MTD 111-508R000 User Manual

OWNEirSOUIDE

ASSEMBLY • OPERATION • MAINTENANCE • PARTS

20" and 22"

HIGH WHEEL

ROTARY

$1.00

MOWERS

Model Numbers

111-500R000

thru

111-508R000
111-580R000

thru

(Model 506R Shown) 111-584R000

1^0-086-000

Important: Read Safety Rules and Instructions Carefully

WARNING: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used

on or near any unimproved forest-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

AMERICA

dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 360900, Cleveland, Ohio 44136.

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

FORM NO. 770-7602F

IMPORTANT

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

A

TO OPERATE YOUR LAWN MOWER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN
YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL-

A HEED ITS WARNING.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

DANGER:

A

with any type of power equijiment, 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 yourseif or others.

TRAINING

Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As

Read this owner’s guide carefully in its entirety before ; ttempting
to assemble or operate this machine. Be completely fai niliar with
the controls and the proper use of this machine before operating
it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and régulai 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 ti nes. Your
unit has been designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do
not use it for any other purpose.

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a pow sr mower.
Children 14 years old and over should only operate mo wer under
close parental supervision. Only persons well acquainted with these
rules of safe operation should be allowed to use you ■ mower.

4. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particu arly small
children and pets. Stop engine when they are in the /icinity of
your mower to help prevent blade contact or thrown object in
jury. Although the area of operation should be completf ly cleared
of foreign objects, an object may have been overlooked and could
be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction i nd cause
serious personal injury to the operator or any others ; illowed in
the area.

PREPARATION

Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is tc be used.

M

Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones and other foreiim objects
which could be picked up and thrown by the mower in any direc
tion and cause serious personal injuiy to the operator or my others
allowed in the area. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge
of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like.

2. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operatic n or while
performing an adjustment or repair, to protect eyes frc m foreign
objects that may be thrown from the machine in any direction.

3. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting ; Jacks and
shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms and legs md steel
toed shoes are recommended. Do not wear loose fittii g clothes
or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Never operate
a unit in bare feet, sandals, or sneakers.

4. Before working with gasoline, extinguish all cigarettes, cic ars, pipes
and other sources of ignition. Check the fuel level befo e starting
the engine. Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel. Do not fill
the gasoline tank indoors, while the engine is runninq, or until
engine has been allowed to cool for at least two minutes after
running. Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off eny spilled
gasoline before starting the engine as it may cause a fire or
explosion.

5. Disengage the self-propelled mechanism or drive elute i 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 inope ative and
may result in personal injury through contact with th3 rotating
blade. The blade control handle must operate easily in t oth direc
tions and automatically return to the disengaged posti :ion when
released.

7. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustr lent while
the engine is running.

8. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be su e 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 n daylight
or in good artificial light.

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
engine. Excessive engine speeds are dangerous.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear
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.
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
engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body in the bli
area until you are sure the blade has stopped rotating.
Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain the blade

7.
and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire,
and keep the wire away from the spark plug to prevent accidental
starting.
Do not run the engine indoors.
Never cut grass by pulling mower toward you. Mow across the
face of slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes. Do not mow excessively steep slopes.
Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious

personal injury.

10.

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

11.

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

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MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals
for proper tightness. Also visually inspect blade for damage (e.g.
bent, cracked). Replace with blade which meets original equip

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

3.

Never store the mower with gasoline in the tank or gas containers
inside of a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark
(e.g. gas hot water heater). Allow the engine to cool before stor

ing in any enclosure.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves and
excessive oil. '

5.

Check the grass catcher bag frequently for wear or deterioratic

Replace a worn or damaged bag immediately. For safety protec
tion, replace only with new bag meeting original equipment
specifications.

- —- j-

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------cut AK ^is 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

--------------

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..............................

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A POWER POLE

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

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OR A FENCE POST

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WARNING

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Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2V2 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.

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.

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CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

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 contain sxtra items which are not used on your unit—

Part numbers are shown in parentheses.)

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ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped WiTHOUT
GASOLINE or OIL. After assembly, service engine
with gasoiine and oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.

NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the

mower is observed from the operating position.
Tools Required for Assembiy

(1) Pair of Pliers
(1) 1/2" Wrench*
(2) 7/16" Wrenches*

*Or two 6" Adjustable Wrenches

UNPACKING

1. Remove the lawn mower from the carton by open

ing the top flaps and lifting the unit out. Be carefui

of the staples. Make certain all parts and literature
have been removed from the carton before the car
ton is discarded.

2. Disconnect the spark plug wire and move away

from the spark plug.

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 extending through 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.

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.

Hole in Blade

Control Handle

AHACHING THE UPPER HANDLE (Hardware B)

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 the lower handle us

ing the curved head bolts, split washers and hex
nuts as shown in figure 2.

ATTACHING THE CABLE BRACKET AND THRDTTLE CDNTRDL (Hardware D)

The throttle control is already attached to the engine.

Attach the cable bracket and throttle control to the left

-side of upper handle as follows. See figure 2.

1. Route the throttle control cable inside the handle

mounting bracket and beneath the lower 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

upward.

4. Secure with spring washer (cupped side against

the throttle control) and hex nut.

Axle Bolt

FIGURE 5A.

Axle Flat Wave

Bolt Washec Washer

J

______

Wave

Washer,

Axle

Bolt

Flat

Washer

Rear

Wheel

FIGURE 5B.

Pivot Bar

Cupped

Washer

Spacer

Hole in

Stabilizer

ATTACHING THE BRAKE CABLE

1. The brake cable is attached to the engine, and has
a “Z” fitting on the loose end. Route the brake
cable below the lower handle. Place end of cable
through the hole in the bracket as shown in figure

3. 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 3.

SECURING THE CABLES (Hardware E)

Secure cables to the left side of handle as follows.

WARNING: When attaching the control

cables, the cables must be routed to avoid

A

contact with all sharp edges and hot sur

faces to prevent damage to the cables,
which will render the controls inoperative.

1.

-----

Insert posts on cable ties into holes provided on
the handles, 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 4A.

2. Secure the cables with the cable ties. See figure

4B.

3. Trim excess ends of cable ties.

INSTALLING THE FRONT WHEELS (Hardware F)

1. Insert front axle bolt through front wheel.

2. Place cupped washer on axle bolt (crowned side

against the wheel).

3. Insert axle bolt into pivot bar, using the upper hole

-------

as shown in figure 5A.

4. Assemble the other front wheel in the same

manner.

INSTALLATION OF REAR WHEELS AND STABILIZER (Hardware G)

1.------Place one flat washer 1/2" I.D. on rear axle bolt,
then one wave washer (cupped side goes against

--------the flat washer). See figure 5B.

2. Insert axle bolt through wheel assembly. Place one
cupped washer 3/8" I.D. on axle bolt (crowned side
against the wheel).

3. Thread axle bolt into top hole of pivot bar. Tighten
securely.

4. Place spacer on axle bolt, then the stabilizer.
Secure with flange nut (Do not overtighten).

5. Assemble the other rear wheel in the same
manner.

6. If mower is equipped with hub caps for the rear
wheels, snap them over the flat washers on the out
side of the rear wheels.

FIGURE 6.

ATTACHING THE STARTER ROPE (Hardware C)

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.

Place the rope guide around the starter handle, so

3.

-the rope guide is positioned as shown in figure 6
(bends downward slightly). Insert the rope guide
through the side of the upper handle, and secure
with hex lock nut.

INSTALUTION OF FRONT HUB CAPS (Optional)

1. If your mower is equipped with hub caps which
have four tabs, line up the tabs on the hub caps
with the holes in the wheels. Push to lock in
position.

2. If your mower is equipped with 2" wide tires, place
hub caps in position against the inner hub of the
wheel. Press firmly around the center portion of
hub cap in a circular motion, similar to installing

-------

a lid on a round, plastic container. See figure 7.

The hub caps are flexible and will snap over the

3V2" diameter wheel hubs.

FIGURE 7.—Optional Hub Caps

NOTE: It may be helpful to place the hub caps in hot

tap water for several minutes to make them pliable
before installing, especially if the temperature is less
than 60°F.

FINAL ASSEMBLY OF MOWER

1. The chute deflector on your mower is held in an
upright position by a block for shipping purposes

only. This shipping block must be removed and
discarded before the mower is put into operation.

-------

See figure 8.

To remove the shipping block, move the spring-

loaded chute toward the engine by pushing above

the shipping block. Remove the block and carefully

lower the chute into operating position, keeping
fingers out of the way.

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

BLADE CONTROL HANDLE

WARNING: This control mechanism is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypiiss its

A

operations.

CONTROLS

The blade control handle is located on the upper han
dle of the mower. See figure 9. 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

THROTTLE CONTROL

The throttle control is located on the side of the upper
handle or on the engine. It is used to regulate the
engine speed.

▲

RECOIL STARTER

The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle. See
figure 9. Stand behind the unit in the operating posi
tion to start the unit.

OPERATION

WARNING: The blade will be rotating
whenever the engine is running.

WARNING: The throttle control cannot be
used to stop the engine.

TO RED UC E THE RISK OF INJ URY , DO NOT
OPER AT E M OWE R UN LE SS REA R TR AI LIN G
SHIE LD AND THI S G UAR D O R EN TI RE
GRAS S CA TC HER I S I N IT S P RO PE R P LA CE .

FIGURE 10.

Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on

cutting deck. See figure 10.

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

can result in severe eye da mage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields. We recommend wide vision
safety mask for over specta ;les or
standard safety glasses.

NOTE: Make certain height adjustment on aii 4 wheeis

are set in the same cutting height position. Refer to Ad

justment section.

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: Never fill fuel tank indoors,
with engine running or until the engine has

A

TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE BLADE

1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is

FIGURE 11.

been allowed to cool for at least two
minutes after running.

equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the
spark plug wire, make certain the metal loop 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 11.

Metal Loop

on Spark

Plug Wire

Rubber Boot

2. Open fuel shut-off valve if so equipped. Refer to

the separate engine manual.

3. Move throttle control lever all the way forward.

4. Tecumseh engines only: Prime engine as in

structed in the separate engine manual.

5. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade con

trol handle and hold it against the upper handle
as shown. See figure 12.

6. Grasp the recoil starter handle and pull back rapid

ly, extending rope fully. Return it slowly to the rope
guide bolt.

7. After engine starts, move throttle control to desired

engine speed.

NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the

Trouble Shooting Guide on page 13.

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.
For best results, cut off one-third or less of the total

length of the grass. Lawn should be cut in the fail 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

plug, thoroughly 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
should be promptly inspected and
repaired.

TO STOP ENGINE AND BLADE

1. Move the throttle control lever to SLOW position.

2. 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

A

3. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it

off.

against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.

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 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.

ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustment to lawn mower without first

A

CUTTING 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. All

wheels must be placed in the same reiative position.

See figure 13.

THROTTLE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

If the throttle control needs adjustment or if it has been
repiaced, adjust as foliows.

stopping engine and disconnecting spark
plug wire.

Briggs & Stratton Quantum Engines:

1. Remove the screw shown in figure 14. Remo ve the

cabie clamp from the cable.

2.

Push the throttle control lever on the handle all the

way forward to CHOKE position. Make certain the
throttle control lever remains in this position.

Push the control lever on the engine as fartDward

the rear of the engine as it will go. Secure the cable

in this position with the cable clamp and acrew.

Cable

Clamp

“Z” End
of Cable

FIGURE 15B.—Tecumseh Premier Engine

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: If any adjustments are made to
the engine while the engine is running (e.g.

A

carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts.

Be careful of heated surfaces and muffler.

FIGURE 14.—Briggs & Stratton Quantum Engines

Briggs & Stratton Standard and Sprint Engines and all Tecumseh Engines (all other models):

1. Loosen (do not remove) the screw on the cable
clamp so that the cable will move freely uncer the
clamp. See figure 15.

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 tha out

side (Briggs and Stratton engine) or rear

(Tecumseh engine) of the engine as it will go.
Tighten the screw on the cable clamp to s ecure
the cable in this position.

Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refer to the

separate engine manual packed with your mower.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner wiil cause an engine to run

rough. Be certain air cieaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor before adjusting carburetor. Refer to the
separate engine manual.

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 16. The blade control

must operate freely in both directions.

ing, lubricating or doing any kind of work

on lawn mower.

Control

Lever

On Engine

FIGURE 15A.—Briggs & Stratton Standard E ngine

Al

FIGURE 16.

Chute Deflector—The torsion spring and pivot point

should be lubricated periodically with light oil to pre
vent any rust or binding. Deflector must work freely.

10

Wheels—Mower may be provided with bail 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 inner sur
face of the wheel with light oil. A 4 oz. plastic bottle
of light oil lubricant is available. Order part number
737-0170. Engine oil may also be used.

Engine—Follow engine manual for lubrication in
structions.

Throttle—Periodically lubricate throttle control lever
and throttle wire assembly with a few drops of light oil
for ease of operation.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and

ground the spark plug wire before perfor

A

NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuei tank and

keep engine spark plug or muffler side up.

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Refer to page 13 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.

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

ming any repairs or maintenance.

WARNING: Periodically inspect the biade

adapter for cracks, especialiy if you strike
a foreign object. Replace when necessary.

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.
To insure 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 con
ditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicates that the air cleaner should be ser
viced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate
engine manual 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 circulation which is essential to engine
performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass,
dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE

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.

11

2. Refer to engine manual for correct engine s orage

instructions.

3. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis cirease

to prevent rusting.

4. Store mower in a dry, clean area.

NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in

an unventiiated or metai storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a ligh oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especiaiiy cabiesiind ali
moving parts.

NOTE: The use of any accessory on this Rotary I/lower other than those manufactured by the mower manufacturer is
not recommended. GRASS CATCHER Model 086 s available as optional equipment for the mowers shown in this manual.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, do not operate mower unless rear trailing shield and guard or

entire grass catcher is in its proper p lace.

The handle may be placed in an upright position for
storage. Move hairpin clips to outer hole on weld pins.
See figure 1. Press inward 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. Grasp the lower

handle at the bottom, press inward 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.

HANDLE STORAGE

A

NOTE: Under normal usage bag material is subjf ct to wear and should be checked periodically. Be sure any replace

ment bag complies with the mower manufacturer’s recommendations. For replacement bags, use only factory authorized
replacement bag No. 764-0271.

12

TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE

T rouble Possible Cause(s)

Engine fails to start 1. Blade control handle disengaged.

2. Spark plug wire disconnected.

3. Throttle control lever not in CHOKE
or START position.

4. Fuel shut-off valve closed (if so
equipped).

5. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.

6. Blocked fuel line (if so equipped).

7. Faulty spark plug.

8. Engine flooded.

Engine runs erratic 1. Unit running in CHOKE or START

position.

2. Spark plug wire loose.

3. Blocked fuel line (if so equipped) or
stale fuel.

4. Vent in gas cap plugged.

5. Water or dirt in fuel system.

6. Dirty air cleaner.

7. Carburetor out of adjustment.

Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low.

2. Air flow restricted.

3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.

Corrective Action

1. Engage blade control handle.

2. Connect wire to spark plug.

3. Move throttle lever to CHOKE or
START position.

4. Open fuel shut-off valve.

5. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

6. Clean fuel line.

7. Clean, adjust gap or replace.

8. 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.f

7. Adjust carburetor.f

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.

2. Remove blower housing and clean.t

3. Adjust carburetor.f

Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high speed

Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.

Excessive vibration 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.

Mower will not
discharge grass

Uneven cut

1. Spark plug gap too close.

2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment
improperly set.

2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.

3. Dirty air cleaner.

2. Bent cutting blade.

1. Engine speed too low.

2. Wet grass.

3. Excessively high grass.

1. Wheels not positioned correctly.

2. Dull blade.

1. Adjust gap to .030"

2. Adjust carburetor.f

1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.

2. Adjust carburetor.f

3. Clean air cleaner.f

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 listed above, contact your local authorized service dealer.

13

Models 500R thru 508R; 580R thru 584R

'For faster service obtain standard nuts, bolts and washers locally.

If these items cannot be obtained locally, order by part numi >er and
size as shown on parts list.

CODE: N notates a new part (not previously existing). A three digit-

number is the color code. Specify color code if color or finish
important when ordering parts as shown below, [i.e., 638 for Rv
Finish].

Color Codes

456—Radiant Tangerine
460—Green Flake
483—Charcoal Gray
498—Yellow
499—Beige
621—Brilliant Fire Mist

Optional Hub Caps

Description

Gray (5-1/2" Dia.)
Beige (5-1/2" Dia.)
Gray (3-1/2" Dia.)
Black (1-1/2" Dia.)
Red (1-3/8" Dia.)
Black (1-3/8" Dia.)

629—Silver Flake
630—Metallic Blue
637—Black
638—Red
640—Green
646—CM Blue

Part No.

731-0981A
731-0982A
720-0249
720-0251
731-0342
731-0268

PARTS LIST FOR MODELS 500R THRU 508R; 580R THRU 584R ROTARY MOWERS

REF.

NO.

1

747-0748

PART

NO.

CODE DESCRIPTION

Control Handle (Std.)

731-1135 Control Handle (Deluxe)

2

634-0003

N

14" Wheel Ass’y- (Plastic)
734-1665 14" Wheel Ass’y. (Steel)
634-0002
734-1661 16" Wheel Ass’y. (Steel)

3
4 741-0484 Bearing V2" I.D.
5

* *

* *

N

16" Wheel Ass’y. (Plastic)

Front Wheel Ass’y.

Front Axle Bolt

6 712-0328 Hex Nut 3/8-24 Thd. (Gr. 8)

7 742-0520 20" Blade

742-0522 22" Blade

8 746-0745 Throttle Control Ass’y. 52.5"t

746-0831 Throttle Control Ass’y. 41.6"

(505R)

746-0820 Throttle Control Ass’y. 49.6"

(506R, 508R, 584R)

9 749-0372B Lower Handle

10

11

—

710-1216

Engine

N Hex Bolt 1/4-20 X 1.875" Lg.
12 712-0287 Hex Nut 1/4-20 Thd.*
13 736-0175 Spr. Wash. .265" I.D. x .562"
14 17174 Cable Mtg. Bracket
15 736-0169

712-0241 Hex Nut 3/8-24 Thd.

16

L-Wash. 3/8" I.D.*

17 712-0431 Flange L-Nut 3/8-18 Thd.
18 710-1055

Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.0" Lg.
19 682-3002- »Wheel Brkt. Ass’y.—L.H.
20 682-3003 ' • Wheel Brkt. Ass’y.—R.H.
25 710-0793 Ribbed Neck Bolt 3/8-24 x .80"

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

19 736-0105 Bell-Wash. .400" I.D. x .88"

710-1044

33

710-0757

35 753-0484

753-0485
736-0452

36

736-0453

38 17098

Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5" Lg.t

Hex Bolt 7/16-20 x 1.5" Lg.ft

Blade Adapter Kit (Keyed)t

Blade Adapter Kit (Splined)tt 96 750-0796

Bell-Wash. .39" I.D.f
Bell-Wash. .46" I.D.tt
Hinge Clip

40 731-1028 Rear Flap Ass’y.

(Used w/20" Deck)

731-1026 Rear Flap Ass’y.

(Used w/22" Deck)

43 746-0732

Control Cable—39"t
746-0727 Control Cable—50.5" (505R)
746-0553 Control Cable—36"

(506R, 508R, 584R)

44

682-0200
682-0220

638/N 20" Deck Ass’y.
638/N 22" Deck Ass’y.

tModels 500R, 502R and 580R Only.

Wheels w/o Bearings Wheels With Bearings

Tread^^^ Ass’y. Comp. Axle Bolt Tread^*^ Ass’y. Comp.

Diamond 734-1698 (7")

734-1697 (8")

Bar

1” Wave

Waffle 734-1162A (8") 738-0102 “T” Tread 734-1259

Rib 734-1169 (8") 738-0144

734-1609 (7")
734-1608 (8")

734-1512A (8") 738-0102

738-0102
738-0102

738-0102
738-0102

•Tread Type: Waffle

“S” Wave

Waffle 734-0645

734-1513B

(Gray)

734-1517B

(Beige)

734-1260 Ball Brg. 1/2" I.D.-741-0180 (2 per Wheel)

Rib

; Bar

REF.

NO.

PART

710-0654A

45

NO.

CODE

DESCRIPTION

Hex Wash. Hd. TT-Tap Scr.

3/8-16 X 1.00" Lg.

712-0324

46
47 736-0105
52 749-0756A

714-0104

53
54 726-0240

710-0671

55
56 710-1205 N

57 712-0267

736-0119

58

* *

65
70 735-0639
72 738-0507B
79 14832
80 15262B

15261A

81
82

736-0356 Bell-Wash. .39" I.D. x 1.38"

84

14578

Hex Nylon L-Nut V4-20 Thd.
Bell-Wash. .38" I.D. x .88"
Upper Handle

Intern. Cot. Pin 5/16" Dia.
Cable Tie
Curved Carriage Bolt 5/16-18

X 1.38" Lg.

Rope Guide
Hex Nut 5/16-18 Thd.*
L-Wash. 5/16" I.D.*
Bearing
Spark Plug Boot (Optional)
Shoulder Bolt .50" Dia.
Spring Lever Ass’y. w/Knob
Pivot Bar

Height Adj. Plate

Front Height Adj. Ass’y.

Comp.—-R.H.

14579 Front Height Adj. Ass’y.

Comp.—L.H. (Not Shown)
86 736-0270
87

710-0599

88 747-0710

17032

89

Bell-Wash. .285" I.D. x .75"
Hex Wash. Hd. Tap Scr.

1/4-20 X .5" Lg.

Hinge Pin

Adapter Plate
90 732-0593 Torsion Spring
93 731-1034
94

749-0861 Stabilizer Tube

Chute Deflector Ass’y. Comp.

(Used w/20" Deck)

749-0860

N

Stabilizer Tube

(Used w/22" Deck)

95 736-0331

Bell-Wash. .39" I.D. x 1.13"

Spacer .503" I.D. x .75"
97 736-0232

Wave Washer .53" I.D.

(Used w/Ball Brg. Wheels)
98 738-0822
99

736-G«6 ^
100 736-0182
102

720-0226
103 12894A
104

710-0429
105 751-0369

106 710-0227

Rear Axle Bolt
FI-Wash. .51" I.D. x 1.372"
Spr. Wash. .5" I.D. x 1.0"
Foam Grip (Optional)
Casing Clampt
Hex B-Tap Scr. #10 x .38"t
Casing Clampt
Hex AB-Tap Scr. #8 x .50"t

TtModels 505R, 506R, 508R and 584R Only.

•WHEEL CHART

Bearings

Ball Brg. 1/2" I.D.-741-0180 (2 per Wheel)
Ball Brg. 1/2" I.D.-741-0180 (2 per Wheel)

Ball Brgs. 3/8" I.D.-741-0267, V2" I.D.-741-0484, Spacer-750-0434

Ball Brgs. 3/8" I.D.-741-0267, 1/2" I.D.-741-0484, Spacer 750-0434

’T” Tread

15

“S” Wave ; Diamond

Axle Bolt

738-0102
738-0102

710-1020

710-1020
738-0102

REPLACEMENT PARTS • P.O. BOX 360900 • CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136