MTD Yard Machines 410, Yard Machines 429 Operator's Manual

YARD

Operator's Manu

21" Rear Discharge

Push Mower

410 through 429

I

Model Series

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.

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 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.

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

ECO# 2844

PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 770-10110B

(112001)

TABLEOFCONTENTS

Content Page

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

Slope Gauge ..................................................................................................... 6

Assembling Your Lawn Mower ........................................................................... 7

Know Your Lawn Mower .................................................................................... 10

Operating Your Lawn Mower ............................................................................. 11

Making Adjustments .......................................................................................... 12

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower ........................................................................... 13

Off-Season Stoarge ........................................................................................... 15

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................. 15

Parts List ............................................................................................................ 16

Shroud Chart ..................................................................................................... 18

FINDINGMODELNUMBER

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.

Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or

an authorized dealer.

You can locate the model number by standing at the operating position and looking down at the rear
of the deck. A sample model plate is explained below. For future reference, please copy the model
number and the serial number of the equipment in the space below.

Copy the model number here:

Copy the serial number here:

CALLINGCUSTOMERSUPPORT

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.

Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD (4683) or 1- (800)-800-7310 to reach a Customer Support
representative. Please have your unit's model number and serial number ready when you
call. See previous section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial
number in order to process your call.

SECTION1: IMPORTANTSAFEOPERATIONPRACTICES

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger

the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual

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

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.

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 instruc-

tions could result in serious injury or death.

GeneralOperation

1. Read this operator's manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,

understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely

familiar with the controls and the proper use of this

machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering

replacement parts.

2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all

times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use itfor 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 operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and supervised by a
parent. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with
these safe operation rules should 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 awall 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 the operator zone behind the handles and keep

bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet

from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if

anyone enters the area.

6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to

protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.

7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms

and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or

light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with the 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 beiog 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 the 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 in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.

17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walkways

or roads.

18. Ifthe 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

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.

20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,

discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or

othersafetyprotectivedevicesinplaceandworking.
Neveroperatemowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.

Failuretodoso,canresultinpersonalinjury.

21.Mufflerandenginebecemehotandcancauseaburn.Do
nottouch.

22.Onlyusepartsandaccessoriesmadeforthismachineby
theoriginalequipmentmanufacturer(O.E.M).Failureto

dosocanresultinpersonalinjury.

23.Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthismanual,
usecareand good judgment. Contact your dealer for

assistance. Telephone [phone] for the name of
your nearest dealer.

SlopeOperation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents
which can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes

requires extra caution. Ifyou feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it. Before operating this unit on a slope or hilly area, use

the slope gauge on page 6 to measure slopes. Ifthe slope is
greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

De:

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. Ifyou 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,

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. 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 the
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the

operator.

2. Be alert and turn mower off ifa 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 14years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and

safety rules in this manual and should be trained and
supervised by a parent.

Service

SafeHandlingOfGasoline:

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.

2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

3. Useonly an approved gasoline container.

4. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on

the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

5. If possible, remove gas-powered equipment from the
truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. Ifthis is not

possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser

nozzle.

6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do

not use a nozzle lock-open device.

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

8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors
will accumulate in the area.

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

before refueling.

10. Neveroverfillfueltank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch

below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel

expansion.

11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.

12. Ifgasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes

before starting the engine.

13. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a water

heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas

appliances.

14. 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.

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

GeneralService:

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.EM.) blade

only, listed in this manual. "Use of parts which do not

meettheoriginalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"

4. Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut.Wrapthebladeor
weargloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.

5. Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstighttobesurethe
equipmentisinsafeworkingcondition.

6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheirproper
operationregularly.

7. Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stoptheengine,disconnect
thesparkplugwireandgroundagainsttheengine.

Thoroughlyinspectthemowerforanydamage.Repair
thedamagebeforestartingandoperatingthemower.

8. Neverattempttomakeawheelorcuttingheight
adjustmentwhiletheengineisrunning.

9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail

exposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobethrown.For
safetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponentsand

replaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment
manufacturer's(O.EM.)partsonly,listedinthismanual.

"Useofpartswhichdonotmeettheoriginalequipment
specificationsmayleadtoimproperperformanceand

compromisesafety!"

10.

Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingoroverspeed

theengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthemaximumsafe
operatingspeedoftheengine.

11.

Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as
necessary.

12.

Observeproperdisposallawsandregulations.Improper

disposaloffluidsandmaterialscanharmthe
environment.

shieldaresubjecttowearanddamagewhichcould

YourResponsibility

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.

/!XWARNING

O3

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

,,11 SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

! ,_ A POWER POLE

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WARNING

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

OR A FENCE POST

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Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10
feet). On steeper inclines, a dding mower could overturn and cause sedous 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.

SECTION3: ASSEMBLINGYOURLAWNMOWER

Unpacking

Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut

tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open

carton.
Remove loose parts if included with unit (i.e.,

owner's manual, etc.).
Cut along corners and lay carton down flat.
Remove packing material.

Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton

thoroughly for loose parts.

ToolsRequired

1. Pair of Pliers

2. Phillips Screwdriver t

3. 7/16" or Adjustable Wrench t

1-Required for models with hardtop grass bags only.
NOTE: This operator's manual covers various models

of lawn mowers. Follow only those instructions which
pertain to your unit.

DisconnectSparkPlugWire

In the case of lawn mowers where engine is
equipped with a rubber boot, attach rubber boot to
a bolt on the engine to ground. See Figure 1.

AssemblingHandle

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

Remove any packing material which may be
between the upper and lower handles for shipping

purposes.

Pull up and 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.

knob

Tighten
hand knob

Spark Plug Wire
With Rubber Boot

Briggs & Stratton Engines

Retaining Spark
Post ug

N

Engines with rubber boot

Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect
spark plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it
against the engine. See Figure 1.

N"

Spa
Pluc

Spark Plug
Wire

Tecumseh engines

Figure 1

V-Slot

_Spark

Wire

Figure 2

Tighten the hand knobs on each side of the handle
(carriage bolts must be seated properly into the
handle). See Figure 2.

NOTE: Your mower is shipped with the handle in the
higher height position. If you wish to lower the height of
the handle, refer to the Adjustment Section at this time.

Using a pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower
handle against the handle mounting bracket.

Remove the hairpin clips from the outer hole in the
weld pins on the handle mounting brackets. Insert
the hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld pin.
See Figure 3. Repeat on other side.

_, Handle Mounting

Bracket

_ Inserthairpin

"__ /_e "_ clip here

Hairpin \ \\ _ _-_
Clip _ \o=\_'_._

'-- Weid

_'_ Pin

Figure 3

The rope guide is attached to the right side of upper
handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures the
rope guide.
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. Release the blade control handle. Slip the
starter rope into the rope guide. Tighten the wing
nut. See Figure 4.
Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened
securely.

Slip rope into

Wing Nut

Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure 6B.
All of the plastic channels except center top of bag
attach from the outside of bag. Center top of bag
attaches from the inside of bag.

A

Frame

B

Hook

rope gR_ope_

Guide

Figure 4

Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the
lower handle. Pull the cable tie tight and trim the
excess. See Figure 5.

Cable Tie

Post

Hole on
Lower

Handle

Figure 5

AssemblingGrassCatcher

Frame

Grass

Bag Channels

Figure 6

B.HardtopGrassBag

Parts for Hardtop Grass Bag:

1. Front Frame

2. Rear Frame (packed inside hardtop cover)

3. Bag

4. Hardtop Cover

5. Mounting Bracket

6. Phillips Screw

7. HexLockNut

Assemble hardtop grass bag as follows:

Insert one end of the rear frame into the slit in the
cloth channel on the edge of the grass bag (slits are

approximately 6 inches from the end of the bag).
See Figure 7A. Feed all the material on one side of
the frame before working it around the frame. Make

sure the other end of the rear frame comes out of
the slit in the other side. See Figure 7B.

Slit []

NOTE: Make certain bag is turned right side out before

assembling (warning label will be on the outside).

A.SoftGrassBag

Parts for Soft Grass Bag:

1. Front Frame

2. Rear Frame

3. Bag
Assemble soft grass bag as follows:

Join the rear frame and front frame assembly as
shown inFigure 6A.

Place bag over frame (black plastic side is the
bottom of bag). Slip the openings in the side of the

plastic channel on bag over the hooks on the grass
catcher frame.

Rear

Frame

[]

Figure 7

Slide the front frame assembly into the rear frame
as shown in Figure 8. Push the front frame inso
that the cross piece on the front frame contacts the

rear frame.

Front Frame

Figure 8

Slipopenings of the plastic channel on bag overthe
grass catcher frame. See Figure 8. Secure front of
bag to front frame by working five plasticchannels
on bottom, sides and top ofbag over frame.

Hold the bag and frame so the bag hangs from the

frame (is not bunched around the frame). Slide the

handle of the grass catcher frame through the slot
in the hardtop cover as shown in Figure 9.

Place the mounting bracket under the front of the
handle, with the tabs on the bracket facing up.

Insert phillips head screw down through the hardtop
cover and mounting bracket. Secure with hex lock
nut. See Figure 10.

AttachingGrassCatcherToMower

NOTE: Make certain cables are muted to the outside of

the handle so they are not in the way when attaching
the grass catcher.

If your mower is equipped with a mulching baffle, it
is in place on the mower. To remove the mulching
baffle, lift the rear discharge door on the mower.

Remove the mulching baffle. See Figure 11 inset.

Mulch

Grass
Handle

Hardto
Cover

through this
slot

Figure 9

Press the rear frame into the two tabs at the back of

the hardtop cover. Put the cross bar on the front
frame into the channel infront of the hardtop cover

Head

Screw

Bracket

Lock
Nut

Rg

Figure 10

Door

Figure 11

To attach the grass catcher: Liftthe rear

discharge door on the mower. Place the hooks on
the grass catcher into the slots inthe handle
bracket assemblies. Release the rear discharge
door. See Figure 11.

To remove the grass catcher: Liftthe rear
discharge door on the mower as shown in Figure

11. Liftthe grass catcher up, out of the slots inthe

handle bracket assemblies. Release the rear
discharge door.

WARNING: Never operate mower unless

the hooks on the grass catcher are firmly
seated in the slots on the handle bracket

assemblies, and the rear discharge door
rests firmly against top of the grass catcher.

AssemblingChuteDeflector(ifequipped)

Ifyour mower is equipped with the optional chute

deflector, assemble as follows:

Slide the rod intothe upper edge of the chute
deflector so the tab on the rod istoward the left side

of the chute deflector. When assembled correctly,

the rod wilt extend further to the left side. See

Figure 12.

Tab

__ Push

DCehute

flector

Nut

Figure 12

Slide the push nut onto the right side of the rod to
secure.

AttachingChuteDeflectorToMower

To attach chute deflector: Lift the rear discharge

door on the mower. Place the ends of the rod into

the slots in the handle bracket assemblies. See

Figure 13. Release the rear discharge door.

To remove chute deflector: Liftthe rear discharge
door on the mower. Liftthe chute deflector up and

out of the slots in the handle bracket assemblies.

Release the rear discharge door. See Figure 13.

Rear

Door

/

Slots

Figure 13

IMPORTANT:This unit isshipped without gasoline or oil

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

SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER

Compare the illustrationsin Figure 14 with your lawn mower to familiadze yourself with the location of various
controls and adjustments. The operation of any lawnmower can result in foreign objects being thrown intothe
operator's eyes, causing severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses before operating the mower, or while
performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

Blade Control Handle

Upper Handle

Recoil Starter

Grass Catcher

Gas Cap

Height Adjustment Lever

Throttle Control (if equipped)

Lower Handle

Figure 14

10

BladeControlHandle

WARNING: The blade control mechanism is

a safety device. Never attempt to bypass it.

Please note that if the mower is not equipped with this
lever, the engine has a constant speed throttle, which is
already set at full throttle for best performance.

WARNING: The blade will be rotating

whenever the engine is running. Keep your
hands and feet away from a rotataing blade.

The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. The blade control handle must be

depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the
blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.

ThrottleControlLever (ifequipped)
The throttle control lever is located on the left side of the
upper handle. It is used to regulate engine speed.

_'_ WARNING: The throttle control cannot be

RecoilStarter

The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle and

is used to start the engine.

HeightAdjustmentLever

The height adjustment lever is located on each wheel

and adjusts the cutting height. All four levers have to be
put at the same level for uniform cutting height.

used to stop the engine.

SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNMOWER

Move the throttle control/choke lever, ifequipped,

,_, WARNING: Keep hands and feet away

from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer to
warning label on the unit.

GasandOilFill-Up

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the 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.

BeforeStarting

Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Ifthe mower is
equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the
spark plug wire, ensure that the metal cap at the
end of the spark plug wire inside the rubber boot is

fastened securely over the spark plug's metal tip.

ToStartEngineandEngageBlade

Ifthe engine is equipped with a fuel valve lever,

move itto the ON position. See Figure 15.

forward all the way intothe choke position. Warn
engine may not require choking. In that case, move
the throttle intothe FAST (rabbit) position only

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

Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle.

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.

Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.

Keep afirm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly
to the rope guide.
After engine starts, move throttle control lever (if so
equipped) to desired engine speed. Your mower is
designed to operate at full throttle. Engines with
fixed throttles operate at full throttle too.

To

StopEngineandBlade

Move throttle control lever, if equipped, to the
SLOW (turtle) position.

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

Fuel Valve Lever

Figure 15

i_ WARNING: The blade continues to rotatefor a few seconds after the engine has been

shut off.

Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine.

NOTE: For shipping purposes your mower is set with
the wheels in a low cutting height position. For best
results, raise the cutting position until it is determined
which height is best for your lawn. See cutting height
adjustment section on page 12.

11

UsingRotaryMower

WARNING: Never operate your unit

without either the rear deflector 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 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.
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.

UsingMulcher(If equipped)

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 to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4"
maximum before mulching.

SECTION6: MAKINGADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Do not at any time make any

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

HandleHeight

Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower the handle height, proceed as

follows.

Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink the

cables.
Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the

handle brackets. Press outward on the legs of the
lower handle, and remove it from the mower

Turn the lower handle around so the notches on the
bottom of the lower handle are facing forward as

shown in Figure 16. Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the
handle mounting bracket.

Handle Notch

Lower

Figure 16

Reassemble the upper handle.

Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes in the weld
pins and attach the starter rope as instructed earlier
on page 7.

CuttingHeight

An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel

position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has nine height positions.

Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move
it to any of the nine positions for the desired cutting
height. See Figure 17. All four levers on the four

12

wheels must be placed in the same relative position
for uniform cutting height.

Height
Lever

Figure 17

Carburetor

Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences infuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your mower.

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.

WARNING: If any adjustments are 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.

SECTION7: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNMOWER

The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round

,_ WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and

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

Maintainingthe Blade

Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,
especially ifyou strike aforeign object. Replace

when necessary.

WARNING: When removing the cutting

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

Remove the bolt and bell support which hold the
blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft. See
Figure 18. Remove the blade and adapter from the

crankshaft.

C_nkshaff

Blade

Adapter

shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy
side until it balances evenly. Itis recommended that
the blade always be removed from the adapter for

the best test of balance.

Before reassembling the blade and the blade
adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft
and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light
oil (or engine oil). Also lubricate the bolt holes, bolts

and inner surface of the nuts.

Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the
"star" away from the engine. Place the blade with
the side marked bottom (or with part number) facing
away from the adapter. Align the blade bell support

over the blade with the tabs in the holes of the
blade and insert the hex bolt. Tighten the hex bolt to

the torque listed here.

BladeMountingTorque:

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

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

tightness.

DeckCare

[_ Hex Bolt

Figure 18

When sharpening the blade, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It isextremely important

that each cutting edge receive an equal amount of

grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. An
unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration

when rotating at high speeds, and may cause

damage to the mower and/or personal injury.

__ Bell

Support

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

shorten life of the mower and reduce its serviceability.

The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a build-up of

grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. Ifthis
debris is allowed to accumulate, it wilt invite rust
and corrosion, and may cause an uneven
discharge of grass clippings at the next cutting.

13

Thedeckmaybecleanedbytiltingthemowerand
scrapingcleanwithasuitabletool(makecertainthe
sparkplugwireisdisconnected).

ReplacingRearFlap

To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 19.
Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending

the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.

Rear Discharge
Door

Handle
Bracket

Bracket

R'_ear

Flap

Lubrication

BladeControl
Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle

and the brake cable at least once a season with light oil.

See Figure 20. The blade controlmust operate freely in
both directions.

RearDischargeDoor

The torsionsprings 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.

Figure 19

Engine

A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the
accompanying engine manual for detailed list and

instructions.

Maintain engine oil level as instructed in engine
manual.

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
engine manual.

Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.
Spark plug replacement isrecommended at the
start of each mowing season. Check engine
manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.
Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep

the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to

permit proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt
and combustible debris from muffler area. Figure 20

LUBE

14

SECTION8: OFF-SEASONSTORAGE

If the lawn mower is not going to be used for 30 days or
longer, prepare the unit for storage. Follow the steps
below for proper storage of the mower.

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

Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.

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

an unventilated 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.

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

SECTION9: TROUBLESHOOTINGGUIDE

Trouble
Engine fails to

start

Engine runs
erratic 2.

Engine 1.
overheats 2.

Occasional skip 1. Spark plug gaptoo close. 1.
(hesitates) at 2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment 2.

high speed improperly set.
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide. 1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.

Excessive 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. 1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.
vibration 2. Bent cutting blade. 2. See an authorized service dealer.

Mower will not 1. Engine speed too low. 1. Set throttle between 3/4 and full throttle.
mulch grass 2. Wet grass. 2. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.

Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly. 1. Place all four wheels in same height position.

Possible Cause(s)

1.

Blade control handle disengaged.

2.

Spark plug wire disconnected.

3.

Dirty aircleaner.

4.

Primer button not depressed.

5.

Throttle control lever (if so equipped) not in
correct starting position.

6.

Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

7.

Blocked fuel line

8.

Faulty spark plug.

9.

Engine flooded.

1.

Throttle lever (if so equipped) in START.
Spark plug wire loose.

3.

Blocked fuel line (if equipped) or stale fuel.

4.

Vent in gas cap plugged.

5.

Water or dirt in fuel system.

6.

Dirty air cleaner.

7.

Carburetor out of adjustment.

Engine oil level low.
Dirty aircleaner.

3.

Air flow restricted.

4. Carburetor not adjusted properly. 4.

2. Carburetor improperly adjusted. 2. Refer to the engine manual.

3. Dirtyair cleaner. 3. Refer tothe engine manual.

3. Excessively high grass. 3. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at

2. Dull blade. 2. Sharpen or replace blade.

Corrective Actions

1. Engage blade control handle.

2. Connect wire to spark plug.

3. Refer to the engine manual.

4. Refer to the engine manual.

5. Move throttle lever to FAST or START position.

6.

Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline,

7.

Clean fuel line,

8.

Clean, adjust gap or replace.

9.

Refer to the engine manual.

1.

Move throttle lever (if so equipped) to FAST position,

2.

Connect and tighten spark plug wire.

3.

Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline,

4.

Clear vent or threads or replace.

5.

Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.

6.

Refer to the engine manual.

7.

Refer to the engine manual.

1.

Fill crankcase with proper oil,

2.

Refer to the engine manual.

3.

Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire, Remove
blower housing and clean,

Refer to the engine manual.
Adjust gap to ,030".

Refer to the engine manual.

desired height or make a narrower cutting swath (1/2

width).

NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments above, contact your local authorized service dealer

or call Customer Service at 1(330) 220-4MTD or 1(800)800-7310.

15

SECTION10: PARTSLISTFORMODELSERIES410THROUGH429

62 27

10

15

68

19

69

59

29

27

Zag Tread Wheel

BarTread Wheel

6O

76

\

44

60 42

5O

59

44

\

45

WheelChart

Type of Wheel Part No. Tread Color

Wheels w/o bearings 734-1781, Slot Hub Bar Tread* Grey
Wheels w/o bearings 734-1987, 8 x 1.8 Sp. Bar Tread* Grey

734-1988, 7x 1.8

Wheels w/o bearings 634-0020, Disc Hub Bar Tread* Grey
Wheel Assembly BB 734-2004 Zag Tread* Black

* See Illustration

16

ModelSeries410Through429

Ref Part No.
No.

1 747-1161A
2 710-1205
3 720-0279
4 710-1174
6 720-0314
7 710-0605
8 736-0501
9 712-0324

10 746-0876

11 749-1092

749-0705

12 720-0295

13 749-0928

14 726-0240

15 764-0310

16 746-1130

746-0557

746-1137
17 746-1115
18 764-0311
19 764-0309

764-0476A

20 714-0104
21 732-0678
22 732-0677
23 782-7000
24 751B213146

7510007775

25 646-0876
26 811-00748

27
28 710-1237

29 735-0639
30 732-0700
31 731-1236
32 753-0588
33 710-1044
34 736-0524A
36 742-0741

742-0641

39 736-0356
40 712-0798
41 15261A

Description Ref Part No.

No.

Control Handle 42 15262B
Rope Guide 43 14832

Handle Knob 1/4-29 Thd. 44 738-0597B
Curved Hd, Bolt 5/16-18 x 2" Lg 45 736-0198

Hand Knob 46 738-0102
Oval C-Sunk Mach. Scr,t 47 720-0190

Spring Washer .66" I.D.t 48 732-0417A
Hex L-Nut 1/4-20 Thd. 49 14578

Throttle Lever t 14579
Upper Handle 50 14765
Upper Handle (Models with Honda 14766
engine only) 51 782-5002
Foam Grip (Optional) 52 710-0654A

Lower Handle 53 782-5003
Cable Tie 54 710-1017
Rear Catcher Frame 55 710-0896

Control Cable-40" (B&S) 56 682-0516A
Control Cable-47" (Honda) 57 682-0515A
Control Cable-52" (Tecumseh) 58 782-0310A
Throttle Control Wire - 47" t 59 (See Wheel
Front Catcher Frame Chart )
Grass Bag 60 731-0981A
Grass Bag w/Logo 720-0249
Hairpin Clip 61 764-0433
Door Spring - R.H. 62 731-1322A
Door Spring - L.H. 731-1876
Rear Discharge Door 63 710-0286
Cable Clamp (B&S) t 64 712-0324
Casing Clamp (Tec.) 1" 65 782-9011
Throttle Body t 66 782-5007A
Throttle Box Comp.t (Models with 67 782-5004
Honda engine only) 68 731-1405
Engine 69 711-0996

Hex Wash. Hd. Scr. #10-32 x .62" 70 726-0201
Lg. (B&S) t 71 710-0192

Spark Plug Boot t 72 720-0275
Wire Rod 73 731-1506

Rear Flap 74 738-0213
Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 33, 34) 738-0102
Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5" Lg. 75 750-0535
Blade Bell Support 76 736-0504
21" Mulching Blade 77 751B225250

21" Blade 751B224437
Bell-Wash..39" I.D. x 1.38" 78 751B281705
Hex Nut 3/8-16 Thd. -- 751B224819

Height Adj. Plate

Description

Pivot Bar

Spring Lever Ass'y. w/Knob
Shld. Bolt .5" Dia. x .357"

Bell-Wash..38" I.D. x .88" O.D.
Axle Bolt
Spring Lever Knob

Spring Lever

Height Adj. Assembly Comp. - R.H.

Height Adj. Assy. Comp. -L.H._

Pivot Bar R.H.

Pivot Bar LH. -1:

Front Baffle

Hex L-Wash. Hd. Scr. 3/8-16 x 1"

Rear Baffle
Torx Mach. AB-Tap Scr. 1/4 x 62"

Wash.Scr. 1/4 -14 x .625

Handle Bracket Assembly - R.H.

Handle Bracket Assembly - L.H.
21" R.D. Deck

Wheel Assy. Comp.

Hub Cap - Gray, Rad. Spoket

Hub Cap - Gray, Euro t

Grass Bag

Hard Top Cover

Hard Top Cover w/Logo

Pan Hd. Mach. Scr. 1/4-20 x .5" Lg.

Hex Nylon L-Nut 1/4-20 Thd.

Mounting Bracket

Mulching Baffle Plug t

Mulching Baffle - R.R. t

Deflector t

Rod t

Push Speed Nut t
Truss Scr. #10-24 x .38" Lg.

Knob

Deck: Front Cover t

Rear Axle Bolt t
Axle Bolt

Spacer t
Wave Washer t

Muffler Guard (B&S Classic only)

Muffler Guard (B&S Quantum only)

Finger Guard t

Flywheel Guard :I:(B&S Classic,
Sprint and Quatro engines only)

t Ifequipped
_cNot illustrated

17

SECTION1: SHROUDCHART

751B281439 Dark Red

Shroud t Color

751B281440 Black
751B281443 /Bright Red

Hardware: 710-1256

Shroud Color

731-1585B Back

Hardware: 710-1274

l

Shroud Color

731-1395A Red
731-1396A Black

731-1397A Grey

Hardware: 710-1256

Shroud Color

731-1586B Black
731-1612A Red

Hardware: 7510042823

Shroud Color

731-1402A Yellow
731-1694A Black
73%1695 Silver
731-1934A Charcoal

Hardware: 710-1256

Shroud t Color

7510143208 Black

Hardware: 7510042823

Shroud [ Color

7511681311 /Black
7511681911 /Red

7511682011 /Grey

Shroud t Color

751B281451 Dark Red

Hardware: 710-1256

Not Illustrated

7 Shroud Color

51A1--"_'3"_'8:Dark Red

pectra Style

Hardware: 7510042823

18

Shroud Color

751B281857 Black
751B281777 Yellow

Hardware:710-1237

YOURNOTES

Date Comments

19

MANUFACTURER'S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:

YARD

The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD
PRODUCTS INC ("MTD") 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
material 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, com-

mercial 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 accessory or attachment not
approved by MTD Products Inc. for use with the product(s)

covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any
resulting damages.

Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to
separate terms as follows: All normal wear part or compo-
nent failures will be covered on the product for a period of

90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the
two year period, normal wear part failures will be covered
ONLY IF caused by defects in material or workmanship of

OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts and compo-
nents include, but are not limited to. belts, blades, blade

adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow
thrower skid shoes, shave plates and tires. Batteries are

covered by a 90-day limited replacement warranty.

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 for a listing in the Yellow Pages or

contact the Customer Service Department of MTD PROD-
UCTS INC by calling 1-800-800-7310 or writing to RO. Box
368022, Cleveland. Ohio 44136-9722.

This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the

following cases:

a, The engine or component parts thereof, These items

carry a separate manufacturer's warranty. Please refer
to the applicable manufacturer's warranty on these

items.

b. Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders have a sepa-

rate one year warranty.

c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,

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

d. MTD 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 MTD's authorized channels of export distribu-

tion.

No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or 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 or guaranty, 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 War-

ranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of

the product as set forth above. (Some states do not

allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so

the above limitation may not apply to you.)

The provisions as set forth in this Warranty provide the

sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sales. MTD
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss

or damages including, without limitation, expenses
incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care ser-

vices, for transportation or for related expenses, or for

rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted
product. (Some states do not allow the exclusion or limita-

tion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above

exclusion or limitation 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 the safety features of the product shall void this War-

rarity. 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 use or misuse or inability to use

the product.

This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than
the original purchaser, original lessee or 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.