Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
21" STEEL DECK
WALK MOWERS
"M" MODEL
SERIES 17
MODELS
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
IMI
MODEL DESIGNATION
SELF-PROPELLED
CUTTING WIDTH
M - Model Designation P - Self Propelled Model
W - Model Designation R - Recycling Model
21 - 21" Cutting Width
60 - 6.0 HP 66 - 6.6 HP (En.qine Horse Power)
1
PUSH
MODEL
MR216017B
MR216017BV
WMR216017B
WMR216017B V
MR216517B
I
BV
I
1
ENGINE HORSE POWER
17 - Series Designation
B - Briggs & Stratton Engine
V - Overhead Valve Engine
PROPELLED
MODEL
MRP216017B
MRP216017BV
WMRP216017B
MRP216517B
ENGINE TYPE
SERIES DESIGNATION
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Walk Behind, read this manual carefully and pay
particular attention to the "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on Pages 2, 3, & 4. Remember that all power
equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance
with the operating instructions and common sense.
COPYRIGHT © 2003
SNAPPER PRODUCTSINC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
MANUAL No. 7-4349 (Rev. 1, 2/3/03)
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that
can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious
injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions
and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the
machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might
impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer
cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough,
Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).
PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
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.
2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is
operated and turn machine OFF if anyone
enters the area.
3. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate
machine.
4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers
with mature judgment under close adult
supervision to operate machine.
5. DO NOT pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. LOOK and SEE behind
and down for children, pets and hazards before
and while backing.
6. USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure vision.
SLOPE OPERATION
1. 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.
2. Mow across slopes, never up-and-down.
Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing
directions on slopes. DO NOT mow steep
slopes or other areas where stability or traction
is in doubt.
3. Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments; these affect the handling and the
stability of the machine.
PREPARATION
1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and
warnings in this manual and on the mower,
engine and attachments. Know the controls and
the proper use of the mower before starting.
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate
the machine and only after proper instruction.
PREPARATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above,
are involved in a large percentage of mower-
related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the mower
safely enough to protect themselves and others
from serious injury.
4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved
fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add
fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors
only with engine stopped and cool. Clean
spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT
smoke.
5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all
objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and
other objects that could cause injury if thrown
by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note the
location of holes, stumps, and other possible
hazards.
6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area.
Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop
mower if anyone enters the area.
7. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade
controls and other safety devices frequently for
proper operation and location.
8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible.
Replace if damaged.
9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety
glasses, long pants and substantial footwear.
DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.
10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in
preparation for emergencies.
11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
12. Check grass catcher components frequently for
signs of wear or deterioration and replace as
needed to prevent injury from thrown objects
going through weak or torn spots.
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
2. Use only an approved fuel container.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
(Continued From Previous Page)
3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the
engine running. Allow the engine to cool before
refueling.
4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.
5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container
inside where there is an open flame, spark or
pilot light such as on a water heater or other
appliances.
6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or
on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place the containers on the ground
away from the vehicle before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the
vehicle or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If
this is not possible, then refuel equipment using
a portable container, rather than a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in
enclosed vehicles or trailers.
9. 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
10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
11. Never overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and
tighten securely.
OPERATION
1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Keep clear of discharge area while engine
is running.
2. STOP engine when crossing gravel drives,
walks, or roads, and under any conditions
where thrown objects might be a hazard.
3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
4. DO NOT operate mower while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
5. After striking a foreign object or if mower
vibrates abnormally, STOP the engine,
disconnect and secure spark plug wire. Inspect
the mower for any damage and repair the
damage.
6. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or
embankments. Operator could lose footing or
balance.
7. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden
hazards. Tall grass can hide obstacles. Keep
away from ditches, washouts, culverts, fences
and protruding objects.
8. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. Keep a firm hold on the handle
and walk, never run. Slipping could cause
injury.
OPERATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
9. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine
running. STOP BLADE and STOP ENGINE
before leaving the operators position for any
reason.
10. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make
certain engine, blade and all moving parts have
STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug
wire away from plug to prevent accidental
starting.
11. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to
complete STOP before removing grass bag
and/or clearing grass.
12. DO NOT operate mower without the entire grass
catcher or guards in place. DO NOT point
discharge at people, passing cars, windows or
doors.
13. Slow down before turning.
14. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing
roadways.
15. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas.
Engine exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide, a deadly poison.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1. DO NOT store mower or fuel container inside
where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or
pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace,
clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow
engine to cool before storing machine in an
enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of
children in a well ventilated, unoccupied
building.
2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or
excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine
overheating.
3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an
approved container outdoors and away from
open flame.
4. Keep all bolts, especially blade bolts, nuts and
screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins
are in proper position.
5. Always provide adequate ventilation when
running engine. Engine exhaust gases contain
carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.
