MTD 25A-26J7783 Owner’s Manual

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

OPER roR's

UAL

159 cc OHV Vertical Shaft Engine

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

PrintedIn USA FormNo.769-08388B

(May2,2013)

ToTheOwner

ThankYou

This Operator's Manual isan important part of your new engine. Itwill help you prepare and maintain the engine for the best
performance. Pleaseread and understand the contents before operating the engine.

Tableof Contents

1

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

Safety Symbols ........................................................ 5

Set-Up ....................................................................... 6

Controls & Features ................................................. 8

Operation ................................................................. 9

RecordProductinformation

Before operating your new engine, please locate the model plate on the engine (shaded area in Figure below) and record the
information in the provided area below. This information will be necessary, should you seek technical support via our web site or with
your local dealer.

MODEL NUMBER

Maintenance & Adjustments ................................. 11

Troubleshooting ..................................................... 16

Replacement Parts ................................................. 17

EZ Start Promise ..................................................... 18

Spanish .................................................................... 21

/ i

DEDEDED

SERIALNUMBER

DESEEEEEEEEE

CustomerSupport

Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting the 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

_!_ See How-to Maintenance and Parts Installation Videos at www, mtdparts,com/KnowledgeCenter

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

Write to 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 the equipment. Failure to

comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol.

HEED ITS WARNING!

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

2

_ ARNING! 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.

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 foreign objects. Failure to observe the following safety

instructions could result in serious injury or death.

Training 4.

1. Read, understand and follow all instructions on the engine
and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and
operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and
regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
Know how to stop the engine and disengage them quickly.

3. Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate the
engine. Children 14and over should read and understand
the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual

and be trained and supervised by an adult.

4.

Never allow adults to operate the machine without proper
instruction.

5.

Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly
small children and pets. Stop machine if anyone enters the

atea.

Preparation

1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire and other foreign
objects which could be tripped over and cause personal
injury.

2. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close fitting
slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes or jewelry can be
caught in the moving parts. Never operate the machine in

bare feet or sandals.

3.

Disengage clutch levers and shift (if equipped) into neutral
("N") before starting the engine.

Never leave the engine running while unattended.

5.

Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine
is running, except where specifically recommended in the

operator's manual.

SafeHandling 0f Gas01ine:

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 and/or your clothes which can

ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

1. When adding fuel, turn engine OFF and let engine cool at
least 2 minutes before removing the gas cap.

2. Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well ventilated area.

3. Use only an approved gasoline container.

4. 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.

5. If possible, 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.

6. 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.

7. Donotoverfillfueltank.Filltanktofullasindicatedbythe
fuellevelindicatorinstalledinsideofthefueltank.Donot

over-filltoallowspaceforfuelexpansion.Onsomemodels,
afuellevelindicatormayNOTbepresent,inthisinstance,
fillthetanknomorethan1/2inchbelowthebottomofthe

fillernecktoallowspaceforfuelexpansion.

8. Replacefuelcapandtightenuntilthecapratchets.

9. Ifgasolineisspilled,wipeitofftheengineandthe
equipment.Movethemachinetoanotherarea.Waitfive
minutesbeforestartingtheengine.

10. Toreducefirehazards,keepthemachinefreeofgrass,
leavesorotherdebrisbuildup.Cleanupoilorfuelspillage
andremoveanyfuel-soakeddebris.

11.

Keepgasolineawayfromsparks,openflames,pilotlights,
heat,andotherignitionsources.

12.

Neverfuelequipmentindoorsbecauseflammablevapors
willaccumulateinthearea.

13.

Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars,pipes,andothersourcesof
ignition.

14.

Checkfuelline,tank,cap,andfittingsfrequentlyforcracks
orleaks.Replaceifnecessary.

Operation

1. When starting the engine, make sure spark plug, muffler,
and fuel cap are in place.

2. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.

3. If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine.

4. Allow muffler, engine cylinder, and fins to cool before
touching.

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

6. Remove accumulated combustibles from muffler and
cylinder area.

7. Operate equipment with all guards in place.

8. Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.

9. Tie up long hair and remove jewelry.

10. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, dangling drawstrings or
items that could become caught.

11. When starting the engine, pull cord slowly until resistance
is felt, then pull rapidly (if not electric start).

12. Remove all external equipment/engine loads before
starting engine.

13. Direct coupled equipment components such as, but not
limited to blades, impellers, pulleys, sprockets, etc., must

be securely attached.

Maintenance& Storage

1. Keep the engine in safe working order

2. Allow the engine to cool at least five minutes before
storing. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.

3. Check bolts and screws for proper tightness at frequent
intervals to keep the engine in safe working condition.

Visually inspect the engine for any damage.

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

5. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.

6. Maintain and replace safety and instruction labels as
necessary.

7. Always refer to the operator's manual for important details
if the machine is to be stored for an extended period of

time.

8.

If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.

9.

Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil,
etc. to protect the environment.

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.

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

internal combustion engine and should not be used
WARNING! This machine is equipped with an

on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's

exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor

meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).

Ifa spark arrestor 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 arrestor for the muffler is available through your

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

4 J SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

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

WARNING--GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE
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-- ELECTRICAL SHOCK

Do not use the engine's electric starter in the rain

WARNING-- HOT SURFACE

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

and muffler to cool before touching.

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.

SAVETHESEINSTIWCTIONS!

SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES S

Set-Up

3

Gas&OU

NOTE:The engine is shipped without gasoline or oil in the
engine. Running the engine with insufficient oil can cause

serious engine damage and void the engine warranty.

equipment moving parts. Do not use a pressurized

WARNING! Always keep hands and feet clear of

starting fluid. Vapors are flammable.

0il Recommendations

Before starting engine, fill with motor oil, capacity is 600 ml/20
oz. Refer to viscosity chart in Figure 3-1 for oil recommendations.

Do not over-fill. Use a synthetic or non-synthetic 4-stroke, or an
equivalent high detergent, premium quality motor oil certified to
meet or exceed U.S.automobile manufacturer's requirements for

service classification SG, SF.Motor oils classified SG, SFwill show
this designation on the container.

SAE 10W-30 is recommended for general, all temperature use. If
single viscosity oil is used, select the appropriate viscosity for the
average temperature in your area from the chart below.

__ 20w

CheckingOilLevel

NOTE" Be sure to check the oil while on a level surface with the
engine stopped.

1. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and wipe the dipstick
clean.

2. Insert the dipstick into the oil filler neck. Turn the dipstick a

1/4 turn into the locked position to fully seat.

3. Remove dipstick. If the level is low, slowly add oil to the
upper limit on the dipstick. See Figure 3-2 inset.

Oil Filler
Cap/Dil

___ 20

__30

40 I!1_

20w40, !Ow50____mllb

I v

15w40, 15w50 _____mlh,

®,

(°C)-300 -200 -!0 ° 0 ° 10° 200 300 400

(°F)-20 ° 0° 200 400 600 800 1000

Figure 34

1. Single Viscosity

2. Multi Viscosity
CAUTION: Do not use non-detergent oil or 2-stroke engine oil. It

could shorten the engine's service life.
NOTE:A 5w30 synthetic oil may be used to improve start ability

for cold weather (temperatures below 400 F).

Figure 3=2

4.

Reinsert the dipstick into the locked position before
starting the engine.

NOTE: Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may cause
smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling, or oil saturation
of air cleaner.

FuelRequirements

Adding Fuel

fuel, an oil/gasoline mixture, dirty gasoline, or

CAUTION: Operating the engine with E15 or E85

gasoline over 30 days old without fuel sta bilizi ng
additive may result in damage to your engine's

carburetor. Subsequent damage would not be
covered under the manufacturer's warranty.

Use automotive gasoline (unleaded or low leaded to minimize
combustion chamber deposits) with a minimum of 87 octane.

Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (El0) or 15% MTBE (Methyl
Tertiary Butyl Ether) can be used. Never use an oil/gasoline
mixture or dirty gasoline. Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the
fuel tank. DO NOT use E15 or E85 gasoline.

WARNING. Gasoline is extremely flammable and is

explosive under certain conditions.

Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped.
Do not smoke or allow flames or sparks in the area where
the engine is refueled or where gasoline is stored.

Do not overfill the fuel tank. After refueling, make sure the
tank cap is closed properly and securely.

Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling. Spilled fuel or
fuel vapor may ignite. If any fuel is spilled, make sure the
area is dry before starting the engine.

Avoid repeated or prolonged contact with skin or
breathing of va pot.

NEVERallow children to refuel the engine. Gasoline
WARNING! An adult should fuel this engine.

(fuel) vapors are highly flammable and canexplode.
Fuelvapors can spread and be ignited by a spark or

flame many feet away from engine. Toprevent injury

or death from fuel fires, follow these instructions:

NOTE: Some engines may not have the fuel cap installed for
shipping purposes. To install, remove and discard the fuel tank
dust cap labeled "Discard". Remove the bubble wrap packaging

from around the fuel cap and tighten securely.

DO NOT use leaded fuel.

Fuel must be fresh and clean. NEVERusefuel left over
from last season or stored for long periods.

NEVERmix oil with fuel.
DO NOTusefuel containing Methanol (Wood

Alcohol)

NOTE: Before refueling, allow engine to cool two minutes.

1. Clean around fuel fill before removing cap to fuel.

2. Fill tank until fuel reaches 1/2inch below the bottom of the
filler neck to allow space for fuel expansion. Be careful not

to overfill.

3.

Replace the gasoline cap and tighten securely. Wipe up
spilled fuel before starting engine. If fuel is spilled DO NOT
start engine. Move machine away from area of spillage.

Avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors are
gone.

SECTION3 -- SET-UP 7

ControlsandFeatures

f

FuelCa

Starter Handle

4

Choket

Figure 44

Primer(If Equipped)

The primer is located on the front of the
air cleaner. Pressing the primer forces fuel

directly into the engine's carburetor to aid in
starting the engine.

EngineSwitch(IfEquipped)

The engine switch is located on the engine. Turn the switch "On"
when starting the engine and turn it to "Off" when you want to

shut it down.

Choke (If Equipped)

The choke control is located on the engine above the engine
switch and when activated, closes the choke plate on the
carburetor and aids in starting the engine. Pull the choke control

to activate the choke on the engine. Use of the choke may not be
necessary if the engine is warm or the air temperature is high.

Primert

Spark Plug

t IfEquipped

FuelShut-Off Valve(IfEquipped)

The fuel shut off valve is located on the engine below the choke.
Be sure the valve is on before starting the engine. Turn the valve

off when towing or transporting equipment.

OilDrain

Removing the oil drain plug will drain the oil from the engine.
The engine is equipped with a side drain, and on select units, you
may also access a bottom drain.

OilFillCap

Remove the oil fill cap to check the oil level and add oil.

FuelCap

Remove the fuel cap to add fuel.

Operation

Pre-OperationCheck

The engine is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. See
the Set-Up Section of this manual for instructions on adding oil

and gasoline.

Determine TheStarting System

Before starting the engine, you must determine the type of
starting system that is on your engine. Your engine will have one

of the following types:

• Auto=Choke System: This features an automatic choke
that does not have a manual choke or primer.

• Primer System: This features a primer on the engine.

• Manual Choke System: This features a choke on the
engine and no primer. Choke systems located on the
engine will feature an engine switch and may also feature a

fuel shut-off valve.

To start your engine, follow the instructions for your type of
starting system.

Note: Equipment may have remote controls. See the equipment
manual for location and operation of remote controls.

Figure 5=1

F

Startingthe Engine

equipment moving parts. Do not use apressurized

WARNING: Always keep hands and feet clear of

starting fluid. Vapors are flammable.

Aut0-Ch0keSystem

1. Standing behind the mower, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle. See Figure 5-1.

2. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, then pull
rapidly to overcome compression, prevent kickback and
start engine. Repeat if necessary.

IMPORTANT: Do not allow the starter grip to snap back
against the engine. Return it gently to prevent damage to
the starter.

Primer System

1. Push primer 3 times. Wait about two seconds between
each push. See Figure 5-2. In temperature below 50°F,
prime 5 times. After the engine is warmed up, one prime
may be needed for all temperatures.

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

3. Pull the recoil starter lightly until resistance is felt, then pull
rapidly to overcome compression, prevent kickback, and
start the engine. Repeat if necessary. See Figure 5-2.

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

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

k.

Figure 5=2

ManualChokeSystem

1. if equipped, turn on fuel valve located on the engine. See
Figure 5-3.

2. Pull out the choke knob located on the engine.

NOTE: Use of the choke may not be necessary if the engine
iswarm or the air temperature is high.

3. Press engine switch to on.

4. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance isfelt, then pull
rapidly to overcome compression, prevent kickback and
start engine. If engine does not start after ten seconds of
repeated pulls, wait a few minutes and repeat.

IMPORTANT: Do not allow the starter grip to snap back
against the rope guide. Return it gently to prevent damage

to the starter.

5. When engine warms up, push in the choke knob.

Stopping Engine

1. Release blade control or turn off the engine switch (if
equipped).

\

Figure 5-3

J

SECTION S-- OPERATION

EngineMaintenance

any maintenance. To prevent accidental start-up,

WARNING: Shut offthe engine before performing

disconnect the spark plug boot.

IMPORTANT: If engine must be tipped to transport equipment
or to inspect or remove grass, keep spark plug side of engine
up. Transporting or tipping engine spark plug down may cause

smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling, or oil saturation of air
cleaner.

MaintenanceSchedule

6

Periodic inspection and adjustment of the engine is essential if
high level performance is to be maintained. Regular maintenance
will also ensure a long service life. The required service intervals

and the kind of maintenance to be performed are described
in the table below. Follow the hourly or calendar intervals,
whichever occur first. More frequent service is required when
operating in adverse conditions.

muffler will be very hot. Be careful not to touch the
WARNING: If the engine has been running, the

muffler.

FirstSHours

CheckEngineOilLevel

ChangeEngineOilff _/ _/

CheckAirCleaner M/

ServiceAirCleanerf M/

ServiceCarbonCanisterFilterf _/

CheckSparkPlug V/

ReplaceSparkPlug V/

CleanEngineShroud V/

Cleanaroundmuffler V /

ReplaceFuelFilter M/

EachUseor

EveryS Hrs.

,/

EverySeason

or25 Hours

EverySeason

orSOHours

EverySeason

or 100Hours

Service

Dates

f Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
ff Every season or 25 hours if operating under heavy load or high ambient temperature.

11

Oil Service

AirFilter Service

Check oil level regularly.
Be sure correct oil level is maintained. Check every five

hours or daily before starting engine. See oil checking
procedure in the Operation section.

OilChange

IMPORTANT: Be sure to check engine on a level surface with the
engine stopped. Drain the oil while the engine is still warm to

assure rapid and complete draining.

1. Remove all fuel from tank by running engine until it stops
from lack of fuel.

2_

Remove drain plug and allow oil to drain into a suitable
container. See Figure 6-1.

Cap

Paper filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced once a year
or every 100 operating hours; more often if used in extremely

dusty conditions.

solvents for cleaning the air filter element. A fire or

WARNING: Never use gasoline or low flash point

explosion could result.

IMPORTANT: Never run the engine without the air filter. Rapid
engine wear will result.

1. Press down on the tabs securing the air filter cover. Pull
back and remove the cover. See Figure 6-2.

Tab

\

Figure 6-1

i_ WARNING: Before tipping engine or equipment to

3. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely.

4. Refill with the recommended oil and check the oil level.

5. Reinstall the oil fill cap securely.
IMPORTANT: Used motor oil may cause skin cancer if repeatedly

left in contact with the skin for prolonged periods. Although this
is unlikely unless you handle used oil on a daily basis, it is still
advisable to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water as

soon as possible after handling used oil.
NOTE: Please dispose of used motor oil in a manner that is

compatible with the environment. We suggest you take it in a
sealed container to your local service station for reclamation. Do
not throw it in the trash or pour it on the ground.

drain oil, drain fuel from tank by running engine 3.
until fuel tank is empty. 4.

Refer to the Set-Up section.

Figure 6=2

2_

Remove the paper element. To loosen debris, gently tap
the filter on a hard surface. If the filter is excessively dirty or
damaged, replace with a new filter.

Insert the cover's bottom tabs into slots in bottom of base.
Tilt the cover up into place and secure with tabs.

12 I SECTION 6-- MAINTENANCE