MTD 11A-021C700 Owner’s Manual

20" Rotary Mowers

Model Series 1 020

Model 020 Shown

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 dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 368022, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.

FORM NO. 770-1025A

IMPORTANT

Section 1: 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.

• Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles

WARNING: TheEngine

Exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the

State of California to cause

cancer, birth defects or other

reproductive harm.

A DANGER: Your lawn mower was

1) GENERAL OPERATION

• Read this operators manual carefully in its

• Your rotary mower is a precision piece of power

• Never allow children under 14 years old to

• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons,

• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

fitting 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.

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.

• 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 1-800-800-7310 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. Aslip 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-off, 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.

2) 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.

3) 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.

• 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.

• 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 overslept the engine. Excessive engine

speeds are dangerous.

WARNING:YOUR

RESPONSIBILITY

Restrict the use of this power

machine to persons who read, understand and follow the

warnings and instructions in this

manual and on the machine.

A DANGER

REFER TO SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES IN YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL

DO NOT OPERATE MOWER WlTHOUTTRAILING SHIELD AND DISCHARGE COVER

DANGER

Figure 1

Manufacturer'sLimitedWarranty

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 1-800-800-7310.

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: The engine or component parts

thereof carry separate warranties from their

manufacturers. Please refer to the

applicable manufacturer's warranty on these

items.

*Batteries are covered by a 90-day

replacement warranty.

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

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.

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.

Section 2: Slope Guide

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Section 3: Finding the Mower Model Plate

This Operators Manual is an important part of your new walk behind mower. It will help you assemble, prepare and maintain

your mower. Please read and understand what it says.

Before you start to prepare your mower for its first use, please locate the model plate and copy the information from it in the space below. The information on the model plate is very important if you should

XXX-X-XXX-X-XXX XXXXXXXXXX

MTD PRODUCTSINC

CLEVELAND,0HI0 44136 •

Copy the model number here:

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 dialing:

1-800-800-7310

ever 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 the mower model number.

This is the mower serial number.

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 the mower's model and serial number,

see Section 3: Finding the Mower Model Plate.

Section 5: Illustrated Parts List

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Section 5: Illustrated Parts List

Locator Part Number Number

1 710-0654A

2 782-0048

3 749-1077

4 749-1076

5 747-0976

6 731-0872A 7 17098 8 710-1044 9 936-0524A

\\ \\

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,15

10 753-0588

11 742-0640 12 731-0064 13 710-0932 14 736-0173 15 712-0324 16 710-3008

/19

17 712-3004A 18 710-1205

19 710-0262

20 736-0119

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21 712-0267 22 734-1779

\ \

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\ \

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\ \,

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20 j3

\ \

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REFER TO

ENGINE MANUAL

23 738-0533 24 736-0105

25 712-0798 26 726-0240

27 746-0946 27 746-0957

28 736-0331 29

22 23

/ /

Description

Screw 3/8-16:1.00 HX Ind Washer Deck - 20" Lower Handle

Upper Handle Bail

Trail Shield

Hinge Clip Screw 3/8-24:1.50 - Gr8

Support: Blade Bell Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 8 &9)

Blade Discharge Chute

Screw 1/4-20:1.00 Carriage Flat Washer .281D x .74OD x .063

Lock Nut 1/4-20 HHCS 5/16-18:.75

Lock Nut 5/16-18

Eye Bolt 1/4-20

Carriage Bolt 5/16-18:1.50 Ig.

Lock Washer 5/16 Nut 5/16-18

Wheel

Shoulder Screw .498 x 1.635

Bell Washer .4011D x .870OD x.063

FI. Lock Nut 3/8-16

Cable Tie Control Cable (021C)

Control Cable (020B) Bell Washer .391D x 1.13OD x .062

See Engine Manual

Section 6: Trouble Shooting Guide

Trouble

Engine fails to start

Engine runs erratic

Engine overheats

Occasional skip

(hesitates) at high speed

Idles poorly

Excessive vibration

Uneven cut

Possible Cause{s) Blade control handle disengaged.

Spark plug wire disconnected. Dirty air cleaner.

Primer button not depressed.

Throttle control lever not in correct starting position (if so equipped).

Fuel tank empty or stale fuel. gasoline.

Blocked fuel line (if so equipped). Faulty spark plug.

Engine flooded.

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 air cleaner.

Air flow restricted.

Carburetor not adjusted properly.

Spark plug gap too close. Carburetor idle mixture

adjustment improperly set. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap

too wide.

Carburetor improperly adjusted.

Dirty air cleaner.

Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.

Bent cutting blade.

Wheels not positioned correctly.

Dull blade.

Corrective Actions 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 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. 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.

Remove blower 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.

Tighten blade and adapter.

Balance blade. See an authorized service dealer.

Place all four wheels in same height position.

Sharpen or replace blade.

%_ " ..........10

Note: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments above, contact your local authorized service dealer. Call 1-800-800-7310 to locate a dealer near you.

Step by Step

Follow the Step-by-Step instructions to properly assemble and

familiarize yourself with this mower.

Section 1 - Safe Operation Practices

See the reverse side. Read before using the

Section 8: Unpacking the

Unit

mower.

Manufacturer's Limited Warranty

See the Reverse side

Section 2 - Slope Guide

See reverse side. Cut out on dotted line to use the slope guide.

Section 3 - Finding the Mower Model

Locate and record model number and serial number of the unit. See the reverse side.

Section 4 - Calling Customer Support

Customer Support Number. See the reverse

side.

Section 5 - Illustrated Parts List

Number

8a) UNPACKING THE UNIT

8b) TOOLS REQUIRED FOR

ASSEMBLY

(2) 1/2" Wrenches

(1) 7/16" Wrench

(1) 9/16" Wrench

(1) 3/4" or Adjustable Wrench

(two 6" Adjustable Wrenches may be used instead of the above.

8c) DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG

WIRE

Disconnect the spark plug wire while assembling.

Reconnect spark plug wire after assembling.

See the Reverse side.

Section 6 - Trouble Shooting Guide

See the Reverse side.

Section 7 - Hardware Pack

Use this to identify all loose parts.

Section 8 - Unpacking the Unit

a) Unpacking b) Tools Required for Assembly

c) Disconnect the Spark Plug Wire

Section 9- Set-up Instructions

a) Attaching the Lower Handle

b) Attaching the Upper Handle c) Attaching the Brake Cable d) Attaching "Z" Fitting

10a

Section 7: Hardware Pack

Attaching Wheels Used for step 9f

Shoulder Bolt 738-0533

4 t

.498 x 1.635

Attaching Chute Deflector

Used for step 9g

710-0932 Carriage Bolt

1/4-20:1.00

e) Securing the Cable f) Attaching the Wheels

g) Attaching the Chute Deflector

h) Attaching the Starter Rope

Section I0 - Controls

a) Blade Control Handle

b) Recoil Starter

Section 11 - Operation

a) Gas and Oil Fill-up

b) To Start Engine and Engage Blade c) To Stop Engine and Blade d) Using Your Rotary Mower

Section 12 - Adjustments

a) Cutting Height Adjustment

b) Carburetor Adjustments

10b

736-0105 .401 x .870

Bell Washer @

736-0331 .391D x 1.130D

Bell Washer

712-0798 3/8 -16

=at

Attaching Upper Handle Used for step 9b

Carriage Bolt 710-0262

5/16-18:1:00

Flat Washer

736-0173

.281D x .74OD x .063

712-0324

Lock Nut

1/4-20

Attaching Control Cable

Used for step 9e

Cable Tie 726-0240

Section 13 - Lubrication

a) Blade Control

b) Wheels c) Engine

Section 14 - Maintenance

a) Trouble Shooting - See the reverse side

b) Cutting Blade c) Single Bolt Blade Mounting d) Blade Mounting Torque

e) Deck f) Engine

g) Rear Flap Replacement

Section 15 - Off-Season Storage

Preparing the mower for storage.

Figure 3

Attaching Lower Handle

Used for step 9a

710-3008

Hex Bolt _ 4 _]

5/16-18:.75

FI. Lock Nut /_\

712-3004A 5/16-18

Lock Washer 736-0119

5/16 Regular

Hex Nut 712-0267 5/16-18

Attaching Starter Rope

Used for step 9h

Lock Nut

Bolt 712-0324

[ [ 7!0-1205 1/4-20

S 1/4-20

Section 9: Set-Up Instructions

IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE

or OIL in the engine. After assembly, and before operating, service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with

your mower.

NOTE: Reference to the right or left hand side of the mower is

observed from the operating position.

Before assembling the mower, lay out the hardware according to the hardware pack illustrations. The illustrations are grouped by steps. For example, the hardware used to attach the lower handle to the cutting deck is grouped under the heading (Used for step 9a).

Follow the steps in sequence, and remember to read all safety instructions and warnings.

9a) ATTACHING THE LOWER HANDLE

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

2) Place the lower handle, (pointed end down) over the deck and align the holes in the deck with the holes in the handle. See Figure 4.

3) Install the hex bolts and flange nuts. Using two 1/2" wrenches tighten securely.

Figure4

9b) ATTACHING THE UPPER HANDLE

1) Place the upper handle in position over the lower handle. With the blade control handle facing up.

2) Secure the upper handle to the lower handle using the carriage bolts, split washers and hex nuts as shown in figure

5. The head of the carriage bolts go on the outside of the

handle.

Lock washer

Carriage Bolt

Hex Nut

Figure 5

9c) ATTACHING THE BRAKE CABLE

Note: The brake cable is attached to the engine at the factory.

The free end requires assembly.

1) Route the cable under the lower handle.

2) On the opposite end of the cable housing is a snap fitting. The shaft inside of the snap fitting fits in the lower hole on

the left handle. Press the snap fitting in place. See figure 6.

3) Make certain the blade control handle is on top of the upper

handle.

Figure 6

9d) Attaching "Z" Fitting

Reattaching the Blade Control Handle

Note: To reassemble the blade control handle to the upper

handle, first identify the proper holes in the upper handle. This can be done by placing the blade control handle flat against the upper handle. The ends of the blade control handle will approximate the hole positions. Insert the curved end of the blade control handle into the right hole. Squeeze the handle in and insert the straight end of the blade control handle into the left hole of the upper handle. Squeeze the blade control handle against the upper handle to check for

proper assembly. See Figure 7.

Figure 7

The hole in the control handle must be on the left side of

the upper handle, and the control handle must touch the upper

handle when engaged (squeezed against the upper handle).

1) Hold the cable end near the left side of the upper handle and hook the "Z" end of the brake cable into the control

handle from the inside to the outside. See figure 8.

Hole

Figure 8

9e) SECURING THE CABLE

,i_ Warning: When attaching the control cable, the

the unit with a cable tie. See Figure 9 below. Trim excess end

of cable tie.

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.

Secure the cable to the lower left handle near the base of

Figure 9

9f) ATTACHING THE WHEELS

The holes provide three cutting heights for your mower.

Use the same hole location for all four wheels when assembling. For example, if wheels are to be assembled in the

lowest cutting position, use highest hole in the deck.

1) To assemble the wheels, see figure 10 below.

2) Block up the mower securely.

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

4) Place the small bell washer on the axle bolt. Crown side

towards wheel.

5) Secure the wheel to the deck with the large bell washer and nut.

6) Assemble the other wheels in the same manner.

7) Remove blocks.

)

i '\

Axle Bolt Hex

(Shou_ Nut

Wheel Washer

Small Bell

Cutting Deck

Large Bell

Washer

Figure10

9g) ATTACHING THE CHUTE

DEFLECTOR

Align the holes in the chute deflector with the holes on the

deck, see figure 11 below.

Place the carriage bolts from underside of the deck up

through the chute deflector.

Secure each bolt with a washer and lock nut.

Nut

Carriage

Figure 11

9h) ATTACHING THE STARTER ROPE

Loosely attach the rope guide from the out side of the

handle to the inside and start the lock nut. (loose).

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.

Slip the starter rope in the gap between rope guide and handle. Secure with hex lock nut, see figure 12 below.

Rope Guide

Figure 12

Section 10:

10a) BLADE CONTROL HANDLE

Warning:This control mechanism is a safety

device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.

The blade control handle is located on the upper

handle of the mower. The blade control handle must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the blade

control handle to stop the engine and blade.

Controls

,_ Warning: The blade will be rotating when ever theengine is running.

10b) RECOIL STARTER

The recoil starter handle, when assembled, is attached to

the upper handle and is used to start the engine.

Section 11: Operation

Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. See figure 1, warning label in the Safe Operations Section.

Warning: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.

11a) 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 been allowed to cool for at least two minutes after running.

11b) TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE

BLADE

NOTE: Your engine is a constant speed engine, 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 engine manual.

3) Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control handle and hold it against the upper handle as shown in figure 14.

Starter Handle

Figure 14

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

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

NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the Trouble

Shooting Guide on the reverse side of this manuaL

11C) 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 off.

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

unattended.

11d) USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER

Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage the 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 the 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.

For a healthy lawn, never cut off more than one-third 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 the wire from the 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.

Section 12: Adjustments

,_ WARNING: Do not at any time make anyadjustment to lawn mower without first stopping

engine and disconnecting spark plug wire.

12a) CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

Adjustments may be made by removing and moving the

axle bolts to the desired position. The cutting height will be raised as axle bolts are moved to a lower hole and lowered as

the axle bolts are moved to a higher hole in the deck. All the

axle bolts must be mounted in the same relative position. Refer

to figure 10 (Section 9f -Attaching the Wheels).

12b) CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS

,i_ WARNING: If any adjustments are made to the

compensate for differences in the 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

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

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

Section 13: Lubrication

,_ WARNING: Always stop the engine and disconnect

Blade Control--Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control

Wheels--The wheels require no lubrication. However, if the

Engine--Follow engine manual for lubrication instructions.

the spark plug wire before cleaning, lubricating or

doing any kind of work on the lawn mower.

LOCATE THE LUBRIcATIoN SYMBOL IN THE LARGE MOWER ILLusTRATIoN ABOVE.

handle and the brake cable at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both

directions.

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.

Section 14: 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.

14a) TROUBLE SHOOTING

Refer to the reverse side of this manual for trouble shooting

information.

14b) 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

which hold the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft.

Remove the blade and adapter from the crankshaft.

WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade adapter

for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object.

Replace when necessary.

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.

14C) SINGLE BOLT BLADE MOUNTING

Figure 15

Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the "star" away from the engine. Refer to figure 15 above. 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.

14d) Blade Mounting Torque

Center Bolt: 450 in. Ibs. min., 600 in. Ibs. max. To ensure safe operation of your unit, the bolt must be

checked periodically for correct torque.

14e) 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).

14f) 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.

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.

14g) REAR FLAP REPLACEMENT

The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck, and is designed to minimize the possibility that objects will be

thrown from the rear of the mower toward the operator. If the

rear flap becomes damaged, replace as follows:

To remove the old rear flap, compress the hinge clips and remove from the slots in rear of the deck. Attach a new rear flap by placing new spring clips in the slots on the flap. Then compress the spring clips and reinsert in slots in rear of deck.

Section 15: Off-Season Storage

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

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

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

3) Coat the mower's cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting.

4) Store the 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

vented 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.