Operator’s Manual
21” Rear Discharge
Push Mower
Model Series
410 through 429
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
Warning:
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-
MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
FORM NO.
770-10110A.fm
(9/99)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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 ........................................................................... 14
Off-Season Stoarge ........................................................................................... 15
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................. 16
Shroud Chart ..................................................................................................... 17
Parts List............................................................................................................ 18
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
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.
(Model Number)
CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
(Serial Number)
MTD PRODUCTS INC
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
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 .
2
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal
safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before
attempting to operate your lawn mower. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. when you see this symbol, heed its warning.
DANGER: Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As
with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This
lawn mower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety
instructions could result in serious injury or death.
WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
General Operation
• Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before operation. Be
completely familiar with the controls and the proper
use of this machine before operating it. Keep this
manual in a safe place for future and regular
reference and for ordering replacement parts.
• Your rotary mower is a precision piece of power
equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise
extreme caution at all times. Your unit has been
designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not
use it for any other purpose.
• Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
a power mower. Children 14 years old and over
should only operate mower under close parental
supervision. Only responsible individuals who are
familiar with these rules of safe operation should be
allowed to use your mower.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons,
particularly small children and pets. Stop engine
when they are in the vicinity of your mower to help
prevent blade contact or thrown object injury.
Although the area of operation should be
completely cleared of foreign objects, an object may
have been overlooked and could be accidentally
thrown by the mower in any direction and cause
serious personal injury to the operator or any others
allowed in the area.
• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and closefitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover
the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are
recommended. Do not wear loose fitting clothes or
jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Never
operate a unit in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light
weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
• Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
during operation or while performing an adjustment
or repair, to protect eyes from foreign objects that
may be thrown from the machine in any direction.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is
to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones,
toys and other foreign objects which could be
picked up and thrown by the mower in any direction
and cause serious personal injury to the operator or
any others allowed in the area. Plan your mowing
pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads,
sidewalks, bystanders and the like. To help avoid a
thrown objects injury, keep children, bystanders
and helpers at least 75 feet from the mower while it
is in operation.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Keep clear of discharge opening at all times
as the rotating blade can cause injury.
• Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being
pulled over the foot during a fall. Do not hang on to
the mower if you are falling; release the handle
immediately.
• Never pull the mower toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a
wall or obstruction first look down and behind, and
then follow these steps:
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.
• Do not operate the mower while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on
units so equipped while starting engine.
• The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the
safety device inoperative and may result in personal
injury through contact with the rotating blade. The
blade control handle must operate easily in both
directions and automatically return to the
disengaged position when released.
• Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be
sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
3
serious personal injury. Keep a firm hold on the
handle and walk, never run. If you feel you are
losing your footing, RELEASE THE BLADE
CONTROL HANDLE IMMEDIATELY and the blade
will stop rotating within three seconds.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks
or roads.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally,
stop the engine and check immediately for the
cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
• Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes
to a complete stop before removing the grass
catcher or unclogging the chute. The cutting blade
continues to rotate for a few seconds after the
engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body
in the blade area until you are sure the blade has
stopped rotating.
• Never operate mower without proper guards, grass
catcher, plates or other safety protective devices in
place.
• Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
• Only use accessories approved for this machine by
the manufacturer. Read, understand, and follow all
instructions provided with the approved accessory.
• If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your
dealer for assistance. Telephone 1-800-800-7310
for the name of your nearest dealer.
• Do not adjust the throttle control while the engine is
still running.
Slope Operation
• For your safety, use the slope gauge included as
part of this manual to measure slopes before
operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area. If the
slope is greater than 15 degrees as shown on the
slope gauge, do not operate this unit on that area or
serious injury could result.
Do:
• Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction
on slopes.
• Watch for holes, ruts, hidden objects, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
• Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can
cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are
losing your balance release the blade control
handle immediately and the blade will stop in less
than 3 seconds.
Do Not:
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose footing or
balance.
• Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as
shown on the slope gauge.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could
cause slipping.
Children
• Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the mower and the mowing activity.
Never assume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.
• Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the
area.
• Before and while moving backwards, look behind
and down for small children or other objects.
• Never allow children under age 14 to operate the
mower. Children 14 years of age and above should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual.
• Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
your vision of a child or hazard.
Service
• Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other
fuels. They are extremely flammable and the vapors
are explosive.
• Use only an approved gasoline container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine
is running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes
before refueling.
• Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off any
spilled gasoline before starting the engine as it may
cause a fire or explosion.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
• Never refuel machine indoors because flammable
vapors will accumulate in the area.
• Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame or spark such as a gas
water heater, space heater, or furnace.
• Never run an engine inside a closed area.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass,
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel
spillage. Allow mower to cool at least 5 minutes
before storing.
• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep
the wire away from the spark plug to prevent
accidental starting.
• Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually
inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent, cracked or
worn). Replace with blade which meets original
equipment specifications listed in this manual.
4
• Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
remove the wire from the spark plug, and
thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage.
Repair the damage before starting and operating
the mower.
• Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.
• Grass catcher components are subject to wear,
damage and deterioration, which could expose
moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components and
replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution
when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine. Excessive engine speeds
are dangerous.
• 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.
5
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
OR A FENCE POST
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
A POWER POLE
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
O
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R
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T
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CUT ALONG DOTTED LINE
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P
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5
1
A
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N
I
T
WARNING
15°
USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
feet). On steeper inclines, a riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-
behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10
6
in serious injury. Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.
SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER
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.
Tools Required
1. Pair of Pliers
†
2. Phillips Screwdriver
3. 7/16" or Adjustable Wrench
†
Hardtop grass bags only
†
NOTE: This operator’s manual covers various models
of lawn mowers. Follow only those instructions which
pertain to your unit.
Disconnect Spark Plug Wire
• 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.
Assembling Handle
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.
Tighten
hand knob
Tighten
hand knob
Spark Plug Wire
With Rubber Boot
Spark
Plug
Engines with rubber boot
Briggs & Stratton Engines
Retaining
Post
Spark Plug
Wire
Tecumseh engines
V-Slot
on Engine
Spark
Plug
Wire
Spark
Plug
Figure 1
• Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it
against the engine. See Figure 1 .
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
Insert hairpin
clip here
Hairpin
Clip
Weld
Pin
Figure 3
7
• 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
rope guide
Rope
Guide
Wing Nut
Figure 4
B. Hardtop Grass Bag
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. Hex Lock Nut
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 6A. Feed all the material on one side of
the frame before working it around frame. Make
certain the other end of rear frame comes out of the
slit in the other side. See Figure 6B.
Slit
A
Assembling Grass Catcher
NOTE: Make certain bag is turned right side out before
assembling (warning label will be on the outside).
A. Soft Grass Bag
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 in Figure 5A.
• 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.
• Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure 5B.
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
B
Rear
Frame
B
Figure 6
• Slide the front frame assembly into the rear frame
as shown in Figure 7. Push the front frame in so
that the cross piece on the front frame contacts the
rear frame.
Front Frame
Slide
plastic
channel
over frame
Front
Frame
Rear
Frame
Grass
Bag
Figure 5
Hook
Plastic
Channels
Figure 7
• Slip the openings of the plastic channel on bag over
the grass catcher frame. See Figure 7 inset. Secure
front of bag to front frame by working the five plastic
channels on bottom, sides and top of bag over
frame.
8
• 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 8.
baffle, lift the rear discharge door on the mower.
Remove the mulching baffle. See Figure 10 inset.
Mulch
Baffle
Grass
Catcher
Handle
Hardtop
Cover
Slide frame
through this
slot
Figure 8
• Press the rear frame into the two tabs at the back of
the hardtop cover and the cross bar on the front
frame into the channel on the front of the hardtop
cover.
Phillips Head
Screw
Mounting
Bracket
Lock
Nut
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 9.
Place hook
on slot here
Rear Discharge
Door
Figure 10
• To attach the grass catcher: Lift the rear
discharge door on the mower. Place the hooks on
the grass catcher into the slots in the handle
bracket assemblies. Release the rear discharge
door. See Figure 10.
• To remove the grass catcher: Lift the rear
discharge door on the mower as shown in Figure
10. Lift the grass catcher up, out of the slots in the
handle bracket assemblies. Release the rear
discharge door.
WARNING: Never operate the 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 the
top of the grass catcher.
Assembling Chute Deflector
(Optional equipment)
If your mower is equipped with the optional chute
deflector, assemble as follows.
Tab
Rod
Attaching Grass Catcher To Mower
NOTE: Make certain cables are routed 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
Push
Nut
Chute
Deflector
Figure 11
• Slide the rod into the upper edge of the chute
deflector so the tab on the rod is toward the left side
of the chute deflector. When assembled correctly,
9
the rod will extend further to the left side. See
Figure 11.
• Slide the push nut onto the right side of the rod to
secure.
Rear
Discharge
Door
Attaching Chute Deflector To Mower
• 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 12. Release the rear discharge door.
• To remove chute deflector: Lift the rear discharge
door on the mower. Lift the chute deflector up and
out of the slots in the handle bracket assemblies.
Release the rear discharge door. See Figure 12.
IMPORTANT:
This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline
and oil before operating your mower.
Slots
Figure 12
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Compare the illustrations in Figure 13 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various
controls and adjustments. The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the
operator’s eyes, causing severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while
performing any adjustments or repairs on it.
Upper Handle
Recoil Starter
Grass Catcher
Gas Cap
Height Adjustment Lever
Figure 13
Blade Control Handle
WARNING: This control mechanism is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations.
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.
Blade Control Handle
Throttle Control (if equipped)
Lower Handle
Spark Plug
Throttle Control
Your lawn mower may be equipped with one of three
types of throttle controls described below. Follow
instructions which pertain to your unit.
1. The throttle control is located on the left side of the
upper handle. It is used to regulate engine speed.
2. The throttle control is located on the engine. It is
used to regulate the engine speed.
3. Your mower engine is equipped with a constant
speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance.
10
WARNING: The throttle control cannot be
used to stop the engine. If your mower’s
throttle control is located on the engine,
do not adjust the throttle control while the
engine is running.
Height Adjustment Lever
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.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle and
is used to start the engine.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away
from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer
to warning label on the unit.
The operation of any lawn mower can
result in foreign objects being thrown into
the eyes, which can result in severe eye
damage. Always wear safety glasses or
eye shields. We recommend wide vision
safety mask for over spectacles or
standard safety glasses.
Gas And Oil Fill-Up
• Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed
with your mower. Read instructions carefully.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors,
with engine running or until the engine has
been allowed to cool for at least two
minutes after running.
Before Starting
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If your unit is
equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the
spark plug wire, make certain the metal cap on the
end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot) is
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark
plug.
To Start Engine And Engage Blade
• If engine is equipped with a throttle control lever,
move the lever all the way forward to the FAST
(rabbit) position.
• If engine is equipped with a primer, prime engine as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed
with your unit.
• 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 a firm 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 Stop Engine And Blade
• If engine is equipped with throttle control lever on
the handle, move the lever to the SLOW position.
• Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate
for a few seconds after the engine has been
shut off.
• Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.
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 this page.
Using Rotary Mower
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.
11
• 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. The unit should be promptly
inspected and repaired.
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
Using Mulcher
(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.
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustment to lawn mower without first
stopping engine and disconnecting spark
plug wire.
Cutting Height
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 14. All four levers on the four
wheels must be placed in the same relative position
for uniform cutting height.
Height
Adjustment
Lever
Figure 14
Handle Height
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.
Lower
Handle
Figure 15
• Turn the lower handle around so the notches on the
bottom of the lower handle are facing forward as
shown in Figure 15 . Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the
handle mounting bracket.
• 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.
Notch
Carburetor
Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your mower.
12
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.
• Adjust the throttle control only if it is out of
adjustment, or if it has been replaced.
• Remove the screw shown in Figure 16. Remove
the cable clamp from the cable.
NOTE: If you have a Tecumseh engine, simply
loosen the screw shown in Figure 16 so the cable will
move freely beneath the clamp. It is not necessary to
remove the screw and clamp completely.
Throttle Control
If your lawn mower is equipped with an adjustable
throttle control on the handle (refer to the first category
of throttle controls described on page 10 of this
manual), adjust it following instructions below.
Briggs & Stratton Engines
Screw
Cable
Clamp
Control
Lever on
Engine
Quantum Models
• Push the throttle control lever on the handle all the
way forward as far as it will go, then back it off one
“click.” Make certain the throttle control lever
remains in this position.
• Push the control lever on the engine as far toward
the rear of the engine as it will go. Secure the cable
in this position with the cable clamp and screw.
Cable
Clamp
Control
Screw
Sprint & Classic Models
Lever
On Engine
Control
Lever
On Engine
Tecumseh Engines
Cable Clamp
Screw
Figure 16
13
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and
ground the spark plug wire before
performing any repairs or maintenance.
Lubrication
Blade Control
Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle
and the brake cable at least once a season with light oil.
See Figure 17. The blade control must operate freely in
both directions.
Rear Discharge Door
The torsion springs and pivot points should be
lubricated periodically with light oil to prevent any rust
or binding. Door must work freely.
Wheels:
The wheels require no lubrication. However, if the
wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the
surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light oil. Engine oil may also be used.
Engine
Follow engine manual for lubrication instructions.
Maintaining the Blade
• Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,
especially if you strike a foreign 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.
• When sharpening the blade, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely 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.
• The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy
side until it balances evenly. It is recommended that
the blade always be removed from the adapter for
the best test of balance.
• Before reassembling the blade 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). Lubricating the bolt holes, bolts
and inner surface of the nuts is also recommended.
LUBE
E
B
U
L
LUBE
LUBE
L
U
B
E
Figure 17
• Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the
14
Blade
Adapter
Blade
“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.
Crankshaft
Bell
Support
Hex Bolt
Figure 18
Blade Mounting Torque:
Center Bolt: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
• To ensure safe operation of your unit, all nuts and
bolts must be checked periodically for correct
tightness.
Maintaining the Deck
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.
• Clean the underside of the mower deck after each
use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves,
dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to
accumulate, it will result in rust and corrosion, and
may cause an uneven discharge of grass clippings
during the next cutting. Tilt the mower and scrape
clean with a suitable tool.
WARNING: Remember to disconnect the
spark plug wire before tilting the mower.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
• Maintain engine oil level as instructed in the 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 is recommended 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 which is essential to
engine performance and life. Make sure to remove
all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler
area.
Replacing Rear Flap
The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck,
and is designed to minimize the possibility of objects
being thrown from the rear of the mower toward the
operator. If the rear flap becomes damaged, replace as
follows:
• To remove the old rear flap, cut off the flat end of
the wire rod which secures it to the deck using a
pair of side-cutters. Attach the new rear flap using
the new rod provided with the rear flap, bending the
ends of the rod over to secure.
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE
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.
• Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
• 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.
15
SECTION 9: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Trouble Possible Cause(s) Corrective Actions
Engine fails to
start
Engine runs
erratic
Engine
overheats
Occasional
skip (hesitates)
at high speed
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.
Excessive
vibration
Mower will not
mulch grass
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. Unit running in START position.
2. Spark plug wire loose.
3. Blocked fuel line (if so 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.
1. Engine oil level low.
2. Dirty aircleaner.
3. Air flow restricted.
4. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
1. Spark plug gap too close.
2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment
improperly set.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
2. Bent cutting blade.
1. Engine speed too low.
2. Wet grass.
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
4. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
5. Move throttle lever to FAST or START position.
6. Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline. Fuel will not last
over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
7. Clean fuel line.
8. Clean, adjust gap or replace.
9. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
1. Move throttle lever to FAST position.
2. Connect and tighten spark plug wire. Check spark
plug for fouling.
3. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
Fuel will not last over thirty days unless a fuel
stabilizer is added.
4. Clear vent or threads or replace.
5. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
6. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
7. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
3. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire. Remove
blower housing and clean.
4. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit or
see an authorized service dealer.
1. Adjust gap to .030".
2. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.
2. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
3. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.
2. See an authorized service dealer.
1. Set throttle between 3/4 and full throttle.
2. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.
3. Excessively high grass.
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly.
2. Dull blade.
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.
3. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at
desired height or make a narrower cutting swath (1/2
width).
1. Place all four wheels in same height position.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
16
SECTION 10: SHROUD CHART
Shroud Color
751B281439 Dark Red
751B281440 Black
751B281443 Bright Red
Hardware: 710-1256
Shroud Color
731-1585B Black
Hardware: 710-1274
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
731-1694 Black
731-1695 Silver
731-1934A Charcoal
Hardware: 710-1256
Shroud Color
7510143208 Black
Hardware: 7510042823
Shroud Color
7511681311 Black
7511681911 Red
7511682011 Grey
Shroud Color
751B281451 Dark Red
Hardware: 710-1256
17
Shroud Color
751B281476 Black
751B281777 Yellow
Hardware: 710-1237
SECTION 11: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL SERIES 410 THROUGH 429
26
9
7
18
Model Series 410 Through 429
Ref
Part no. Description
no.
1 747-0824 Control Handle (Std.)
647-0004 Control Handle Ass’y. (Deluxe)
2 710-1205 Rope Guide
3 720-0279 Handle Knob 1/4-20 Thd.
4 710-1174 Curved Hd. Bolt 5/16-18 x 2" Lg
6 720-0314 Hand Knob
7 710-0605 Oval C-Sunk Mach. Scr.†
710-1270 Oval C-Sunk Mach. Scr.
8 736-0501 Spring Washer .66" I.D.†
9 712-0324 Hex L-Nut 1/4-20 Thd.
10 746-0876 Throttle Lever †
11 749-0705 Upper Handle
12 720-0295 Foam Grip (Optional)
13 749-0928 Lower Handle
14 726-0240 Cable Tie
15 764-0310 Rear Catcher Frame
16 746-0550 Control Cable-39"
746-0555 Control Cable-55"
746-0551 Control Cable-43”
17 746-0843 Throttle Control Wire - 55"
18 764-0311 Front Catcher Frame
19 764-0309 Grass Bag
764-0476A Grass Bag w/Logo
20 714-0104 Int. Cotter Pin 5/16" Dia.
21 732-0678 Door Spring - R.H.
22 732-0677 Door Spring - L.H.
23 782-7000 Rear Discharge Door
24 751B213146 Cable Clamp (B&S) †
7510007775 Casing Clamp (Tec.) †
25 646-0875 Throttle Body †
26 811-00185 Throttle Box Comp. (Incl. Ref. 7, 8,
9, 10, 25)†
746-0883 Housing, E.R.S. w/o Throttle
27 — Engine
28 710-1237 Hex Wash. Hd. Scr. #10-32 x .62"
Lg. (B&S) †
29 735-0639 Spark Plug Boot †
30 732-0700 Wire Rod
31 731-1236 Rear Flap
32 753-0588 Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 33, 34)
33 710-1044 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5" Lg.
34 736-0524A Blade Bell Support
36 742-0741 21" Mulching Blade
742-0641 21” Blade
Ref
Part no. Description
no.
39 736-0356 Bell-Wash. .39" I.D. x 1.38"
40 712-0798 Hex Nut 3/8-16 Thd.
41 15261A Height Adj. Plate
42 15262B Pivot Bar
43 14832 Spring Lever Ass’y. w/Knob
44 738-0507B Shld. Bolt .5" Dia. x .357"
45 736-0105 Bell-Wash. .38" I.D. x .88" O.D.
46 738-0102 Axle Bolt
47 720-0190 Spring Lever Knob
48 732-0417A Spring Lever
49 14578 Height Adj. Assembly Comp. - R.H.
14579 Height Adj. Assembly Comp. -L.H.
(not shown)
50 14765 Pivot Bar R.H.
14766 Pivot Bar L.H. (not shown)
51 782-5002 Front Baffle
52 710-0654A Hex L-Wash. Hd. Scr. 3/8-16 x 1"
53 782-5003 Rear Baffle
54 710-1017 Torx Mach. AB-Tap Scr. 1/4 x 62"
55 710-0896 Wash.Scr. 1/4 -14 x .625
56 682-0516A Handle Bracket Assembly - R.H.
57 682-0515A Handle Bracket Assembly - L.H.
58 782-0310A 21" R.D. Deck
59 (See Chart) Wheel Assy. Comp.
60 731-0981A Hub Cap - Gray , Rad. Spoke†
720-0249 Hub Cap - Gray, Euro †
61 764-0433 Grass Bag
62 731-1322A Hard Top Cover
731-1876 Hard Top Cover w/Logo
63 710-0286 Pan Hd. Mach. Scr. 1/4-20 x .5" Lg.
64 712-0324 Hex Nylon L-Nut 1/4-20 Thd.
65 782-9011 Mounting Bracket
66 782-5007A Mulching Baffle Plug †
67 782-5004 Mulching Baffle - R.R. †
68 731-1405 Deflector †
69 711-0996 Rod †
70 726-0201 Push Speed Nut †
71 710-0192 Truss Scr. #10-24 x .38" Lg.
72 720-0275 Knob
73 731-1506 Deck: Front Cover †
74 738-0213 Rear Axle Bolt †
738-0102 Axle Bolt
75 750-0535 Spacer †
76 736-0504 Wave Washer †
† If equipped
Wheel Chart
Type of Wheel Part No. Tread Color
Wheels w/o bearings 734-1781, Slot Hub Bar Tread Grey
Wheels w/o bearings 734-1841, Aero Bar Tread Grey
Wheels w/o bearings 734-1987, Spok Bar Tread Grey
Wheels w/o bearings 634-0020, Disc Hub Bar Tread Grey
Wheels w/ bearings
(Bearing part no. 741-0484)
19
734-1819 Link Tread Grey
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
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, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water or damage because
of other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the
installation or use of any 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 component 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 components 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 PRODUCTS INC by calling 1-800-800-7310 or writing to P.O. 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 Warranty, 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 services, 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 Warranty. You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage, or
injury to you and your property and/or to others and their
property arising out of the 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.
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