Yard Machines 580 User Manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

21” Rear Discharge

Rotary Mower

Model Series 580

IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-

covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.

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

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

FORM NO.

770-10113D.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 ....................................................................................9

Operating Your Lawn Mower .............................................................................10

Making Adjustments ..........................................................................................11

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower...........................................................................11

Troubleshooting.................................................................................................14

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

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 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)

(Serial Number)

MTD PRODUCTS INC

CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136

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.

For more details about your unit, visit our website at www.mtdproducts.com

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 Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle

components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductiv e harm.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this

manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

General Operation

1. Read this operator’s manual c arefully in its e ntirety before attempting to a ssembl e this mac hine. Read, understand, and fo llow al l instruct ions on th e machin e and in the manua l(s) befo re operatio n. Be com pletely familiar with the c ontrols and the proper use o f this machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and re gular refe rence and for ordering replacement parts.

2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything. Th erefore, exercise extre me caution at all times. Your unit has been designed to p erform one job: to mow grass. Do not u se it for any other purpose.

3. Never allow childre n under 14 y ears old to operate this machine. Children 14 years old and over should rea d and understand the op eration in struction s and sa fety rules i n this manual and should be trained and sup ervised b y a parent. Only respons ible indiv iduals who a re famili ar with these rules of s afe operati on shoul d be allow ed to us e this machine.

4. Thoroughly inspect the area wh ere the equipment i s to be used. Remove al l stones, sticks , wire, bones, toys and other foreign objec ts which could b e tripped over or picked up and th rown by th e blade. T hrown obje cts can cause serious persona l injury . Plan your m owing patte rn to avoid discharge of materi al toward ro ads, sid ewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avo id discharging material against a wall or obstructi on which m ay cause discharged material to ri cochet back tow ard the operator.

5. To help avoid blade contact or a thro wn object injury, stay in the operator zo ne behind the hand les and keep children, bystanders , helpers a nd pets a t least 7 5 feet from the mower wh ile it is in opera tion. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

6. Always wear safet y glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. T hrown ob jects whi ch 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 . Shirts an d pants that cove r the a rms and legs and steel -toed shoes are recommend ed. Never operate this machin e in bare feet, san dals, sl ippery or light weight (e.g. c anvas) sho es.

8. Do not put hands o r feet near rotating p arts or un der the cutting deck. Con tact with the blade can am putate ha nds and feet.

9. A missing or damaged discharg e cover can cause b lade contact or thrown ob ject inj uries.

10. Many injuries occur as a resul t of the mower being pul led over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping. Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; releas e the handle immediately .

11. Never pull the mowe r back to ward yo u while y ou are walking. If you mus t back th e mower aw ay from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to avoid trippi ng and then follow these st eps:

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-pro pelled mechan ism on uni ts so equipped while st arting 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 only in daylig ht or in goo d artifici al light. Wa lk, never run.

17. Stop the blade wh en crossin g gravel drives, wa lks 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 b lade co ntinues t o rotate for a few seconds afte r the engine is shut off. Neve r place any part of the body in the b lade area until yo u are sure the blade has stoppe d rotating .

20. Never operate mower wi thout prop er trail shield, discharge cover , grass c atcher, blad e cont rol handle or 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 be come hot and c an cause a burn . Do not touch.

22. Only use parts and acc essories made fo r this machine by the manufacturer. F ailure to do so, c an result in perso nal injury.

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. For your safet y, use th e slope gauge in cluded a s part of this manual to me asure slopes before operati ng this unit on a sloped or hill y area. If the slop e is greater than 15 d egrees, 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 drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you could lose your footing o r bala nce.

2. Do not mow slopes gre ater than 15 degrees 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 visi on of a child wh o may ru n into the mower.

5. Keep children away from hot or running engines . They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

6. Never allow childre n under 14 y ears old to operate a power mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation in structions and 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 i njury or property d amage use extrem e care in handling gasolin e. Ga soline i s extrem ely flammable and t he vapors are expl osive. Serio us personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.

2. Wash your skin and change cl othes immedia tely.

3. Use only an appro ved gaso line container .

4. Never fill containers inside a vehic le or on a tru ck or trailer bed with a plast ic liner. Always place contai ners on the ground away fro m your v ehicle b efore fill ing.

5. When practical, re move ga s-powered e quipment from the truck or traile r and refue l it on t he ground. If this i s not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable containe r, rather tha n from a gasoline dispens er nozzle.

6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tan k or container opening at al l times until fueling is comp lete. Do not use a nozzl e lock-open devi ce.

7. Extinguish all cig arettes, c igars, pi pes and o ther sources of ignition.

8. Never fuel machin e indoors becaus e flamma ble vapo rs will accumulate in the area.

9. Never remove gas cap or ad d fuel w hile the engine i s hot or running. Allow e ngine to cool at l east tw o minutes before refueling.

10. Never over fill fue l tank. F ill tank to no mo re than ½ inch below bottom of fi ller neck to provide space fo r fuel expansion.

11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten sec urely.

12. If gasoline is spilled, w ipe it off the engine and equipm ent. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine.

13. Never store the machine or fuel c ontainer i nside whe re there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a w ater heater, space heate r, furnac e ,cloth es dryer or other gas appliances.

14. To reduce fire hazard , keep mow er free of grass, leav es, or other debris bu ild-up. C lean up oil or fue l spilla ge and remove any fuel soaked debris.

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

General Service:

1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventil ated area. Engine exha ust conta ins carb on monox ide, an odorless and de adly gas.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade and al l moving parts ha ve stopp ed. Disco nnect the spark plug wi re and grou nd again st the en gine to prevent unintended star ting.

3. Check the blade a nd engin e mountin g bolts at frequ ent

intervals for proper tigh tness. Also, visu ally inspec t blade for damage (e.g., b ent, crack ed, worn) R eplace bl ade with the original equip ment manufacture’s (O. E.M.) blade only, listed in this manual . “Use of p arts which do not 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 .) parts 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.

WARNING - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: Restrict the use of th is power mac hine to p ersons wh o read,

understand and fo llow th e warnings and ins tructions in this manual a nd on the mach ine.

NOTE: Not all safety labels shown may apply to your lawn mower.

SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE

Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes.

Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

Do not mow on inclin es with a s lo pe i n e xces s of 1 5 de gr ees ( a r ise o f approximately 2-1/2 f eet every 10 feet). A ridi ng m owe r could

overturn and cause serio us injur y. If oper ating a walk-be hind mo wer on suc h a slope, i t is ex tremely diffic ult to maint ain your footing

and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

OR A FENCE POST

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVE L WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

WARNING

15°

SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER

IMPORT ANT :

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

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

This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil

Removing Unit From Carton

• 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., operator’s manual, etc.)

• Cut along corners, lay carton down flat, and remove packing material.

• Roll or slide unit out of carton and check carton thoroughly for loose parts.

Disconnecting Spark Pl ug Wire

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

Bolt

Spark Plug Wire

Figure 2

• Remove the hairpin clips from the outer hole in the weld pins on the handle mounting brackets. Using a pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower handle against the handle mounting bracket. Insert the hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld pin. Repeat on the other side. See Figure 3.

• After moving the hairpin clip, insert the carriage bolt from hardware pack in the upper hole on the handle mounting bracket and secure with plastic wing nut from the hardw are pa ck. Re peat on oth er si de.

Handle Mounting Bracket

Carriage Bolt

Spark

Plug Wire

Figure 1

Spark Plug

Setting Up Y our Lawn Mower

Assembling Handle

• Lift up and pull back on the upper handle to raise the handle into the operating position. Make certain the lower handle is seated securely into the handle bracket assemblies. Tighten the wing nuts 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 position. If you wis h to lower the height of the handle, refer to the Adjustment Section at this time.

Wing Nut

Hairpin Clip

Figure 3

• Fasten the cable to the lower handle with the two cable ties found on the lower handle. Pull the cable ties tight and trim off the excess. See Figure 4.

Cable Tie

Lower Handle

Figure 4

Insert Ha ir p in Clip

Weld Pin

Attaching Starter Rope

• The rope guide is attached to the right side of upper handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures the rope guide. See Figure 5.

Starter Rope

Rope Guide

Upper Handle

Wing Nut

Lower Handle

Figure 5

• 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.

Assembling Soft Top Grass Catcher

• Slip the openings in the side of the plastic channel on bag over the hooks on the grass catcher frame. Secure bag to the frame by working the six plastic channels on bag over frame. All the plastic channels attach from the outside of bag. See Figure 6.

Assembling Hard Top Grass Catcher

• Follow the steps for assembling the soft top grass catcher.

• Hold the bag and the frame so that the grass bag hangs from the frame and not bunched around it. Slide the handle on the grass catcher frame down into the slot in the hard top cover. See Figure 7.

Slide Frame

Grass Catcher Handle

Through Slot

NOTE: If your mower’s grass catcher has been already

assembled before shipping, proceed to the next section. If it ha s been shipped not asse mbled, follow the steps below.

• Insert frame into grass bag with the black plastic side on the bottom of bag. See Figure 6.

Grass Catcher Frame

Grass Bag

Plastic Channel

Insert Frame Into Bag

Grass Catcher Assembly Complete

Hard Top Cover

Figure 7

• Press the rear frame into the two tabs (at the back of the hard top cover and the cross bar on the front frame) into the channel on the front of the hard top cover.

• Place the mounting bracket under the front of the handle, with the flat side of the bracket facing front. Insert the two self-tapping screws through the hard top cover and the mounting bracket. See Figure 8.

Self-Tapping Screw

Mounting Bracket

Figure 8

Figure 6

Attaching Grass Catcher To Mower

• Remove the mulc hing baff le in order to install and use the grass catcher. Lift the rear discharge door and remove the rear mulching baffle from the mower. See Figure 9.

Rear Mulching Baffle

Figure 9

• Holding open the rear discharge door, place the grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of discharge door so that it rests on the grass catcher. See Figure 10.

• To remove the grass catcher, lift the rear discharge door on the mower and lift the grass catcher up.

SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

Read this operator’s manual and safety rules before operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustration in Figure 11 w ith y our la wn mow er to fami liariz e your self with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Engine Controls

See the separate engine manual for the location and function of the controls on the engine.

Reinstall the rear mulching baffle and release the rear discharge door.

Discharge Door

Grass Catcher

Figure 10

WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

Recoil Starter

The recoil starter is attached to the right handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start the unit. See Figure 11.

Blade Control Handle

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 blade control handle to stop engine and blade. See Figure 11.

WARNING: This blade contro l mechanism is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.

Cutting Height Adjustment Levers

These levers are located on each wheel and are used to adjust the cu tting hei ght. Thes e levers hav e to be at the same relative position to ensure uniform cut. See Figure 11.

Blade Control Handle

Recoil Starter

Cutting Height Adjustment Levers

Grass Catcher

Figure 11

Stopping Engine

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

• Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it to a bolt on the engine.

SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER

WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from chute area on the cutting deck. 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.

NOTE: For shipping pur poses your mower is set with

the wheels in a low cutting height position. For best results raise the cutting position until it is determine which height is best for your lawn. See the Adjustment Section for details.

Towards Better Mower Performance

1. Pour fresh, clean gasoline into the mower’s gas tank until the tank is full. Do not use gasoline that is more than 30 days old.

2. Make sure to connect the mower’s spark plug wire before trying to start the engine.

3. Add engine oil to the oil fill on the mower engine. Check the dipstick and add more if necessary. Remember that the oil level has to touch the fill line.

4. Locate the primer decal near the primer bulb on the engine, and read its instruction. Using your thumb, press the primer bulb slowly as many times as the deca l advises.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separ ate eng ine m anua l pack ed wi th your mowe r. Read instructions care fully.

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.

5. Hold control handle down and pull rope firmly to start the engine.

6. Set cutting height adjustment lever to middle setting and mow a single pass on your lawn; then adjust to desired height for a closer cut.

7. To mulch insert the mulch plug/cover on the mower.

8. Before storing the lawn mower for the winter, use stabilizer-treated fuel and run the tank dry.

9. Thirty days before start of the new season, check the air filter, spark plug and blade on the lawn mower, and replace if needed.

Starting Engine

• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain the metal cap on the end of the spark plug is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.

• Prime engine as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit.

• Your lawn mower may be equipped with a constant speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best performance.

• Stand behind the mower and squeeze the blade control handle against the upper handle.

• Grasp recoil starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches the 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. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope return to the starter slowly.

Using Y our Lawn Mow er

Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other obj ects wh ich could d amage the la wn mo wer or

the engine. Such objects could be accidently 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.

For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-third of the total length of the grass. Your 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 mowing or mulching.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove wire from the 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.

Mulching

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 t he con ditio n of the l awn. I f mowi ng ha s

SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS

been delayed and the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4”, mulching is not recommended. Mow using the side discharge to reduce the grass height to 3 1/4” maximum before mulching.

WARNING: Do not at any time make any adjustments without first stopping engine and disconnecting spark plug wire.

Cutting Height Adjustment

An adjusting plate and spring lever at each wheel position provides cutting height adjustment. Each adjusting plate has assorted height positions. When the spring lever is moved from one location to another the height of cut will be changed. Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move lever assembly to desired position. See Figu re 12.

Height Adjustment Lever

Handle Height Adjustment

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

• Remove the start er ro pe fr om th e rope guid e.

• 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 out on the legs of the lower handle. Remove lower handle from the mower.

• Turn lower handle around so the notch on the bottom of the lower handle is facing forward. Reassemble, placing the bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the handle mounting bracket. See Figure 13.

Notch

Lower Handle

Figure 12

IMPORT ANT :

relative position. For rough or uneven lawns, move the height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will help stop scalping of the grass.

All wheels must be placed in the same

• Reassemble the upper handle to the lower handle.

• Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes in the weld

pins and attach the starter rope as instructed in the Assembly Section.

SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER

General Recommendations

• Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

• The warran ty on this lawn m ower does n ot co ver items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed in this manual.

• Changing of engine governed speed will void engine wa rrant y.

• Some adjustm ents will have to be m ade periodically to maintain your unit properly. All adjustments in the Making Adjustments section of this manual should be checked at least once each season.

Figure 13

• Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are t ight.

Customer Responsibilities

MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULE

Lubricate Wheels

T C

Lubricate Blade Control

U D

Clean Deck

O R P

Blade Care Check Oil Change Oil

Replace Air Filter

I G

Clean Engine

N E

Check Spark Plug

• Follow the maintenance schedule under Customer Responsibilities to get quality performance from your lawn mower.

SERVICE

DATES

Check Spark Arrester (if any)

Lubrication

Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of service work on the lawn mower.

Lubricate Torsion Spring

Blade Control: Lubricate the pivot points on the blade

control handle at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 14.

Lubricate

Figure 14

Wheels: Lubricate the wheel s at least once a season

with light oil (or motor oil). If the wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and inner surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 14.

Chute Deflector: Lubricate the torsion springs and pivot points on chute deflector using light oil. This will insure the deflector, which is a safety device, can always work properly. See Figure 14.

Engine: Follow the separate engine manual packed with you unit for lubrication instructions.

Maintenance

NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel ta nk and keep the spark plug side of engine up. Never tip the mower more than 90 degrees and do not leave the mower tipped for an y length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.

Engine

Refer to the separate engine manual for all engine maintenance instructions.

• Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit.

• Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicate that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit.

• The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of each mowing season.

Clean the 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. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt, and combustible debris from muffler area.

Deck

The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves, dirt, or other matter. If this debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching, discharge, or bagging. The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug wire is disconnected).

IMPORT ANT :

pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. The use of water will result in shorten life and reduce serviceability.

We do not recommend the use of a

Cutting Blade Removal, Replacement, and Sharpening

• When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

• Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure 14.

• Remove the blade and the adapter from the crankshaft.

Blade

Adapter

Blade Bell

Support

Hex Bolt

Figure 15

WARNING: Periodical ly inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary.

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 when testing for balance. Before reinstalling the blade and the blade adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil.

• Be sure to install the blade with the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number) facing the ground when the mower is in the operating position.

• Slide the blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft.

• Place the blade on the adapter. Be certain the

blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter flanges.

• Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the notches on the blade bell support are aligned with small holes in the blade.

• Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.

NOTE: To ensure safe operation of your mower, the blade bolt must be checked periodically for correct torque.

Storing your Lawn Mower

The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower for storage.

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

IMPORT ANT :

pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.

• 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 a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should 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.

We do not recommend the use of a

When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It may cause damage to the mower, and could break causing personal injury.

SECTION 8: TROUBLESHOOTING

Problem Cause Remedy

Engine fails to start 1. Blade control handle disengaged.

2. Spark plug wire disconnected.

3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

4. Blocked fuel line.

5. Faulty spark plug.

6. Engine flooded

Engine runs er ratic 1. Spa rk plug wir e loose.

2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.

3. Vent in gas plugged.

4. Water or dirt in fuel system.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

6. Carburetor out of adjustment.

Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low.

2. Air flow restricted.

3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.

Occasional skip (hesitates) at high speed

Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too

Excessive vibration 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.

Mower will not mulch grass 1. Wet grass.

Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly.

NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.

1. Spark plug gap too close. 1. Adjust gap to .030”.

wide.

2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.

3. Dirty air cleaner.

2. Bent cutting blade.

2. Excessively high grass.

3. Dull blade.

2. Dull blade.

1. Engage blade control handle.

2. Connect wire to spark plug.

3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

4. Clean fuel line.

5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.

6. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not prime.

1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.

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

3. Clear ve nt.

4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.

5. Clean air cleaner.

6. Adjust carburetor.

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.

2. Remove blower housing and clean.

3. Adjust carburetor.

1. Reset gap to .030” or replace spark plug.

2. Adjust carburetor.

3. Clean air cleaner.

1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.

