MTD 110-300R000 User Manual

Page 1
$1.00
OWNEirS GUIDE
ASSEMBLY • OPERATION • MAINTENANCE • PARTS
20"
ROTARY
MOWER
Important: Read Safety Rules and Instructions Carefully
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 770-7217E
Model Numbers
110-300R000 110-302R000
I9o-ooi-oo6 c.mnE(L
Page 2

INDEX

Slope Gauge............................................................. 3
Contents of Hardware Pack
Rules for Safe Operation...........................................5
Assembly...................................................................6
Controls
Operation.................................................................10
Adjustments
Lubrication...............................................................12
Maintenance.............................................................12
Off-Season Storage.................................................13
Illustrated Parts
Repair Parts List......................................................15
Trouble Shooting Guide...........................................16
Parts Information
A
.....................................................................
............................................................
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The use of any accessory on this Rotary Mower other than those manufactured by the mower manufacturer is not recommended.
WARNING: DO NOT operate the m swer without the entire grass catcher or chute deflector in place. DO NOT operate the mower without the protective shield on the rear of the deck in place.
NOTE: Under normal usage bag material is; subject to wear and should be checked periodically. Be sure
any replacement bag complies with the mower manufacturer’s recommendations. For replacement bags,
use only factory authorized replacement b£ g.
......................................
Back Cover
4
9
11
14
Dear Customer,
So often throughout the year we are all In a
rush to meet our daily obligations.
However, we at MTD Products Inc are tak
ing a quick moment out to say...
“Thank you for your business.”
Sincerely,
MTD PRODUCTS INC
INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN WITH THIS SYM BOL ARE FOR PERSONAL SAFETY. BE SURE TO FOLLOW THEM.
WARNING: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unim
proved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or s ate 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 requir sd 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.
Page 3
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Cut Along This Line---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ^
---------
USE THIS SHEET AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
---------------- A POWER POLE
^
---------------------------------
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
------------
OR A FENCE POST
7? (D (D
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CO
.................................
....
WARNING
Ac
Do not mow on inclines with a siope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2Vz feet every 10 feet). A riding mower couid overturn and cause serious injury, if operating a walk-behind mower on such a siope, it is extremeiy difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.
Operate RIDiNG mowers up and down siopes, never across the face of siopes. Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.
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Page 4

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK/PARTS IDENTIFICATION

Remove this sheet from your owner’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 contair extra items which are not used on your unit.)
ATTACHING THE LOWER HANDLE
Hairpin
Ciips
B
ATTACHING THE UPPER HANDLE
Rope
Guide
Bolt
Split Washers
5/16" I.D.
Hex Nuts
5/16-18 Thread
ATTACHING THE THROTTLE CONTFOL
Curved
Head
Bolt
Upper
Handle
Rope^
Guide
Bolt
Grass-
Catcher
Handle
Mount
Bracket
Blade Control
Handle
PARTS IDENTIFICATION
Throttle
Control
Lower
Handle
Locking
Lever
Spark
Plug
>
o
3,'
(O
H
S’ »
3
(D
T
o
Hex Bolt
Cable Bracket
Spring Washer
1/4" I.D:
SECURING THE CABLES
n
nULC
ÜT
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
0 12 3
INCHES 4
Vi-28 X 1 Vi" Long
[|iiimiiMi
H ÎX Nut
Vi-2 i Thread
FINAL ASSEMBLY
Plastic-*
Plug
(If
Required)
Cable Ties
Page 5
A
IMPORTANT
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
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 AHEMPTING TO OPERATE YOUR LAWN MOWER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL-^ HEED ITS WARNING.
A
A
A
Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. If you violate any of these rules, you may cause serious injury to yourself or others.
TRAINING
Read this owner’s guide carefully in its entirety before attempting to assemble or operate this machine. 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.
2. Your rotary mower is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all times.
3. Never allow children to operate a power mower. Only persons well
acquainted with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use your mower.
4. 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 in jury. Although the area of operation should be completely cleared of foreign objects, an object may have been overlooked and could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator or any others allowed in the area.
PREPARATION
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used.
Remove ail stones, sticks, wire, bones and other foreign objects which could be picked up and thrown by the mower in any direc tion and cause serious personal injury to the operator or any others allowed in the area.
2. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields 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.
3. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting slacks and shirts to avoid entanglement in the moving parts. Never operate a unit in bare feet, sandals, or sneakers.
4. Check the fuel before starting the engine. Gasoline is an extreme ly flammable fuel. Do not fill the gasoline tank indoors, while the engine is running, or until engine has been allowed to cool for two minutes after running. Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off any spilled gasoline before starting the engine as it may cause a fire or explosion.
5. Disengage the self-propelled mechanism or drive clutch on units so equipped before starting the engine.
6. 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 biade. The blade control handle must operate easily in both
directions.
7. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while
the engine is running.
8. Never operate the equipment 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. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
DANGER
9. 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° as shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this unit on that area or serious injury could result.
OPERATION
Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the
A
A
engine. Excessive engine speeds are dangerous.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep ciear of the discharge opening at all times as the rotating blade can cause injury.
Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads. 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 restarting and operating the
mower.
5.
If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warn ing of trouble.
6.
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. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect tfie spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. Do not run the engine indoors. Mow across the face of slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise ex treme caution when changing direction on slopes. Do not mow excessively steep slopes. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fail can cause serious personal injury.
10.
Never operate mower without proper guards, plates or other safety protective devices in place.
11.
Do not operate this mower with the chute door open, unless the complete grass catcher or chute deflector is properly mounted on the mower.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness.
2. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
3. Never store the equipment with gasoline in the tank inside of a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cooi before storing in any enclosure.
4. To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease.
5. Check the grass catcher bag frequently for wear or deterioration. For safety protection, replace only with new bag meeting original
equipment specifications.
Page 6
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT: This unit Is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE or OIL. After assembly, service engine with gasoline and oii as instructed in the sep arate engine manual packed with your unit.
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side cf the mower is observed from the operating position. Refer to parts identification on page 4 for loc ation of parts when assembling the mower.
Toois Required for Assembly
(1) Pair of Pliers (1) 1/2" Wrench* (2) 7/16" Wrenches*
*Or two 6" Adjustable Wrenches
Lower
Handle
UNPACKING
1. Remove the lawn mower from the carton by open
ing the top flaps and lifting the unit out. Be careful
of the staples. Make certain all parts and literature
have been removed from the carton before the car
ton is discarded.
2. Disconnect and ground the spark plug wire against
the engine. Check beneath the deck for any card
board packaging. Remove if present.
3. Stretch out all control cables and place on the floor. Be careful not to bend or kink the cables at any
time during assembly.
4. Remove page four from this manual and lay the
contents of the hardware pack on the illustration for identification.
ATTACHING THE LOWER HANDLE (Hardware A)
1. Attach the lower handle by placing the bottom holes in the lower handle over the weld pins on the handle mounting brackets on the rear of the deck.
2. Using a pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower handle against the handle mounting bracket. In
sert the hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld
-------
pin. See figure 1. Repeat on other side.
FIGURE 1.
NOTE: There are two (2) holes in the handle mounting
brackets. Place the hairpin clip in the inner hole for operation. Outer hole is for storage.
AHACHING THE UPPER HANDLE (Hardware B)
1. Place the upper handle in position over the lower handle. The blade control handle (attached to the upper handle) must be facing up.
NOTE: The right hand side of the handle will be secured
with the rope guide bolt. However, left handed operators may assemble the rope guide bolt to the left side of the handle for easier starting by following steps 2 and 3 and reversing the left and right hand instructions.
2. Secure the left hand side of upper handle using
the curved head bolt, split washer and hex nut as
-------
shown in figure 2.
Insert the rope guide bolt through the right hand
3.
side of upper and lower handle from the outside in. Secure with split washer and hex nut, finger tight only at this time.
Page 7
AHACHING THE THROHLE CONTROL (Hardware C)
The throttle control is attached to the engine. Attach the throttie control to the left side of upper handle as
-follows. See figure 3.
1. Route the throttle control cable inside the handle
mounting bracket and beneath the iower handle.
2. Place cable bracket against left side of upper han dle, lining up the hole in the bracket with the bot tom hole in upper handle. Place 1/4" hex bolt through cable bracket and handle, from the inside to the outside.
3. Place throttle control on the hex bolt (outside of the upper handle), with the throttle lever facing up ward. Secure with spring washer (cupped side against the throttle control) and hex nut.
AHACHING THE BRAKE CABLE
1. The brake cable is attached to the engine, and has a “Z” fitting on the ioose end. Route the brake cable below the lower handle. Place end of cable through the hole in the bracket as shown in figure
-------
4. Be careful not to bend or kink the cable at any time. Push the plastic fitting until it locks into the
hole in the bracket.
WARNING: Brake cable must be assem bled as shown for proper blade brake
A
2. Hook the “Z” end of the brake cable into the hole
operation.
in the blade control handle from the inside to the
outside as shown in figure 4.
SECURING THE CABLES (Hardware D)
Secure both cables to the left side of the handle as
follows.
1. Insert posts on cable ties into holes provided on
the lower handle. The holes may be either on the
-------
inside or outside of the handles. See figure 5A.
2. Secure the cables with the cable ties. See figure
5B.
3. Trim excess ends of cable ties.
AHACHING THE STARTER ROPE
1. The starter rope is inside the top of the engine. Ad ditional rope may be wound around the starter han dle. If so, unwind the rope from the handle.
2. With the spark plug wire disconnected and grounded, depress the blade control handle and pull the rope out of the engine.
3. Slip the starter rope into the rope guide bolt as
-----
shown in figure 6.
4. Tighten the hex nut on the rope guide bolt securely.
Page 8
Rear
Frame
Front
Frame
Assembly
FINAL ASSEMBLY OF MOWER (Hardware E)
1. If plastic plug is needed and is not already assembled, insert plastic plug into hole in the top
left rear of the deck by slipping one end of plug
into hole, then pressing down on the other end of plug. Use a soft hammer if necessary.
2. Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened securely.
ASSEMBLY OF GRASS CATCHER
NOTE: Make certain the label on the grass bag is on the outside before assembling.
1. Place the ends of the rear frame inside the grass
-------
catcher bag. See figure 7A.
2. Insert one end of the frame into the cloth channel
inside the grass catcher bag. Feed all the material
on one side of the frame before working it around the frame.
When this step is completed both ends of the frame should be inside the bag. See figure 7B.
FIGURE 8
Locking
Lever
3. Join the rear frame and front frame assembly as
—shown in figure 8.
4. Secure front of bag to frame by working plastic
—channels on bag over frame. See figure 9. Make
certain knob on locking lever is outside the grass catcher bag.
5. Close top of bag by stretching loose material over the end of the frame.
WARNING: Never operate the mower with
A
the bag open.
FIGURE 9.
Page 9
ATTACHING BAG TO MOWER
WARNING: DO NOT operate the mower with the chute door open unless the com
A
1. Attach the grass catcher frame to grass catcher
------
2. Lift the rear of grass catcher up. The roller on the
NOTE: Figure 10 is shown with the chute door open
for ciarity oniy.
3. Move the tacking lever forward and hook in slot on
plete grass catcher is properly mounted on the mower.
hitch bracket on rear of the mower by hooking
grass catcher into hooks on grass catcher hitch bracket. See figure 10.
grass catcher will push the chute door on the
mower open. See figure 10.
mower. See figure 11.
To remove the grass catcher, lift the rear of grass
catcher, push forward and unhook tacking lever. Lift off grass catcher.
FIGURE 11.
BLADE CONTROL HANDLE
WARNING
THIS CONTROL MECHANISM IS A SAFETY DEVICE NEVER ATTEMPT TO BYPASS ITS OPERATIONS
Throttle
Control
CONTROLS
The blade control handle is located on the upper han dle of the mower. See figure 12. The blade control han dle must be depressed in order to operate the unit.
Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and
blade.
A
THROHLE CONTROL
The throttle control is located on the side of the upper handle. It is used to regulate the engine speed.
A
RECOIL STARTER
The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle. See figure 12. Stand behind the unit in the operating posi tion to start the unit.
WARNING: The blade will be rotating whenever the engine is running.
WARNING: The throttle control cannot be used to stop the engine.
Page 10
OPERATION
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT OPERATE MOWER UNLESS REAR TRAILING SHIELD AND THIS GUARD OR ENTIRE GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.
FIGURE 13.
Keep hands and feet away from the chute area < in cut
ting deck. See figure 13.
The operation of any lawn mower can ret ult 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 safetv mask for over spectacles or standard safety glasses, available through your nearest dealer.
Metal Loop
on Spark
Plug Wire
Rubber Boot
FIGURE 14.
2. Move throttle control lever all the way forward.
3. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade con trol handle and hold it against the upper handle as shown. See figure 15.
4. Grasp the recoil starter handle and pull back rapid ly, extending rope fully. Return it slowly to the rope guide bolt.
5. After engine starts, move throttle control to desired engine speed.
NOTE: if any probiems are encountered, refer to the
Troubie Shooting Guide on page 16.
NOTE: For shipping purposes your mower is sH with the wheeis in a iow cutting height position. For best resuits raise the cutting position untii it is determined
which height is best for your iawn. See cutting height adjustment section.
GAS AND OIL FILL-UP
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as ins ructed
in the separate engine manual packed with your
mower. Read instructions carefully.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank inioors, with engine running or until the engi ne has
A.
been allowed to cool for at leant two minutes after running.
TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE BUDE
1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is equipped with a rubber boot over the enc of the spark plug wire, make certain the metal l 3op on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber
boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug. See figure 14.
TO STOP ENGINE AND BLADE
1. Release the blade control handle to stop the
engine and blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
off.
against the engine to prevent accidental starting while equipment is unattended.
USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER
WARNING: Never operate your unit
without either the rear deflector or entire
A
10
grass catcher assembly in place.
Page 11
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 the best results, do not cut wet grass because it tends to stick to the underside of the mower, prevent ing proper discharge of grass clippings, and could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick grass or
wet grass may require a narrower cut. Blade speed should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn.
For best results, cut off one-third or less of the total length of the grass. Lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.
This mower is designed to be operated at full throttle to give you the best cut and do the most effective job of bagging the cut grass.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from spark
A
piug, thoroughiy inspect the mower for any
damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the mower. Exten sive vibration of the mower during opera tion is an indication of damage. The unit shouid be promptly inspected and repaired.
FiGURE 16.
Cutting height will be raised as front levers are moved to the front, and rear levers are lowered. Cutting height will be lowered as front levers are moved to the rear, and rear levers are raised. All wheels must be placed in the same relative position.
THROTTLE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT
If the the throttle control needs adjustment or has been
replaced, adjust as follows.
1. Loosen (do not remove) the screw on the cable clamp so that the cable will move freely under the clamp. See figure 17.
2. Place the throttle control lever on the handle all the
way forward to START position.
3. Place the control lever on the engine in the full
open position by pushing it as far toward the out
side of the engine as it will go. Tighten the screw
on the cable clamp to secure the cable in this
position.
ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: Do not at any time make any adjustment to lawn mower without first
A
CUniNG HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel posi tion provides cutting height adjustment. Each adjusting
plate has nine height positions. Height of cut will be changed when the thumb lever is moved from one hole to another. Simply depress the lever towards wheel and
move wheel and lever assembly to desired position. See figure 16.
stopping engine and disconnecting spark plug wire.
Control
Lever
On Engine
FiGURE 17.
11
Page 12
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: If any adjustments are made to the engine while the engine is running (e.g.
A
carburetor), keep clear of ail movinri parts. Be carefui of heated surfaces and muffier.
A

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and
ground the spark plug wire before perform
ing any repairs or maintenance.
JUlinor carburetor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuei, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refe' to the
separate engine manual packed with your mower.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engino to run
rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and atta ched to the carburetor before adjusting carburetor. Reft tr to the separate engine manud.

LUBRICATION

WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before clean
A
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 18. The blade control
must operate freely in both directions.
FIGURE 18. Discharge Chute Deflector—The torsion spi ing and
pivot point should be lubricated periodically v ith light oil to prevent any rust or binding. Deflector mi ist work
freely.
Wheels—Mower may be provided with ball bearing
wheels. Lubricate at least once a season with light oil.
Also, if the wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the ir ner sur face of the wheel with light oil. A 4 oz. plast c bottle of light oil lubricant is available. Order part number 737-0170. Engine oil may also be used.
Engine—Follow engine manual for lubricition in
structions.
Throttle—Periodically lubricate throttle cont ol lever
and throttle wire assembly with a few drops о light oil for ease of operation.
ing, lubricating or doirig any kind of work
on lawn mower.
NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and
keep engine spark plug side up.

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Refer to page 16 of this manual for trouble shooting information.

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 bell washer which hold the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft. Remove the blade and adapter from the crankshaft.
If the blade or blade adapter needs replacing, remove the two small bolts, lock washers and nuts which hold the blade to the adapter.
WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike
A
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.
It is recommended that the blade always be removed from the adapter for the best test of balance.
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
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. Lubricating the bolt holes, bolts and inner surface of the nuts with light oil is also recommended. A 4 oz. plastic bottle of light oil lubricant is available. Order part number 737-0170. Engine oil may also be used.
When replacing the blade, be sure to Install the blade with the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number) facing the ground when the mower is in the operating position.
Blade Mounting Torque
Center Bolt and Blade Adapter Bolts: 375 in. lb. min., 450 in. lb. max.
a foreign object. Replace when necessary.
12
Page 13
To insure safe operation of your unit, ail nuts and bolts must be checked periodically for correct tightness.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE

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 foilow instructions carefully.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal con ditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicates that the air cieaner should be ser
viced. To service the air cieaner, refer to the separate
engine manuai packed with your unit.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is recom mended 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 per mit proper air circuiation which is essential to engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area,.
The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn mower for storage.
1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as de scribed 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.
4. Store mower in a dry, clean area.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated 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.

HANDLE STORAGE

The handle may be placed in an upright position for storage. Move hairpin clips to outer hole on weld pins. See figure 1. Press outward on the bottom of the lower handle and push forward. The handle will lock in this position.
To place the handle in the operating position, remove the starter rope from the rope guide bolt. Grasp the lower handle at the bottom, press outward slightly and tip the handle backward. Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes. With the spark plug wire disconnected and grounded, depress the blade control handle and pull
the starter rope out from the engine. Slip the starter
rope into the rope guide bolt.
Model
Grass Deflector
lector Model 190-034-000 are available as optional equipment.
13
Page 14

Models 300R and 302R

NOTE
This instruction manual covers various models and all specifications shown do not necessarily apply to your
model. Specifications subject to
change without notice or obligation.
i
14
53
Page 15

Models 300R and 302R

PARTS LIST FOR MODELS 300R AND 302R ROTARY MOWER
1
747-0748
PART
NO.
CODE DESCRIPTION
Control Handle Ass’y-
REF.
NO.
PART
NO.
40 736-0329 L-Wash. 1/4" I.D.* 2 731-0564 Plug 41 13435 3 731-0665
Rear Flap Ass’y-
42
13924
4 734-1608 Wheel Ass’y. Comp. 43 712-0267
746-0802
5
742-0520
6 7 720-0190 Spring Lever Knob
746-0551 Control Cable—43" 47
8 9 749-0504C Lower Handle 48
Throttle Control Ass’y. Comp. 44 726-0100
20" Blade 45 731-0430
736-0119
46
738-0140 16108
49 710-0654A
15261A 15262B 712-0287
Front Index Plate Front Pivot Bar 51 710-1044 Hex Nut 1/4-20 Thd.*
53 753-0484
14832 738-0507B
Spring Lever w/Knob 55 Shid. Bolt .50" Dia. x .375 56 736-0105
736-0452
57 738-0102
Handle Brkt. Ass’y.—R.H.
58
12894A
Handle Brkt. Ass’y.—L.H. 59 710-0429
60 751-0369
1/4" X .62" Lg.
732-0417A Spring Lever 16107
Rear Height Adj. Ass’y.—L.H.
(Not Shown)
14766
Rear Pivot Bar—L.H. 72 710-0642
(Not Shown)
64 749-0438A
65 749-0278
764-0170B
66
68
69 710-0227
73 14012
74 14235
Cable Mounting Bracket
75
13407
76 732-0346
710-0892
Hex Wash. Hd. Tap Scr. V4 x 77
.62" Lg.
79 710-0703
80
738-0386 712-0271
736-0356 Bell-Wash. 3/8" I.D. 82 736-0211
84 710-0671
736-0169 712-0241 Hex Nut 3/8-24 Thd. 13405A
712-0287
L-Wash. 3/8" I.D.
85
Rear Chute Baffle—L.H. 87
88
Hex Nut 1/4-20 Thd.*
710-0842B 714-0104 726-0240
190-006-000 Grass Catcher Comp.
REF.
NO.
11 14578 Front Height Adj. Ass’y.—R.H.
12 13 15 16 736-0175 Spr. Wash. .265" I.D. 17 18
19 14579 Front Height Adj. Ass’y.—L.H. 20 12296A 21 12297A 22 710-0892 Hex Wash. Hd. AB-Tap Scr.
23 24 16106 Rear Height Adj. Ass’y.—R.H.
'25 14765 Rear Pivot Bar—R.H. 71 13773A
26 14764C Rear Index Plate 27 17174 28 710-0136 Hex Bolt 1/4-20 X 1.75" Lg.* 30
31 712-0798 Hex Nut 3/8-16 Thd.* 32 33 710-1055 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1" 34 35 36 37 710-0167 Carr. Bolt 1/4-20 X .50" Lg. 38 710-0206 Hex Bolt 1/4-20 X .88" Lg.* 39
1
CODE
DESCRIPTION
Cam Lever Grip Ass’y. Grass Catcher Lower Frame Hex Nut 5/16-18 Thd.* Push Cap 3/8" Rod Plastic Roller L-Wash. 5/16" I.D.* ShId. Bolt .437" Dia. x .180" 20" Deck Ass’y. Hex Wash. Hd. TT-Tap Scr.
3/8-16 X 1.0" Lg.
Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5" Lg.
(Grade 5) Blade Adapter Kit Bell-Wash. .39" I.D. Bell-Wash. .400" I.D. x .88" /Vxle Bolt Cable Clip Hex AB-Tap Scr. #10 x .38" Casing Clamp Upper Handle Grass Catcher Upper Frame Grass Bag Engine Hex AB-Tap Scr. #8 x .38" Lg. Engine Mounting Cover
Hex Self-Tap Scr. V4-20 x .75" Grass Catcher Hitch Brkt. Rear Chute Baffle—R.H. Chute Door Torsion Spring Hinge Pin Carr. Bolt 1/4-20 X .75" Lg. Hex Sems Nut 1/4-20 Thd. FI-Wash. .281" I.D. x 1.25" Curved Carr. Bolt 5/16-18 x
1.38" Lg. Rope Guide Bolt Hairpin Cotter Cable Tie
*For faster service obtain standard nuts, bolts and washers locally.
If these items cannot be obtained locally, order by part number and size as shown on parts list.
NOTE: The engine is not under warranty by the mower manufacturer.. .If repairs or service is needed on the engine, please contact your nearest author­ized engine service outlet. Check the “Yellow Pages” of , your telephone book under “Engines—Gasoline.”
CODE: N notates a new part (not previously existing). A three digit
number is the color code. Specify color code as shown below if color or finish is important when ordering parts, [i.e., 638 for Red Finish].
Color Codes
456—Radiant Tangerine 629—Silver Flake 460—Green Flake
483—Charcoal Gray 637—Black 498—Yellow 638—Red 499—Beige
621—Brilliant Fire Mist
630—Metallic Blue
640—Green 646—CM Blue
15
Page 16
TROUBLE: SHOOTING GUIDE
Trouble Fossil ile Cause(s)
Engine fails to start 1. Blade control t ändle disengaged.
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats 1. Engine oil leve low.
Occasional ¿kip (hesitates) at high speed
2. Spark plug win? disconnected.
3. Throttle control lever not in START
position.
4. Fuel tank emply, or stale fuel.
5. Blocked fuel line.
6. Faulty spark plug.
7. Engine flooded.
1. Unit running in START position.
2. Spark plug wir 5 loose.
3. Blocked fuel litie or stale fuel.
4. Vent in gas ca 3 plugged.
5. Water or dirt ir fuel system.
6. Dirty air clean« r.
7. Carburetor out of adjustment.
2. Air flow restricied.
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
1. Carburetor idle speed too slow.
2. Spark plug gap too close.
3. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment
improperly set.
Corrective Action
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Move throttle lever to START
position.
4. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
5. Clean fuel line.
6. Clean, adjust gap or replace.
7. Remove spark plug, dry the plug, and crank engine with plug removed and throttle in off position. Replace spark plug, connect wire and resume starting procedures.
1. Move throttle lever to FAST position.
2. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
3. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Clear vent.
5. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
6. Clean air cleaner.t
7. Adjust carburetor.t
1. Fili crankcase with proper oil.
2. Remove blower housing and clean.f
3. Adjust carburetor.!
1. Adjust carburetor.!
2. Adjust gap to .030".
3. Adjust carburetor.!
Idles poorly
Excessive vibration
Mower will not discharge grass
Uneven cut
1. Spark plug foul 3d, faulty or gap too wide.
2. Carburetor imp roperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleanor.
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
2. Bent cutting blade.
1. Engine speed ;oo low.
2. Wet grass.
3. Excessively high grass.
1. Wheels not po sitioned correctly.
2. Dull blade.
1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.
2. Adjust carburetor.!
3. Clean air cleaner.!
1. Tighten blade and adapter.
Balance blade.
2. Replace blade.
1. Set throttle between 3/4 and full throttle.
2. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.
3. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at desired height or make a narrower cutting swath (1/2 width).
1. Place all four wheels in same
height position.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
fRefer to separate engine manual packed with your unit. Note: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments isted above, contact your local authorized service dealer.
16
Page 17
Page 18
Page 19
Page 20
PARTS INFORMATION
POWER EQUIPMENT PARTS AND SERVICE Parts and service are available through the authorized service fi -ms listed
below. All orders should specify the model number of your unit, part numbers, description of parts and the quantity of each part required.
BRIGGS AND STRATTON, TECUMSEH AND PEERLESS PARTS AN'' SERVICE
Briggs & Stratton, Tecumseh and Peerless parts and service should be handled by your nearest authorized engine service firm. Check the yellow pages of your telephone directory under the listing Engines—Gasoline, Briggs & Stratton or Tecumseh Lauson.
NOTE: If any parts are found to be missing or c efective upon assembly of this unit, write to advise the factory so that
immediate replacement can be made.
ARKANSAS NORTH LITTLE ROCK
Sutton’s Lawn Mower Shop
CALIFORNIA PORTERVILLE
Billious
..........................................
COLORADO
Spitzer Industrial Products Co.
FLORIDA JACKSONVILLE
Radco Distributors
Small Eng. Dist......................... 7995 W. 26th Court. ..33016
ILLINOIS LYONS
Keen Edge Co.................................... 8615 Ogden Ave
INDIANA ELKHART
Parts & Sales Inc
IOWA DUBUQUE
Power Lawn & Garden Equip.. . . 2551 J.F. Kennedy
MARYLAND BELTSVILLE
Center Supply Co
MASSACHUSETTS SPRINGFIELD
Morton B. Collins Co...................... 300 Birnie Ave
MICHIGAN MOUNT CLEMENS
Power Equipment Dist
MINNESOTA PLYMOUTH
Hance Distributing Inc
MISSOURI EARTH CITY
Oscar Wilson Engine & Parts ... 4159 Shoreline Dr Automotive Equip. Service
NEW YORK CARTHAGE
Gamble Dist., Inc
.........................
...........................
............................
................................
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5301 Roundtop Drive
Box 368, Rt. 4
75 North D Street . .
DENVER
. 6601 N.
Washington St................80229
4909 Victor St.
Box 5459 ...................32207
HIALEAH
2101 Industrial Pkwy.
Box 277 ...................46516
6802 Industrial Dr.
#208
..............................
...................
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340 Hubbard
12795 16th Ave. Norl h .55441
KANSAS CITY
..............
3117 Holmes St
West End Ave.
Box 389 ...................13619
...........
..........
...................
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.72117
.93257
60534
52001
20705
01107
48043
63045 64109
NORTH CAROLINA BROWNS SUMMIT
Dixie Sales Company
OHIO CARROLL
Stebe’s Mid-State Mower Supply Box 366, 71 High St... .43112
Bleckrie, Inc National Central Burton Supply Co
PENNSYLVANIA HARRISBURG
EECO Inc......................................... 4021 N. 6th St................17110
Bluemont Co Frank Roberts & Sons Scranton Auto Ignition Co
TENNESSEE KNOXVILLE
Ace Distributors................................ 2103 Magnolia
Chilton Air Cooled Engine
TEXAS DALLAS
Marr Brothers, Inc
UTAH SALT LAKE CITY
Powered Products
VIRGINIA ASHLAND
RBI Corp
WASHINGTON SEATTLE
Equip. Northwest
WISCONSIN MILWAUKEE
Wisconsin Magneto Inc.................... 4727 N. Teutonia St. .. .53209
PUERTO RICO RAMEY
Island Distribution Center
...................................
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...........................
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................
5920 Summit Ave
CLEVELAND
7900 Lorain Ave
WADSWORTH
687 Seville Rd
YOUNGSTOWN
1301 Logan Ave.
Box 929
PITTSBURGH
11101 Frankstown Rd. .15235
PUNXSUTAWNEY
R.D. 2.............................15767
SCRANTON
1133-35 Wyoming Ave. . 18509
NASHVILLE
319 4th Ave. S.................3721''
423 E. Jefferson
1661 N. Beck St
101 Cedar Ridge Dr. .. .23005
1410 14th Ave
102 N. St
.............
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...............
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............
...............
.........................
27214
44102
44281
44501
37917
7520b
84116
98122
00604
WARRANTY PARTS AND SERVICE POLICY (0689)
The purpose of warranty is to protect the customer fror i defects in workmanship and materials, defects which are NOT detected at the time of manufacture. It does not provide for the unlimited ant! unrestricted replacement of parts. Use and maintenance are the responsibility of the customer. The manufacturer cannot assume responsibili y for conditions over which it has no control. Simply put, if it’s the manufacturer’s fault, it’s the manufacturer’s responsibility: if it’s the customt r’s fault, it’s the customer’s responsibility.
CLAIMS AGAINST THE MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY INCLUDES:
1. Replacement of Missing Parts on new equipmeni.
2. Repiacement of Defective Parts within the warrat ty period.
3. Repair of Defects within the warranty period.
MTD PRODUCTS INC
P.O. BOX 360900 • CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
All claims MUST be substantiated with the following information:
1. Model Number, Serial Number and/or Date Code of unit in volved.
2. Date unit was purchased.
3. Date of Failure.
4. Nature of Failure.
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