6. Service engine and make adjustments only
when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug
wire from spark plug and secure wire away from
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
7. DO NOT change engine governor speed
settings or overspeed engine.
8. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear
or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and
exposure to moving parts. Replace with new
bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace
slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
(Continued From Previous Page)
9. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use
CAUTION when handling them.
10. DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug
next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite
gas exiting engine.
11. Have machine serviced by an authorized
SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have
the dealer install any new safety devices.
12. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts
to assure that original standards are
maintained.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .............................................. 2 - 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................ 5
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION .............................................................. 6
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ....................................... 7-11
Pre-start Checklist ...................................................................................................... 7
Starting & Stopping Engine & Blades ................................................................... 7-8
Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive .............................................................................. 8
Handle Height Adjustment ......................................................................................... 8
Cutting Height Adjustment ........................................................................................ 8
Recycling Operation ................................................................................................... 9
Installation of Grass Bag Adapter ............................................................................. 9
Installation of Recycling Plug ................................................................................... 9
Installation of Grass Bag (Door Type) ................................................................. 9-10
Installation of Grass Bag (Slide Closure Type) ..................................................... 10
Installation of Discharge Deflector ......................................................................... 11
Installation of Recycling Cover ............................................................................... 11
SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ................................ 12-13
Change Engine Oil.................................................................................................... 12
Check Transmission Grease .............................................................................. 12-13
Check Mower Blade ................................................................................................. 13
Check Engine Drive Belt .......................................................................................... 13
Check Transmission Poly-V Belt ............................................................................ 13
Service - Annually ..................................................................................................... 13
Engine ................................................................................................................... 13
Air Filter ................................................................................................................ 13
Engine Oil ............................................................................................................. 13
Storage Procedure ................................................................................................... 13
SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR .................................... 14-20
Mower Blade Replacement ...................................................................................... 14
Blade Sharpening ................................................................................................ 14-15
Wheel Drive Control Adjustment ............................................................................ 15
Driven and Drive Disc Service ................................................................................ 16
Cleaning Drive Disc and Driven Disc ................................................................. 16
Drive Spring Repair/Replacement ...................................................................... 16
Driven Disc Adjustment ................................................................................. 16-17
Driven Disc Replacement .............................................................................. 17-18
Driven Disc Bearing Replacement ..................................................................... 18
Hex Shaft Bearing Replacement ........................................................................ 18
Belt Service .......................................................................................................... 19-20
Engine Drive Belt Replacement .................................................................... 19-20
Transmission Poly-V Belt Replacement ............................................................ 20
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 21
SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 22
Maintenance/Replacement Parts ............................................................................ 22
WARRANTY AND PRODUCT REGISTRATION .............................. 23 - 24
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE ................................................................ 25-28
I !IMPORTANT !
IThe pictures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ
from your specific model. Contact your local SNAPPER dealer if you have questions.
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
=................................................................................................
i GROUND FAST_
j SPEED
WHEEL DRIVE
CONTROL
START
ROPE
HANDLE
KNOB
MID-HANDLE
LOWER
HANDLE
\
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER
HANDLE i
i
i CONTROL ow
CONTROL
BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE TECUMSEH ENGINE
PRIMER BULB - PRIMER BULB -
LOCATED AT FRONT OF ENGINE LOCATED ON RIGHT SIDE
OF ENGINE
FUEL
FILLER
CAP
REAR WHEEL
ENGINE mR
FILTER COVER
RECYCLING
DECK
COVER
PRIMER BULB
(SEEINSET)
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared for the operators of
the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. Its
purpose, aside from recommending operating and
routine service requirements, is to promote safety
through the use of accepted operating practices.
Read, Understand and Follow the "IMPORTANT
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on Pages 2, 3, & 4 of this
manual and all safety messages on the mower and
attachments before operating the mower.
MUFFLER
MOWER DECK
FRONT WHEEL
FRONT HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENTLEVERS
FIGURE 1.1
1.2 NOMENCLATURE
The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows
the essential parts of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND
MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of
the mower become thoroughly familiar with the
controls, parts and operation of the mower before
operating. Specific details involving the engine are
found in the separate engine owner's manual. Study
these manuals before operating and keep both handy
for future reference.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST
Make the following checks and perform the service
required before each start-up.
2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter
and covers to make sure all are in place and securely
tightened.
2.1.2. Check blade control and wheel drive control to
insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.
WHEEL
DRIVE
CONTROL
FIGURE 2.1
2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and
engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass,
oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and cooling
fins clear at all times.
2.2
STARTING & OPERATION
2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE
The engine speed is preset and is not adjustable. A
primer is provided to assist in starting a cold engine.
1. Push primer bulb three times to start a cold
engine. NOTE: The primer should not be required
to restart a hot engine. See Figure 2.3.
NOTE:
Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the
blade control.
FOR ENGINES
EQUIPPED
WITH PRIMER
BULB
2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.
2.1.4. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring
level up to the full mark. Refer to Engine Owner's
Manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.2.
FIGURE 2.2
PUSH PRIMER BULB
THREE TIMES TO
START COLD
ENGINE
FIGURE 2.3
2. Pull blade control against handle. See Figure 2.1.
3. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.
4. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until
engine runs smooth.
2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower
outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure
cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine
Owners Manual for specifications.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION
WARNING
HIGHER ......
LOWER
HANDLE
Stop engine and mower blade by releasing the blade
control before adjusting ground speed.
2.2.2. PROPELLING MOWER
(Self Propelled Model Only)
1. Stop engine and mower blade by releasing
the blade control before adjusting ground
speed. Move ground speed control to the desired
speed position. See Figure 2.4.
2. Start engine. Refer to Section "Starting
Operation".
3. Move wheel drive control against handle
engage wheel drive and propel mower forward. See
iiii_
iiii_
) HANDLE
/ w
Figure 2.1. FIGURE 2.5
2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
GROUND ._P"EDi-'_
CONTROL
1. Pull the height adjusting latch outward and move
to desired cutting height See Figure 2.6.
IMPORTANT: Move rear height adjustment latch for rear
wheel adjustment to correspond with raising or lowering
the front wheels to maintain the level of the deck.
LOOSEN LOWER
NUTS ON EACH
FIGURE 2.4
2.3 STOPPING
Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade
control. Stop forward motion of mower by releasing
the wheel drive control.
2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as
follows:
1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as
shown in Figure 2.5.
2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the
desired position is achieved.
3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to
maintain desired position.
SWIVEL
WHEEL
MODEL
REMOVE HAIR PIN
AND CLEVIS PiN
SHOWN IN
f IliA\ _ LOWESTCUTTING
_ HEIGHT
1 LOWEST
FIXED CUTTING I, /'_
HIGHEST CUTTING
LATCH
WHEEL HEIGH ,
MODEL
3 JX
6
FIGURE 2.6
2. Set all wheels at the same cutting height. The
highest cutting position is Notch 6. The lowest
cutting position is Notch 1.
S
CUTTING
HEIGHT
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or
service with engine and blade running. STOP engine
and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure
away from spark plug. Engine and components are
HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all
components to cool.
2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION
NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum of 1/3
of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is dry.
1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch 6).
2. Move engine speed control to "FAST" (Rabbit)
position.
3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed setting.
4. Proceed mowing slowly. If grass is very dense, lower
each rear wheel latch one notch lower than the front
wheel latches to improve recycling performance.
INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG ADAPTER
(Optional Accessory on Some Models)
STEP 1: Install the grass bag adapter and secure to the
side and top of the deck with the two nuts provided with the
machine. Slot in front edge of adapter must be under nut
located on top of deck. See Figure 2.7.
INSTALLATION of RECYCLING PLUG
(Optional Accessory on Some Models)
STEP 1: Once adapter has been installed, recycling may
be desired. Insert recycling plug completely and securely
into adapter. Install grass bag. See Figure 2.8.
INSERT RECYCLING PLUG
PLUG
COMPLETELY AND SECURELY
INTO ADAPTER. INSTALL
GRASS BAG.
SECURE
WITH NUTS
ADAPTER
FIGURE 2.7
SECURE ADAPTER
TO DECK WITH NUTS
FIGURE 2.8
2.7
INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG
(Door Type, Optional Accessory)
Install grass bag by sliding connector over flange of bag
adapter. See Figure 2.9.
FIGURE 2.9
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or
service with engine and blade running. STOP engine
and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure
away from spark plug. Engine and components are
HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all
components to cool.
2.8 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG
(Continued From Previous Page)
(Door Type, Optional Accessory)
Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross bar.
See Figure 2.10.
ATTACH BAG HOOKS
OVER MIDDLE HANDLE
CROSS BAR
B. Position grass bag between handles. See Figure
2.12. Install grass bag by sliding connector over flange
of adapter. Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle
cross bar. See Figure 2.13.
LOWER HANDLES
HANDLE
ADAPTER
FLANGE
FIGURE 2.12
FIGURE 2.10
2.9 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG
(Slide Closure Type, Optional Accessory on
Some Models)
Install grass bag as shown. Adapter must be
installed first, before grass bag can be installed.
A. Install the top wire to the grass bag. Tie the bag
slider to the top wire. Fold bag opening into a "Z"
and pull bag into slider. See Figure 2.11.
BAG
"Z" FOLD BAG
SHOWN
HOOK BAG HANDLE
OVER LOWER
HANDLES
SLIDE CONNECTOR
OVEREND OF
ADAPTER FLANGE
FIGURE 2.13
WARNING
DO NOT operate without entire Grass Bag or guard in
place. Grass Bag components are subject to
deterioration during normal use. Inspect frequently
and replace worn or damaged components
immediately.
FIGURE 2.11
10