2. Replace blade.

1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.

2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at desired height or make a narrower cutting path.

3. Sharpen or replace blade.

1. Place all four wheels in same height position.

2. Sharpen or replace blade.

Notes

Model Series 580

Ref.

No.

1. 747-0824 Control Handle

2. 710-1205 Rope Guide

3. 720-0279 Handle Knob

4. 710-1174 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2”

5. 710-0654A Hex Washer Screw 3/ 8-16 x 1.0 0”

6. 720-0314 Hand Knob

7. 710-1270 C-Sunk Screw 1/4-20 x 1.3”

9. 712-0324 Hex Lock Nut 1/4-20

11. 749-0438C Upper Handle

12. 720-0295 Foam Grip

13. 749-0907A Lower Handle

14. 726-0240 Cable Tie

16. 746-0550 Blade Control Cable - 39”

17. 746-0842 Throttle Cable - 51”

18. 747-0995A Grass Catcher Frame

19. 664-0084 Grass Catcher Bag w/o Logo

20. 714-0104 Hairpin Clip

22. 732-0809 Door Spring

23. 782-7599A Grass Bag Door

26. 746-0883 Throttle Housing

27. 731-0066 Hard Top w/ Logo †

28. 710-1652 Hex Washer Screw 1/4-20 x .625 †

29. 782-9050 Mounting Bracket †

30. 732-0700 Wire Rod

31. 731-1236 Rear Flap

32. 748-0376C Blade Adapter

33. 710-1044 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5

34. 736-0524A Blade Bell Support

36. 742-0741 21” Mulching Blade

39. 736-0356 Bell Washer .39 I.D. x 1.38 I.D.

40. 712-0130 Hex Lock Nut 3/8-16

41. 15261A Height Adj. Plate

Part No. Part Description

647-0004 Deluxe Control Han dle

746-0551 Blade Control Cabl e - 43” 746-0553 Blade Control Cabl e - 36” 746-0737 Blade Control Cabl e - 51” 746-0555 Blade Control Cabl e - 55”

746-0843 Throttle Cable - 55” 746-0847 Throttle Cable - 42”

731-0068 Hard To w/o Logo †

742-0641 21” Standard Blade

Ref.

No.

42. 15262B Pivot Bar

43. 732-0404 Front Wheel Spring Leve r

44. 738-0507B Shoulder Bolt .5” x .357”

45. 736-0105 Bell Wash. .38” I.D. x .88” O.D.

46. 738-0102 Front Axle Bolt

47. 720-0190 Height Adjuster Knob

48. 736-0504 Wave Washer .510 x .750

49. 14578 Height Adjuster Assembly - R.H.

50. 17488A Pivot Bar - R.H.

51. 782-5002 Front Baffle

53. 782-5003 Rear Baffle

54. 710-1017 Tap Screw 1/4-14 x .625.

55. 710-0286 Hew Washer Screw 1/4-20 x .500

56. 682-3056A Handle Bracket - R.H.

58. 782-0310A 21” Deck

59. 734-1864 Rear Wheel Assembly 14 x 1.8

60. 734-1988 Front Wheel Assembly 7 x 1.8

61. 747-0996 Chute Door Pivot Rod

63. 682-3058 Handle Bracket Assembly. - R.H.

64. 750-0434 Spacer .375 O.D. x .50 I.D. x 1.02”

65. 710-0514 Hex Cap Screw 3/8-16 x 1.0

66. 782-5007A Rear Mulch Plug

67. 782-5004 Rear Mulch Baffle

70. 736-0182 Wave Washer

71. 736-0105 Spring Washer

72. 731-1426 Hub Cap

73. 738-0481A Rear Axle Bolt

76. 736-0456 Flat Washer

78. 736-0356 Bell Washer

80. 732-0866 Spring Lever, Rear

81. 720-0312 Foam Grip

82. 712-3005 Hex Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16

83. 710-0896 Hex Washer Screw 1/4-14 x .625

84. 710-0896 Hex Cap Screw 1/4-14 x .625

90. 712-0798 Hex Nut 3/8-16

91. 710-0703 Carriage Bolt, 1/4-20 x .75”

Part No. Part Description

14579 Hgt Adj As semb ly - L.H . (Not Sho wn)

17489A Pivot Bar - L.H.

682-3057A Handle Bracket - L.H. (Not Shown)

682-3059 Hdl Bracket Ass’y - L.H. (Not Sho w n)

† If Equipped

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 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 T O OBTAIN SERVICE: W arr anty service is a v aila b le , 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 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 warr an ty.

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 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.

Yard Machines 580 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual