Operator’s Manual
21” Rear Dischar ge
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.
ECO # 2844
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.
770-10110B.fm
(1/2001)
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...........................................................................13
Off-Season Stoarge...........................................................................................15
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................15
Parts List............................................................................................................16
Shroud Chart .....................................................................................................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 PROD UCTS 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
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger
the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol—HEED ITS WARNING.
WARNING: Engine exhau st, some of its constituents, and certain v ehi cle c om pon ents c onta in o r e mit
chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the ru les fo r s afe o pera tio n i n this m an ual . As wi th
any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This
machine is capable of amputatin g hands a nd feet and thr owing object s. Failure t o observe the following saf ety instru ctions could result in ser ious inj ury or death.
General Operation
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assembl e this mac hine. Read ,
understand, and f ollow all instructi ons on th e machi ne
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be com pletely
familiar with the controls and the p roper use of this
machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular refe rence and for orderi ng
replacement parts.
2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,
not a plaything. Therefore , exercise extreme caution at all
times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use it fo r any othe r purpose.
3. Never allow childre n under 14 y ears old to operate this
machine. Children 14 ye ars old and over should read and
understand the op eration in struction s and s afety r ules in
this manual and s hould be trained an d superv ised by a
parent. Only responsibl e individuals wh o are familiar with
these safe operatio n rules s hould us e this m achine.
4. Thoroughly inspect the area wh ere the equipment i s to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toy s and
other foreign obje cts which could b e tripped over or
picked up and throw n by the b lade. Thro wn obje cts can
cause serious personal inj ury. Plan your mowing patt ern
to avoid discharge of materi al toward ro ads, sid ewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discha rging mat erial
against a wall or obst ruction which may ca use discharged
material to ricochet b ack toward the operat or.
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thro wn object injury, stay
in the operator zo ne behin d the han dles and keep
bystanders, helpers , childre n and pet s at leas t 75 feet
from the machin e while it is in op eration . Stop mac hine if
anyone enters the a rea.
6. Always wear safet y glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while p erforming an adju stment or repair to
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious inj ury to the eyes.
7. Wear sturdy, rough-sol ed work shoes a nd close-fi tting
slacks and shirts. Sh irts and pants tha t cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommen ded. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sa ndals, slippery or
light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
8. Do not put hands o r feet near rotating p arts or und er the
cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands
and feet.
9. A missing or damaged discharg e cover can cause b lade
contact or thrown o bject in juries.
10. Many injuries occur as a resul t of the mower being pul led
over the foot duri ng a fall caused by slip ping or tri pping.
Do not hold on to the mow er if you are falling; release the
handle immediatel y.
11. Never pull the mowe r back to ward yo u while y ou are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first look do wn and beh ind to av oid trippi ng
and then follow th ese step s:
a. Step back from the mower to fu lly exte nd your
arms.
b. Be sure you are well balance d with sure footing.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way
toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as neede d.
12. Do not operate the m ower whi le under t he influe nce of
alcohol or drugs.
13. Do not engage the self-prope lled mec hanism on units
so equipped while starting engine.
14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypas s its operat ion. Doi ng so m akes the
safety device inoperat ive and may result in per sonal
injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade
control handle m ust opera te easily i n both di rections and
automatically return to the di sengaged positio n when
released.
15. Never operate the mow er in wet gra ss. Always be sure of
your footing. A s lip and fa ll can c ause se rious person al
injury. If you fee l you are lo sing yo ur footi ng, releas e the
blade control han dle immedi ately an d the bla de will stop
rotating within three second s.
16. Mow in daylight o r good arti ficial l ight. Walk, never r un.
17. Stop the blade wh en crossin g gravel drives, wa lkways
or roads.
18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immedia tely for the cause .
Vibration is gener ally a warn ing of tro uble.
19. Shut the engine off and wa it until t he bla de come s to a
complete stop before removi ng the grass catcher or
unclogging the c hute. The cutting blade co ntinue s to
rotate for a few second s after th e engine is shut off.
Never place any part of the body in the blade area until
you are sure the blade has stopped rot ating.
20. Never operate mower w ithout pr oper trail shield ,
discharge cover , grass c atcher, blad e cont rol handl e or
3
other safety protec tive dev ices in p lace and working.
Never operate mower with damaged sa fety devices.
Failure to do so, ca n result i n persona l injury .
21. Muffler and engine beco me hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
the original equi pment manuf acturer (O.E.M). Failu re to
do so can result in personal inju ry.
23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manua l,
use care and good judgment. Cont act your dealer for
assistance. Tel ephone 1- 800-800-731 0 for the name of
your nearest dealer.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major f actor re lated to slip and fall accid ents
which can result in seve re inju ry. Opera tion on s lopes
requires extra cauti on. If you feel une asy on a slope, do not
mow it. Before opera ting this unit on a slope or h illy ar ea, use
the slope gauge on page 6 to measu re slopes . If the s lope is
greater than 15 de grees, do not mow it.
Do:
1. Mow across the face of sl opes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme cauti on when changing d irection on
slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ru ts, rocks, hidden ob jects, o r bumps
which can cause you to s lip or tri p. Tall grass c an hide
obstacles.
3. Always be sure of your footi ng. A slip and fall can ca use
serious personal in jury. If y ou feel y ou are lo sing yo ur
balance, release the blade c ontrol han dle imm ediately ,
and the blade w ill stop rotating wi thin 3 se conds.
Do Not:
1. Do not mow near d rop-offs, d itches o r embank ments,
you could lose your foot ing or bal ance.
2. Do not mow slopes greater th an 15 degre es as shown on
the slope gauge.
3. Do not mow on wet grass. U nstable footing c ould cau se
slipping.
Children
Tragic accident s can occu r if the o perator is not al ert to the
presence of childre n. Chil dren are of ten attrac ted to the
mower and the mowi ng activ ity. They do not unde rstand the
dangers. Never assum e that c hildren wil l remain where you
last saw them.
1. Keep children out of t he mow ing area a nd under the
watchful care of a responsi ble adul t other than the
operator.
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
3. Before and while moving backw ards, look behin d and
down for small ch ildren.
4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, tree s, or othe r objects th at may
obscure your vision of a child who may run into the
mower.
5. Keep children away fro m hot or runni ng engin es. They
can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
6. Never allow childre n under 14 y ears old to operate a
power mower. Child ren 14 ye ars old a nd over shou ld
read and understand t he ope ration inst ructions a nd
safety rules in this manual and sho uld be tra ined and
supervised by a parent.
Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personal injury or pro perty damage use extre me
care in handling gasolin e. Gasol ine is e xtremely
flammable and the v apors are explosiv e. Serious
personal injury c an occur w hen gas oline is spilled o n
yourself or your c lothes which can ignit e.
2. Wash your skin and chan ge clothe s imme diatel y.
3. Use only an appro ved gaso line con tainer.
4. Never fill contain ers insi de a veh icle or o n a truck or
trailer bed with a p lastic liner. Al ways place containers o n
the ground away from your v ehicle b efore filli ng.
5. If possible, remo ve gas-p owered equi pment fro m the
truck or trailer and re fuel it on the groun d. If this is not
possible, then re fuel such e quipment on a trailer with a
portable container, ra ther than from a gasoli ne dispenser
nozzle.
6. Keep the nozzle i n contact w ith the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening a t all times until fue ling is complete. D o
not use a nozzle l ock-open device.
7. Extinguish all ciga rettes, c igars, pip es and othe r sources
of ignition.
8. Never fuel machin e indoors becaus e flammable vapors
will accumulate in the area.
9. Never remove gas ca p or a dd fuel wh ile the e ngine is hot
or running. Allow e ngine to c ool at l east two m inutes
before refueling.
10. Never over fill fue l tank. Fi ll tank to no mor e than ½ inch
below bottom of fil ler neck to provi de space for fuel
expansion.
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten s ecurely.
12. If gasoline is spi lled, wi pe it off the engin e and
equipment. Move unit to a nother area. Wait 5 minute s
before starting the en gine.
13. Never store the machine or fuel cont ainer inside whe re
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a w ater
heater, space heater , furnace, cloth es dryer or other g as
appliances.
14. To reduce fire hazard, k eep mower free of gras s, leav es,
or other debris bui ld-up. C lean up o il or fue l spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris .
15. Allow a mower to coo l at least 5 minutes before stori ng.
General Service:
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ven tilated
area. Engine exhau st conta ins carb on monox ide, an
odorless and dea dly gas .
2. Before cleaning, re pairing, o r inspec ting, mak e certain
the blade and al l moving p arts hav e stopped . Disconn ect
the spark plug wir e and ground aga inst the engine to
prevent unintended starting .
3. Check the blade a nd engine mountin g bolts at frequ ent
intervals for proper tightne ss. Also, visual ly inspect blade
for damage (e.g., b ent, crac ked, worn) Re place bl ade
with the original equip ment manufacture’s (O. E.M.) blade
only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts whi ch do no t
4
meet the original equipment specific ations m ay lead to
improper performance and com promise sa fety!”
4. Mower blades are s harp and can cut. Wrap the b lade or
wear gloves, and u se extra caution when se rvicing the m.
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe work ing cond ition.
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
7. After striking a foreign o bject, stop the engine, dis connect
the spark plug wire and grou nd agains t the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the mower for any da mage. R epair
the damage before st arting and operat ing the mow er.
8. Never attempt to ma ke a w heel or c utting hei ght
adjustment while the engin e is runn ing.
9. Grass catcher componen ts, discharge cover, and trail
shield are subject to wear and dama ge which could
expose moving pa rts or allo w objec ts to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequentl y check componen ts and
replace immediatel y with original equipm ent
manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) p arts only , listed in this ma nual.
“Use of parts which do not m eet the ori ginal eq uipment
specifications ma y lead t o imprope r performan ce and
compromise safety!”
10. Do not change t he engine governor setting o r overs peed
the engine. The go vernor co ntrols th e maxim um safe
operating speed o f the engi ne.
11. Maintain or replac e safety and ins truction labels, a s
necessary.
12. Observe proper disp osal law s and regulation s. Improp er
disposal of flui ds and mate rials ca n harm th e
environment.
Your Responsibility
• Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instru ctions in
this manual and on the machine.
1299 AC
5
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
OR A FENCE POS T
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
A POWER POLE
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
O
D
N
O
D
L
O
F
N
E
S
E
R
P
E
R
,
E
N
I
L
D
E
T
T
CUT ALONG DOTTED LINE
E
P
O
L
S
°
5
1
A
G
N
I
T
WARNING
15°
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
in serious injury. Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.
USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
6
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 slid e uni t out of ca rton. Chec k cart on
thoroughly for loose parts.
Tools Required
1. Pair of Pliers
†
2. Phillips Screwdriver
3. 7/16" or Adjustable Wrench
†
Required for models with hardtop grass bags only.
NOTE: This operator’s m anual covers variou s 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
Briggs & Stratton Engines
Retaining
Post
Spark
Plug
Spark Plug
Wire
Engines with rubber boot
Figure 1
• Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect
spark plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it
against the engine. See Figure 1 .
Tecumseh engines
V-Slot
on Engine
Spark
Plug
Wire
Spark
Plug
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 mowe r 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 certai n all nuts and bolts are tightened
securely.
Slip rope into
rope guide
Rope
Guide
Wing Nut
Figure 4
• Insert pos t on cable ti es into holes pr ovide d on the
lower handle. Pull the cable tie tight and trim the
excess. See Figure 5 .
Cable Tie
Post
Hole on
Lower
Handle
Figure 5
• Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure 6B.
All of the plastic channels except center top of bag
attach from the outside of bag. Center top of bag
attaches from the inside of bag.
Rear
Frame
A
Front
Frame
Grass
Bag
Channels
B
Hook
Plastic
Figure 6
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 7A. Feed all the material on one side of
the frame before working it around the frame. Make
sure the other end of the rear frame comes out of
the slit in the other side. See Figure 7B.
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 6A.
• Place bag over frame (black plastic side is the
bottom of bag). Slip the openings in the side of the
plastic channel on bag over the hooks on the grass
catcher frame.
Slit
Rear
Frame
B
Figure 7
• Slide the front fram e asse mbly into the r ear f rame
as shown in Figure 8. Push the front frame in so
that the c ross piece on th e fro nt f rame co ntac ts th e
rear frame.
8
A
Front Frame
• Place the mounting bracket under the front of the
handle, with the tabs on the bracket facing up.
Insert phillips head screw down through the hardtop
cover and mounting bracket. Secure with hex lock
nut. See Figure 10.
Slide
plastic
channel
over frame
Figure 8
• Slip openings of the plastic channel on bag over the
grass catcher frame. See Figure 8. Secure front of
bag to front frame by working five plastic channels
on bottom, sides and top of bag over frame.
• Hold the bag and frame so the bag hangs from the
frame (is not bunched around the frame). Slide the
handle of the grass catcher frame through the slot
in the hardtop cover as shown in Figure 9.
Grass
Catcher
Handle
Hardtop
Cover
Slide frame
through this
slot
Figure 9
• Press the rear frame into the two tabs at the back of
the hardt op cove r. Put the cr oss b ar on the fr ont
frame into the channel in front of the hardtop cover
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 ca tcher.
• If your mower is equipped with a mulching baffle, it
is in place on the mower. To remove the mulching
baffle, lift the rear discharge door on the mower.
Remove the mulching baffle. See Figure 11 inset.
Mulch
Baffle
Place hook
on slot here
Figure 11
• 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 11.
• To remove the grass catcher: Lift the rear
discharge door on the mower as shown in Figure
11. Lift the grass catcher up, out of the slots in the
handle bracket assemblies. Release the rear
discharge door.
Rear Discharge
Door
Figure 10
Phillips He ad
Screw
Mounting
Bracket
Lock
Nut
WARNING: Ne ver operate mower unless
the hooks on the grass catcher are firmly
seated in the slots on the handle bracket
assemblies, and the rear discharge door
rests firmly against top of the grass catcher.
Assembling Chute Deflector (If equipped)
If your mower is equipped with the optional chute
deflector, assemble as follows:
• 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 12.
Tab
Rod
Push
Nut
Chute
Deflector
Figure 12
• Slide the push nut onto the right side of the rod to
secure.
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 13. 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 13.
Rear
Discharge
Door
Slots
Figure 13
IMPORT ANT :
This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline
and oil before operating your mower.
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Compare the illustrations in Figure 14 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various
controls and adjustments. The operation of any lawnmower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the
operator’s eyes, causing severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses before operating the mower, or while
performing any adjustments or repairs on it.
Blade Control Handle
Upper Handle
Recoil Starter
Grass Catcher
Gas Cap
Height Ad ju st m en t Lev e r
Throttle Control
Lower Handle
(if equipped)
Spark Plug
Figure 14
10
Blade Control Handle
WARNING: The blade control mechanism is
a safety device. Never attempt to bypass it.
Please note that if the mower is not equipped with this
lever, the engine has a constant speed throttle, which is
already set at full throttle for best performance.
WARNING: The throttle control cannot be
WARNING: The blade will be rotating
whenever the engine is running. Keep your
hands and feet away from a rotataing blade.
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. The blade control handle must be
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the
blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.
Throttle Control Lever (If equippe d)
The throttle control lever is located on the left side of the
upper handle. It is used to regulate engine speed.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle and
is used to start the engine.
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.
used to stop the engine.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away
from the chute area on cut ting deck. Refer to
warning label on the unit.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
• Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the engine manual packed with your
mower. Read instructio ns carefully.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors, with
engine running or until the engine has been
allowed to cool for a t least two minutes after
running.
Before Starting
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If the mower is
equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the
spark plug wire, ensure that the metal cap at the
end of the spark plug wire inside the rubber boot is
fastened securely over the spark plug’s metal tip.
To Start Engine and Engage Blade
• If the engine is equipped with a fuel valve lever,
move it to the ON position. See Figure 15 .
• Move the throttle control/choke lever, if equipped,
forward all the way into the choke position. Warn
engine may not require choking. In that case, move
the throttle into the FAST (rabbit) position only
• If engine is equipped with a primer, prime engine as
instructed in the engine manual.
• Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle.
• Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope
rewind slowly.
• Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.
Keep 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
• Move throttle control lever, if equipped, to the
SLOW (turtle) position.
• Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the cutting blade.
Fuel Valve Lever
ON
Figure 15
OFF
Primer
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.
NOTE: For shipping pur poses your mower is set with
the wheels in a low cutting height position. For best
results, raise th e cutting position until it is deter mined
which height is bes t for your lawn. See cutting hei ght
adjustment section on page 12.
11
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 obj ects w hich could dama ge lawn mowe r 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 caus e you to sl ip and fall . New gras s, thic k
grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut.
Blade speed should be adjusted to the condition of
the lawn.
• For a healthy lawn, never cut more than one-third of
the total length of the grass at any one cutting.
Lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there is
growth.
• This mower is designed to be operated at full
throttle to give you the best cut and do the most
effective job of bagging the cut grass.
WARNING: If y ou 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.
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.
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustment to lawn mower without first
stopping engine and disconnecting spark
plug wire.
Handle Height
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower the handle height, proceed as
follows.
• Remove the start er ro pe fr om the rope g uide .
• 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 hairpi n clip s from the w eld pin s on t he
handle brackets. Press outward on the legs of the
lower handle, and remove it from the mower
• Turn the lower handle around so the notches on the
bottom of the lower handle are facing forward as
shown in Figure 16 . Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the
handle mounting bracket.
Lower
Handle
Figure 16
• Reassemble the upper handle.
• Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes in the weld
pins and attach the starter rope as instructed earlier
on page 7.
Notch
Cutting Height
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel
position provid es cut ting heig ht adju stme nt. Eac h
adjusting plate has nine height positions.
• Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move
it to any of the nine positions for the desired cutting
height. See Figure 17. All four levers on the four
12
wheels must be placed in the sa me relative po sition
for uniform cutting height.
Height
Adjustment
Lever
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.
NOTE: A dirty air c leaner will cause an engin e to run
rough. Be certain air c leaner is clean and attache d to
the carburet or befor e adjust ing carbur etor.
WARNING: If any adjustm ents are made
to the engine while the engine is running (e.g.
carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts. Be
Figure 17
careful of heated surfaces and muffler.
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and
ground the spark plu g wire befo re perform ing
any repairs or maintenance.
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 bl ade.
• 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.
Crankshaft
Blade
Adapter
• 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 tes t of bal ance.
• Before reassembling the blade and the blade
adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft
and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light
oil (or engine oil). Also lubricate the bolt holes, bolts
and inner surface of the nuts.
• Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the
“star” away from the engine. Place the blade with
the side mark ed 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.
Blade Mounting Torque:
Center Bolt: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
• To ensure saf e operati on of your un it, al l nuts and
bolts must be checked periodically for correct
tightness.
Deck Care
Blade
Figure 18
• 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.
Bell
Support
Hex Bolt
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to c lean your unit.These m ay
cause damage to electric components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
shorten life of the mower and reduce its serviceability.
• The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a build-up of
grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this
debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust
and corrosion, and may cause an uneven
discharge of grass clippings at the next cutting.
13
• The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).
Replacing Rear Flap
• To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 19.
• Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.
Rear Discharge
Door
Handle
Bracket
W
d
o
R
e
r
i
Handle
Bracket
Rear
Flap
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 20. 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.
Figure 19
Engine
A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the
accompanying engine manual for detailed list and
instructions.
• Maintain engine oil level as instructed in engine
manual.
• Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely
dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and
flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should
be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the
engine manual.
• Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.
Spark plug replacement 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. Remove all grass, dirt
and combustible debris from muffler area.
LUBE
E
B
U
L
LUBE
LUBE
L
U
B
E
Figure 20
14
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 sto rage shed, care shou ld be
taken to rust-proof the equi pment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, e specially cab les and all
moving parts.
SECTION 9: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Trouble Possible Cause(s) Corrective Actions
Engine fails to
start
Engine runs
erratic
Engine
overheats
Occasional sk ip
(hesitates) at
high speed
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide .
Excessive
vibration
Mower will not
mulch grass
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correc tly.
1. Blade control han dle dise ngaged.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Dirty aircleaner.
4. Primer button not depressed.
5. Throttle control l ever (if so e quipped) not in
correct starting positi on .
6. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
7. Blocked fuel li ne
8. Faulty spark plug.
9. Engine flooded.
1. Throttle lever (if so equipped) in START .
2. Spark plug wire loose.
3. Blocked fuel line (if equipp ed) or sta le fuel.
4. Vent in gas cap plugged.
5. Water or dirt in fue l system.
6. Dirty air cleaner.
7. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Engine oil leve l low.
2. Dirty aircleaner.
3. Air flow restricted.
4. Carburetor not adjus ted pr operly.
1. Spark plug gap too c lose.
2. Carburetor idle mix ture adju stment
improperly set.
2. Carburetor improperly adj usted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
1. Cutting blade loo se or unb alanced.
2. Bent cutting blade.
1. Engine speed too low.
2. Wet grass.
3. Excessively high grass.
2. Dull blade.
1. Engage blade contr ol handle .
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Refer to the engine m anual.
4. Refer to the engine m anual.
5. Move throttle lever to FAST or STAR T position.
6. Fill tank with cle an fresh g asoline.
7. Clean fuel line.
8. Clean, adjust gap o r replace .
9. Refer to the engine m anual.
1. Move throttle lever (i f so equi pped) to F AST position.
2. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
3. Clean fuel line; fi ll tank w ith cle an, fresh gasoline.
4. Clear vent or threads or replac e.
5. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
6. Refer to the engine m anual.
7. Refer to the engine m anual.
1. Fill crankcase wi th proper o il.
2. Refer to the engine m anual.
3. Stop engine and di sconnect s park plug wire. Re move
blower housing and clean.
4. Refer to the engine m anual.
1. Adjust gap to .030" .
2. Refer to the engine m anual.
1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.
2. Refer to the engine m anual.
3. Refer to the engine m anual.
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Ba lance bl ade.
2. See an authorized s ervice dea ler.
1. Set throttle between 3 /4 and ful l throttle.
2. Do not mow when grass i s wet; wait unti l later to cut.
3. Mow once at a high cutting height, th en mo w again at
desired height or make a n arrower c utting swa th (1/2
width).
1. Place all four wheel s in same he ight posi tion.
2. Sharpen or replace b lade.
NOTE: For repairs beyo nd the minor a dju stmen ts abo ve, c ontact your loc al aut horized ser vice d ealer
or call Customer Service at 1(330) 220-4MTD or 1(800)800-7310.
15
SECTION 10: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL SERIES 410 THROUGH 429
1
12
9
8
77
78
Zag Tread Wheel
Bar Tread Wheel
Wheel Chart
Type of Wheel Part No. Tread Color
Wheels w/o bearing s 734-1781, Slot Hub Bar Tread* Grey
Wheels w/o bearing s 734-1987, 8 x 1.8 Sp.
734-1988, 7 x 1.8
Wheels w/o bearing s 634-0020, Disc Hub Bar Tread* Grey
Wheel Assembly BB 734-2004 Zag Tread* Black
* See Illustration
16
Bar Tread* Grey
Model Series 410 Through 429
Ref
Part No. Description
No.
1 747-1161A Control Handle
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.†
8 736-0501 Spring Washer .66" I.D.†
9 712-0324 Hex L-Nut 1/4-20 Thd.
10 746-08 76 Throttle Lever †
11 749-10 92 Upper Handle
749-0705 Upper Handle (Models with Honda
engine only)
12 720-02 95 Foam Grip (Optional)
13 749-09 28 Lower Handle
14 726-02 40 Cable Tie
15 764-03 10 Rear Catcher Frame
16 746-11 30 Control Cable-40" (B&S)
746-0557 Control Cable-4 7" (Honda)
746-1137 Control Cable-5 2” (Tecumseh )
17 746-11 15 Throttle Control Wire - 47” †
18 764-03 11 Front Catcher Frame
19 764-03 09 Grass Bag
764-0476A Grass Bag w/Log o
20 714-01 04 Hairpin Clip
21 732-06 78 Door Spring - R.H.
22 732-06 77 Door Spring - L.H.
23 782-7000 Rear Discharge Door
24 751B21 3146 Cable Clamp (B&S) †
7510007775 Casing Clamp (Tec.) †
25 646-08 76 Throttle Body †
26 811-00 748 Throttle Box Comp.† (Mo dels with
Honda engine only)
27 — Engine
28 710-1237 Hex Wash. Hd. Scr . #10-3 2 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 (In cl . R ef . 3 3, 34 )
33 710-1044 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5" Lg.
34 736-0524A Blade Bell Support
36 742-0741 21" Mulching Bla de
742-0641 21” Bla de
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
Ref
Part No. Description
No.
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. Assy. Comp. -L.H. ‡
50 14765 Pivot Bar R.H.
14766 Pivot Bar L.H. ‡
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 Sc r. 1/4 x 6 2"
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 Wheel
Chart )
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 To p Cover w /Logo
63 710-0286 Pan Hd. Mach. Sc r. 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 .3 8" 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 †
77 751B225250 Muffler Guard (B&S Classic only)
751B224437 Muffler Guard (B&S Quan tum only)
78 751B281705 Finger Guard †
— 751B224819 Flywheel Guard ‡ (B&S Classic,
Wheel Assy. Comp.
Sprint and Quatro engi nes only )
† If equipped
‡ Not illustrated
17
SECTION 1: 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
731-1694A 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
Not Illustrated
Shroud Color
751A143188:
Spectra Style
Hardware: 7510042823
Dark Red
18
Shroud Color
751B281857 Black
751B281777 Yellow
Hardware: 710-1237
YOUR NOTES
Date Comments
19
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD
PRODUCTS INC (“MTD”) with respect to new mercha ndise
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 purc ha se an d w i ll, at its option, repair or
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in
material or workmanship. This limited warranty shal l only
apply if this product has been operated and maintained in
accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the
product, a nd has not bee n subj ect to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water or damage because
of other peril or natur al di sa ste r. 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 par t 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 T O 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, Clev e la nd, Ohio 44136-9722.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the
following cases:
a.The engine or component par ts 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 warr an ty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,
blade shar pening and tune-ups, or adjustments such
as brake adjustments, clutch adjustments or deck
adjustments; and nor mal 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 par ts as ident ified. No o ther
express war ranty or guaranty, whether wri tten or or al,
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 f orth in this W a rranty pr o vide 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 recover y of any kind be greater than the
amount of the purchase price o f the pro duct sold . Alter ati on
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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