MTD 12AE18JA002 Owner’s Manual

Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty

L

Self Propelled Mower m Model E18J

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136-0019

PrintedIn USA FormNo.769-05753

(December15,2009)

ToTheOwner

ThankYou

Thank you for purchasing a Lawn Mower manufactured by MTD.
It was carefully engineered to provide excellent performance
when properly operated and maintained.

Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.
It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and
maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other
persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the
recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury or property damage.

All information in this manual is relative to the most recent
product information available at the time of printing. Review

this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,
its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator's

Tableof Contents

1

Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various
models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated

in this manual may not be applicable to all models. We reserve
the right to change product specifications, designs and

equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.
If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,

phone your local authorized MTD service dealer or contact us
directly. MTD's Customer Support telephone numbers, website

address and mailing address can be found on this page. We want
to ensure your complete satisfaction at all times.

Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position.

Safe Operation Practices ........................................ 3

Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 9

Controls & Features ................................................ 12

Operation ................................................................ 13

Maintenance &Adjustment. ................................. 14

Service ..................................................................... 16

RecordProductinformation

Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please
locate the model plate on the equipment and record the

information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the
model plate by standing at the operator's position and looking

down at the rear of the deck. This information will be necessary,
should you seek technical support via our web site, Customer
Support Department, or with a local authorized service dealer.

Troubleshooting ..................................................... 19

Engine Operation ................................................... 21

Engine Maintenance ............................................. 23

Replacement Parts ................................................ 28

Warranty ................................................................ 32

Spanish ................................................................... 33

MODEL NUMBER

[3131313131313131313D

SERIAL NUMBER

DflDflDflDflDflD

CustomerSupport

Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting our Customer Support Department.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

0 Visit us on the web at www.mtdproducts.com

0 Call a Customer Support Representative at [phone] or [phone]
0 Write us at MTD LLC • EO. Box 361131 • Cleveland, OH • 44136-0019

importantSafeOperationPractices

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 this machine. Failure to comply

with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components

contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead

,A

compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices 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 machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands,

toes and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could

result in serious injury or death.

2

GeneralOperation

1. Read this operator's manual carefully in its entirety before
attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand,
and follow all instructions on the machine and in the

manual(s) before operation. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering

replacement parts.

2. Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use
of this machine before operating it.

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

4. Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand

the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and should be trained and supervised

by an adult.

5. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these
rules of safe operation should be allowed to use this

machine.

6. 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 tripped over or picked up
and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause serious
personal injury.

7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material
toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also,
avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction,
which may cause discharged material to ricochet back

toward the operator.

8. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,
stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children,
bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from mower
while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters area.

9. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair

to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.

10. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms

and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light-
weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with blade can amputate fingers,
hands, toes and feet.

12. Amissingordamageddischargecovercancauseblade 27.
contactorthrownobjectinjuries.

13. Manyinjuriesoccurasaresultofthemowerbeingpulled
overthefootduringafallcausedbyslippingortripping.

Donotholdontothemowerifyouarefalling;releasethe
handleimmediately. 28.

14. Neverpullthemowerbacktowardyouwhileyouare
walking.Ifyoumustbackthemowerawayfromawallor

obstructionfirstlookdownandbehindtoavoidtripping
andthenfollowthesesteps:

a. Stepbackfrommowertofullyextendyourarms.
b. Besureyouarewellbalancedwithsurefooting.
c. Pullthemowerbackslowly,nomorethanhalfway

towardyou.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which
can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your

safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to
measure slopes before operating this machine on a sloped or
hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

d. Repeatthesestepsasneeded.

15. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs. 1.

16. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on machines
so equipped while starting engine. 2.

17. The blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to
bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device
inoperative and may result in personal injury through 3.
contact with the rotating blade. The blade control must
operate easily in both directions and automatically return

to the disengaged position when released.

18. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of Do Not:
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal

injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop

rotating within three seconds.

19.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never
run.

20.

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

21.

If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration

is generally a warning of trouble.

22.

Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to
acomplete stop before removing the grasscatcher or

unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for afew seconds after the blade control is released.

Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you
are sure the blade hasstopped rotating.

23.

Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grasscatcher, blade control or other safety

protective devices in place and working. Never operate
mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do socan
result in personal injury.

24.

Muffler and engine become hot and can causea burn. Do
not touch.

25.

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

26.

Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal
injury.

Do:

1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you

2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15degrees as shown on

3. Do not mow on wet grass.Unstable footing could cause

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. They do not understand the dangers.
Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance
is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord
(kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains

could result.
If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,

use care and good judgement. Contact Customer Support
for assistance or the name of the nearest service dealer.

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

Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps
which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide

obstacles.

Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately and

the blade will stop rotating within three (3) seconds.

could lose your footing or balance.

the slope gauge.

slipping.

Keep children out of the mowing area and under 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.
Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,

doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
your vision of a child who may run into the mower.

Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can
suffer burns from a hot muffler.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand

the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an

adult.

4 I SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

Service

SafeHandling OfGas01ine:

I. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme

care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can

occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes,
which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes
immediately.

2. Use only an approved gasoline container.

3. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer
bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the

ground away from your vehicle before filling.

4. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible,

then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

5. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.

6.

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

7.

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

8.

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

refueling.

9. Never overfill fuel tank. Filltankto no more than I inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.

I0. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
1I. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.

Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes before
starting engine.

12. Never store the machine or fuel container near an open
flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.

13. To reduce fire hazard, keep machine free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.

14. Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

GeneralService:

I. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.

Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the
blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the
spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.

3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade
for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with
the original equipment manufacture's (O.E.M.) blade only,

listed in this manual. "Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!"

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

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

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

7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.

Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the
damage before starting and operating the mower.

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

9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail shield
are subject to wear and damage which could expose
moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety
protection, frequently check components and replace
immediately with original equipment manufacturer's

(O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual. "Use of parts
which do not meet the original equipment specifications
may lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!"

10. Do not change the engine's governor setting or over-speed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.

11. Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks
or leaks. Replace if necessary.

12. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.

13. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.

14. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.

15. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission
(CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),

this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,
or 140 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful
Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized
service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety

systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

Donot modify engine

To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any
way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway

engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper
with factory setting of engine governor.

SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES S

Notice Regarding Emissions

Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal
EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment)

are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and
may include the following emission control systems: Engine
Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air
Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

SparkArrestor

i_ll WARNING: This machine is equipped with an

Ira 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 attester for the muffler is available through your

nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service
department, RO. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

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).

6 I SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

Safety Symbols

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

READ THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to

assemble and operate

DANGER -- ROTATING BLADES

To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover
or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.

®

i|1_

Do not mow when children or others are around.

IRFS

_1_ DANGER-- HAND/FOOT CUT

Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.

DANGER -- THROWN DEBRIS
Remove objects that can be thrown by the blade in any direction. Wear safety glasses.

DANGER -- SLOPES
Use extra caution on slopes. Do not mow slopes greater than 15°.

,_ _ WARNING--GASOLINEIS FLAMMABLE

__\_%._ and muffler to cool before touching.

Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.

WARNING-- CARBON MONOXIDE

Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

WARNING-- HOT SURFACE

Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine

follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

Ii_ WARNING: Your Responsibility--Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and |

SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS!

SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES 7

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SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

Assembly& Set-Up

Contents of Carton

3

One Lawn Mower
One Lawn Mower Operator's Manual

One Grass Catcher
One Side Discharge Chute

Assembly

NOTE:This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine.
Fill up gasoline and oil asinstructed in the Engine Operation

section of this manual BEFOREoperating your mower.

Handle

1.

Remove any packing material which may be between
upper and lower handles.

a. Pull up and back on upper handle as shown in Fig.

3-1. Do not crimp cable while lifting the handle up.
Remove star knobs from handle mounting brackets

and secure the lower handle onto the handle
brackets by placing the lower hole of the lower

handle onto the pins of the handle brackets.

b. Tighten star knobs securing upper handle to lower

handle. See Fig. 3-1. Make sure that each carriage
bolt is seated properly in the handle.

One Bottle of Oil

Figure 3-2

3.

The rope guide is attached to the right side of the upper
handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures it to the upper

handle. Refer to Fig. 3-3.

J

Figure 3-1

2. Tighten star knobs securing lower handle to handle
brackets. See Fig. 3-2. Make certain the lower handle is

seated securely into the handle mounting brackets.

Figure 3-3

a. Hold blade control against upper handle.
b. Pull starter rope out of the engine. Release blade

control handle.

c. Slip starter rope into rope guide.
d. Tighten wing nut.

4.

Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the lower
handle. Pull cable tie tight and trim excess.

GrassCatcher

1.

Follow steps below to assemble the grass catcher (if
needed). Make certain bag is turned right side out before
assembling (warning label will be on the outside).

a. Place bag over fra me so that its black plastic side is

at the bottom.

b.

Slip plastic channel of grass bag over hooks on the
frame. See Fig. 3-4. All the plastic channels except

center top of bag attach from outside of bag.

f

Figure 3=5

3. Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:
a. Lift rear discharge door.
b. Place grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of

discharge door so that it rests on the grass catcher.
See Fig. 3-6.

2.

'°1

Figure 3-4

c. Attach center top of bag from inside of bag.

Before attaching the grass catcher, the mulching baffle
must be removed.

a. Lift rear discharge door.
b. Remove mulching baffle. See Fig. 3-5.

SECTION 3 -- ASSEMBLY& SET-UP

J

Figure 3-6

To remove grass catcher, lift rear discharge door on the mower.
Lift grass catcher up and out, off of the pivot rod. Release rear
discharge door to allow it to close rear opening of mower.

WARNING: Never operate mower unless the hooks

on the grass catcher are firmly seated on the pivot
rod and the rear discharge door rests firmly against

top of the grass catcher.

SideDischargeChute

To convert to side discharge, make sure grass catcher is off of the
unit, the rear mulch plug is removed, and rear discharge door is

closed.

On the side of the mower lift the mulching plug.

2.

Slide chute hooks under hinge pin on mulching plug
assembly. Lower mulching plug. See Fig. 3-7. Do not
remove side mulching plug at any time, even when you are
not mulching.

Adjustments

CuttingHeight

1. The cutting height adjustment lever is located above the
rear left wheel. See Fig. 3-8.

f

// //

Figure 3-8

Figure 3-7

a. Pull the lever out and away from the mower.
b. Move the lever forward or back for desired cutting

height.

c. Release lever towards mower deck.

Set-Lip

(;asand OilFill-Up

Refer to the Engine Operation section in this manual for
additional engine information.

1. Add oil provided before starting unit for the first time out
of the box.

2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the
Engine Operation section of this manual.

WARNING: Use extreme care when handling

gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the

vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine

indoors or while the engine is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other

sources of ignition.

3. Charge battery as instructed in the Service section of this
manual (Electric Start Units).

SECTION3 -- ASSEMBLY& SET-UP 11

ControlsandFeatures

Recoil Starter ...............

4

Switch

Cutting Height

\ \\ Adjustment Lever

Mulch Plug

Figure 4-1

BladeControl

The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower.
Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to operate the

unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

_ ARNING: This blade control is a safety device.

Never attempt to bypass its operations.

DriveControl

The drive control is located on the underside of the upper handle
and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze it against the upper

handle to engage the drive; release it to slow down or stop
mower from propelling. See Fig.4-1.

