MTD S492 User Manual

Download

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

10/97

MODEL SERIES

580

IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

Warning:

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 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.

MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722

PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO.770-1038A

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

SECTION 1: IMPORTANT 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 YOUR LAWN MOWER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL, HEED ITS WARNING.

WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

DANGER: Your lawn mower 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 lawn mower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

1. GENERAL OPERATION

• 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.

• Your rotary mower 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.

• Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power mower. Children 14 years old and over should only operate mower under close parental supervision. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use your mower.

• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children and pets. Stop engine when they are in the vicinity of your mower to help prevent blade contact or thrown object injury. Although the area of operation should be completely cleared of foreign objects, an object may have been overlooked and could be accidentally thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator or any others allowed in the area.

• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and closefitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Do not wear loose fitting clothes or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Never operate a unit in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

• Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation or while performing an adjustment or repair, to protect eyes from foreign objects that may be thrown from the machine in any direction.

• 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 picked up and thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator or any others allowed in the area. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. To help avoid a thrown objects injury, keep children, bystanders and helpers at least 75 feet from the mower while it is in operation.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of discharge opening at all times as the rotating blade can cause injury.

• Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled over the foot during a fall. Do not hang on to the mower if you are falling; release the handle immediately.

• Never pull the mower toward you while you are walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind, and then follow these steps:

• Step back from the mower to fully extend your arms.

• Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.

• Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way toward you.

• Repeat these steps as needed.

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

• Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so equipped while starting engine.

• 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.

• Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury. Keep a firm hold on the handle and walk, never run. If you feel you are losing your footing, RELEASE THE BLADE CONTROL HANDLE IMMEDIATELY and the blade will stop rotating within three seconds.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

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

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

• Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclogging 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.

• Never operate mower without proper guards, grass catcher, plates or other safety protective devices in place.

• Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.

• Only use accessories approved for this machine by the manufacturer. Read, understand, and follow all instructions provided with the approved accessory.

• If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for assistance. Telephone 1-800-8007310 for the name of your nearest dealer.

2. SLOPE OPERATION

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 as shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this unit on that area or serious injury could result.

DO:

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

• Watch for holes, ruts, hidden objects, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your balance release the blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop in less than 3 seconds.

DO NOT:

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance.

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

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.

3. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

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

• Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down for small children or other objects.

• Never allow children under age 14 to operate the mower. Children 14 years of age and above should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual.

• Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure your vision of a child or hazard.

4. SERVICE

• Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

• Use only an approved gasoline container.

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

• Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off any spilled gasoline before starting the engine as it may cause a fire or explosion.

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

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

• Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame or spark such as a gas water heater, space heater, or furnace.

• Never run an engine inside a closed area.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

• Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent, cracked or worn). Replace with blade which meets original equipment specifications listed in this manual.

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

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

• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, remove the wire from the spark plug, and thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and operating the mower.

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

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection, frequently check components and replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.

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

• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine. Excessive engine speeds are dangerous.

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.

Figure 1 Safety Labels Found On Lawn Mower

SLOPE GAUGE

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

OR A FENCE POST

USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.

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. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain

your footing and you could slip, resulting in 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.

WARNING

15°

SECTION 2: CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Lay out the hardware according to the illustration for identification purposes. (Hardware pack may contain extra items which are not used on your unit. Part numbers are shown in parentheses.)

ATTACHING THE STRUTS

Hex Bolt

1/4-20:.620

710-0751

Nut 1/4-20

712-0287

Lock Washer 5/16

Nut 5/16-18

712-0267

Bell Washer

.265 I.D. x .75 O.D. x .062

736-0270

736-0119

Saddle Washer

.320 I.D. x .83 O.D.

736-0451

ATTACHING THE REAR WHEELS

(Only required if rear wheels not installed)

Spacer

750-0151

Flat Washer

.406 I.D. x .812 O.D. x .051

736-3050

Wave Washer

.510 I.D. x .750 O.D. x .017

736-0504

Top Lock Jam Nut

3/8-16

712-3020

SECTION 3: FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new walk behind. It will help you assemble, prepare and maintain your walk behind. Please read and understand what it says. Before you start to prepare your walk behind for its first use, please locate the model plate and copy the information from it in this Operator’s Manual. The information on the model plate is very important if you need help from your dealer or the MTD customer support department.

• Every walk behind has a model plate. You can locate it by standing behind the unit in the operating position and looking down at the rear of the deck.

• The model plate will look like Figure 2.

This is where your model number will be.

XXX-X-XXX-X-XXX XXXXXXXXXXX

This is where your serial number will be.

Copy the model number here:

MTD PRODUCTS INC

CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136

Copy the serial number here:

Figure 2

SECTION 4: CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT

If you are having difficulty assembling this product or if you have any question regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department. You can reach them by calling:

1-800-800-7310

Before you call, make sure that you have your model and serial numbers ready. By having the model and serial numbers ready, you help the Customer Support Representative give you faster service. To find your unit’s model and serial number, see SECTION 2: FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER.

SECTION 5: UNPACKING

Boot

TO REMOVE UNIT FROM CARTON

1. Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open carton.

2. Remove loose parts if included with unit (i.e., Handle Struts (2),operator’s manuals, etc.).

3. Cut along dotted lines and lay carton down flat.

4. Remove packing material.

5. Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton thoroughly for loose parts.

Spark Plug Wire

With Rubber Boot

Briggs & Stratton

Engines

V-Slot

on Engine

Spark

Plug

Wire

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

Pair of Pliers 7/16” Wrench 1/2” Wrench 9/16” Wrench Adjustable Wrench

DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE

Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it against the engine. See Figure 3.

NOTE: On engines with a rubber boot, attach rubber

boot to a bolt on the engine to ground.

SECTION 6: SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped WITHOUT

GASOLINE or OIL in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline and oil before operating your mower.

NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the

mower is observed from the operating position.

Lower

Handle Handle

Mounting

Bracket

Hairpin Clip

Retaining

Spark Plug

All Engines

With Rubber

Post

Spark Plug Wire

Tecumseh

Engines

Figure 3

Spark

Plug

HOW TO SET-UP YOUR LAWN MOWER Assembling Handle

1. Remove packing material which may be between the upper and lower handles for shipping purposes.

2. Lift up and pull back on the upper handle to raise the handle into the operating position. Make certain the lower handle is seated securely into the handle mounting brackets. Tighten the hand knobs on each side of the handle (carriage bolts must be seated properly into the handle).

3. Remove the hairpin clips from the outer hole in the weld pins on the handle mounting brackets. Using a pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower handle against the handle mounting bracket. Insert the hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side.

4. Tighten the cable ties and insert pegs on ties in lower handle holes.

Hole

Figure 4

NOTE: Make sure to route the cables inside the

lower handle. Also do not crimp the cables while lifting the handle up.

INSTALLATION OF STRUTS (Hardware A

Hex Bolt

Carriage Bolt

Lock Washer

Hex Nut

Bell Washers

Saddle Washer

Figure 5

Saddle Washer

Struts

Hex Nut

Deck

1. Remove the two plastic hand knobs which secure the handle. Discard the hand knobs.

2. Place the saddle washers over carriage bolts on the handle (curved side against handle). See Figure 5. Place struts over carriage bolts. Secure loosely with lock washers and hex nuts. See Figure 5.

3. Attach the other end of struts as follows. Place one cupped washer over each hex bolt (crowned side against head of the bolt). Insert hex bolts up through the middle holes in deck beside the engine and through the struts. Secure with cupped washers (cupped side against strut) and hex nuts.

4. Tighten all nuts and bolts securely.

Wheel

Flat

Washer

Hex Jam

Nut

INSTALLATION OF REAR WHEELS AND AXLE SHAFT (Hardware B

Wave

Washer

Spacer

)

Right Pivot

Bar

Figure 6

NOTE: Your unit may have the rear wheels

attached. If so, proceed to “Attaching Starter Rope” Section.

1. Block the rear of the mower up securely

2. Move rear height adjusters to the highest position.

3. The rear axle shaft has a right side and a left side. The right side has two tabs and the left side has one tab. See Figure 6.

4. Slide the left side of the rear axle shaft through the right pivot bar (pivot bar with keyed hole). Rotate the axle shaft until first tab on the right side of the axle shaft clears the hole in the pivot bar.

