MTD 31A-020-900 User Manual

Operator’s Manual

Electric

Snow Thrower

31A-020-900

English

IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES

AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

P/N 6096-MD2301

PRINTED IN CHINA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Rules for Safe Operation Pages 2-7 Operating Instructions Page 8-9 Maintenance Instructions Pages 10-11 Troubleshooting Page 12

Specifications Page 12 Parts List Page 13 Notes Page 14 Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty Page 15

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your atten tion to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and their explanations, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not by themselves eliminate any danger give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.

SYMBOL MEANING

SAFETY ALERT:

caution. Attention is required in order to avoid serious personal injury. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.

NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to

the operation or maintenance of the equipment.

Read the Operator’s Manual(s) and follow all warnings and safety instructions.

Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

. The instructions or warnings they

Indicates danger, warning or

FOR QUESTIONS, CALL 1-800-668-1238

SYMBOL MEANING

DANGER:

result in serious injury to yourself or to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

WARNING:

result in injury to yourself and others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

CAUTION:

result in property damage or personal injury to yourself or to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

Failure to obey a safety warning will

Failure to obey a safety warning can

Failure to obey a safety war

ning may

• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS •

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

BEFORE OPERATING

When using the

WARNING:

safety rules instructions before operating the unit in or operator and any bystanders. Please keep these instructions for later use.

• Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.

• Do not operate this unit when tired, ill or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.

• Children must not operate the unit. Teens must be accompanied and guided by an adult.

• All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly before operating the unit.

Inspect the unit befor

• Make sur Replace par any way aged par

e all fasteners ar

ts that are cracked, chipped or damaged in

. Do not operate the unit with loose or dam

ts.

der to ensur

e use. Replace damaged par

e in place and secur

unit, please r

e the safety of the

ead

• Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove all debris and hard or sharp objects such as glass, wire, etc.

• Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets. At a minimum, keep all children, bystanders, and pets outside a 50 feet (15m.) radius; there still may be a risk to bystanders from thrown objects. If you are approached, stop the unit immediately.

ts.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

MINIMUM WIRE GAUGE RECOMMENDATIONS

OLTS

EXTENSION CORD

LENGTH

WIRE SIZE REQUIRED

120

25 feet / 7.5m 18 A.W.G.*

50 feet / 15m 16 A.W.G.*

100 feet / 30m 16 A.W.G.*

*American Wire Gauge

PLEASE READ - SAVE THESE

INSTRUCTIONS

When using an electrical appliance, basic pr should always be followed to assure maximum safety and optimum performance. Read this manual before assembling and operating this appliance. Failure to comply with instructions may result in electrical shock, burns, fire, or personal injury.

ecautions

Table 1

WARNING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, BURNS, FIRE OR PERSONAL INJURY:

1. FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS listed in

this manual before/during operation of this snow thrower.

2. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK this

equipment has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in a polarized extension cord only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the extension cord, reverse the plug. Do not change the plug in any way.

INSPECT UNIT FOR DAMAGE to the housing or

3. plug. Keep all fasteners tight. Do not use if the trigger does not turn the unit off properly. Never use unit if cord or plug has been damaged, the motor or unit itself is not working as it should or has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors or dropped in water. Never operate with any air opening blocked. Keep air openings free of debris that may reduce air flow. Replace damaged parts that are chipped, cracked or damaged in any way.

5. When the double insulation symbol (a square within a

DOUBLE INSULATED to help protect against

electric shock. Double insulation constr consists of 2 separate “layers” of electric insulation. Appliances built with this insulation system are not intended to be gr

d used with your unit can be plugged into any

cor conventional 120 volt electrical outlet. Normal safety precautions must be observed when operating an electrical appliance. The double insulation system is only for added protection against injury resulting from a possible inter

e) is used as the only marking to identify a unit

squar as being double insulated, the symbol shall be defined in the instruction manual.

EXTENSION CORD - Use only with an extension cord intended for outdoor use. Match wire gauge to the cor out a ground connection may be used since this appliance is double insulated. If in doubt of pr wir that the smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.

d length. See table below. A 2-wire cord with-

e size, use the next heavier gauge. Please note

ounded. As a r

nal electrical insulation failur

esult, the extension

uction

oper

(1). When using the appliance, an extension cord of ade-

quate size must be used for safety and to prevent loss of power and overheating.

(2). The extension cord must be specifically intended for

outdoor use and marked “SJ” or “SJT” and with the suffix “WA”. In Canada, the extension cord must be marked “SFTW”.

(3). Inspect extension power cord for loose or exposed

wires and damaged insulation. If damaged, replace before using appliance.

DO NOT ABUSE CORD - Never carry appliance by cord or pull cord to disconnect from outlet. Keep cord clear of operator and obstacles at all times. Do not expose cord to heated surfaces, oil or water. Do not pull cord around sharp edges, corners or close door on cord.

10.

11. Do not use on graveled surface unless the snow

12.

NO SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE - Your dou-

ble insulated appliance has no serviceable parts inside. Do not attempt to repair it yourself. For service information, contact the Yard Machines Product Service Department listed on the back cover of this User Manual.

RISK OF EYE INJURY - Always wear goggles or other suitable eye protection when operating your snow thrower. Always keep bystanders at a safe distance.

DRESS PROPERLY - Always wear long pants, shoes and gloves. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelr rubber boots when operating snow mover.

KEEP AREA CLEAR - Keep everyone, especially

en and pets away fr

childr feet (15m). Turn off unit immediately if you are approached. Never allow children to operate the appliance to be used as a toy or to r any time.

mover is adjusted for such a surface in accordance with the operator’s manul.

KEEP CHILDREN AWAY - All visitors should be kept a safe distance fr

om work area.

om the area of operation 50

un unattended at

, Wear

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

Wear rubber boots when operating the snow mover.

13.

14. Cautionary statements regarding the use of proper clothing and footwea during operations to reduce the risk of injur

15. Operation of the snow mover in the hand-held position is unsafe, except in accordance with the special instructions for such use provided in the operator’s manual.

16.

WARNING - This snow mover should be grounded while in use to protect the operator form electric shock. To prevent electric shock use only with an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.

17. EXTENSION CORD - To prevent disconnection of snow mover cor operation.

18.

AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARING - Don’t carry plugged - in snow mover with finger on switch. Be sure switch is off when plugging in.

19. If cord is damaged in any manner while plugged in, pull extension cord from wall receptacle.

DON’T ABUSE CORD - Never carry snow mover by

20. cord or yank it to disconnect from receptacle. Keep cord from heat, oil, and sharp edges.

21. Keep hands away from moving parts.

22. Keep guards in place and in working order. DON’T FORCES SNOW MOVER - It will perform

23. better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

24. DON’T OVERREACH - Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

25. If the snow mover strikes a foreign object follow these steps:

i) Stop snow mover. ii) Inspect for damage. iii) Repair any damage before restarting and operat-

ing the snow mover.

26. DISCONNECT SNOW MOVER - Disconnect the snow mover fr before servicing, when changing accessories, and the like.

27. STORE IDLE SNOW MOVERS INDOORS - When not in use, snow movers should be stored indoors in dry, locked-up place - out of reach of children.

28. MAINTAIN SNOW MOVERS WITH CARE - Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.

Don’

29. incrase the risk of injur

y that may be caused by flying debris.

d from the extension cord during

om the power supply when not in use,

t use any other accessory or attachment might

WHILE OPERATING

1. Walk, never run.

2. Be sure the snow thrower is not in contact with anything before staring the unit.

3. Stay away from the discharge opening at all times. Keep face, hands, and feet away from concealed moving or rotating parts.

4. Be attentive when using the snow thrower, and stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden hazards or traffic.

5. Do not use on a gravel surface or crushed rock surfaces. Use extreme caution when crossing gravel/crushed rock drives, walks, or roads.

6. Never clear snow from steep slopes.

7. Never attempt to use the snow thrower on a roof or any steep, inclined, slippery surfaces.

Never operate snow thrower without proper guards,

8. plates or other safety protective devices in place.

9. Never operate the snow thrower near glass enclosures, automobiles, trucks, window wells, dropoffs, etc. without proper adjustment of the snow discharge angle. Keep children and pets away.

10. Don’t force or overload the snow thrower. The snow thrower will perform at its best and safest when it is run at the rate for which it was designed.

11. Never direct discharge towards people or allow anyone in front of the unit while operating.

12. Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards, and ear/hearing protection when operating this unit.

13. Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.

14. Avoid accidental starting. Remain in the starting position whenever starting the unit. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting.

15. Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose intended.

16. Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.

17. Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip on handles or grips.

18. Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop the rotor when it is rotating.

19. If the rotor will not rotate freely due to frozen ice, thaw the unit thor under power.

20. Keep the rotor clear of debris.

21. Never attempt to clear the rotor with the motor running. Turn the motor off first and unplug the extension

cor

oughly befor

e attempting to operate it

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

22. Keep clothing and body parts away from the rotor.

23. Always stop the motor when clearing snow is delayed or when walking fr

24. Disengage power to the rotor when snow thrower is transported or not in use.

25. After striking a foreign object, turn the unit off and inspect the snow thrower from damage. Unplug the unit. Repair damage before restarting and operating the unit.

26. If the unit should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the unit and check immediately for the cause. Vibratioin is generally a warning of trouble.

27. Stop the motor and unplug the unit whenever you leave the operating position, before unclogging the rotor or discharge vanes, and when making any repairs, adjustments, or inspections.

28. Use only original equipment manufacturer replacement parts and accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service dealer. Use of any unauthorized parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.

29. Do not use the unit in the hand held position. Do not pick up the unit when it is powered and running. The unit is designed to travel along the ground.

om one location to another.

EXPLANATION OF NOTE, WARNING, and WARRANTY SYMBOL

1. A NOTE is used to convey additional information, or

highlight a particular explanation, or to expand a step instruction.

2. A WARNING identifies a procedure which, if not

undertaken or if improperly done, can result in a serious personal injury or damage to the unit and/or both.

3. (

WARRANTY SYMBOL) serves notice that

unless instructions or procedures are followed, any damage will void the warranty and repairs will be at owner’s expense. Service other than user maintenance should be performed by a Yard Machines Authorized Service Center. Damage or conditions caused by improper maintenance practices which render this product inoperable will void the manufacturer’s warranty.

FOR WARRANTY OR SERVICE contact the nearest Yard Machines Authorized Service Center by calling 800# on back cover.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

1. Be sure to secure the unit while transporting.

2. Store the unit in a dry area, locked up or up high to preventunauthorized use or damage, out of the reach of children.

3. Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid. Keep handles dr Clean after each use.

If the labels on the unit become defaced or star

f, contact your authorized ser

ing of Keep these instr

5. them to instruct other users. If you loan someone this unit, also loan them these instr

Maintain snow movers with care. Follow instructions

6. for lubricating and changing accessories.

uctions. Refer to them often and use

y, clean and free from debris.

t lift-

vice dealer

uctions.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

SAFETY AND INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS

This operator's manual describes safety and inter Read the operator's manual for complete safety, assembly, operating and maintenance and repair information.

national symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product.

SYMBOL MEANING

• SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL

Indicates danger, warning, or caution. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.

• WARNING - READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Read the Operator’s Manual(s) and follow all warnings and safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

• SPINNING ROTOR CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY

WARNING: Keep hands, feet, and

clothing away from the discharge area. Do not step in front of the unit, or use hands to clean the rotor area.

SYMBOL MEANING

• ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD WARNING : Unplug unit if cord is

damaged or cut.

• THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING CUTTER CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY

WARNING : Small objects can be

propelled at high speed, causing injury. Keep away from the rotating rotor.

• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY WARNING : Keep all bystanders, at

least 50 feet (15m) from the operating area.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

LOCK-OFF

BUTTON

ON/OFF TRIGGER

REAR

HANDLE

ASSIST

HANDLE

ADJUSTABLE

SHAFT

CORD RETAINER

PLUG FOR

EXTENSION CORD

ADJUSTMENT RING

ROTOR

AIR OPENINGS

TOR HOUSING

T CASE CO

BEL

SCRAPER

VER

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

CONNECT THE CORD

1. Ensure the cord is NOT plugged into a receptacle before this procedure. Make a loop with 8

2. extension cord. Place the loop into the slot (A) under the rear handle

3. and lock into place on the cord retainer (B) as shown in Figure 1.

4. Plug the extension cord into the electrical receptacle in the snow thrower handle.

5. Plug the extension cord into a receptacle ONLY when you are ready to operate the snow thrower.

″ - 10″ (20 - 25cm) of the end of the

Fig. 1

ADJUST SHAFT LENGTH

1. Loosen the adjustment ring (A) by rotating the ring clockwise.

2. Adjust the shaft to a height that is comfortable to you.

3. Tighten the adjustment ring (A) by rotating the ring (A) counter clockwise. (Fig. 2)

POSITIONING THE ASSIST HANDLE

1. Loosen the knob (A) on the assist handle (B). (Fig. 3)

2. Adjust the assist handle to an angle that is comfortable to you.

3. Tighten the knob on the assist handle.

Fig. 3

STARTING AND STOPPING

To start the snow thrower, push the button (A) on the side of the handle grip and squeeze the trigger (B). To stop the product, release the trigger. (Fig. 4)

NOTE: When properly started, the safety button will stay engaged when holding the trigger. When the trigger is released, the unit stops and the safety button will disengage.

Fig. 2

Fig. 4

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

OVERLOAD PROTECTION SWITCH

This unit is equipped with an overload protection switch to protect the circuit (that the unit is plugged into) from short circuit overloads.

If the switch pops out:

1. Release the bail and allow the unit to stop and cool for a minute.

2. Press the overload switch (A) to reset. Resume operation. (Fig. 5)

If the switch pops again shortly after the first time:

1. Allow the unti to cool for 15 to 30 minutes.

2. After the unit has cooled, press the overload switch to reset. Resume operation.

If the s dur er for repair.

witch does not stay in or if it continues to pop out

ing operation, take the unit to an autorized service deal-

TIPS FOR BEST SNOW THROWING RESULTS

1. For the most efficient snow throwing, throw snow downwind.

2. Slightly overlap each swath you make. (Fig. 6)

Fig. 6

Fig. 5

OPERATING THE SNOW THROWER

t the unit according to the star

Star

1. The depth and w

speed.

2. Push the unit so that it rides on the scraper.

3. Make sure the power cord is attached to the cord retainer.The power cord should trail to the side of the operator.

eight of the sno

ting instructions.

ns the forward

w go

MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

SERVICING THE UNIT

Extreme care and knowledge of the system is required when servicing this unit. Service should be performed by qualified ser unit must be identical to the parts they replace. Refer any repair to an author

INSPECTING/REPLACING THE DRIVE BELT

When servicing the unit, use only original equipment manufacturer replacement parts. Inspect the drive belt once a year or every 50 hours of operation, whichever comes first, for wear. If the drive belt needs to be replaced, use the following instructions.

1. Remove the 7 screws (A) from the belt case cover (B) using a #T20 torx bit or flat blade screwdriver. (Fig. 7)

2. Remove the flange lock nut (C) and remove the 3 screws (D) from the belt case cover (E) using a #T20 Torx bit or flat blade screwdriver. (Fig. 8)

3. Pull the belt tensioner (F) away from the drive pulley (G). Remove the damaged or broken belt (H) from the driven pulley (I) and drive pulley inside of the housing. Discard appropriately. (Fig. 9)

4. Loop the new belt around the drive pulley and driven pulley (Fig. 8). Pull the belt tensioner (idler arm) away from the drive pulley to install the belt around the drive pulley.

NOTE: Make sure the washer is still in place on the driven pulley shaft prior to reinstalling the belt case cover.

5. Reinstall the flange lock nut. Torque the nut to 50-100 in• lb (90-11.2 N•m) and reinstall the 3 screws.Torque all screws to 18-23 in• lb (20-2.5 N•m).

6. Reinstall the cover with the 7 screws. To make installation easier, place the narrow part of the cover into the recess of the housing. Install the top 2 screws, then push the rest of the cover down into the recess and over the rotor shaft. Toque all 7 screws to 18-23 in• lb (20-2.5 N•m)

NOTE: If the flange lock nut is damaged, do not replace it with a standard nut. Replace only with an original equipment manufacturer replacement part.

vice personnel only. Replacement parts for this

ized service dealer.

To avoid serious

WARNING:

turn off the unit and allow it to cool. Unplug the unit before you perform any maintenance.

personal injury,

A x 7

Fig. 7

Fig. 8

Fig. 9

MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

REPLACING THE PLATE

Use only original equipment manufacturer replacement parts.

To avoid serious

WARNING:

always turn your unit off and unplug it before you perform maintenance.

1. Place the unit on the ground or on a work bench. Position the unit so the vanes and rotor are facing up.

2. Beneath the rotor, locate the 3 screws (A) securing the plate (B) to the housing. Remove them using a #T20 Torx bit or flat blade screwdriver. (Fig. 10)

3. Remove the scraper and discard it appropriately.

4. The new scraper will snap into place. Once in place, attach it to the unit b

y reinstalling the 3 screws.

personal injury,

CLEANING

To avoid serious

WARNING:

always turn your unit off and unplug it before you clean or service it.

Use a small brush to clean off the outside of the unit. Do not use strong detergents. Household cleaners that contain aromatic oils such as pine and lemon, and solvents such as kerosene, can damage plastic housing or handle. Wipe off any moisturer with a soft cloth.

personal injury,

TRANSPORTING

1. Secure the unit while transporting. To move the unit, grasp it by the top and middle front

2. handles.

Fig. 10

STORAGE

1. Allow the motor to cool before storing.

2. Store the unit locked up to prevent unauthorized use or damage.

3. Store the unit in a dry, well-ventilated area.

4. Store the unit out of the reach of children.

TROUBLESHOOTING

UNIT WILL NOT START

CAUSE ACTION

Unit is unplugged

Trigger lock button or trigger were improperly actuated Press in trigger lock button, hold it, and press in trigger Overload protection switch has popped out Push it in and follow the starting instructions

MOTOR IS ON, BUT ROTOR WILL NOT TURN

CAUSE ACTION

Belt is damaged Replace the belt, according to inspecting/Replacing the

UNIT LEAVES A THIN LAYER OF SNOW ON PLOWED SURFACES

CAUSE ACTION

Scraper is worn Replace the scraper

Check cord to make sure it is plugged into an electrical outlet

driver belt

If further assistance is required, contact your authorized service dealer

SPECIFICATIONS

Motor type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A. C. 120 Volts Electric

Amperage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.5 Amps

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

clearing W

Intake Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6” (152mm)

Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 lbs

idth

12.5” (318mm)

PARTS LIST

No. Parts No. Description

1 6022-MD2301 SWITCH

28 6137-MD2301 PULLEY

2 6068-MD2301 HANDLE RIGHT

29 6137-MD2302 PULLEY ACTIVE

3 6134-MD2301 KNOB

30 6149-MD2301 STRAP

4 6196-MD2302 ASSIST HANDLE

31 6072-MD2301 FIXED PLATE

5 6196-MD2301 ASSIST HANDLE

32 9NAC-08 NUT

6 6SGEBB04-18 SCREW

33 6017-MD2302 COVER LEFT

7 6070-MD2301 PLUG PIPE

34 6SDABB04-20 SCREW

8 6037-MD2301 TUBE

35 6WFB-04-12 WASHER

9 6010-MD2301 SPRING CODE

36 9WFB-08-13 WASHER

10 6067-MD2301 HOUSING TOP

37 9SKKBY10/24-0.5 SCREW

11 6129-MD2301 PIPE

38 6014-MD2302 WASHER

12 6131-MD2301 SPOOL

39 6189-MD2301 WASHER

CAP

13 6187-MD2301 FIXED PLATE

40 6078-MD2301

14 6099-MD2301 MOTOR

41 6067-MD2302 HOUSING BOTTOM

15 6017-MD2301 COVER RIGHT

42 6068-MD2302 HANDLE LEFT

16 6014-MD2301 WASHER

43 6SXDZ-06-100 SCREW

17 6148-MD2301 SLEEVE

44 6272-MD2301 PROTECT SWITCH

18 6250-MD2301 BLADE

45 6041-MD2301 CONNECTOR

19 6100-MD2302 PLATE

46 6010-MD2304 WIRE ASS'Y

20 6WFB-04 WASHER

47 6032-070-01 BAND, PLASTIC

21 6200-MD2301 PLATE

48 6041-610201 TERMINAL

22 6064-MD2301 MAIN BODY

49 6014-MD2303 WASHER

23 6111-MD2302 SHAFT

50 6139-MD2302 PLASTIC WASHER

24 6024-MD2301 SPRING

51 6059-MD2304 PIPE

25 6004-MD2302 HOLDER BOTTOM

52 6SGEBB04-35 SCREW

26 6DB-620301 BEARING

53 6SDABB3.5-18 SCREW

27 6004-MD2301 HOLDER TOP

54 6183-MD2301 GASKET 55 6014-211901 WASHER

NOTES

+ 35 hidden pages