Poulan 172777 User Manual

ECONOMY PUSH ROTARY
Lawn Mower

172777 Rev. 2 05.08.03 BY Printed in U.S.A.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Safety Rules ......................................... 2

Assembly..............................................9

Operation.............................................. 16

Maintenance......................................... 19

Service and Adjustments......................21

Storage................................................. 22

Troubleshooting .................................... 23

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw-

ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.

Look for this symbol to point out
im por tant safety precautions. It means
CAU TION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFE TY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING: In order to prevent ac ci ­den tal starting when setting up,
trans port ing, ad just ing or making repairs,
always dis con nect spark plug wire and
place wire where it can not contact plug.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle com po ­nents contain or emit chem i cals known to
the State of Cal i for nia to cause can cer and
birth defects or oth er re pro duc tive harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State
of Cal i for nia to cause can cer and birth
defects or oth er re pro duc tive harm. Wash

hands after handling.

CAUTION: Muffl er and other engine

parts become extremely hot during
operation and remain hot after engine has
stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact,
stay away from these areas.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all
in struc tions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thor ough ly
familiar with the controls and the proper
use of the machine before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis­ charge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible individuals, who
are familiar with the in struc tions, to oper­ate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which
could be picked up and thrown by the
blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop ma chine if anyone
enters the area.

• Do not operate the mower when bare­ foot or wearing open sandals. Al ways
wear substantial foot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely nec es sary. Always look down
and behind before and while moving
backwards.

• Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
oth er safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer’s instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories ap­proved by the manufacturer.

• Stop the blade(s) when crossing grav el
drives, walks, or roads.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equip ment, before clean ing the
mower or unclogging the chute.

2

• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until
the blade comes to complete stop before
removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artifi cial
light.

• Do not operate the machine while under
the infl uence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
fi rm hold on the handle and walk; never
run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mech­ a nism or drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine
(motor).

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

• Always wear safety goggles or safe ty
glasses with side shields when op er at ing
mower.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in
severe injury. All slopes require extra cau­tion. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: nev er
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.

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

DO NOT:

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

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

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

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the op er a tor
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the ma chine
and the mowing activity.
that children will remain where you last
saw them.

• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of an oth er
re spon si ble adult.

Never

assume

• Be alert and turn machine off if chil dren
enter the area.

• Before and while walking back wards,

down

look behind and

• Never allow children to operate the ma­chine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.

for small chil dren.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are fl ammable and
vapors are explosive.

- Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running.

Allow engine to cool before refueling.
Do not smoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open fl ame, such as a water heater.

• Never run machine inside a closed area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running. Dis con nect
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent ac ci den tal
starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip­ment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation reg u lar ly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if nec es sary,
before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (mo tor) is
running.

• Grass catcher components are sub ject
to wear, dam age, and de te ri o ra tion,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check com po nents and replace with
man u fac tur er’s recommended parts,
when necessary.

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

• Do not change the engine governor set­ting or overspeed the engine.

3

02584-bs_quantum

02583-bs_classic

01737-honda

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new Lawn Mower. It has been designed,

02579-briggs

en gi neered and manu fac tured to give you the best pos sible de penda bil ity and per for­m ance.
Should you experience any prob lems you can not easily remedy, please contact your
nearest authorized service center. They have com pe tent, well trained tech ni cians and
the proper tools to service or repair this unit.

• Read the SAFETY RULES and this Operator's Manual in its entirety before you at­tempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower to insure proper operation and to
prevent injury to yourself and others. Save this manual for future reference.

• Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those
parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation
of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely.
Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.

• All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON

• Remove all loose parts from carton.

• Remove lawn mower hous ing with care. Avoid touch ing blade under hous ing. Always
wear gloves or other protection when working under or lifting mower.

THINGS TO KNOW BE FORE YOU ASSEMBLE OR OPERATE YOUR LAWN
MOW ER

Do I have a side or rear discharge lawn
mower?

Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower. If the opening is on the right
side of the mower housing, it is a side
discharge mower. If the opening is at the
back of the mower housing, it is a rear dis­charge mower. Only rear discharge lawn
mowers have a grass catcher in clud ed with
the mower. Approved grass catchers for
side discharge mow ers may be purchased
from your nearest au tho rized dealer.

Do I have a mulching lawn mower?

Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower. Raise the discharge guard
(rear door on rear discharge mowers). If
the opening is closed off by a plate, then
your lawn mower is mulcher ready. To
convert to a discharging mower, see the
Operation section of this manual.

FRONT

What is the right and left side of the
lawn mower?

When right hand (RH) or left hand (LH) is
mentioned in this man ual, it means when
you are in the operating po si tion (stand ing
be hind the handle).

What kind of engine is on my lawn
mower?

When learning how to operate your new
lawn mower, you will need to know what
kind of engine powers the mower. A decal
on the engine will indicate the man u ­fac tur er and type or brand name of the
engine.

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES

02579-briggs

02585-bs_sprint

02579-briggs

LEFT

HAND

SIDE

BACK or REAR

(Op er at ing Position)

RIGHT

HAND

SIDE

TECUMSEH

EN GINES

®

HONDA

ENGINES

4

NOTE: Depending upon the features on the lawn mower model you purchased, all the
parts shown may not be included with your mower.

For ease of assembly, aside of your work area, lay out all hardware in the groups shown.
Each step of the assembly instructions will identify the group needed for that step.

PARTS PACKED SEPARATELY IN CARTON

NOTE: Some model lawn mowers

already have the wheels

(1) Control Bar

(1) Remote Throttle Control

(If Equipped)

(1) Upper Handle

preassembled to the mower.

(4)

Wheels

(1) Engine Zone

Control Cable

(1) Lower Handle

(1) Grass Catcher Frame

(Rear Discharge mowers only)

(1) Discharge Guard

(Side Discharge models only)

(4) Wheel Height Adjusters

(If Equipped)

(1) Grass Catcher Bag

(Rear Discharge mowers only)

PARTS BAG CONTENTS NOT SHOWN ACTUAL SIZE

One (1) only of the Starter
Rope Guides shown below:

(1) Upstop

Bracket

(4) Hubcaps

(If Equipped)

Cable

Ties

5

Center Mount

Side Mount

ASSEMBLY

LOCATION

PARTS BAG CONTENTS

GROUP “A”

LOWER

HANDLE

TO

MOWER

DECK

GROUP “B”

UPPER

HANDLE

TO

LOWER

HANDLE

For models with Bolt-on lower handle only

(4) Hex Bolts

3/8-16 x 3/4

For models with fixed upper handle

(4) Hex Bolts

3/8-16 x 3/4

(4) Washers 7/8" Dia.

For models with deck handle

brackets only

(2) Hairpin Cotters

only

(2) Locknuts

1/4-20

(4) Flange Locknuts 3/8-16

For all

models

(1)

Upstop

Bracket

Screw

#10-24 x 1/2

For models with folding upper handle only

(2) Handle Bolts

6

(2) Wing Nuts

ASSEMBLY

LOCATION

PARTS BAG CONTENTS (continued)

GROUP "C"

WHEELS

TO

MOWER

HOUSING

(4) Spacers

For models with bolt-on wheels only

(4) Shoulder Bolts

For models with "Quick Adjust" wheel

(4) Locknuts

3/8-16

(4) Retainer

height adjusters only

Springs

(4) Locknuts

3/8-16

(2 or 4)

Washers 1-1/4"

Dia.

GROUP "D"

GUARD

TO

MOWER

HOUSING

(Side Discharge

models only)

(4) Flanged

Locknuts

3/8-16

For models with bolt-on discharge guard only

(2) Hex Bolts

1/4-20

Screw Mounted

(4) Washers 1" Dia.

(2) Spacers

(If equipped)

For models with spring loaded

discharge guard only

(2) Hex Washer Head

Self-tapping Screws

1/4-20 x 3/8

(2) Washers

3/4" Dia.

7

(4) Wheel Adjuster Knobs

(2) Locknuts

1/4-20

Nut Mounted

(2) Locknuts

1/4-20

ASSEMBLY

LOCATION

GROUP "E"

PARTS BAG CONTENTS CON'T

REMOTE

THROTTLE

CONTROL

(If equipped)

TO ENGINE

GROUP "F"

CONTROL

CABLE(S)

TO

UPPER

HANDLE

(1) Diecast Clamp with
#10 x 5/8 Hex Head Screw
(For Briggs Engines only)

NOTE: Tecumseh engines have clamp and screw

preassembled to engine.

(1) Cable Clip with
#10 x 5/8 Hex Head Screw
(For Briggs Classic & Sprint Engines

(2) Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8

For models without remote throttle control

(1) Hex Bolt

1/4-20 x 1-1/2

For models with remote throttle control

only with spark plug to front of mower)

(1) Locknut

1/4-20

GROUP "G"

STARTER

ROPE GUIDE

TO HANDLE

(1) Locknuts

1/4-20

(1) Keps Locknut

1/4-20

(1) Hex Head Screw

1/4-20 x 2-1/8

8

ASSEMBLY

CAUTION: Do not operate this mower without the discharge guard or an entire ap-

proved grass catcher in place. These guards are for your protection and are required
by the American National Standards Institute and Consumer Products Safety Com­mission.

CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with spark plug.

ASSEMBLE LOWER HANDLE

(USE HARDWARE GROUP “A”)

MODELS WITH BOLT-ON LOWER
HANDLE

• For ease of lower handle assembly, raise
rear of deck and block se cure ly.

• Position lower handle on deck as shown:

- (20" mowers) cut-off fl at forward.

- (22" mowers) arrow down.

• Align holes in handle with holes in deck
as shown and assemble 3/8-16 x 3/4
hex bolts, 7/8" washers and fl anged
lock nuts. Tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side of mower.

Flanged

7/8" Washers

Arrow down
(22" Mowers)

Lower
handle

Cut-off fl at forward
Hex
bolts

(20" Mowers)

MODELS WITH DECK HANDLE
BRACKETS

• Install lower handle onto handle brack ets

by squeezing the bottom ends of handle
towards each other until the handle
will slip onto the mounting pins on the
handle brackets.

• Pull handle back to lock in operating

position.

• Install the two (2) hairpin cotters sup-

plied onto the mount ing pins.

locknuts

(REAR DISCHARGE MOWER SHOWN)

Lower handle

SQUEEZE
TO INSTALL

Hairpin cotter

Handle
bracket
mounting pin

ASSEMBLE UPPER HAN DLE

(USE HARDWARE GROUP “B”)

MODELS WITH FIXED (NON-FOLD ING)
HANDLES

• Position upper handle over lower handle:

- (20" mowers) small hole for mount ing
upstop brack et to left hand side.

- (22" mowers) side of handle with four
(4) holes as shown to left hand side.

• Assemble 1/4-20 x 1-1/2 hex bolts and
1/4-20 locknuts. Tighten se cure ly.

Four (4) holes
(22" Mowers)

Upstop
bracket

Hex
bolts

Locknuts

Upstop bracket
screw #10-24 x 1/2

9

MODELS WITH FOLDING UPPER
HANDLE

• Position upper handle over lower handle
with small hole for mounting upstop
bracket to left hand side.

• Assemble handle bolts and wing nuts.
Tighten se cure ly.

Upstop bracket

Upstop
bracket screw
#10-24 x 1/2

Wing nuts

(SIDE DISCHARGE MOWER SHOWN)

1-1/4" diameter Washer
(Rear wheels only)

Mower housing

Shoulder
bolt

Spacer

Wheel

3/8-16
Locknut

Handle bolts

ASSEMBLE UPSTOP BRACKET

(SEE ILLUSTRATION ABOVE)

• Position upstop bracket over hole inside
the left side of upper handle and install
upstop bracket screw
#10-24 x 1/2. Tighten securely.

ASSEMBLE WHEELS

(USE HARDWARE GROUP “C”)
NOTE: Some model mowers do not have

baffl es on underside of mower housing.
On models without baffl e in front and/or
rear of housing, use the 1-1/4" washers
sup plied when you assemble the wheels.

MODELS WITH "QUICK ADJUST"
WHEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTERS

Look carefully at the four (4) adjuster
assemblies. Notice that there are two (2)
each of two (2) different types.
Type I is for the Right Rear and Left Front
installation.
Type II is for the Right Front and Left Rear
installation.

TYPE I

TYPE II

MODELS WITH BOLT-ON WHEELS
Cutting height is de ter mined by as sem -

bling wheels in one of four possible posi­tions on the mower housing. All wheels
must be in the same height position for
even cut ting.

• For each wheel, assemble shoul der bolt,
wheel and spacer as shown.

• Assemble 1-1/4" diam. washer (if sup­plied) and 3/8-16 lock nut on inside of
mower housing and tight en se cure ly.

ASSEMBLE ADJUSTERS TO MOWER
DECK

• Position appropriate adjuster at each
corner of mower.

• Install each adjuster with adjuster bolt
and tab in deck holes as shown and
secure with 1-1/4" diam. washer (if sup­plied) and 3/8-16 locknut. Tight en all
adjusters se cure ly.

10

SIDE DISCHARGE MOWERS

Tab hole

1-1/4" Washer (If supplied)

TYPE I

Right rear/left front
height ad just er

TYPE II

Right front/left rear height ad just er

REAR DISCHARGE MOWERS

Locknuts

Tab hole

INSTALL DISCHARGE GUARD

(SIDE DIS CHARGE MODELS ONLY)
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “D”)

If your mower is a rear discharge mower,
go on to “INSTALL CON TROL BAR”.

MODELS WITH BOLT-ON GUARD
NOTE: If your discharge guard has ribbing

as shown in the illustration below, there
are two (2) spacers which must be placed
between guard and mower housing.

• Place discharge guard on top of lawn
mower discharge opening.

• Install two (2) 1/4-20 short hex bolts
through housing and discharge guard.

• Install two (2) 3/4" washers and two
(2)1/4-20 locknuts. Tighten securely.

Tab hole

1-1/4" Washer (If supplied)

Locknuts

TYPE I

Right rear/left front
height ad just er

TYPE II

Right front/left rear height ad just er

Tab hole

ASSEMBLE WHEELS TO ADJUSTER
AXLE ARMS

• Secure each wheel with fl at washer
and retainer spring or fl ange locknut (if
equipped with threaded axle).

• Assemble adjustment knobs to ad just er
levers by press ing or tapping lightly.

• If your mower is equipped with hub caps,
install by pressing or tap ping lightly until
hub cap snaps se cure ly over fl at wash er.

BOLT-ON GUARD WITH RIBBING

Locknuts

Washers

Spacers

Discharge
guard
ribbing

Hex bolts

BOLT-ON GUARD WITHOUT RIBBING

Locknuts

Washers

Axle arm

Wheel

Flat washer

Retainer
spring

Hubcap (If epuipped)

Adjustment

knob

Flange locknut
(If equipped with
threaded axle arm)

Discharge
guard

Hex bolts

11

MODELS WITH SPRING LOADED
DISCHARGE GUARD

• Place discharge guard on top of lawn
mower discharge opening.

• Install two (2) hex self-tapping screws
through housing and into guard mount­ing bracket or, install two (2) 1/4-20
locknuts (If equipped). Tight en securely.

SCREW MOUNTED TYPE

Discharge
guard

Hex head
self-tapping
screws

NUT MOUNTED TYPE

ASSEMBLE REMOTE THROTTLE
CONTROL TO ENGINE
(ON MODELS SO EQUIPPED)

(USE HARDWARE GROUP “E”)

If your mower does not have a remote throttle
control, go on to “ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE
CONTROL CABLE TO ENGINE”.

• First, move lever on remote throttle
control to the CHOKE (if equipped) or
FAST/START position.

CHOKE

Discharge
guard

Locknuts

INSTALL CONTROL BAR

(NO HARDWARE REQUIRED)

• Position control bar so fl attened sec tion
with hole is on opposite side of upstop
bracket.

• Insert one end of control bar into hole be­hind upstop bracket. Carefully push in on
opposite end of control bar and insert into
formed hole on inside of upper handle.

Control
bar

Upstop
bracket

FAST/START

Determine the manufacturer and brand or
type engine on your lawn mower and follow
the appropriate in struc tions that follow.

MODELS WITH BRIGGS & STRATTON
CLASSIC OR SPRINT AND TECUMSEH
ENGINES

NOTE: Tecumseh engines have cable

mounting clamp and screw preassembled
on engine.

• At en gine carburetor, insert wire “Z”
bend of throttle control into hole of
speed lever (use inner hole on Briggs &
Stratton engine).

• (Briggs & Stratton only) Assemble di­ecast clamp and #10 x 5/8 screw loosely
to engine.

• Position throttle cable under clamp and
push cable towards speed lever until speed
lever touches boss. Hold cable at this po­sition and tighten clamp screw securely.

12

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE SHOWN
(Clamp and Screw are preassembled on
Tecumseh engines)

Speed lever

Diecast
clamp

#10 x 5/8
Hex head screw

BRIGGS & STRATTON CLASSIC AND
SPRINT EN GINES WITH THE SPARK
PLUG TO FRONT OF MOWER

• Attach throttle cable to side of en gine
housing with cable clip and #10 x 5/8 hex
washer head screw. Tight en securely.

Throttle
cable

#10 x 5/8
Hex head screw

Cable clip

MODELS WITH BRIGGS &
STRATTON QUANTUM ENGINES

• Slide throttle lever on engine to CHOKE
position (away from spark plug). Push
gently beyond fi rst stop to lock in detent
(CHOKE position).

• Insert wire “Z” bend of throttle cable into
throttle lever hole from top side.

• Secure throttle cable to engine with
diecast clamp and #10 x 5/8 hex head
screw and tighten securely.

QUANTUM ENGINES ­SPARK PLUG TO FRONT OF MOWER

Throttle cable

Hex
Head
Screw
#10 x 5/8

Throttle

lever

Diecast clamp

QUANTUM ENGINES ­SPARK PLUG TO REAR OF MOWER

Throttle
lever

Diecast
clamp

Hex Head Screw #10 x 5/8

Throttle cable

ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE
CONTROL CABLE TO ENGINE

(NO HARDWARE REQUIRED)

Follow the appropriate instructions below
for the brand or type of engine on your
lawn mower.

MODELS WITH BRIGGS & STRATTON
CLASSIC OR SPRINT ENGINE

Cable attaches under the brake arm cov er,
which is op po site the spark plug end of
engine.

• Straighten cable and fi nd the end with
the small plastic fi tting.

• Hook the “Z” bend fi tting on inner wire of
cable into hole in brake arm of engine.

• Align the tapered end of the plastic fi tting
with the hole in mounting brack et and
push in until fi tting snaps into place.

• Route cable below crossbar portion of
lower handle and up to upper handle
control bar.

• Hook “Z” bend fi tting on inner wire into
hole in control bar (See “ASSEMBLE
CABLES TO UPPER HANDLE” in this
manual).

Engine cable clip
(rearward spark plug
models only)

Hex head screw #10 x 5/8
(rearward spark plug models only)

Brake
arm
cover

13

Mounting
bracket

"Z" Fitting

Small plastic fi tting

Brake

arm

MODELS WITH SPARK PLUG TO REAR
OF MOWER

To prevent cable damage, the cable must
be attached to the side of engine, away
from the muffl er.

• Above the muffl er, locate the hole in en­gine shroud. Install supplied ca ble clip
on cable and assemble to side of engine
with supplied hex head screw. Tighten
securely.

MODELS WITH TECUMSEH ENGINE

• Straighten cable and fi nd the end with
the small ta pered plastic fi tting.

• Hook the “Z” bend fi tting on inner wire of
cable into hole as shown.

• Align the tapered end of the plastic fi tting
with the hole in the mounting bracket
and push in until fi tting snaps into place.

• Route cable under crossbar portion of
lower handle and up to upper handle
control bar.

• Hook “Z” bend fi tting on inner wire into
hole in control bar (See “ASSEMBLE
CABLES TO UPPER HANDLE” in this
manual).

MODELS WITH BRIGGS & STRATTON
QUANTUM ENGINES

• Hook the “Z” bend fi tting on inner wire
of cable (end with tapered plastic fi tting)
into hole in brake lever of engine. Cor­rect brake lever to use is de ter mined by
position of spark plug on your mower

- forward or rearward.

• Position the tapered plastic fi tting into
the mounting brack et on engine. Snap
fi tting into place.

• Route cable under crossbar portion of
lower handle and up to upper handle
control bar.

• Hook “Z” bend fi tting on inner wire into
hole in control bar (See “ASSEMBLE
CABLES TO UPPER HANDLE”).

Brake lever (rearward spark plug)

Brake lever

(forward spark

plug)

TECUMSEH ENGINES
WITH SPARK PLUG FORWARD

Mounting
bracket

Small
plastic
fi tting

TECUMSEH ENGINES
WITH SPARK PLUG REARWARD

“Z” Fitting

Mounting bracket
(rear ward spark plug)

Mounting bracket

(forward spark plug)

ASSEMBLE CABLE(S) TO UPPER
HANDLE

(USE HARDWARE GROUP “F”)

• Assemble cable(s) to opposite side of
upstop bracket.

• Be sure to route cable(s) underneath
crossbar of lower handle.

• Position throttle control (if equipped)
on outside of handle and zone control
square fi tting on the inside.

• Secure to handle with the 1/4-20 ma­chine screw or hex bolt supplied and
lock nut as shown. Tighten se cure ly.

• Secure cable(s) to crossbar and low er
handle with cable ties as needed.

“Z” Fitting

Mounting
bracket

Small

plastic

fi tting

14

Throttle con trol
(If equipped)

1/4-20
Locknut

1/4-20 Machine
screw
or hex bolt
sup plied

Control bar

Cable
ties

ASSEMBLE STARTER ROPE GUIDE

(USE HARDWARE GROUP “G”)

CENTER MOUNT TYPE

• Install threaded end of rope guide
through hole in top of lower handle
cross bar.

• Loosely assemble 1/4-20 keps lock nut
on threaded portion of rope guide. Do
not tighten.

• Hold control bar against upper han dle
and slowly pull starter rope out and up
over lower handle cross bar and slip into
loop of rope guide.

• Push rope guide down against cross bar
and tighten nut securely.

Engine starter rope

Control bar

Upper
handle

Rope guide

1/4-20
Keps locknut

Lower handle

crossbar

Engine
starter
rope

SPARK PLUG BOOT (IF EQUIPPED)

(NO HARDWARE REQUIRED)

On some model lawn mowers a spark plug
boot is packed loose in the parts bag. If
your model has one, install it on spark plug
wire and then reconnect plug to spark plug.

Spark

Spark
plug

plug wire

Boot

Rope guide

Lower handle

1/4-20 Keps locknut

SIDE MOUNT TYPE

• Put threaded end of rope guide through
hole in side of upper handle above lower
handle crossbar. Se cure with 1/4-20
keps locknut.

• Hold control bar against upper handle
and slowly pull starter rope out until rope
will slip into loop of rope guide.

ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

(REAR DISCHARGE MODELS ONLY)
(NO HARD WARE REQUIRED)

• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part on bottom.

• Slip vinyl bindings over frame. If bind­ings are too stiff, hold them in warm
water for a few minutes. Allow bag to
dry before using.

Catcher frame

Vinyl binding

15

Frame

opening

OPERATION

The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in

severe eye damage. Always
wear safety glasses or eye shields while
operating your lawn mower or performing
any ad just ments or repairs. We recom­mend standard safety glasses or a wide
vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

MODELS WITH REMOTE THROTTLE
Engine speed is con trolled by the throttle

control located on the upper handle.

• Move lever forward to FAST engine

speed for start ing and better bagging.

• Move lever backward for SLOW engine

speed.

• Some models have engines equipped

with a choke feature. Move the lever all
the way forward to the CHOKE position
when starting a cold engine.

SLOW

FAST

BRIGGS & STRATTON CLASSIC or SPRINT

ENGINE MOUNTED SPEED CONTROL

Spark

plug

Engine

speed

Primer (if equipped)

BRIGGS & STRATTON QUANTUM

ENGINE MOUNTED SPEED CONTROL

Engine speed control lever

control lever

Primer (if

equipped)

CHOKE
(START)

Remote

throttle

control

MODELS WITH ENGINE MOUNTED
SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed is controlled by a lever
located at the carburetor on the engine.
HIGH or FAST position is for starting
en gine, normal cutting and better grass
bag ging. LOW or SLOW position is for
light cutting, trimming and fuel economy.

MODELS WITH FIXED SPEED ENGINES
Engine speed was set at the factory for

optimum per form ance. Engine speed is
not adjustable.

TECUMSEH

ENGINE MOUNTED SPEED CONTROL

Engine speed
control lever

Primer (if equipped)

16

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Adjust cutting height to suit your re quire ­ments. Me di um position is best for most
lawns. Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.

MODELS WITH MANUAL ADJUST
BOLT-ON WHEELS

• Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and
reassemble in desired adjustment hole.

• Reinstall wheel components in the same
order as they were before removal.
Tighten securely.

• Make sure all wheels are at the same
height.

Flat washer

OPERATOR PRESENCE EN GINE
CONTROL BAR

Your lawn mower is equipped with an op­ er a tor presence engine control bar which
re quires the operator to be po si tioned
behind the lawn mower handle in order to
start and operate the lawn mower.

CAUTION: Federal reg u la tions require
an en gine control to be in stalled on this
lawn mower in order to min i mize the
risk of blade contact injury. Do not un der
any cir cum stanc es attempt to de feat the
func tion of the operator con trol. The blade
turns when the engine is running.

GRASS CATCHER (REAR
DISCHARGE MOD ELS ONLY)

Wheel

Bolt

3/8-16

Spacer

Locknut

MODELS WITH "QUICK ADJUST" WHEEL
HEIGHT ADJUSTERS

NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
wheels on your lawn mower may not be
adjusted to the same position as the front
wheels. Before operating mower, adjust all
wheels to the same cutting height.

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.

• Adjust cutting height to suit your require­ments. Me di um position is best for most
lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze ad­juster lever to ward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your re quire ments.
Be sure all wheels are in the same set­ting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.

LOWER WHEELS
FOR HIGH CUT

RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT

Plate tab

Lever

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER

• Open rear door. Place frame onto
formed tabs on hinge bracket.

• Release rear door and allow to rest on
catcher.

TO REMOVE GRASS CATCHER

• Simply open rear door and lift grass
catcher up and away from mower.

Rear door

Hinge bracket
formed tabs

Catcher frame

CAUTION: Under nor mal usage, the

catch er material is subject to de te ri o ra tion
and wear and should, therefore, be
checked frequently for replacement. Any
replacement catcher should be checked
to ensure compliance with original
man u fac tur er's spec i fi ca tions.

CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower

with out the discharge guard (rear door),
ap proved grass catcher or clip ping
de fl ec tor in place. Never at tempt to
op er ate mower with the dis charge guard
(rear door) removed or propped open.

17

BEFORE STARTING EN GINE

Read engine manual packed with your unit.

FILL ENGINE WITH OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fi ll is clean.

• Remove engine oil fi ller plug (oil fi ll cap/
dipstick on models so equipped).

• Slowly add oil. For type and grade of
oil to use, see “ENGINE” in the Mainte­nance section of this manual.

• Fill to the top of slot in fi ller hole (to
“FULL” line on dipstick on models so
equipped). Do not overfi ll.

• Replace plug (oil fi ll cap/dipstick on
models so equipped) and tighten.

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil
as needed.

• To change oil, see “TO CHANGE EN­GINE OIL” in the Maintenance section of
this manual.

FILL GASOLINE TANK

• Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, un­leaded gaso line. DO NOT USE PRE­MIUM GASOLINE. BE CARE FUL NOT
TO OVERFILL TANK.

WARNING: Experience indicates that
al co hol blended fuels (called gaso hol or
using ethanol or metha nol) can at tract
mois ture which leads to sepa ra tion and
for ma tion of acids during storage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an en gine
while in stor age. To avoid engine prob lems,
the fuel system should be emptied before
stor age of 30 days or longer. Drain the fuel
tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel
lines and car bu re tor are empty. Use fresh
fuel next season. See Stor age In struc tions
for ad di tion al in for ma tion. Never use en gine
or car bu re tor clean er prod ucts in fuel tank or
per ma nent dam age may occur.

TO START ENGINE

CAUTION: The mow er blade rotates

whenever the engine is running.

• Move engine speed control to FAST
position or to CHOKE/START position
on models equipped with choke fea ture.

• If your mower has a primer, to start a
cold engine, push primer the num ber of
times as instructed in the engine manual
packed with your mower. Use a fi rm
push. This step is not usually nec es sary
when start ing an engine which has
already run for a few minutes.

• Hold operator presence control bar
down against han dle.

• Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow
starter rope to snap back.

• For engines equipped with choke, slowly
move engine speed control lever to
FAST position after engine starts.

• To STOP engine, release operator pres­ence engine control bar.

NOTE: For engines with a primer, it may be
nec es sary to repeat priming steps in cooler
weather. In warmer weath er, overpriming
may cause fl ood ing and en gine will not start.
If you do fl ood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and DO NOT
repeat priming steps.

Operator presence
control bar

Recoil starter
handle (side
mount type)

Recoil

starter

handle

(center

mount

MOWING TIPS

• For most cutting conditions and bet ter
bagging per form ance, the engine speed
should be set in the FAST po si tion.

• Under certain conditions, such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise the mower
height on the fi rst cut to reduce pushing
effort, to avoid over heat ing the engine, and
to avoid leaving clumps of grass clippings.
Make the second cut to the desired height.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut.

• For side discharge lawn mowers, cut in a
coun ter clock wise di rec tion, start ing at the
outside of the area to be cut, in order to
spread grass clip pings more evenly and
to put less load on the engine. To keep
clip pings off of walkways, fl ower beds, etc.,
make the fi rst cuts in a clock wise direction.

• When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps
of cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed (push ing
speed) and/or run the lawn mower over
the area a second time.

• If a trail of grass clipping is left on the right
side of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow
in a clockwise direction with a small overlap
to collect the clippings on the next pass.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be­come fi lled with dirt and dust with use
and the catcher will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before use.

18

type)

MAINTENANCE

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to op­erator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the war ranty, operator must main­tain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust­ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air fi lter element, and
check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and clean/new air fi lter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
en gine run better and last longer.

• Follow the Maintenance Sched ule in this
manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lu bri cants will
attract dust and dirt that will short en the life

LUBRICATION CHART

➀ Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

➁ Engine oil

➀ Side dis-

charge mower

guard hinge rod

➀ Rear dis-

charge mower

rear door

hinge rod

➀ Handle bracket mounting pins

➀ Spray lubricant

See “ENGINE” in Maintenance section.

➁

of the self-lu bri cat ing bearings. If you feel
they must be lu bri cated, use only a dry,
pow dered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

19

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when perform­ing any main te nance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemi cals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept
sharp. Re place bent or dam aged blades.

TO REPLACE BLADE

• Turn lawn mower on it’s side. See engine
manual for proper direction of turning
over the engine.

• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when re mov ing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt, lock washer and fl at
washer.

• Remove blade and blade adapter.

• In spect the key in side blade adapt er.
Re place adapt er if damaged.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.

• In stall new or sharp ened blade with
trailing edge up toward the en gine.

• Position blade on blade adapter. Align
the two (2) holes in blade with raised
lugs of adapter.

• Reassemble blade bolt, lock washer
and fl at washer into blade adapter and
crankshaft in exact order as shown.

• Position block of wood between blade
and mower housing.

• Tighten blade bolt securely. Rec om ­mended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. lbs.

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
the blade - but if you do, be sure the blade
is balanced.

Crankshaft

keyway

Crank

shaft

Blade adapter

Blade

Blade
bolt

Blade adapter

Key

Lockwasher

Hardened
washer

Trailing edge

TO SHARPEN BLADE
Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
excessive vibration and even tual damage
to lawn mower and engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a fi le
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail. If
blade is bal anced, it should remain in a
hor i zon tal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.

GRASS CATCHER (IF SO EQUIPPED)

Grass catcher may be hosed with water
but must be dry when used.

CAUTION: Under nor mal usage, the

catch er material is subject to de te ri o ra tion
and wear and should therefore be checked
to ensure compliance with origi nal
manufacturer spec i fi ca tions.

ENGINE

Read the maintenance section of your
engine manual.

LUBRICATION

Change the oil after the fi rst two hours of
operation and every 25 hours there af ter or
at least once a year if the lawn mower is
not used for 25 hours in one year. Refer to
engine manual.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
(SEE ENGINE MANUAL)

• Be sure mower is on a level surface.

• Oil will drain more freely when warm.

• Catch oil in a suitable container.

• For engines without dipstick, re move
bottom oil drain plug.

• For engines with oil fi ll cap/dipstick,
remove bottom drain plug or remove en­gine oil cap and turn mower on its side.

• After oil has drained completely, re place
oil drain plug and tighten se cure ly.

• Refi ll engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not overfi ll.

• Fill to top of slot inside of fi ller hole or
to “FULL” line on dipstick on models so
equipped. Keep oil at proper level.

20

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air fi lter.
Clean the element after every 25 hours
of operation, more often if lawn mower is
used in very dusty, dirty conditions.
See the maintenance section of your
engine manual.

SPARK PLUG

Change the spark plug once a year to
make the engine run better and easier
to start. Set spark plug gap according to
engine manual specifi cations.

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffl er as it
could create a fi re hazard and/or damage.

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of grass build-up and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.

• Clean the underside of your lawn mower
by scraping to remove buildup of grass
and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep fi nished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.

We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean your lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffl er, air fi lter, and
carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can shorten engine life.

CAUTION: Before performing any

service or adjustments-

• Release operator presence control bar.

• Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have com plete ly stopped.

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it can not
come in con tact with spark plug.

LAWN MOWER

REAR DEFLECTOR (IF EQUIPPED)

The rear defl ector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the pos si bil i ty that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower
into the operator mowing position. If the
defl ector becomes dam aged, it should be
replaced.

ENGINE

CARBURETOR

The carburetor has been preset at the fac­tory and ad just ment should not be neces­sary. However, minor ad just ment may be
required to compensate for differences in
fuel, temperature, altitude or load.

• The air fi lter must be assembled to the
car bu re tor when running engine.

• Best carburetor adjustment is obtained
when fuel tank is 1/4 full.

• In order for the engine to run, the opera­tor presence control bar must be held
in the operating position. There fore,
and assistant will be required to hold
the control bar in the operating position
when making fi nal adjustment to the
car bu re tor.

See the adjustment section of your engine
manual for further instructions.

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
as it may result in personal injury. If you
believe the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized engine service center for repair
and adjustment.

THROTTLE CONTROL

If it becomes necessary to adjust or
replace the throttle control, see the adjust­ment section of your engine man ual.

21

STORAGE

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the
unit will not be used for 30 days or more.

CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower

with gaso line in the tank inside a build ing
where fumes may reach an open fl ame
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a pe­riod of time, clean it thor oughly, remove all
dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean,
dry area.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See “CLEAN ING”
in the Maintenance section of this manual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Main te nance
section of this manual.

• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fas tened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE STORAGE
(HANDLE BRACK ET MODELS ONLY)

Your handle may be folded for storage as
shown.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower
handle towards each other until handle
clears the handle brackets and swing
handles forward over mower.

• Loosen upper handle mounting hard­ware enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.

IMPORTANT: When folding handles for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold
handles as shown or you may damage the
control cables.

When setting you handles up from the
storage position, the lower handle will au­tomatically lock into mow ing po si tion.

ENGINE

FUEL SYS TEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming in essential fuel
system parts such as carburetor, fuel fi lter,
fuel hose, or tank during storage. Also,
experience indicates that alcohol blended
fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which leads
to separation and formation of acids during
storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
systme of an engine while in storage.

• Drain the fuel tank.

• Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor clean er
prod ucts in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in min i miz ing the formation
of fuel gum deposits during stor age.
Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
stor age container. Always follow the mix
ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 min utes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the
carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank and
carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean oil. (See “ENGINE” in the
Maintenance section of this man ual).

CYLINDER

• Remove spark plug.

• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.

• Pull starter handle slowly to dis trib ute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause prob lems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to protect it from dust and dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable pro tec tive
cover that does not retain moisture. Do
not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe,

22

which al lows con den sa tion to form and

will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

CAUTION: Never store the lawn mow er
with gaso line in the tank in side a build ing
where fumes may reach an open fl ame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool be fore stor­ing in any en clo sure.

TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in this manual unless
directed to an authorized service center.

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Does not start 1. Dirty air fi lter. 1. Clean/replace air fi lter.

2. Out of fuel. 2. Fill fuel tank.

3. Stale fuel. 3. Drain fuel tank and refi ll tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.

4. Water in fuel. 4. Drain fuel tank and refi ll tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.

5. Spark plug wire is 5. Connect wire to plug.
disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug. 6. Replace spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken 7. Tighten blade bolt or
blade adapter. replace blade adapter.

8. Control bar in released 8. Depress control bar to
position. handle.

9. Control bar defective. 9. Replace control bar.

10.Fuel valve lever (if so 10. Turn fuel valve lever
equipped) in OFF position. to the ON position.

11.Weak battery (if equipped). 11. Charge battery.

12.Disconnected battery 12. Connect battery to engine.
connector (if equipped).

Loss of power 1. Rear of lawn mower 1. Raise cutting height.
housing or cutting blade

dragging in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass. 2. Raise cutting height.

3. Dirty air fi lter. 3. Clean/replace air fi lter.

4. Buildup of grass, leaves, 4. Clean underside of mower

and trash under mower. housing.

5. Too much oil in engine. 5. Check oil level.

6. Walking speed too fast. 6. Cut at slower walking speed.

Poor cut – 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten
uneven blade bolt.

2. Wheel heights uneven. 2. Set all wheels at same height.

3. Buildup of grass, leaves 3. Clean underside of
and trash under mower. mower housing.

Excessive 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten
vibration blade bolt.

2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a qualifi ed service
center.

23

TROUBLESHOOTING

(continued)

- See appropriate section in this manual

unless directed to an authorized service center.

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Starter rope 1. Engine fl ywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to
hard to pull when control bar is released. upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a qualifi ed service
center.

3. Blade adapter broken. 3. Replace blade adapter.

4. Blade dragging in grass. 4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.

Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.
not fi lling 2. Lift on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.
(If so equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.

Hard to push 1. Grass is too high or wheel 1. Raise cutting height.

height is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mower 2. Raise rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade housing one (1) setting
dragging in grass. higher.

3. Grass catcher too full. 3. Empty grass catcher.

4. Handle height position not 4. Adjust handle height to suit.
right for you.

24