Rear Axle

Rotate further until second tab on the right side of the axle shaft locks into the hole in the pivot bar. The tab on the left side of the axle shaft should hit on the surface of the left pivot bar.

5. Place one spacer on the rear axle, then one wave washer.

6. Place wheel assembly on end of axle. Secure with one flat washer and one hex jam nut. See Figure 6. Tighten securely.

7. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to assemble the other wheel.

8. Remove the block from the rear of the mower.

9. Place all four height adjusters in the same relative position.

Right

Side

2 Tabs

Left Pivot

Bar

Attaching Starter Rope

Rope

Guide

Wing Nut

2. Remove the retainer.

3. Lower the chute carefully into the operating position, keeping fingers out of the way.

4. Make sure that all nuts and bolts are tightened securely.

WARNING: The shipping chute retainer

must be removed and discarded before operating the mower.

Starter

Rope

Figure 7

The rope guide is already attached to the right side of the upper handle of your mower. See Figure 7.

1. With the spark plug wire disconnected and grounded, hold the blade control handle against the upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the engine.

2. Check and make sure that the rope guide faces as shown in Figure 7 so that the opening in the rope guide faces up.

3. Slip the rope through the rope guide. Tighten the wing nut if necessary.

Chute Deflector

Chute

Deflector

Optional Mulching Baffle

A mulching kit (OEM-190-110) is available for the mowers shown in this manual. To obtain a mulching kit, contact your local service dealer or retailer in your area. If you mower is equipped with the optional mulching baffle, install as follows: Lift the chute deflector on the mower. Slide the notches in the bottom of the mulching baffle over the lip of the discharge opening.See Figure 9. Push the hooks on the top of the baffle until they snap over the hinge on the discharge chute. Release the chute deflector.

Chute

Deflector

Mulching

Baffle

Hooks

Shipping

Chute

Retainer

The chute deflector is held in an upright position during shipping by means of a retainer.To remove this shipping retainer, proceed as follows:

1. Lift the spring-loaded chute towards the engine by pushing above the retainer. See Figure 8.

Figure 8

Notches

Figure 9

Final Assembly

1. Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened securely.

2. Insert one cable tie to secure all the cables together, and another cable tie to the lower handle to hold all the cables in place and prevent them from coming in the way. The third cable tie is already installed on the upper handle.

SECTION 7: CONTROLS

Recoil Starter

Drive Clutch

Control

Figure 10

Blade Control

Handle

Throttle Control

RECOIL STARTER

The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle and is used to start the engine. See Figure 10.

BLADE CONTROL HANDLE

WARNING:

a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.

The blade control handle is located on the upper handle of the mower. See Figure 10. The blade control handle must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.

This control mechanism is

THROTTLE CONTROL

The throttle control is located on the left side of the upper handle. It is used to regulate the engine speed. See Figure 10.

WARNING: The throttle control cannot

be used to stop the engine.

NOTE: Your unit may be a constant speed

engine, which is set at full throttle for best performance. If your unit is so equipped, no throttle control is required.

SECTION 8: OPERATION

Warning: Keep hands and feet away

from the chute area on cutting deck.

Warning: The operation of any lawn

mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can result in

severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields. We recommend wide vision safety mask for over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

WARNING: The blade will be rotating

whenever the engine is running.

DRIVE CLUTCH CONTROL

Squeezing the drive clutch control engages the drive mechanism to the wheels. Releasing the clutch control stops the wheels from driving. Release the drive clutch control to slow down when negotiating an obstacle, making a turn or stopping. See Figure 10.

NOTE: For best results raise the cutting position

until it is determined which height is best for your lawn. See cutting height adjustment section.

GAS AND OIL FILL-UP

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as

instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your mower. Read instructions carefully.

WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors,

with engine running or until the engine has been allowed to cool for at least two minutes after running.

TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE BLADE

1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the spark plug wire, make certain the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.

2. Move throttle control lever all the way forward.

3. If unit is equipped with a primer, prime engine as instructed in the separate engine manual.

4. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control handle and hold it against the upper handle. See Figure 11.

Depress Blade Control Handle

USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER

WARNING:

without either the discharge chute or entire grass catcher assembly in place.

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

For the best results, do not cut wet grass because it tends to stick to the underside of the mower, preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut. Blade speed should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn.

For a healthy lawn, never cut more than one-third of the total length of the grass at any one cutting.

Lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.

Never operate your unit

Figure 11

5. Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope rewind slowly.

6. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keep a firm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly to the rope guide.

7. After engine starts, move throttle control to desired engine speed. (Mower is designed to be operated at full throttle.)

NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to

the Trouble Shooting Guide on page 18.

TO STOP ENGINE AND BLADE

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

WARNING: The blade continues to

rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.

2. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent accidental starting while equipment is unattended.

This mower is designed to be operated at full throttle to give you the best cut and do the most effective job of bagging the cut grass.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign

object, stop the engine. Remove wire from spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the mower. Extensive vibration of the mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

USING YOUR MULCHER

(Mulching Kit is Optional Equipment)

For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass because it tends to stick to the underside of the deck, preventing proper mulching of grass clippings. New or thick grass may require a narrower cut. The ground speed should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn. If mowing has been delayed and the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4", mulching is not recommended. Mow using the grass bag (if so equipped) to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4" maximum before mulching.

SECTION 9: ADJUSTMENTS

On Engine

WARNING: Do not at any time make

any adjustment to lawn mower without first stopping engine and disconnecting spark plug wire.

CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

An adjusting plate and lever at each wheel position provides cutting height adjustment. Each adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut will be changed when the lever is moved from one position to another. Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move wheel and lever assembly to desired position. All wheels must be placed in the same relative position. See Figure 12.

Height

Adjuster

Lever

3. Push the control lever on the engine as far toward the rear of the engine as it will go. Secure the cable in this position with the cable clamp and screw.

Briggs & Stratton Quantum Engines

Screw

Cable Clamp

Tecumseh Engines

Control

Lever on

Engine

Figure 13

Cable Clamp

Figure 12

THROTTLE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT NOTE:

which is set at full throttle for best performance. This engine requires no throttle adjustment.

If you have a unit with a the throttle control which needs adjustment or if it has been replaced, adjust as follows.

1. Remove the screw shown in Figure 13. Remove

Your unit may be a constant speed engine,

the cable clamp from the cable.

NOTE: If you have a Tecumseh engine, simply

loosen the screw shown in Figure 14 so the cable will move freely beneath the clamp. It is not necessary to remove the screw and clamp completely.

2. Push the throttle control lever on the handle all the way forward as far as it will go, then back it off one “click.” Make certain the throttle control lever remains in this position.

Control

Lever

Figure 14

Screw

DRIVE CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT

The drive clutch control adjustment wheel is located in the drive clutch control handle housing and is used to tighten or loosen the drive belt. You will have to adjust the drive clutch control if any of the following happens:

• The mower does not propel itself with the drive clutch engaged.

• The mower’s drive wheels hesitate with the drive clutch engaged.

To resolve the above problems, rotate the adjustment wheel with your fingers. Clockwise to tighten the cable and counter-clockwise to loosen the cable. See Figure 15.

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS

Adjustment

Wheel

Figure 15

NOTE: For some people the drive clutch handle

may not be in a comfortable position. You can adjust the handle out by tightening the adjustment wheel.

SECTION 10: LUBRICATION

WARNING: Always stop engine and

disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of work on lawn mower.

WARNING:

made to the engine while the engine is running (e.g. carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts. Be careful of heated

surfaces and muffler.

Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to compensate for differences in fuel, temperature, altitude and load. To adjust

carburetor, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your mower.

If any adjustments are

NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to

run rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and attached to the carburetor before adjusting carburetor.

Blade Control: Lubricate the pivot points on the

blade control handle and the brake cable at least once a season with light oil. See Figure 16. The blade control must operate freely in both directions.

Discharge

Chute

Control Handle

See Engine Manual

Figure 16

Blade

Wheels

Discharge Chute: The torsion springs and pivot

points should be lubricated periodically with light oil to prevent any rust or binding. Door must work freely.

Wheels: The wheels require no lubrication.

However, if the wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the wheel with light oil. Engine oil may also be used.

