MTD S452 User Manual

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

20-inch Mulching Push Lawn Mower — Model Series 100

IMPORTANT

READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION

Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

PRINTED IN U.S.A

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

FORM NO. 769-01447C

12/14/2006

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower. It will help you assemble,

prepare and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.

Table of Contents

Slope Gauge........................................................ 3

Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4

Setup and Adjustment ....................................... 6

Operating Your Lawn Mower .............................. 8

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower ......................... 10

MTD LLC reserves the right to change product specifications, designs, and equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

Finding and Recording Model Number

BEFORE YOU BEGIN TO ASSEMBLE YOUR NEW

EQUIPMENT, please locate the model plate on the

equipment and copy the information to the sample

model plate provided to the right. You can locate the

model plate by standing at the operating position and

looking down at the rear of the deck. This information

will be necessary to use the manufacturer’s web

site, to obtain assistance from the Customer Sup-

port Department, or when contacting an authorized

service dealer.

Troubleshooting ................................................ 12

Safety Labels .................................................... 13

Parts List ........................................................... 14

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

Model Number Serial Number

Customer Support

Please do

purchased, without ﬁrst contacting Customer Support.

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

• Visit www.mtdproducts.com

• Call a Customer Support Representative at

• The

engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, powerrating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your unit, for more information.

NOT

return the unit to the retailer from which it was

1-800-800-7310.

3IGHTANDHOLDTHISLEVELWITHAVERTICALTREE

ORACORNEROFABUILDING

ORAFENCEPOST

&OLDALONGDOTTEDLINEREPRESENTSASLOPE



Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.

Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes.

Slope

Gauge

WARNING

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet).

Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Safe

Operation

Practices

WARNING

This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol.

HEED ITS 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.

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.

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.

2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.

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

6. 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.

General Operation

1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entiret y 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. 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.

4. 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.

5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,

stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children,

bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from mower

while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters

area.

6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during opera

tion and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect

your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious

injury to the eyes.

7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting

slacks and shirts. Shir ts 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.

8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under cutting

deck. Contact with blade can amputate hands and feet.

9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade

contact or thrown object injuries.

10. 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.

11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are

walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or

obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and

then follow these steps:

a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.

b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.

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

toward you.

d. Repeat these steps as needed.

12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs.

13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so

equipped while starting engine.

14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt

to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device

inoperative and may result in personal injury through

contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle

must operate easily in both directions and automatically

return to the disengaged position when released.

15. Never operate the mower in 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

blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop

rotating within three seconds.

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

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

18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the

engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is

generally a warning of trouble.

19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a

complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclog-

ging the chute.

The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after

the engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body in

the blade area until you are sure the blade has stopped

rotating.

20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield, discharge

cover, grass catcher, 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.

21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do

not touch.

22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by

manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.

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

use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for

assistance.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

Do:

1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise

extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps

which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide

obstacles.

3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause

serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your

balance, release the blade control handle immediately, and

the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.

Do Not:

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

Safe Handling Of Gasoline:

1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes, which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

2. Use only an approved gasoline container.

3. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

4. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

5. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or

container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do

not use a nozzle lock-open device.

6. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources

of ignition.

7. Never fuel machine indoor because flammable vapors will

accumulate in the area.

8. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or

running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before

refueling.

9. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch

below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.

10. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.

11. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.

Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting

engine.

12. Never store the machine or fuel container near an open

flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space

heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.

13. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,

or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and

remove any fuel soaked debris.

14. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

General Service:

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

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

3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with the original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!”

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

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

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

7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, discon nect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and operating the mower.

8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjust

ment while the engine is running.

9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail

shield are subject to wear and damage which could

expose moving par ts or allow objects to be thrown. For

safety protection, frequently check components and re-

place immediately with original equipment manufacturer’s

(O.E.M.) par ts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts

which do not meet the original equipment specifications

may lead to improper performance and compromise

safety!”

10. Do not change the engine gover nor setting or over-rev the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.

11. Maintain or replace safety labels, as necessar y.

12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper

disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.

Safe

Operation

Practices

WARNING

This symbol points out important safety instructions, which if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all

instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol.

HEED IT’S 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.

Setup and

Adjustment

IMPORTANT

This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Fill up gasoline and oil as instructed in the accompanying engine manual BEFORE operating your mower.

Figure 3-1

IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Fill up gasoline and oil as instructed in the accompanying engine manual BEFORE operating your mower.

NOTE: Reference to right or left side of the mower is observed from the operating position.

Handle Setup

1. Perform the following sequence for handle setup:

a. Lift the upper handle up from folded position and

pull it to extended position following the arrow in Figure 3-1. The handle should click into this position.

b. Make sure the carriage bolt is seated properly

in the handle. Tighten wing nuts securing upper handle to the lower handle.

2. Locate hairpin clip in one hole on the weld pin on each side of lower handle.

a. Remove hairpin clip from this hole. Using a pair of

pliers, insert hairpin clip into the other hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side. See Figure 3-2.

3. Rope guide Setup as follows in Figure 3-3:

a. Hold the blade control against the upper handle.

b. Slowly pull starter rope out of the engine.

c. Slip starter rope into the rope guide.

d. Tighten rope guide wing nut.

NOTE : Reference to right or left side of the mower is observed from the operating position.

Figure 3-2

Figure 3-3

4. Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the lower handle. Pull cable tie tight and trim excess. See Figure 3-4.

Wheel Height Adjustment

5. Each wheel has a height adjustment lever to change the cutting height of the mower.

a. Depress height adjustment lever towards the

wheel.

b. Slide lever to desired position for a change in

cutting height. See Figure 3-5.

c. Release lever toward deck.

Converting To Side Discharge

6. Your mower has been shipped as a mulcher. To convert it to a side-discharge mower:

a. Lift the mulching plug.

b. Slide the two hooks on the side-discharge

deflector under the hinge pin on the mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug. See Figure 3-6.

Setup and

Adjustment

Figure 3-4

CUTTING HEIGHT

All wheels must be placed in the same relative position. For rough or uneven lawns,

move the height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will stop scalping of grass.

IMPORTANT

This unit is shipped without gasoline or

Figure 3-5

Figure 3-6

oil in the engine. Fill up gasoline and oil as instructed in the accompanying engine manual BEFORE operating your mower.

Know Your Lawn Mower

Operating

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

This blade control

mechanism is a

safety device. Never

attempt to bypass its

operations.

Blade Control

Recoil

Starter

Height

Adjustment

Lever (front

and rear)

Chute Deflector

Mulch Plug

Use extreme care

when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable

and the vapors are

explosive. Never fuel

the machine indoors

or while the engine

is hot or running.

Extinguish cigarettes,

cigars, pipes and

other sources of

ignition.

Figure 4-1

Now that you have set up your lawn mower for operation, get acquainted with its controls and features. These are described below and illustrated this page. This knowledge will allow you to use your new equipment to its fullest potential.

Blade Control

The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. Depress the blade control handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

WARNING: This blade control mechanism is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.

Cutting Height Adjustment Levers

One adjustment lever is located on each wheel and is used to adjust the cutting height. All four levers have to be at the same relative position to ensure uniform cut.

Recoil Starter

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

Mulching Plug

The mulching plug is used only for mulching purposes. This process recirculates the clippings back to the lawn. Do not operate the mower if the mulching plug is not firmly situated on the unit.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine manual for this.

2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the engine manual. See Engine manual for location of gas and oil fill.

WARNING: Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

WARNING: The operation of any lawn

mower can 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.

Starting Engine

WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while starting engine or operat-

ing mower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.

Follow the set of instructions pertaining to your unit. Refer to engine manual for help with the engine.

Briggs & Stratton/ Tecumseh Engine:

1. If equipped, push primer three times. Wait about

two seconds between each push. See Figure 4-2. In temperature around 55° F or below, prime five times. Do not prime to restart a warm engine.

2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade

control against upper handle.

3. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp

recoil starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. See Figure 4-2. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each time slowly.

Honda Engine:

1. Place the fuel valve lever found on the left side of the

engine into the ON (OPEN) position. See Figure 4-3.

2. Move the choke lever (if equipped) all the way

backward into the choke position.

3. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade

control against upper handle. The choke will now begin to slowly return to the off choke position after activating the blade control. Therefore, quickly move onto step four below.

4. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp

recoil starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. See Figure 4-3. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each time slowly.

WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the mower or to remove the grass catcher.

Stopping Engine

1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and

ground against the engine.

Using Your Lawn Mower

Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others.

Figure 4-2

Figure 4-3

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

mower for any damage, and repair damage before restarting and operating. Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

OFF

Using as Mulcher

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

Using Grass Catcher

You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while you are operating the mower. Refer to setup section for instructions on attaching the grass catcher.

Operating

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

The operation of any

lawn mower can 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.

Be sure no one other

than the operator is

standing near the lawn

mower while starting

engine or operating

mower. Never run engine indoors or

in enclosed, poorly

ventilated areas. En-

gine exhaust contains

carbon monoxide, an

odorless and deadly

gas. Keep hands, feet,

hair and loose clothing

away from any moving

parts on engine and

lawn mower.

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

Always stop engine,

disconnect spark plug, and ground

against engine before

cleaning, lubricating

or doing any kind of

maintenance on your

machine.

NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to electric components, spindles, pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.

Figure 5-1

WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and

ground against engine before cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of maintenance on your machine.

General Recommendations

1. Always observe safety rules when performing

any maintenance.

2. 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.

3. Changing of engine-governed speed will void

engine warranty.

4. All adjustments should be checked at least once

each season. See the engine owner’s manual included with this lawn mower.

5. Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these

are tight.

Lubrication

1. Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 5-1.

2. 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 axle bolt and inner surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 5-1.

3. Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on the chute deflector periodically with light oil to prevent rust. See Figure 5-1.

4. Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrication schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.

Cleaning Mower

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

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

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

WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90 degrees in any

directions and do not leave the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.

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

suitable tool. Do not spray with water.

4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you

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

Blade Care

WARNING: When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

Maintaining

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

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up.

2. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure 5-2.

3. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.

4. 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.

5. When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of grind. Grind each cutting edge equally to keep the blade balanced.

6. Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.

7. Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

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

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

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

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

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

11. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.

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

Figure 5-2

Off-Season Storage

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

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

2. We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.

3. Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage instructions.

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

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

When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn mower before storage.

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

When removing

the cutting blade

for sharpening or

replacement, protect

your hands with a

pair of heavy gloves

or use a heavy rag to

hold the blade.

An unbalanced blade

will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It

may cause damage

to mower, and could

break causing per-

sonal injury.

Problem

Cause

Remedy

Trouble

Shooting

For repairs beyond

the minor adjustments

listed here, contact

an authorized service

dealer.

Engine fails to start

Engine runs erratic

Engine overheats

Occasional skips (hesitates) at high speed

1. Blade control disengaged.

2. Spark plug wire disconnected.

3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

4. Engine not primed (if equipped with

primer).

5. Faulty spark plug.

6. Blocked fuel line.

7. Engine flooded.

8. Fuel valve (if equipped) closed.

9. Engine not choked (if equipped w/choke).

1. Spark plug wire loose.

2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.

3. Vent in gas cap plugged.

4. Water or dirt in fuel system.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

6. Carburetor out of adjustment.

1. Engine oil level low.

2. Air flow restricted.

3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.

1. Spark plug gap too close.

2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment

improperly set.

1. Engage blade control.

2. Connect wire to spark plug.

3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

4. Prime engine as instructed in “Operat

ing Your Lawn Mower”.

5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.

6. Clean fuel line.

7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do

not prime.

8. Open fuel valve. See engine manual.

9. Choke engine. See engine manual.

1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.

2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean,

fresh gasoline.

3. Clear vent.

4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.

5. Refer to engine manual.

6. Refer to engine manual.

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.

2. Remove blower housing and clean.

3. Refer to engine manual.

1. Adjust gap to .030-inch.

2. Refer to engine manual.

NOTE: Specifications are subject to change without notification or obligation. Images my not reflect your exact model and are for reference purposes only.

Idles poorly

Excessive Vibration

Mower will not mulch grass

Uneven cut

1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.

2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.

3. Dirty air cleaner.

1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.

2. Bent cutting blade.

1. Wet grass.

2. Excessively high grass.

3. Dull blade.

1. Wheels not positioned correctly.

2. Dull blade.

1. Reset gap to .030-inch or replace

spark plug.

2. Refer to engine manual.

3. Refer to engine manual.

1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance

blade.

2. See an authorized service dealer.

1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait

until later to cut.

2. Mow once at a high cutting height,

then mow again at desired height or

make a narrower cutting path.

3. Sharpen or replace blade.

1. Place all four wheels in same

height position.

2. Sharpen or replace blade.

Safety Labels Found On Your Lawn Mower

2/7

•

(

)

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT

OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE COVER OR GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE. IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.

Safety

Labels

WARNING

DO NOT remove safety (or any) labels from mower for any reason.

Model Series 100

Wheel Tread

Ref. Part No. Description

1 747-1161A Blade Control

2 731-1948A Front Cover

3 736-0524B Blade Bell Support

4 710-1044 Hex Bolt

5 747-0710 Hinge Pin

6 749-1092A Upper Handle

7 710-1205 Rope Guide

8 710-1174 Carriage Bolt

9 749-0928A Lower Handle

10 720-0279 Wing Nut

11 720-04072 Star Knob

12 714-0104 Hairpin Clip

13 746-0550 Control Cable, 39”

14 726-0240 Cable Tie

15 17098 Hinge Clip

16 731-04019 Trail Shield

17 682-0139 20” Cutting Deck Assembly

18 742-0740 20” Mulching Blade

19 720-0426 Height Adjustment Knob

20 732-0404 Spring Lever

21 734-2004A Wheel Assembly, 8 x 2.125

22 736-0504 Wave Washer

23 731-04859 Snap-On Bail Cover

Ref. Part No. Description

24 731-0981A Hubcap

25 738-0507B Shoulder Bolt

26 687-02077A Pivot Arm Assembly - RH Front

Pivot Arm Assembly - LH Rear

687-02076A Pivot Arm Assembly - LH Front

Pivot Arm Assembly - RH Rear

27 687-02106 Handle Bracket Assembly RH

687-02107 Handle Bracket Assembly LH

28 748-0376C Blade Adapter

29 732-0731 Torsion Spring

30 687-02075A Height Adjust. Assembly LH

687-02074A Height Adjust. Assembly RH

31 782-7006 Mounting Bracket

32 736-0270 Bell Washer

33 710-0599 Hex Washer Hd. TT Screw

34 710-0654A TT Sems Screw

35 731-1409B Chute Deflector

36 682-7002 Mulching Plug Assembly

37 712-04065 Hex Lock Nut

38 787-01290 Height Adjustment Plate

39 687-02180 Handle Bracket - RH

687-02179 Handle Bracket - LH

Illustrated

Parts List

To order replacement

parts, contact

1-800-800-7310

or visit

www.mtdproducts.com

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR

The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its possessions and territories. “MTD” warrants this product against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in materials or workmanship. This limited warranty shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained in accordance 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 by MTD for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damage. Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of purchase. Normal wear parts include, but are not limited to items such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires. HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 441360019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.com. This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases: a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items may carry a

separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable manufacturer’s warranty for terms and conditions.

b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one year

warranty.

c. 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.

d. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service

dealer.

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

outside of the United States, its possessions and territories, except those sold through MTD’s authorized channels of export distribution.

f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.

g. Transportation charges and service calls.

No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the applicable period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other express warranty, whether written or oral, except as mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind MTD. During the period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above. The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD shall not be liable for 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 states do not allow the 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 greater than 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 use the product. This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a gift. HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain warranty coverage.

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

MTD S452 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual