers. Follow only the instructions which pertain
to your unit.

Notch

Spacers

Hex

Hex

Bolt

Bolt

Reference to right or left hand side of the

Two

Cupped
Washer

This unit is shipped WITHOUT

Crowned

Lower

Handle

Use

This
Hole

Figure 4

Side

Cupped Washer

Cupped

Side

Hex Lock Nut

Cupped

Washer

ATTACHING THE LOWER HANDLE

(Hardware A)

1. Raise the rear of the deck and block securely.

2. Place one cupped washer on each hex bolt 1-1/
2" long (crowned side of washer goes against
the head of the hex bolt).

3. Insert the ends of the lower handle through the
slots in the rear of the deck.

NOTE:

the handle in position as you continue.

4. Place two spacers between the bottom hole in

5. Using a screwdriver, line up the bottom inside

6. Secure with cupped washer (cupped side

It is helpful to have another person hold

lower handle and bottom inside hole of the
deck. See Figure 4. Use a screwdriver to pry
the handle away from the deck if necessary.

hole in the deck, the spacers and the bottom
hole in the handle, then insert hex bolt as
shown from the outside of the deck.

against the handle) and hex lock nut. Do not
tighten at this time.

7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 to attach the other
side of the handle.

8. Tighten both hex bolts and nuts securely.

ATTACHING THE UPPER HANDLE

dware B

(Har

1. Place the upper handle in position over the
lower handle. The hole in the side of the blade
control handle (attached to the upper handle)
must be on the left side.

2. Secure the upper handle to lower handle using
the curved head bolts, split washers and hex
nuts as shown in Figure 5. The head of the
carriage bolts go on the outside of the handle.

)

Hex Nut

Split Washer

Curved

Head

Bolt

Figure 5

ATTACHING THE CONTROL BOX

One end of the brake cable is attached to the
engine. The other end is attached to the control box.
Attach the control box to the upper handle as
follows.

“Z” End

Hole in

Blade

Control

Handle

Control Box

Figure 6

of Brake

Cable

Plastic

Fitting

8

NOTE:

the upper handle for any reason, assemble the
control handle by inserting the ends into the holes
on each side of the upper handle. The hole in the
control handle must be on the left side of the upper
handle, and control handle must touch the upper
handle when engaged (squeezed against the upper
handle).

1. Remove the truss machine screw and hex lock

2. Make certain the blade control handle is on top

3. Route the control box (with cable attached)

4. Holding the control box near the left side of the

If the control handle is disassembled from

nut from the middle of the control box using a
phillips screwdriver. Place your finger over the
hex lock nut to hold it inside the control box so
you can unscrew the truss machine screw.

of the upper handle.

under the lower handle.

upper handle (control box must be inside the
handle), hook the “Z” end of the brake cable
into the control handle from the outside to the

inside . See Figure 6 and Figure 7.

AB

Post on

Cable Tie

Figure 8

1. Insert posts on cable ties into holes provided on
the inside of the handle, one on the upper
handle and two on the lower handle. The holes
may be either on the inside or outside of the
handles. See Figure 8A.

2. Secure the cable with the cable ties. Trim
excess ends of cable ties. See Figure 8B.

End of
Control
Handle

Truss

Machine

Hex Lock

Nut

Figure 7

5. Place the control box on the upper handle just
below (touching) the end of the control handle
as shown in Figure 7. Secure with hardware
removed in step one by placing hex lock nut
into the indent on the inside of the control box.
Screw the truss machine screw into the hex
lock nut.

SECURING THE CABLE (Har

Secure the cable to the left side of the handle as
follows.

WARNING:

cable, the cable must be routed to avoid
contact with all sharp edges and hot
surfaces to prevent damage to the cable,
which will render the controls inoperative.

dware D)

When attaching the control

Screw

INSTALLATION OF WHEELS

Smaller

Front Wheel

Axle
Bolt

The three holes provide three cutting heights for
your mower. Use the same hole location for all four
wheels when assembling. If wheels are to be
assembled in the lowest cutting position (highest
hole in the deck), refer to the note below.

If your mower has two sets of holes (see Figure 9),
the front wheels must be assembled in one of the
three holes nearest the front of the deck. The rear
wheels must be assembled in one of the three holes
nearest the rear of the deck. To assemble the
wheels: (See Figure 9).

1. Block up the mower securely.

2. Place axle bolt through wheel. (Hub side of
wheel must face deck.)

Cupped

Washer

Figure 9

(Hardware E)

Use These Holes

for Front Wheels

Larger

Cupped

Washer

Hex

Nut

9

3. Place one smaller cupped washer on axle bolt,
with the cupped side of washer toward the deck
(away from wheel).

NOTE:

in the deck) is used, it is necessary to place the
larger washer on the outside of the deck and the
smaller washer on the inside.

4. Secure wheel to deck with one larger cupped

5. Assemble the other wheels in the same

If the lowest cutting position (highest hole

washer on the inside of the deck (cupped side
against the deck) and hex nut. Tighten securely.

manner. Remove the blocks.

ATTACHING THE STARTER ROPE

(Hardware C)

Hex Nut

Rope Guide

Starter

Rope

Figure 10

1. The starter rope is inside the top of the engine.
With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, depress the blade control handle and
pull the rope out of the engine.

2. Place the rope guide around the starter rope, so
the opening in the rope guide is toward the front
of the mower as shown. Insert the rope guide
into the right side of the handle, and secure with
hex lock nut. See Figure 10.

FINAL ASSEMBLY OF MOWER

Chute

Deflectable

Shipping

Chute

Retainer

Figure 11

1. The chute deflector on your mower is held in an
upright position by a retainer for shipping
purposes only. This shipping retainer must be
removed and discarded before the mower is put
into operation. See Figure 11. To remove the
shipping chute retainer, move the spring-loaded
chute toward the engine by pushing above the
retainer. Remove the retainer and carefully
lower the chute into operating position, keeping
fingers out of the way.

2. Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened
securely.

SECTION 7: CONTROLS

Blade Control

Recoil

Starter

Figure 12

Handle

BLADE CONTROL HANDLE

WARNING:

a safety device. Never attempt to bypass
its operations.

The blade control handle is located on the upper
handle of the mower. See Figure 12. The blade
control handle must be depressed in order to
operate the unit. Release the blade control handle

to stop the engine and blade.

WARNING:

whenever the engine is running.

This control mechanism is

The blade will be rotating

RECOIL STARTER

The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle
and is used to start the engine. See Figure 12.

10

SECTION 8: OPERATION

Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on
cutting deck. See Figure 1, Warning Label.

The operation of any lawn mower
can result in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye damage.

Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields. We recommend wide vision safety mask
for over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

5. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm
stroke. Keep a firm grip on starter handle.
Return it slowly to the rope guide.

NOTE:

the Trouble Shooting Guide on page 14.

If any problems are encountered, refer to

TO STOP ENGINE AND BLADE

1. Release the blade control handle to stop the
engine and blade.

GAS AND OIL FILL-UP

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as

instructed in the separate engine manual packed
with your mower. Read instructions carefully.

WARNING:

with engine running or until the engine has
been allowed to cool for at least two
minutes after running.

Never fill fuel tank indoors,

TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE
BLADE

NOTE:

which is set at full throttle for best performance.

1. Attach spark plug wire securely to spark plug.

2. Prime engine as instructed in the separate

Your engine is a constant speed engine,

engine manual.

Blade

Control

Handle

WARNING:

rotate for a few seconds after the engine is
shut off.

2. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.

The blade continues to

USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER

Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by
the mower in any direction and cause serious
personal injury to the operator and others.

For best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and
could cause you to slip and fall. New grass or thick
grass may require a narrower cut.

The best mowing pattern is one that allows the
clippings to discharge towards the uncut part of the
lawn. This permits recutting of the clippings to
further pulverize them. When cutting high weeds,
discharge towards cut portion, then recut at right
angles to first direction.

Recoil Starter

Handle

Figure 13

3. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade
control handle and hold it against the upper
handle as shown in Figure 13.

4. Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly
until engine reaches start of compression cycle
(rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let
the rope rewind slowly.

For a healthy lawn, never cut off more than one­third of the total length of the grass. Lawn should

be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign

object, stop the engine. Remove wire from
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower

for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the mower.
Extensive vibration of the mower during
operation is an indication of damage. The
unit should be promptly inspected and
repaired.

11

SECTION 9: ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Do not at any time make

any adjustment to lawn mower without
first stopping engine and disconnecting
spark plug wire.

CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

Adjustment may be made by removing and moving
axle bolts to desired position. Cutting heights will be
raised as axle bolts are moved to a lower hole and
lowered as axle bolts are moved to a higher hole in
the deck. All axle bolts must be mounted in the
same relative position. Cupped washers must be
assembled so that the cupped side of the washers
are against the deck. Refer to Figure 9.

SECTION 10: LUBRICATION

WARNING: Always stop engine and

disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning,
lubricating or doing any kind of work on
lawn mower.

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: If any adjustments are

made to the engine while the engine is
running (e.g. carburetor), keep clear of all
moving parts. Be careful of heated

surfaces and muffler.

Minor carburetor adjustment may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. Refer to the separate engine

manual packed with your mower for carburetor
adjustment information.

NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to

run rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and
attached to the carburetor before adjusting
carburetor.

Blade Control - Lubricate the pivot points on the
blade control handle and the brake cable at least
once a season with light oil. See Figure 14. The
blade control must operate freely in both directions.

Blade Control

Blade Control

Handle

Handle

Brake
Cable

Pivot

Point

Figure 14

SECTION 11: MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and

ground the spark plug wire before
performing any repairs or maintenance.

NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank

and keep engine spark plug side up.

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Refer to page 14 of this manual for trouble shooting
information.

Chute Deflector—The torsion spring and pivot
point should be lubricated periodically with light oil
to prevent any rust or binding. Deflector must work
freely.

Wheels—The wheels require no lubrication.
However, if the wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner
surface of the wheel with light oil. Engine oil may
also be used.

Engine—Follow engine manual for lubrication
instructions.

CUTTING BLADE

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or
replacement, protect hands by using heavy gloves
or a rag to grasp the cutting blade. Remove the bolt
and blade support or bell washer which hold the
blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft.
Remove the blade and adapter from the crankshaft.

If the blade is secured to the blade adapter with two
bolts, remove the two small bolts, lock washers and
nuts which hold the blade to the adapter.

12

When sharpening the blade, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important
that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of
grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. An
unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration
when rotating at high speeds, may cause damage
to the mower and could break, causing personal
injury.

The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy
side until it balances evenly. It is recommended that
the blade always be removed from the adapter for
the best test of balance.

Before reassembling the blade and the blade
adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft
and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light
oil (or engine oil). Lubricating the bolt holes, bolts
and inner surface of the nuts is also recommended.

Blade

Adaptor

Blade

Blade Bell

Support

Hex Bolt

Blade Mounting Torque

Center Bolt: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
To ensure safe operation of your unit, all nuts and

bolts must be checked periodically for correct
tightness.

DECK

The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass
clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is
allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust and
corrosion, and may cause an uneven discharge of
grass clippings at the next cutting.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).

ENGINE

Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.

Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and
follow instructions carefully.

Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely
dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and
flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should
be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.

Figure 15

Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the
“star” away from the engine. Refer to Figure 15.
Place the blade with the side marked bottom (or
with part number) facing away from the adapter.
Align the blade bell support over the blade with the
tabs in the holes of the blade and insert the hex
bolt. Tighten the hex bolt to the torque listed in the
“Blade Mounting Torque” section below.

SECTION 12: OFF-SEASON STORAGE

The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn
mower for storage.

1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as
described in the lubrication instructions.

2. Refer to engine manual for correct engine
storage instructions.

3. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease
to prevent rusting.

13

The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season;
check engine manual for correct plug type and gap
specifications.

Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush.
Keep the cooling system (blower housing area)
clean to permit proper air circulation which is
essential to engine performance and life. Be certain
to remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris
from muffler area.

4. Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store
next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment

in a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care
should be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using
a light oil or silicone, coat the equipment, especially
cables and all moving parts.

SECTION 13: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE

Trouble Possible Cause(s) Corrective Actions

Engine fails to
start

Engine runs
erratic

Engine
overheats

Occasional
skip (hesitates)
at high speed
Idles poorly Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too

Excessive
vibration
Mower will not
mulch grass

Uneven cut Wheels not positioned correctly.
Wheels will not

propel**

Blade control handle disengaged.
Spark plug wire disconnected.
Dirty aircleaner.
Primer button not depressed.
Throttle control lever not in correct
starting position (if so equipped).
Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

Blocked fuel line (if so equipped).
Faulty spark plug.
Engine flooded.
Unit running in START position.
Spark plug wire loose.

Blocked fuel line (if so equipped) or
stale fuel.
Vent in gas cap plugged.
Water or dirt in fuel system.
Dirty air cleaner.
Carburetor out of adjustment.
Engine oil level low.
Dirty aircleaner.
Air flow restricted.

Carburetor not adjusted properly.
Spark plug gap too close.

Carburetor idle mixture adjustment
improperly set.

wide.
Carburetor improperly adjusted.
Dirty air cleaner.
Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
Bent cutting blade.
Engine speed too low.
Wet grass.
Excessively high grass.

Dull blade.
Belt not installed properly.
Debris clogging mechanism.

Engage blade control handle.
Connect wire to spark plug.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Move throttle lever to FAST or START position.

Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline. Fuel will not last over
thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
Clean fuel line.
Clean, adjust gap or replace.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Move throttle lever to FAST position.
Connect and tighten spark plug wire. Check spark plug for
fouling.
Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Fuel will
not last over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is added.
Clear vent or threads or replace.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Fill crankcase with proper oil.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire. Remo ve b low er
housing and clean.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit or see an
authorized service dealer.*
Adjust gap to .030".
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.

Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.

Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.
See an authorized service dealer.
Set throttle between 3/4 and full throttle.
Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.
Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at
desired height or make a narrower cutting swath (1/2 width).
Place all four wheels in same height position.
Sharpen or replace blade.
Check belt for proper pulley installation and movement.
Clean out debris.

**Self-propelled models only
Note: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments above, contact your local authorized service dealer.

14

Model 050 thru 062

15

Model 050 thru 062

REF.

NO.

1 734-1779 Wheel Ass’y. Comp. (050 Series)

2 742-0640 20 “ Blade

3 712-0324 Hex L-Nut 1/4-20 Thd.
4 710-1044 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5” Lg.
5 753-0588 Blade Adapter Kit
6 738-0533 Axle Bolt
7 736-0105 Bell-Wash. .380” I.D. x .88”
8 736-0331 Bell-Wash. .39” I.D. x 1.13”

9 712-0798 Hex Nut 3/8-16 Thd.

13 746-0842 Throttle Wire 51” Lg. (050A,

14 746-0876 Throttle Lever †
18 17038B 20” Deck Ass’y.

19 710-0654A Hex Wash. Hd. Scr. 3/8-16 x 1” Lg.
20 17098 Hinge Clip
21 731-0872A Rear Flap (050 Series)

22 726-0240 Cable Tie
23 749-0928 Lower Handle
24 710-1205 Rope Guide
25 736-0119 L-Wash. 5/16” I.D.
26 712-0267 Hex Nut 5/16-18 Thd.
27 749- Upper Handle
28 710-1250 Curved Carr. Bolt 5/16-18 x 1” Lg.

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

734-1780 Wheel Ass’y. Comp. (060 Series)

742-0642 22” Blade - Std.
742-0742 22” Mulching Blade

736-0524A Support, Bell-Blade

052E, 060A, 062A) †

746-0844 Throttle Wire 39” Lg. (061A, 061B)

682-0086 22” Deck Ass’y.

731-1029 Rear Flap (060 Series)

REF.

NO.

29 710-0459 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5” Lg.
30 747-0824 Std. Control Handle

31 712-0324 Hex L-Nut 1/4-20 Thd.
32 736-0501 Spr. Wash. .66” I.D †
34 646-0875 Throttle Body †
35 710-0605 Oval C-Sunk Scr. (Use w/Ref. #54)

38 746-0553 Control Cable (050A, 052E)

39 751B213146 Casing Clamp (B&S) (Use w/Ref.

40 710-1237 Hex Wash. Hd. Scr. #10-32:.62 Lg.

43 - - - Engine
45 750-0910 Spacer .391” I.D. x .375” Lg.
46 712-0355 Hex L-Nut 3/8-24 Thd.
48 731-1034 Chute Deflector Ass’y.
49 732-0593 Torsion Spring
50 17032 Adapter Plate
51 747-0710 Hinge Pin
52 710-0599 Hex Self-Tap Scr. 1/4-20 x .5”
53 736-0270 Bell-Wash. 1/4” I.D.
54 811-00185 Throttle Box Comp. (Incl. Ref.
55 731-1386A Mulching Plug (060 Series) †
56 746-0883 Control Cable Box
N/I 731-1586B Engine Shroud (Tec) †
N/I 7510042823 Screw (used w/ Eng. Shroud †

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

647-0004 Deluxe Control Handle †

710-1270 Oval C-Sunk Scr. (Use w/Ref. #56)

746-0550 Control Cable-39” (060A, 062A)
746-0552 Control Cable-49” (051A, 061A,

7510007775 Casing Clamp (Tec) Use w/Ref.

710-0871 Scr. #10-32:32 HXSL. (w/Tec) †

† Optional Parts

16

NOTES

17

NOTES

18

19

MANUFACTURER’S

LIMITED

WARRANTY

For ONE YEAR from the date of retail purchase
within the United States of America, its possessions
and territories, the manufacturer will, at its option,
repair or replace, for the original purchaser, free of
charge, any part or parts found to be defective in
material or workmanship. This warranty covers units
which have been operated and maintained in
accordance with the operating instructions furnished
with the unit, and which have not been subject to
misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident,
improper maintenance or alteration.

Normal wear parts or components thereof are
subject to separate terms as noted below in the “No
Fault Ninety Day Consumer Warranty” clause.

All normal wear part failures will be covered on this
product for a period of 90 days regardless of cause.
After 90 days, but within the one year period,
normal wear parts failures will be covered ONLY IF
caused by defects in material or workmanship of
OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts are
defined as batteries*, belts, blades, blade adapters,
grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower
skid shoes, shave plates and tires.

How to obtain service: Warranty service is
available, with proof of purchase, through your local
authorized service dealer. To locate the dealer in
your area, please check the yellow pages or contact
the Customer Service Department of the
manufacturer, P. O. Box 368022, Cleveland, Ohio
44136-9722. Phone [phone]. The return of
a complete unit will not be accepted by the factory
unless prior written permission has been extended
by the service department of the manufacturer.

Transportation charges: Transportation charges
for the movement of any power equipment unit or
attachment are the responsibility of the purchaser.

Units exported out of the United States: The
manufacturer does not extend any warranty for
products sold or exported outside of the United

States of America, its possessions and territories,
except those sold through the manufacturer’s
authorized channels of export distribution.

Other Warranties:

1. The engine or component parts thereof carry
separate warranties from their manufacturers.
Please refer to the applicable manufacturer’s
warranty on these items.

2. *Batteries are covered by a 90-day replacement
warranty.

3. Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders or
component parts thereof are covered by a one
year warranty.

4. All other warranties, express or implied,
including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for a particular
purpose, are hereby expressly disclaimed in
their entirety.

5. The provisions as set forth in this warranty
provide the sole and exclusive remedy of the
manufacturer’s obligations arising from the
sales of its products. The manufacturer will not
be liable for incidental or consequential loss or
damage.

How state law relates to this warranty: This
limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and
you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state. Certain disclaimers are not allowed in
some states and therefore they may not apply to
you under all circumstances.

NOTE: This warranty does not cover routine
maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade
sharpening and tune-ups, or adjustments such as
brake adjustments, clutch adjustments or deck
adjustments. Nor does this warranty cover normal
deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or
exposure.

20