Engine: Follow engine manual for lubrication

instructions.

SECTION 11: MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and

ground the spark plug wire before performing any repairs or maintenance.

NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank

and keep engine spark plug side up.

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Refer to page 18 of this manual for trouble shooting information.

CUTTING BLADE

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting blade.

1. Remove the bolt and bell washer which hold the blade-pulley assembly to the engine crankshaft. Remove the assembly from the crankshaft.

2. Remove the two bolts and lock nuts from the assembly and remove the blade from the blade adaptor and pulley.

2. Place the blade on the adapter with the side of he blade marked bottom (or with part number) facing away from the adapter.

3. Secure the blade to the assembly with two hex bolts and lock nuts. Tighten the hex bolts to the torque listed in the “Blade Mounting Torque” Section below.

4. Install the blade assembly up on the crankshaft. Secure with the hex bolt and bell washer (cupped side of washer to blade) and tighten to torque listed in the “Blade Mounting Torque” section below.

Locknut

Blade

Adapter

Pulley

Assembly

Locknut

Blade

WARNING: Periodically inspect the

blade adapter and pulley for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary.

When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause damage to the mower and could break, causing personal injury.

The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly. It is recommended that the blade always be removed from the adapter for the best test of balance.

Before reassembling the blade-pulley assembly to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil (or engine oil). Lubricating the bolt holes, bolts and inner surface of the nuts is also recommended.

Installing the blade

1. Install the pulley over the blade adapter with the “star” away from the pulley. Refer to Figure 17.

Hex Bolt

Bell

Washer

Figure 17

Blade Mounting Torque

Blade Adapter Bolts:120 in. lbs. min., 150 in. lbs. max.

Center Bolt: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.

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

Hex Bolt

DECK

The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may cause an uneven discharge of grass clippings at the next cutting. The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug wire is disconnected).

ENGINE

Refer to the separate engine manual for engine maintenance instructions.

Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions carefully.

Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit.

The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of each mowing season; check engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.

Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.

REAR FLAP REPLACEMENT

The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck, and is designed to minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown from the rear of the mower toward the operator. If the rear flap becomes damaged, replace as follows.

Hex Head

Shoulder Screws

Belt Guard

Figure 18

2. Remove the belt guard from the unit by lightly pressing inward on the sides of the belt guard. This will release the tabs that secure the belt guard to the height adjuster brackets.

See Figure 19

3. Remove the idler assembly from idler bracket using 7/16” wrench and socket. See Figure 20.

4. Remove the belt from the transmission. See Figure 21.

To remove the old rear flap, compress the hinge clips and remove from the slots in rear of the deck. Attach the new rear flap by placing new spring clips in the slots on the flap. Then compress the spring clips and reinsert in slots in rear of deck.

BELT REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT

1. Remove the two shoulder screws from on top of the deck which secures the belt guard to the mower deck. See Figure 18.

Height Adjuster

Tabs Holes

Figure 19

Idler

Bracket

Bolt

(Idler Bracket)

Hole

Figure 20

Belt

Idler

Spacer

Lock

Nut

Belt

Guide

Pulley

5. Remove the belt from the engine pulley and around the blade. See Figure 22.

6. Reassemble in reverse order with new belt (Part No. 754-0465).

Belt

Figure 22

NOTE: Begin Idler reassembly by inserting bolt up

through the Idler bracket hole.

Figure 21

SECTION 12: OFF-SEASON STORAGE

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

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

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

SECTION 13: ACCESSORIES

Grass catcher Model 190-110-000 is available as

optional equipment for the Model 580 series units shown in this book.

Warning: The mower should not be

operated without the entire grass catcher or chute deflector in place.

7. Adjust the Drive Clutch as instructed in Drive Clutch Adjustment Section.

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

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

NOTE: 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.

Note: Under normal usage bag material is subject

to wear, and should be checked periodically. Be sure to use only factory authorized replacement.

SECTION 14: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE

Trouble Possible Cause(s) Corrective Actions

Engine fails to start

Engine runs erratic

Engine overheats

Occasional skip (hesitates) at high speed Idles poorly Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too

Excessive vibration Mower will not mulch grass

Uneven cut Wheels not positioned correctly. Wheels will not

propel**

Blade control handle disengaged. Spark plug wire disconnected. Dirty aircleaner. Primer button not depressed. Throttle control lever not in correct starting position (if so equipped). Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

Blocked fuel line (if so equipped). Faulty spark plug. Engine flooded. Unit running in START position. Spark plug wire loose.

Blocked fuel line (if so equipped) or stale fuel. Vent in gas cap plugged. Water or dirt in fuel system. Dirty air cleaner. Carburetor out of adjustment. Engine oil level low. Dirty aircleaner. Air flow restricted.

Carburetor not adjusted properly. Spark plug gap too close.

Carburetor idle mixture adjustment improperly set.

wide. Carburetor improperly adjusted. Dirty air cleaner. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. Bent cutting blade. Engine speed too low. Wet grass. Excessively high grass.

Dull blade. Belt not installed properly. Debris clogging mechanism.

Engage blade control handle. Connect wire to spark plug. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. Move throttle lever to FAST or START position.

Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline. Fuel will not last over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is used. Clean fuel line. Clean, adjust gap or replace. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. Move throttle lever to FAST position. Connect and tighten spark plug wire. Check spark plug for fouling. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Fuel will not last over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is added. Clear vent or threads or replace. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. Fill crankcase with proper oil. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire. Remove blower housing and clean. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit or see an authorized service dealer.* Adjust gap to .030". Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.

Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.

Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade. See an authorized service dealer. Set throttle between 3/4 and full throttle. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at desired height or make a narrower cutting swath (1/2 width). Place all four wheels in same height position. Sharpen or replace blade. Check belt for proper pulley installation and movement. Clean out debris.

**Self-propelled models only Note: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments above, contact your local authorized service dealer.

Shroud Chart

Part No. 751B281439 751B281440 751B281443

Hardware: 710-1256 (Screw)

Part No. 731-1402A 731-1694 731-1695 731-1934 Hardware: 710-1258 (Screw)

Color Dark Red Black Bright Red

Color Yellow Black Silver Charcoal

Part No. 731-1395A 731-1396A 731-1397A

Hardware: 710-1256 (Screw)

Part No. 7510143208

Hardware: 7510042823 (Screw)

Color Red Black Gray

Color Black

Part No. 731-1587A 731-1603A 731-1610A 731-1620A Hardware: 710-1184 (Screw)

Part No. 731-1585B

Hardware: 710-1274 (Screw)

Color Black Yellow Pewter Gray

Color Black

Part No. 731-1561

Hardware: 7510042823 (Screw)

Part No. 731-1586B 731-1612A

Hardware: 7510042823 (Screw)

Color Black

Color Black Red

Part No. 751B281451

Hardware:710-1256 Hardware:710-1237 Hardware: - - Hardware:

Color Gray

Part No. 751B281476 751B281777

Color Black Yellow

Part No. 7511681311 7511681911 7511682011

Color Black Red Gray

Part No. Color

Model 580 Series

SEE ENGINE

MANUAL

44 45

Model 580 Series

REF.

NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION

1 731-1057 Upper Drive Cover 2 731-0620 Drive Lever 3 731-1058 Lower Drive Cover 4 731-1059 Mounting Cap 5 710-0841 Screw # 10-12 x .75 6 746-0960 Drive Cable 7 747-0824 Control Lever

647-0004 Deluxe 8 749-00539B Upper Handle 9 746-0875 Throttle Housing

10 736-0501 Curved Washer .663 x .980 x .014 11 746-0876 Throttle Lever 12 710-0605 Screw Oval C-Sunk 1/4-20 x 1.81 13 720-0279 Knob 14 712-0267 Hex Nut 5/16-18 15 710-1205 Eye Bolt 1/4-20 16 746-0842 Throttle Cable: 51” B&S

746-0847 Throttle Cable: 42” Tec

17 710-1174 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0 18 746-0550 Control Cable: 39” B&S

746-0737 Control Cable: 51” Tec

19 726-0240 Tie Cable 20 714-0104 Cotter Pin 21 749-0928 Lower Handle 22 710-1237 Hex Screw: T: #10-32 x .625 B&S

710-0871 Hex Screw: T: #10-32 x .625 Tec

23 751B213146 Cable Clamp B&S

7510007775 Cable Clamp Tec

24 711-1293 Pin-Belt Keeper 25 631-0075 Engine Spacer 26 712-0271 Hex Nut 1/4-20 Thread 27 710-0751 Hex Screw 1/4-20 x .620 28 736-0270 Bell Washer .265 x 29 710-1008 Tapp Screw w/Hex Lock Wash 30 782-0079 Deck 22” SD 31 7510042824 Screw #12 x .457 32 731-1926 Trans Cover - Black w/Logo

731-1927 Trans Cover - Black wo/Logo

33 754-0466 V-Belt 34 712-0324 Hex Lock Nut 1/4-20 Thd. 35 756-1146 Drive Pulley 36 753-0825 Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 34,38,39,40)

REF.

NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION

37 742-0642 Blade 22”

742-0742 Mulching Blade - 22” 38 736-0452 Bell Washer .396 I.D. x 1.140 O.D. x .095 39 710-0606 Hex Screw 1/4-2 0x 1.50 40 710-1257 Hex Screw 3/8-24 x 2.50 41 710-0599 Tapp Screw 1/4-20 x .500 42 736-0270 Bell Wash .265 x .75 x .062 43 712-0287 Hex Nut 1/4-20 44 736-0270 Bell Washer .265 x .75 x .062 45 782-7006 Hinged Mounting Bracket 46 732-0731 Torsion Spring 47 747-0710 Hinge Pin 48 731-1386A Mulch Plug 49 731-1034 Chute Deflector 50 710-0793 Bolt 3/8-24 x .80 51 738-0878 Rear Axle 52 738-0507B Shldr Screw .500 Dia x .434 53 732-0404 Lever Spring 54 720-0190 Knob 55 782-0519A Small Pivot Bar- LH

782-0520A Small Pivot Bar- RH 56 682-0517 Handle Bracket Ass’y - LH

682-0518 Handle Bracket Ass’y- RH 57 736-0169 Lock Washer 3/8 58 712-0328 Hex Nut 3/8-24 59 736-0331 Bell Washer .39 x 1.13 x .062 60 712-0798 Hex Nut 3/8-16 61 750-0151 Spacer 62 736-0504 Wave Washer .510 ID x .750 OD 63 734-1864 Wheel Complete 14 x 1.8 Grey Bar Tread

N/I 741-0484 Bearing (2 per Wheel - Incl. w/No. 63)

64 736-3050 Flat Washer .406 x .812 x .051 65 712-3020 Top Lock Jam Nut 3/8-16 66 731-1026 Rear Flap 67 17098 Hinge Clip 68 749-0939 Strut - Handle 69 712-0324 Hex Lock Nut 1/4-20 70 736-0451 Saddle Washer .20 ID x .83 OD 71 736-0119 Lock Washer 5/16 72 811-00185 Throttle Comp. (Incl. Ref 9, 10,11,12,&69) 73 746-0883 Throttle Hsg. w/o Lever 74 710-1270 Scr. 1/4-20 x 1.31 Oval C-Sunk

Model 580 Series

52 42

IMPORTANT: For a

proper working machine, use Factory Approved Parts.

V-BELTS are specially designed to engage and disengage safely. A substitute (non OEM) V-Belt can be dangerous by not disengaging comletely.

Model 580 Series

REF.

NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION

1 712-3025 Hex Jam Nut 5/16-24 2 736-0425 Bell Wash .325 x .930 x .045 3 756-1042 Pulley 4 736-0425 Bell Wash .325 x .930 x .045 5 712-0896 Hex Nut 1/4 - 28 Lock 6 736-0406 Flat Wash .442 x 1.38 x .060 7 782-7598 Belt Keeper 8 741-0124 Ball Bearing

9 721-0457 Oil Seal 10 750-1050 Flange Spacer 11 682-0028 Idler Bracket Ass’y 12 741-0682A Bearing Sleeve 13 732-0849A Wash:Flat:.504 x .700 x .030 14 710-0299 Hex Cap Screw 1/4-28 x 1.00 Gr. 5 15 736-0570 Flat Washer .865 x 1.145 x .030 16 741-0699 Needle Bearing .438 x .625 x .500 17 721-0325 Plug 1/4 x .437 18 618-0300 Housing Asm:Upper:(Incl. #16) 19 721-0329 Seal:Oil:.500x .687 x .094 20 741-0673 Flange Bearing .503 x .689 x .792 21 611-0105 Output Shaft 22 736-0520 Flat Washer .504 x .700 x .030 23 717-1492 Pinion Shaft 10T. 24 736-0314 Thrust Washer .375 x .70 x .030 25 736-0569 Thrust Washer .388 x .625 x .062 26 618-0299 Housing:Lwr: (Includes #27) 27 741-0672 Flange Bearing .378 x .531 x .370 28 710-1276 Hex Screw w/Wash 1/4-20 x .750

REF.

NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION

29 618-0298 Transmission-Complete (Incl. 1 thru 30) 30 732-0708 Bearing Retainer 31 741-0604 Bearing Sleeve .50 I.D. 32 748-0355 Bearing Support 33 736-0447 Wave Washer 1.5 x 1.0 x .029 34 782-0512B Height Adj. Plate: RH 35 782-0511A Height Adj. Plate: LH 36 682-0509 Pivot Plate Asm. 37 732-0706 Front Lever R.H 38 732-0707 Front Lever L.H. 39 720-0190 Knob 40 710-0216 Hex Cap Screw 3/8-16 x .75 41 736-0474 Washer DD 1.5" O.D. 42 716-0102 Snap Ring 1.0 Dia 43 782-7551 Wheel Dust Cap 44 717-1534 Gear 14T RH Fwd 45 717-1533 Gear 14T LH Fwd 46 634-0021A Whl 8x1.75 Disk Bar Gray Sleeve S 47 731-0981A Hubcap:Whl:Radial Spoke Grey

720-0249 Hubcap:Euro:Grey 48 682-0512A Height Adj. Complete RH 49 682-0511A Height Adj. Complete LH 50 682-0030 Cable Idler Bracket 51 715-0221 Dowel Pin 52 736-3013 Flat Washer 1/2 x 1.00 x .063 53 714-0101 Cotter Pin .08 x 1.42 54 738-1002 Screw, Shoulder .375 x .25AB: 1/4-20 Thd. 55 754-0466 “V”-Belt

MANUFACTURER’S

LIMITED

WARRANTY

For TWO YEARS from the date of retail purchase within the United States of America, its possessions and territories, the manufacturer will, at its option, repair or replace, for the original purchaser, free of charge, any part or parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. This warranty covers units which have been operated and maintained in accordance with the operating instructions furnished with the unit, and which have not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance or alteration.

Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to separate terms as noted below in the “No Fault Ninety Day Consumer Warranty” clause.

All normal wear part failures will be covered on this product for a period of 90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the two year period, normal wear parts failures will be covered ONLY IF caused by defects in material or workmanship of OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts are defined as batteries*, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates 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, please check the yellow pages or contact the Customer Service Department of the manufacturer, P. O. Box 368022, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722. Phone 1-800-800-7310. The return of a complete unit will not be accepted by the factory unless prior written permission has been extended by the service department of the manufacturer.

Transportation charges: Transportation charges for the movement of any power equipment unit or attachment are the responsibility of the purchaser.

Units exported out of the United States: The manufacturer does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported outside of the United

States of America, its possessions and territories, except those sold through the manufacturer’s authorized channels of export distribution.

Other Warranties:

1. The engine or component parts thereof carry separate warranties from their manufacturers. Please refer to the applicable manufacturer’s warranty on these items.

2. *Batteries are covered by a 90-day replacement warranty.

3. Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders or component parts thereof are covered by a one year warranty.

4. All other warranties, express or implied, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are hereby expressly disclaimed in their entirety.

5. The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy of the manufacturer’s obligations arising from the sales of its products. The manufacturer will not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or damage.

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. Certain disclaimers are not allowed in some states and therefore they may not apply to you under all circumstances.

NOTE: This warranty does not cover routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade sharpening and tune-ups, or adjustments such as brake adjustments, clutch adjustments or deck adjustments. Nor does this warranty cover normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or exposure.

MTD S492 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual