MTD 18A-212B Operator's Manual

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

L

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

3-in-1 Battery Mower

FormNo.769-05626B

(October21,2010)

ToTheOwner

Thank¥ou

1

Thank you for purchasing an Electric 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

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

Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 8

Con trois ................................................................... 12

Opera tion ................................................................ 13

Maintenance & Adjustment ................................. 15

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 fightand left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position

Service ..................................................................... 17

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

Parts List ................................................................. 20

Warranty .................................................. Back Cover

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.

MODEL NUMBER

71EF1EF1EF1EF1E71

SERIALNUMBER

EDEDEDEDEDE

CustomerSupport

Please do NOT retum 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:

Visit us on the web at www.mtdproducts.com

Call a Customer Support Representative at [phone] or [phone]

Write us at MTD LLC • P.O. 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!

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in

this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the

operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet
and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

2

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not alert to presence
of children. Children are often attracted to mower and mowing

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

1.

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.

2.

3.

Before and while moving backwards, look behind and
down for small children.

4.

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.

5.

Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power
mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand operation instructions and safety rules in this
manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.

Operation

GeneralOperation:

I. Read this operator's manual carefully in its entirety before

attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand,
and follow all instructions on the machine and in the

manual(s) before operation. Be completely familiar with
the controls and the proper use of this machine before
operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and

regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

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

3. Don't force lawn mower -- it will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it was designed.

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

understand the instructions in this manual and should
be trained and supervised by a parent. Only responsible

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

5. 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. 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.

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

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under
cutting deck. Contact with blade can amputate hands and

feet.

10.

A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.

11.

Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.

Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the
handle immediately.

12. Neverpullthemowerbacktowardyouwhileyouare
walking.Ifyoumustbackthemowerawayfromawallor
obstructionfirstlookdownandbehindtoavoidtripping

andthenfollowthesesteps:

a. Stepbackfrommowertofullyextendyourarms.
b. Besureyouarewellbalancedwithsure footing.

c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way

toward you. Do:

d. Repeat these steps as needed.

13. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs. 2.

14. Stay alert-- Watch what you are doing. Use common
sense. Do not operate lawn mower when you are tired.

15. The motor/blade control handle is a safety device. Never 3.
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 motor/blade
control handle must operate easily in both directions and
automatically return to the disengaged position when

released. DONot:

16.

Do not charge the mower in rain, or in wet conditions.

17.

Never operate the mower in rain or wet grass. Always
be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious
personal injury. If you feel you are losing your footing,

release the motor/blade control handle immediately and
the blade will stop rotating within three seconds.

18.

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

run.

19.

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

20.

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

21. Shut the motor 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 motor isshut off. Never

place any part of the body in the blade area until you are
sure the blade has stopped rotating.

22. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grasscatcher, motor/blade control handle
or other safety protective devices in place and working.
Never operate mower with damaged safety devices. Failure
to do so,can result in personal injury.

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

24. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use
care and good judgment. Telephone Customer Support for
the name of your nearest dealer.

SlopeOperation:

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 unit on a sloped or hilly
area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

1.

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
causeserious personal injury. If you feel you are losing

your balance, release the motor/blade control handle
immediately, and the blade will stop rotating within three

(3)seconds.

1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you
could lose your footing or balance.

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

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

Service

1. If the mower's built-in overload protection switch
frequently trips, contact your nearest authorized service

dealer for repair.

2. Remove key and store idle lawn mower indoors when not
in use. Allow motor to cool before storing in any inclosure.
Lawn mower should be stored indoors in a dry, high, or

locked-up place, out of reach of children.

3. When servicing use only identical replacement parts
listed in this manual. "Use of parts which do not meet the

original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!"

4. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the
blade and all moving parts have stopped. Remove the key

to prevent accidental starting.

5.

Remove key before servicing, cleaning, or removing
material from the lawn mower.

6.

Follow instructions for lubricating and changing
accessories.

7.

Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease.

8.

To reduce a fire hazard, keep the motor cover free of grass,
leaves and debris build-up.

9.

Check the blade and motor mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade

for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, and worn). Replace blade
with the original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) blade
only, listed in this manual.

4 J SECTION 2-- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

10. Maintain your mower with care-- Keep mower blade sharp
and clean for best and safest performance. Mower blades
are sharp and can cut, wrap the blade or wear gloves and

use extra caution when servicing them.

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

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

13. Never attempt to make wheel or cutting height
adjustments while the motor is running.

14. After striking a foreign object, stop the motor, remove the
key, and thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage.
Repair the damage before operating the mower.

15. 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
(OEM) parts only, listed in this manual.

16. 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 unit 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.

17. Do not dispose of the battery(ies) in a fire. The cell may
explode. Check with local codes for possible special

disposal instructions.

18. Do not open or mutilate the battery(ies). Released
electrolyte is corrosive and may cause damage to the eyes
or skin. It may be toxic if swallowed.

19. Exercise care in handling batteries in order not to short the
battery with conducting materials such as rings, bracelets,
and keys. The battery or conductor may overheat and

cause burns.

SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES ..5

SafetySymbols

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.

• ®

Iml

DANGER -- BYSTANDERS
Do not mow when children or others are around.

1mrJ

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-- ELECTRICAL SHOCK

Do not operate the mower in the rain.

6 I SECTION 2-- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

Sight and hold this level with avertical tree...

or acornerof a building...

or afencepost

|
|

15°

I-
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Z

0

0

Z

Q,,

I

Z

£

I-,,

Usethis page as a guide to determine slopeswhere you may not operate safely.

WARNING: Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes. Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees

(a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. 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.

Assembly& Set-Up

Contentsof Carton

3

One Battery Mower
One Operator's Manual
One Charger

NOTE: All references to the left and right side of the mower are
from the operator's position behind the mower.

One Side Discharge Chute

Two Toggle Clamps

One Grass Bag

Unpacking the Unit

1.

Cut the corners of the carton and lay the sides flat on the
ground. Remove all packing inserts.

2.

Move the mower out of the carton.

3.

Make certain the carton has been completely emptied
before discarding it.

Cutting HeightAdjustment

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

Two Cord Guides

One Battery

HandleAssembly

1. Raisethecutting heightadjustmenttothe highestsetting.See
Fig. 3-1.

2. To assemble the lower handle:

a. Pivot the lower handle backward. See Fig. 3-2A.
b. Place the bolts in the lower handle in the slots of the

handle bracket. See Fig. 3-2B.

c. Make sure the bolts in the lower handle are fully

positioned in the slots of the handle bracket. See
Fig. 3-2C.

NOTE: Make sure motor cord is clear of wing knobs before
tightening.

d. Tighten the lower handle wing knobs. See Fig. 3-2D.

F

©

.............................TopView

Figure 34

1. Pull the lever out and away from the mower.

2. Move the lever forward or back for desired cutting height.

3. Release lever towards mower deck.

Figure 3=2

5.

Place the upper handle onto the lower handle, keeping the
motor cord over the handles. See Fig. 3-3.

a. Forthe Iowestsetting, line upthetop holes ofthe upper

handle with the holes on the lower handle.

b. Forthe medium setting, line upthe middle holes ofthe

upper handle with the holes on the lower handle.

c. For the highest setting, line up the bottom holes

of the upper handle with the holes on the lower
handle.

NOTE: Make certain the clips on the clamp retainers are
inside the grooves of the clamp seats. See Fig. 3-3 inset.

5.

Tighten the clamps. See Fig. 3-4.
NOTE: Leave space between clamp and clamp seat. If

clamp will not tighten, loosen wing knob half turn. If clamp
is not firmly seated when engaged, tighten wing knob half

turn until clamp is firmly seated when engaged.

Figure 3-4

Figure 3-3

4.

Inserttoggleclampspackedseparatelywiththe mowerintothe
holes for the selected height. See Fig. 3-3.

CordGuide

Make sure the cord between the motor/blade control lever
and the mower sits in the cord holders on the upper and lower

handles.

1. Snaponecord guideontothelower handleandtheothercord
guide onto the upper handle. See Fig. 3-5.

2. Secure the motor cord in the cord guide clamps.

Figure 3-5

SECTION 3 -- ASSEMBLY& SET-UP 9

GrassCollection

1. To assemble the grass catcher, secure the plastic channels
of grass bag over frame rods. See Fig. 3-6.

Figure 3=6

2_

Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:

a. Lift rear discharge door.
b. Remove rear mulching baffle. See Fig. 3-7.

NOTE: Swing the mulching baffle to the right side of the
mower and then slide out.

C_

Place grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of
discharge door so that it rests on the grass catcher.
See Fig. 3-8.

J

Figure 3-8

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.

Figure3-7

SideDischarge

For side discharge, you will need to have the rear mulching baffle
installed below the rear discharge door.

1. On the right side of the mower, lift the mulch baffle.

2. Slidethe hooks ofthesidedischargechute under hinge pin on
mulch baffle assembly. See Fig. 3-9.

SECTION 3 -- ASSEMBLY& SET-UP

Figure 3-9

3. Secure the tabs of the side discharge chute onto the hooks
below the side mulching baffle. See Fig. 3-9.

NOTE: Do not remove side mulch baffle at any time, even
when you are not mulching.

Mulching

To mulch, you will need the rear mulching baffle installed below
the rear discharge door.

If converting to mulching from the grass collection mode:

1. Remove grass catcher.

2. Install rear mulching baffle. See Fig. 3-10.

Chargingthe Battery

__, ARNING: The battery contains corrosive fluid

IMPORTANT: Use only with battery pack 725-05089.
Charge the mower for 14 hours before initial use. Charge

mower indoors in a dry area out of the weather. DO NOT charge
in rain or wet locations.

IMPORTANT: Use only the battery charger provided with this
mower.

Plug the battery charger into the battery first, and then into any
standard 110/120 volt household electrical outlet. See Fig. 3-11
for battery charging location.

and toxic material - HANDLE WITH CARE. Keep away
from children. Do not puncture, disassemble,

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

f

Figure 3-10

If converting to mulching from side discharge:

1. Remove side discharge chute.

2. Make sure the rear mulching baffle is installed. See
Fig. 3-10.

Figure 3-11

NOTE: If an extension cord is required, use one that is at least
wire size 16 AWG. Connect the extension cord to charger before
plugging extension cord into electrical outlet.

NOTE; You may charge the battery with the battery removed
from the mower.

IMPORTANT: Always recharge battery fully. It takes 14 hours to
recharge a completely discharged battery. A flashing light on
the battery charger indicates the battery is less than 80 percent
charged; a solid green light indicates the battery is 80 to 100

percent charged. A full charge will be achieved in less than 14
hours if the batteries were only partially discharged.

NOTE; It is recommended that the mower be charged once every
two months during storage.

IMPORTANT: Always disconnect battery charger (or extension
cord, if used) from the electrical outlet first, then disconnect

battery charger from battery.
NOTE: It is recommended that the mower be charged

immediately after it has been discharged. Storing batteries in a
discharged state could reduce future performance.

SECTION3 -- ASSEMBLY& SET-UP 11

ControlsandFeatures

\

Motor/Blade

Control Lever

Switch

Cutting Height

Adjustment Lever_

4

instructions and warnings on the machine and in

_ ARNING: Read, understand, and follow all

this manual before operating.

Motor/BladeControlLever

_ ARNING: The motor/blade control lever is a

The motor/blade control lever is located on the upper handle
of the mower. The motor/blade control lever engages and
disengages the motor and blade.

safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations.

OverloadProtection Switch

The mower is equipped with an overload protection switch,
located on the motor/blade control. This overload protection
switch may pop out when too much strain is placed on the
motor. Refer to the Maintenance & Adjustments Section to reset

this switch.

Figure 4-1

CuttingHeight Adjustment Lever

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

Section.

Starter Button

The starter button is located on the upper handle of the mower.
Engaging the motor/blade control lever with the starter button

pressed will start the mower.

Battery LevelIndicator

The battery level indicator is located on the battery. The indicator
shows the condition of the battery and is on when the motor is
on. The indicator lit all the way to the right indicates the battery

is fully charged; as the indicator is lit more toward the left, it
indicates the battery is discharging. See Fig. 4-1 inset.

iMPORTANT: If the far left red light illuminates, the batteries will
need to be recharged before further use. Continued operation

before charging may shorten the life of the batteries.

SafetyKey

The safety key must be present and inserted before the motor
can be started.

Operation

Starting Motorand 8lade

WARNING: Avoid accidental starting. Make sure
you are in the operating position behind the mower
when using it. To avoid serious injury, the operator

and unit should be in a stable position while

starting.

1. Insert safety key. Refer to Fig. 5-1.

3.

Press the starter button and hold it in. See Fig. 5-2.
NOTE: Starting the mower's motor also engages the blade.

Figure 5-1

2.

Stand behind the mower, in the operating position.

Figure 5-2

4. While holding the starter button in, squeeze the motor/
blade control lever against the upper handle to start the
motor and engage the blade. See Fig. 5-2.

J

NOTE:The mower's motor will NOT start if you fail to
hold the starter button in while pivoting the motor/blade

control handle upward.

5. Release the starter button.

Stopping the Motor

WARNING: The blade continues to rotate for a few

seconds after the motor is shut off. If motor does not
come to a stop when the motor/blade control

handle is released, remove the safety key and
contact an authorized service dealer.

1.

Release the blade/motor control lever to stop the motor
and blade.

2.

Remove the safety key to prevent accidental starting when
equipment is unattended.

3. Charge the mower.

13

UsingYourLawnMower

Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wires, or other objects
which could damage the lawn mower or motor. Such objects

could be accidentally thrown by the mower in any direction and
cause serious personal injury to the operator and others.

_ WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the

i_l_k WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can

motor, and remove the key. Thoroughly inspect the
mower for any damage, and repair the damage

before restarting and operating the mower.
Excessive vibration of the mower during operation is

an indication of damage. The unit should be

promptly inspected and repaired.

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.

When using the side discharge, the most effective mowing
pattern is one that allows the clippings to discharge

towards the uncut part of the lawn.
DO NOT use mower in the rain.

For a healthy lawn, always cut off one-third or less of the
total length of the grass.

UsingasMulcher

To set up the mulching attachments see the "Assembly & Set-Up"
section. 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.

Removing the Battery

If you have two batteries, you can use one battery while the
other battery recharges. To remove the battery:

1. Remove the safety key.

2. Move the locking handle from the locked position to the
unlocked position. See Fig. 5-3.

3. Lift the battery off the mower base. See Fig. 5-3.

and not your back.
WARNING: The battery is heavy. Lift with your legs

f

Unlocked

UsingSideDischarge

Attach the side discharge chute following the instructions in the
"Assembly & Set-Up" section. When using the side discharge, the
most effective mowing pattern is one that allows the clippings to
discharge towards the uncut part of the lawn.

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 motor completely by releasing the blade/motor
control handle. 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.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the

motor, and remove the key. Thoroughly inspect the
mower for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the mower.

Excessive vibration of the mower during operation is

an indication of damage. The unit should be

promptly inspected and repaired.

Figure 5-3

To seat the battery, make sure the safety key is removed, place
the battery in the battery base and turn the locking handle to the
locked position.

IMPORTANT: Use only with battery pack 725-05089.

SECTION 5-- OPERATION

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.
All adjustments should be checked at least once each

season.
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are

tight.

WARNING: Always stop the motor and remove the battery
before cleaning, lubricating or performing any repairs or

maintenance on the lawn mower.

Lubrication

1.

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

Deck([are

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose

the mower to water.
The underside of mower deck should be cleaned after each use

as grass clippings, leaves, dirt and other debris will accumulate.
This accumulation of grass clippings, etc., is undesirable as it will

promote rust and corrosion.

1. Remove any buildup of grass and leaves on or around the
motor cover (do not use water). Wipe the mower clean with
a dry cloth occasionally.

2. If debris has built up on the underside of the unit, tilt the
mower forward or on its side and scrape it clean with a

suitable tool.

IMPORTANT: Do not use a pressure washer or garden
hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to electric
components, or the electric motor. The use of water will result in
shortened life and reduce serviceability.

Resetting OverloadProtection Switch

This mower is equipped with an overload protection switch to
prevent overheating damage to the motor.

If the overload protection switch pops out:
I. Release the motor/blade control handle and do NOT restart

the mower for at least one minute, allowing the electric
motor time to cool.

2. Press the overload protection switch inward to reset. See
Fig. 6-2.

Figure 6-1

2.

Lubricate the torsion spring on the side mulch plug
periodically with light oil to prevent rust. See Fig. 6-1.

nJ

Figure 6-2

Ifthe

overload protection switch pops out shortly after resetting:

1.

Release the motor/blade control handle and do NOT restart
the mower for at least 15 minutes to allow the electric

motor extra time to cool.

2. Press the overload protection switch inward to reset.

3. Restart unit.
NOTE: If the overload protection switch pops out

repeatedly during operation or will not remain in when
attempting to reset, you may need to raise the cutting

height to reduce the strain on the motor or recharge the
battery. If the overload protection switch will not remain in,
contact an authorized service center to arrange for repair.

ReplacingTrail Shield

shield is in place and working. Never operate mower

WARNING: Never operate mower unless the trail

with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so, can

result in personal injury.

The trail shield is subject to wear and damage which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety

protection, frequently check the trail shield and replace
immediately with original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) part
only, listed in this manual.

1. Using a lOmm wrench, hold one lock nut in place while the
opposite lock nut is loosened and removed. See Fig. 6-3.

f

Battery Care

IMPORTANT: Replace with only the identical batteries provided
with this mower. The batteries should only be replaced by an

authorized service dealer.

NOTattempt to remove the motor/battery shroud.

WARNING: Due to a potential shock hazard, DO

There are no user serviceable parts inside. Contact
your nearest Authorized Service Center if repairs are

needed.

k. ,j

Figure 6-3

2. Remove the rod running through the trail shield and
replace with new shield in the opposite order and manner
of removal.

Service

7

BladeCare

sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with

WARNING: When removing the cutting blade for

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

blade. Be certain to disconnect the power supply.

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

1. Stop the motor and remove the safety key from the battery.

2. With the battery handle locked or with the battery
removed, turn the mower on its side.

3. Usea block of wood between blade and mower deckto
prevent the blade from turning when the bolt is removed.

4. Loosen and remove the blade nut, locking plates, and
blade. See Fig. 7-1.

BladeInstallation

1. Place the cutting blade, locking plates, and blade nut on
the motor shaft and thread the blade bolt in finger tight.
See Fig. 7-1.

NOTE:Make certain to replace the parts in the exact order
in which they were removed. When installing the cutting

blade, be sure it is installed with the curved ends pointing
towards the mower deck and not towards the ground.

2. Torque the blade bolt down using a torque wrench to
assure the bolt is tightened properly. The recommended

torque for the blade bolt is 240-280 in. Ibs.

attach the blade assembly, but is also an insulated

_ ARNING: The blade hardware is not only used to

Toinsure safe operation of your unit, all nuts and bolts must be
checked periodically for correct tightness.

safety device and should never be altered in any

way. If replacement is necessary, use original
equipment parts as shown in the parts list.

BladeSharpening

To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal amounts
of metal from both ends of the blades along the cutting edges,
parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25° to 30 ° angle. See Fig. 7-2.

NOTE: It is important that each cutting blade edge be ground
equally to maintain proper blade balance. A poorly balanced
blade will cause excessive vibration and may cause damage to

the mower and result in personal injury. The blade can be tested
by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Grind metal from
the heavy side until it balances evenly.

@

Figure 7-1

5. The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding
wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade while it is still

on the mower. When sharpening the blade, follow the
original angle of grind and grind each cutting edge equally
to keep the blade balanced. Balance the blade on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until
it balances evenly.

excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It

_ WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause

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

J

L. .J

Figure 7-2

17

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.

We do not recommend the use of 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.

Wipe the cord to remove any stains or foreign substance
such as oil.

Store mower fully charged.
IMPORTANT:We strongly recommend the mower be

charged once every two months during storage.
IMPORTANT:Always recharge mower fully. The charger

isa two stage charger. The first stage, equalize, supplies
a higher voltage to the batteries. This helps speed charge
time and balance the charge across the individual batteries.
The second stage, float, supplies a lower voltage. This
prevents the batteries from experiencing overcharging
damage and also "tops off" the battery charge. Depending

on battery condition the equalize stage will complete
in approximately 8hours. When the equalize stage is
complete the charger's green LEDwill stop blinking. This
starts the float stage. During the float stage the chargers
green LEDwill be on continuously. The float stage will

"top off" the batteries in approximately 4-6 hours, again,
depending on the condition of the battery. However, a full

14hour charge is always recommended.

SECTION7-- SERVICE

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause i Remedy

Mower stops while mowing

Mower not mulching
properly

1. Discharged battery.

2. Cutting too much grass.

3. Clogged deck.

4. Overload protection switch is tripped.

1. Mower deck clogged.

2. Wet grass.

3. Excessively high grass.

4. Dull blade.

1. Charge battery.

2. Raise cutting height.

3. Unclog mower deck. Raise cutting height, or
cut a narrower swath.

4_

Reset the overload protection switch
following the instructions in the Maintenance
& Adjustments section of this manual.

1.

Unclog mower deck. Make certain blade is
free to move.

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).

4. Sharpen or replace blade.

Mower vibrating at higher

1. Bent motor shaft.

speed

2. Cutting blade is unbalanced.

Blade is loose.

1. Stop the motor, disconnect the power source
and inspect for damage. Have repaired by an

authorized service dealer.

2. Balance the blade by grinding each cutting
edge equally.

3. Tighten blade bolt to 240-280 in. Ibs.

19

Model18A-212B

41

89

57

4O

58

10

42

47

/

_43

2

69

6O

62

83

/

For a new battery pack, order part 725-05089.

Model18A-212B

Ref. I

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

45

Part Number

787-01839A

731-07671

731-07619

731-07620

731-07621

734-04537

734-04548

731-07512

721-04378

731-07622

731-07623

731-07624

711-05358

732-04733

732-04734

787-01824A

787-08125A

711-05325

787-01813

711-05326

732-04713

611-04181

741-04464

741-04474

611-04182

741-04465

732-04735

732-04715

720-04143

787-01826

724-04095

731-07515

742-04321

736-04486

731-07598

736-04487

712-04237

731-07672

731-07673

749-04670A

731-07522

749-04688A

720-04145

736-04488

720-04146

Description

Deck

Shroud

Side Discharge Door

Side Discharge Chute
Trail Shield

Front Wheel

Rear Wheel

Wheel Cap
Seal Line

Rear Door

Rear Baffle

Mulching Plug
Rear Shaft

Spring

Spring

Left Bracket

Right Bracket

Trail Shield Pin

Side Discharge Bracket

Side Discharge Pin

Spring

Front Shaft Assembly

Front Shaft Bushin 9

Bearing

Rear Shaft Assembly

Rear Shaft Bushing

Handle Adjust

Handle Adjust Spring

Handle Adjust Knob
Link Bar

Motor

Fan

Blade

Flange
Washer

Washer

Blade Nut

Support
Strain Relief

Upper Handle

Handle Grip
Lower Handle

Quick Release

Washer

Quick Release Knob

Ref. [

46

47

48

49

5O

51

52

53

54

55

56

57

58

59

60

61

62

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

72

73

74

75

76

77

78

79

80

81

82

83

84

85

86

87

88

89

Part Number

710-05151

715-04107

712-04257

712-04250

720-04147

710-05082

736-04489

731-07524

714-04088

731-07513

625-04129

725-05156

747-05304

764-04096

731-07674

731-07675

731-07676

787-01840

725-05157

725-05158

725-05159

725-05160

725-05161

725-05162

725-05163

725-05164

725-05165

731-07678

725-05170

725-05169

725-05168

725-05167

725-05068

736-04507

736-04506

712-04258

710-05156

710-05155

710-05154

710-05153

710-05152

714-04508

716-04169

787-01841

Description

M8 Screw

Quick Release Pin

M8 Nut

M6 Lock Nut

Wing Knob
Screw

Washer

Cord Clip

Pin

Cap

Switch Box

Cord

Clamp

Grassbag

Battery Pack Cover

Battery Pack Housing

Handle

Hook

Battery
Connector

PCB

PCB Support

Connector

Safety Key

Key Connector
SA50 Connector

Supporter

Supporter

Connector

Connector

Fuse

Board

Charger
Washer

8mm Washer

M8 Nut

ST4.2x16 Screw

ST4.2x25 Screw

ST4.8x16 Screw

M6x12 Screw

M5 x 12 Screw

Washer

10ram Lock Ring

Support

21

1

SECTION10- NOTES 23

MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR

IMPORTANT: To obtain warranty coverage owner must present an
original proof of purchase and applicable maintenance records to the
servicing dealer.Pleaseseethe operator's manual for information on

required maintenance and service intervals.
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with respect

to new merchandise purchased or leasedand used in the United States
and/or its territories and possessions, and by MTD Products Limited

with respect to new merchandise purchased or leased and used in
Canadaand/or its territories and possessions (either entity respectively,
"MTD").

MTDwarrants this product (excluding its Normal WearParts and
Batteries,as described below) against defects in material and

workmanship for a period oftwo (2) years, commencing on the date
of original retail purchase or lease and will, at its option, repair or
replace,free of charge, any part found to be defective in materials or
workmanship.

Normal WearParts arewarranted to befree from defects inmaterial and
workmanship for a period ofthirty (30) daysfrom the date of original

purchase or lease. Normal wear parts include, but are not limited to
items such as: belts, blades, bladeadapters, grass bags, engine oil, air
filters, spark plugs and wheels.

Batteries havea one-year prorated limited warranty against defects in
material and workmanship, with 100% replacement during the first three

months. After three months, the battery replacement credit is basedon
the months remaining in the twelve (12) month period dating backto the
original date of original sale or lease.Any replacement battery will be
warranted only for the remainder of the original warranty period.

This limited warranty shall only apply if this product has been operated
and maintained inaccordance with the Operator's Manual furnished with
the product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial
use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism,
theft, fire, water, or damage because of other peril or natural disaster.

Damage resulting from the installation or use of any part, accessory or
attachment not approved byMTD for usewith the product(s) covered
bythis manual will void your warranty asto any resulting damage. In
addition, MTD may denywarranty coverage if the hour meter, or any
part thereof, is altered, modified, disconnected or otherwise tampered

with.
HOWTO OBTAINSERVICE:Warranty service is available, WITH PROOF

OFPURCHASEAND APPLICABLEMAINTENANCERECORDS,through
your local authorized service dealer. Tolocate the dealer in your area:

Inthe U.S.A.:
Checkyour Yellow Pages,or contact MTD LLCat P.O.Box361131,

Cleveland, Ohio44136-0019, call 1-877-282-8684
or log on to our website at www.mtdproducts.com.

InCanada:
Contact MTD Products Limited, Kitchener, ON N2G4J1, call 1-800-668-
1238 or log on to our website at www.mtdcanada.com.

Without limiting the foregoing, this limited warranty does not provide
coverage in the following cases:

a. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade

sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, deck
adjustments, and normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to
use or exposure.

b. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service

dealer.

c. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported

outside of the United States and/or Canada,and their respective pos-
sessions andterritories, exceptthose sold through MTD's authorized

channels of export distribution.

d. Replacement parts and/or accessories that are not genuine MTD

parts.
e. Transportation charges and service calls.
f. MTD does not warrant this product for commercial use.

There are no impJiedwarranties, incJudingwithout Jimitation any
implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular

purpose. No warranties shall apply after the applicable period of

express written warranty above. No other express warranties beyond
those mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a
dealer or retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind IViTD. The

exclusive remedy isrepair or replacement of the product as set forth
above. Theterms of this warranty provide the sole and exclusive
remedy arising from the sale and/or lease of the productscovered
hereby. IViTDshall not he liable for any incidental or consequential
loss or damage including, without limitation, expenses incurred for

substitute or replacement lawn care services or for rental expenses
to temporarily replace a warranted product.

Some jurisdictionsdo not allowthe exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied
warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to
you.

In no event shall recovery of any kind be greaterthan the amount of the
purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of safety features of the
product shall void this warranty. You assume the risk and liability for

loss, damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others and
their property arising out of the misuse or inability to usethe product.

This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original
purchaser orto the personfor whom it was purchased as a gift.

HOWLOCAL LAWSRELATETOTHIS WARRANTY:This limited warranty
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also haveother rights that

vary in different jurisdictions.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136=0019; Phone: 1=800=800=7310, 1=330=220=4683

MTD Canada Limited =KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1; Phone 1=800=668=1238

GDO0-100250 REV.A