Cutting HeightAdjustmentLever

The cutting height adjustment lever is located above the left
rear wheel. To adjust the cutting height, refer to the "Assembly &

Set-Up" Section.

J

gecoUStarter

The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle. Stand
behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.

ElectricStartIgnition Switch

The ignition switch is located on the left side of the handle panel.
It is used only for the electric starter.

Primer

The primer is located on the left side of the
engine, behind the air cleaner.Pressing the
primer forces fuel directly into the engine's

carburetor to aid in starting the engine.

MulchPlug

The mulch plug is used for mulching purpose. Instead of
collecting the grassclippingsin the grasscatcher,your mower
has the option of recirculating the clippingsback to the lawn.
Make sure that the rear discharge door is closedand the grass
catcheris removed from unit while mulching.

Operation

Starting Engine

WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator

isstanding near the lawn mower while starting

engine or operating mower. Never run engine

indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away from any moving parts on

engine and lawn mower.

Push primer 3times. Wait about two seconds between
each push. See Fig. 5-1. Intemperature below 50°F, prime
5times. After the engine iswarmed up, one prime may be

needed for all temperatures.

2_

Standing behind the mower, squeeze and hold the blade
control against upper handle.

3.

Recoil Start: Pull the recoil starter lightly until resistance
isfelt, then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent
kickback, and start the engine. Repeat if necessary. See Fig.

5-1.

NOTE: Do not allow the recoil starter to snap back against
the rope guide.

Electric Start: Turn ignition key to the right to start the
engine. Release the key after the engine starts. See Fig. 5-1.

If engine does not start, it may be necessary to re-prime
the engine.

Stopping Engine

1. Releaseblade control to stop the engine and blade.

i_ WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop completely

UsingYourlawn Mower

Be sure 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.

i_ WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can

1. Once the engine is running, squeeze the drive control

before performing any work on the mower or to
remove the grasscatcher.

result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes,

which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear

safety glasses while operating the mower, or while
performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

against the upper handle to propel mower.

Figure 5-1

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the
engine. Remove wire from the spark plug,
thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and

repair damage before restarting and operating.
Extensive vibration of mower during operation isan
indication of damage. The unit should be promptly
inspected and repaired.

UsingasMulcher

For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher and side discharge
chute from the mower. For effective mulching, do not cut wet
grass. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of four
inches, mulching is not recommended. Use the grass catcher to

bag clippings instead.

UsingGrassCatcher

You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while you are
operating the mower.

1. Attach grass catcher following instructions in the
"Assembly & Set-Up" section. Grass clippings will

automatically collect in bag as you run mower. Operate
mower till grass bag is full.

2. Stop engine completely by releasing the blade control.
Make sure that the unit has come to a complete stop.

3. Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away from
the mower to remove the bag. Dispose of the grass
clippings and reinstall the bag when complete.

13

Maintenance&Adjustments

Maintenance

GeneralRecommendations

Always observe safety rules when performing any
maintenance.

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that
have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain
the lawn mower as instructed here.

Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine
wa rra nty.

All adjustments should be checked at least once each
season.

Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are
tight.

i,_l_l_liL WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect spark

Lubrication

1. Lubricate pivot points on the blade and drive controls

2. Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light oil (or

3. Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on the rear

plug, and ground against engine before performing

any type of maintenance on your machine.

at least once a season with light oil. These controls must
operate freely in both directions. See Fig. 6-1.

motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate
surface of the pivot arm and inner surface of the wheel
with light oil. See Fig. 6-1.

discharge door and side mulch plug periodically with light
oil to prevent rust. See Fig. 6-1.

4. The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the factory
and does not require lubrication.

5. Follow the Engine Maintenance section for lubrication
schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.

DeckCare

Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent
build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow steps below

for this job.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn
mower or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.

2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side
with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.

any direction and do not leave the mower tipped for

_I_ WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90° in

3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable

4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. Ifyou

any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part

of the engine causing a starting problem.

tool. Do not spray with water.

had put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to
remove it now.

EngineCare

NOTE: Refer to the engine operation and maintenance sections
in this manual for detailed instructions.

Maintain oil level.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions.

Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions.
Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.
Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the area

around the top of the engine clean to permit proper air
circulation. Remove all grass, dirt, and combustible debris

from muffler area.

Figure 6-1

ReplacingRearHap

1. To remove rear flap, lift rear door, and remove screw on
either side to remove from hole. See Fig. 6-2.

2. Remove screw and flap from opposite hole and replace
with new flap in the opposite order and manner of
removal.

s _¸¸i

Adjustments

Drive(:able

Your unit is equipped with an adjustable drive cable to adjust
the tension on the drive cable. You will need to adjust the drive

cable if the mower does not propel itself with the drive control
engaged or if the mower's wheels hesitate with the drive control
engaged. If either of these conditions occur, rotate adjuster
barrel - making it longer will give more drive and shortening
it will give less. This will also increase or decrease the force

required to engage the drive control. See Fig. 6-3.

Figure 6=2

Figure 6=3

SECTION 6 -- MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS 15

Service

7

BladeCare

WARNING: When removing the cutting blade for

sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with

a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the

blade.

Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you
strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps

below for blade service.

1.

Disconnect spark plug boot from spark plug. Turn mower
on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor

are facing up.

2.

Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the
blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See
Fig. 7-1.

3.

Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft. See Fig.
7-1.

Blade

Blade

J

Adapter ....................

Y

5. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of
the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the blade adapter
onto the engine crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter

such that the side of the blade marked "Bottom" (or with
part number) faces the ground when the mower is in the
operating position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and
seated on the blade adapter flanges.

6. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches on the
blade bell support with small holes in blade.

7. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. Ibs.
rain., 600 in. Ibs. max.

To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the
blade bolt for correct torque.

Belt Care

1.

Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the
engine.

2.

Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plastic beneath the
cap to prevent gasoline leakage.

3.

Tip mower on its side (air cleaner side of engine up).

4.

Remove blade, adapter, and related hardware as instructed
under "Blade Care" above. See Fig. 7-1.

a. Remove the self-tapping screws that secures the

engine baffle to the deck. See Fig. 7-2. Remove
engine baffle.

b. Loosen self-tapping screw that secures deck baffle

to the deck. See Fig. 7-2.

F

Blade Bell

Support

Figure 7-1

4.

Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.
Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check.

Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of
grind. Grind each cutting edge equally to keep the blade

balanced.

WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause
excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It

may cause damage to mower and could break
causing personal injury.

Bolt

Figure 7-2

c. Working from the rear of the mower, carefully

remove belt from transmission pulley. See Fig. 7-3.

d. Once belt is off transmission pulley, push down on

deck baffle to access engine pulley and slide belt off
this pulley and out from under the deck. See Fig. 7-3.

Figure 7-3

5_

Replace with new belt, working it between the deck and
baffle, first around the transmission pulley and then the
engine pulley.

NOTE:Make certain that belt is seated correctly and that it
is riding smoothly on the engine pulley and is not pinched
between the lower and upper pulley halves.

6_

Tighten self-tapping screw securing deck baffle loosened
earlier.

7.

Replace engine baffle and secure with self tapping screws.

8.

Replace blade, blade adapter, and associated hardware.
Follow instructions in Blade Care section for proper

assembly.

9_

Tip mower back onto its wheels and remove piece of
plastic from under gas cap (if applicable).

F

Figure 7-4

3_

Open battery cover, remove positive and negative leads
from battery, remove and replace with new battery.
Connect the positive lead to the positive side of the battery
pack, then connect the negative side.

NOTE:The battery you have may differ slightly from the
one shown in Fig. 7-5. Refer to the Parts List.

F

÷

Positive

Terminal

Negative
Terminal

ReplacingBattery

WARNING: Batteries contain sulfuric acid which

may cause burns. Do not short circuit or mutilate
batteries in any way. Do not put batteries in fire as

these may burst or release toxic materials.

Loosen star knobs securing upper and lower handles and
carefully fold the upper handle down toward the lower

handle as shown in Fig. 7-4.

2_

Remove the two screws securing battery cover to battery
housing and place them to the side. See Fig. 7-4.

\

Figure 7-5

IMPORTANT:When replacing battery pack in handle panel,
battery pack must be positioned with the positive terminal

to the left side and the negative terminal to the right side
of panel (Positive terminal is closest to the key switch).
See Fig. 7-5. Replacing battery pack incorrectly will cause

serious damage.

4_

Reattach battery cover to battery housing by securing with
the two screws removed earlier, making sure to snap the
wire conduit on the left into place on the housing.

SECTION7 -- SERVICE 17

5. Fold handles back up and tighten star knobs.

Charging

WARNING: The battery contains corrosive fluid

and toxic material; handle with care and keep away
from children. Do not puncture, disassemble,

mutilate or incinerate the battery. Explosive gases
could be vented during charging or discharging. Use
in a well ventilated area, away from sources of
ignition.

NOTE:The special designed plug on the charger will only fit into
the plug on the battery box.

1. Plug the battery charger into the port on the underside of
the battery housing. See Fig. 7-6.

Open the battery cover as described in Replacing Battery.
See Fig. 7-4.

2.

Remove fuse from socket and inspect as shown in Fig. 7-7.
If it is burned out, replace with standard automotive 40

ampere fuse.

Figure 7-7

Figure 7-6

2_

Insert the battery charger plug into a standard 120 volt
household outlet. Charge battery for 8 to 10 hours before
initial use. Do not charge longer than 12 hours,

NOTE: For optimal engine starting performance and
battery life, charge the battery after every use for 8 to 10

hours or until the green LED light illuminates (If equipped).
Do not charge longer than 12 hours.

3_

After charging, disconnect charger plug from outlet first,
then disconnect charger lead from battery.

IMPORTANT: Do not remove the battery pack from
the electric starter housing for any reason other than

replacement.
IMPORTANT: Always plug charger lead into battery pack

lead first, and then insert battery charger plug into 120
volt standard household outlet. Follow this order of action

every time you charge the battery.

ReplacingFuse

The electric starter circuit and battery are protected by a 40
ampere fuse. If the fuse burns out, the electric starter will not

operate. If the unit fails to start with the electric starter, perform
the following steps to check the fuse inside the battery housing:

3_

Carefully place wiring back into housing, close battery
cover, and fold upper handle back into place.

NOTE:The engine can be started manually if the fuse burns
out.

Off-SeasonStorage

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

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

Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your
unit.

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

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

When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly
ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to

rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the
equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn
mower before storage.

Battery

The battery must be stored with a full charge. Extended storage
of a discharged battery will reduce life and capacity of the
battery.

SECTION7-- SERVICE

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause i Remedy

Engine runs erratic

Occasional skips
(hesitates) at

high speed

Excessive Vibration

1. Spark plug boot loose.

2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.

3. Ventin gas cap plugged.

4. Water or dirt in fuel system.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

6. Unit running with CHOKE (if equipped)
applied.

1. Spark plug gap too close.

1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.

2. Bent cutting blade.

1. Connectand tighten spark plug boot.

2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline.

3. Clear vent.

4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.

5. Refertoengine manual.

6. Push CHOKE knob in.

1. Adjust gap to .030".

1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.

2. See an authorized service dealer.

Continued on next page

19

Problem

Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly. 1. Place all four wheels in same height position

2. Dull blade. 2. Sharpen or replace blade.

Cause Remedy

(if equipped with individual height adjusters).

i : ifo iii iJi

SECTION 8 -- TROUBLESHOOTING