Yard-Man 11A-109P701 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

20" Mulching Push

Lawn Mower

MODEL 109

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.

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 361131

Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

MTDLLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-0019

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

FORM NO. 770-10074F

(10/2003)

TABLEOFCONTENTS

Content

Important Safe Operation Practices
Slope Gauge
Assembling Your Lawn Mower

Know Your Lawn Mower
Operating Your Lawn Mower

Making Adjustments

Page Content Page

3 Maintaining Your Lawn Mower 11
6 Off Season Storage 12
7 Trouble Shooting Guide 13

8 Illustrated Parts 14
9 Warranty 16

10

FINDINGMODELNUMBER

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. A sample model plate is
also given below. You can locate the model plate by standing at the operating position and
looking down at the rear of the deck. This information will be necessary to use the
manufacturer's web site and/or help from the Customer Support Department or an authorized

service dealer.

Copy the model number here:

'_RD_BN)/_ MTD LLC

Www.yardman.com 330-220-4683

P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,0H 44136

800-800-7310

Copy the serial number here:

CUSTOMERSUPPORT

Please doNOTreturntheunitto the retailer fromwhereit waspurchased,withoutfirstcontactingCustomerSupport.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

Visit yardman.com for many useful suggestions. Click on Customer Support button and you
will get the four options reproduced here. Click on the appropriate button and help is
immediately available.

answer you are

]OOkirng for Could be jrust

a mouse c//cA awayf

If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call 1-800-800-7310.

,r f

answer are

looking for could be just

a mouse c//cA away!

" f

M nual

En ine

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to

performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine
manufacturer's Owner's/Operator's Manual, packed separately with your unit, for more

information.

SECTION1: IMPORTANTSAFEOPERATIONPRACTICES

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 reproductive 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 instruc-

tions could result in serious injury or death.

GeneralOperation

1. Read this operator's manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely
familiar with the controls and the proper use of this
machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.

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 for any other purpose.

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and supervised by a
parent. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with
these safe operation rules should use this machine.

4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and
other foreign objects which could be tripped over or
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can
cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern
to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material
against awall or obstruction which may cause discharged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.

5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, stay
in the operator zone behind the handles and keep
bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet
from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.

6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.

7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or
light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands

and feet.

9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.

10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled

over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.

Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the
handle immediately.

11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are

walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first took down and behind to avoid tripping

and then follow these steps:

a. Step back from the mower to fully extend your

arms.

b. Be sure you are welt balanced with sure footing.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, nomore than halfway

toward you.

d. Repeat these steps as needed.

12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.

13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so
equipped while starting engine.

14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the
safety device inoperative and may result in personal

injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade
control handle must operate easily in both directions and
automatically return to the disengaged position when

released.

15. Never operate the mower inwet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal

injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.

16. Mow in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.

17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walkways
or roads.

18. Ifthe equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.

Never place any part of the body in the blade area until

you are sure the blade has stopped rotating.

20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or

othersafetyprotectivedevicesinplaceandworking.
Neveroperatemowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.
Failuretodoso,canresultinpersonalinjury.

21.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancauseaburn.Do
nottouch.

22.Onlyusepartsandaccessoriesmadeforthismachineby
theoriginalequipmentmanufacturer(O.E.M).Failureto
dosocanresultinpersonalinjury.

23.Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthismanual,
usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactyourdealerfor
assistance.Telephone[phone]forthenameof
yournearestdealer.

SlopeOperation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents
which can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes
requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it. Before operating this unit on a slope or hilly area, use
the slope gauge on page 6 to measure slopes. If the slope is
greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

Do:

1.

Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.

2,

Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps

which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide

obstacles.

3,

Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. Ifyou feel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately,
and the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.

DoNot:

1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments,
you could lose your footing or balance.

2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
the slope gauge.

3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause
slipping.

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
mower and the mowing activity. They do not understand the
dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you

last saw them.

1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the

watchful care of a responsible adult other than the

operator.

2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.

3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and
down for small children.

4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure your vision of a child who may run into the

mower.

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

6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a

power mower. Children 14 years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual and should be trained and
supervised by a parent.

Service

SafeHandlingOfGasoline:

1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious
personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on
yourself or your clothes which can ignite.

2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

3. Use only an approved gasoline container.

4. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on atruck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on

the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

5. If possible, remove gas-powered equipment from the
truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment on atrailer with a
portable container, rather than from agasoline dispenser

nozzle.

6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.

7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.

8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors
wilt accumulate in the area.

9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot
or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes
before refueling.

10. Never over fittfuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel

expansion.

11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.

12. Ifgasoline is spilled, wipe it offthe engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes
before starting the engine.

13. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a water

heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.

14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.

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

GeneralService:

1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain
the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.

3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade

for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade
with the original equipment manufacture's (O.E.M.) blade
only, listed inthis manual. "Use of parts which do not

meettheoriginalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafetyF

4. Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut.Wrapthebladeor
weargloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.

5. Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstighttobesurethe

equipmentisinsafeworkingcondition.

6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheirproper

operationregularly.

7. Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stoptheengine,disconnect

thesparkplugwireandgroundagainsttheengine.
Thoroughlyinspectthemowerforanydamage.Repair
thedamagebeforestartingandoperatingthemower.

8. Neverattempttomakeawheelorcuttingheight

adjustmentwhiletheengineisrunning.

9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail

exposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobethrown.For
safetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponentsand
replaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment

manufacturer's(O.E.M.)partsonly,listedinthismanual.
"Useofpartswhichdonotmeettheoriginalequipment
specificationsmayleadtoimproperperformanceand
compromisesafetyF

10.

Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingoroverspeed
theengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthemaximumsafe
operatingspeedoftheengine.

11.

Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as
necessary.

12.

Observeproperdisposaltawsandregulations.Improper
disposaloffluidsandmaterialscanharmthe

environment.

shieldaresubjecttowearanddamagewhichcould

YourResponsibility

• Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in
this manual and on the machine.

/ WARNING

USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.

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SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

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15 °

WARNING

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). 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 in serious injury.
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.

SECTION3: ASSEMBLINGYOURLAWNMOWER

ToRemoveUnitFromCarton

• Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, orcut tape
at carton end and peel along top flap to open carton.

• Remove loose parts included with your unit (i.e.,
operator's manual, etc.).

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

• Roll or slide unit out of carton.

IMPORTANT:This unit is shipped WITHOUT
GASOLINE. Make sure to service engine with gasoline
and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual
before operating your mower.

NOTE: Reference to right or left side of the mower is

observed from the operating position.

ToolsRequired

Pair of pliers (not necessary, but helpful)

DisconnectSparkPlugWire

• Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug. See Figure 1.

• Tighten the hand knobs on each side of the handle
(carriage bolts and saddle washers must be seated
properly into the handle as shown). See Figure 3.

NOTE: Your mower is shipped with the handle in the

higher height position. If you wish to lower the height of
the handle, refer to the instructions for handle height
adjustment on page 10.

Carriage Bolt

Upper
Handle

Figure 3

Remove the hairpin clips from the outer holes 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.
See Figure 4. Repeat on other side.

Spark Plug Wire_4,_ ,j ,/_ ,,'

Spark Plug

Figure 1

AttachingHandle

• 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. See Figure 2.

Clip in

Inner Hole..... f2_/

Weld _ _/

Hairpin _c_

Pin _ [e

% _J/_Handle

Figure 4

AttachingStarterRope

• The rope guide isattached to the right side of the
upper handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures

the rope guide. For location of the wing nut, see

Figure 5.

Insert starter rope into Wing Nut
rope guide

Rope

Guide

Figure 2

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. See Figure 5.

• Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened
securely.

• Attach cables to the lower handle with the two cable
ties already on the lower handle, insert pegs on

cable ties into the holes on the lower handle. Pull
cable ties tight and cut off the extra. See Figure 6.

Cable Tie

ConvertingtoSideDischarge

• Your mower has been shipped as a mulcher. To
convert it to a side-discharge mower, lift the

mulching plug. Slide the two hooks on the side-

discharge deflector under the hinge pin on the

mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug.

See Figure 7.

Mulching
Plug

Lower
Handle

Figure 6 Figure 7

SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER

Compare Figure 8 with your equipment to get familiar
with the mower controls before operating it.

BladeControlHandle

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.

_, WARNING: This control mechanism is a

safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations. The blade will be rotating
whenever the engine is running.

ThrottleControl
Your engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle,

which is set at full throttle for best performance.

StarterRope

The starter rope is attached to the handle. Stand behind
the unit and pull the starter rope to start the unit.

Primer
The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor. Use

it to start a cold engine, but do not use it to restart a
warm engine after a short shutdown.

MulchingPlug
The mulching plug is used only for mulching purposes.

This process recirculates the clippings back to the lawn.
Do not operate the mower if the mulching plug is not
firmly situated on the unit.

Cutting HeightAdjustmentLever

This lever, located at each wheel, lets you adjust cutting

height of the grass. Remember to put allfour levers at

the same height to avoid uneven cut.

Starter

Rope

Mulchin

Handle

Figure 8

Control

ge

Pin

fSide

Chute

Deflector

Cutting Height
Adjustment Lever

Wire

SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNMOWER

Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.

,i_ WARNING: Keep hands and feet away

from the chute area on cutting deck. The

blade will be rotating whenever the engine is
running.

Be sure no one other than the operator is
standing near the lawn mower while starting
the engine or operating the mower.

Keep afirm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly

to the rope guide. If you encounter any problems,

refer to the Trouble Shooting Guide for helpful
information.

NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit

for more detailed instructions.

Never run engine indoors or in enclosed,

poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and

deadly gas.

GasandOilFill-Up

• Service the mower engine with gasoline and oil
following instructions in the engine manual. If your

mower was shipped with oil in the engine, fill up the
required amount of gasoline only. Always make
sure there is adequate oil in the engine before
starting the engine. Fill up as necessary.

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.

AdjustingCuttingHeight

• Your mower was shipped at the highest cutting

height. For best results in mowing, keep the cutting
height position high until it is determined which
height is best for your lawn.

• Refer to height adjustments section of this manual

on page 10 for instruction on how to adjust the
cutting height and the handle height.

BeforeStarting

• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain

the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire
(inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over
the metal tip on the spark plug.

ToStartEngineandEngageBlade

• 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.

StoppingEngineandBlade

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

WARNING: The blade continues to rotate
for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.

Do not touch the blade in any way while it is
still rotating.

• Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against
the engine to prevent accidental starting while
equipment is unattended.

UsingYourRotaryMower

• Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or

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.
Speed of the mower should be adjusted to the

condition of the lawn.

• For a healthier lawn, always cut off one-third or less
of the total length of grass. Lawn should be mowed

in the fall season as long as there is growth.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,

stop the engine. Remove wire from spark
plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for any
damage, and repair the damage before
restarting and operating the mower.
Extensive vibration of the mower during

operation is an indication of damage. The unit

should be promptly inspected and repaired.

SECTION6: MAKINGADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Do not at any time make any

adjustment to your lawn mower without first
stopping the engine and disconnecting the
spark plug wire.

HandleHeight

Your mower is shipped with the handle inthe higher
height position .To lower the handle height for your
convenience, proceed as follows.

\

Lower

Handle

Figure 9

• Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.

• Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink cables.

• Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the
handle brackets. Press outward on the legs of the

lower handle, and remove it from the mower.

• Turn the lower handle around so the notches on the
bottom of the lower handle are facing forward as

shown in Figure 9. Reassemble, placing the bottom
holes in the handle over the weld pins in the handle
mounting bracket.

• Reassemble the upper handle.

• Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes inthe weld
pins. Reattach the starter rope.

Notch

Carburetor

WARNING: Ifany adjustments are made to

the engine while the engine is running (e.g.
carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts and
heated surfaces (e.g. muffler).

Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refer to the
engine manual.

NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to run

rough. Make sure air cleaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor before adjusting carburetor.

CuttingHeight

An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel

position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut

will be changed when the thumb lever is moved from
one hole to another.

Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move
wheel and lever assembly to desired position. All
wheels must be placed in the same relative

position. See Figure 10.

Height

ustment

Lever

Figure 10

10

SECTION7: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNMOWER

To removeblade:

,i_ WARNING: Always stop engine and

Lubrication

disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning,
lubricating or doing any kind of maintenance

work on lawn mower.

• Remove the bolt and blade bell support which hold
the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft.
See Figure 12. Remove the blade and the adapter

from the crankshaft.

BladeControl

• Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle and the brake cable at least once a season

with light oil. See Figure 11. The blade control must

operate freely in both directions.

Wheels

• Lubricate the wheel bearings (if so equipped) at
least once a season with light oil (or engine oil).
Also, if the wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate the surface of the pivot arm axle and the
inner surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure

11.

Engine

Follow engine manual for lubrication instructions.

Lubricate Bearings

Figure 11

,_ WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and

ground the spark plug wire before performing
any repairs or maintenance.

NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty fuel tank and

keep engine spark plug side up.

CuttingBlade

,_ WARNING: When removing the cutting

blade for sharpening or replacement, protect
hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp
the cutting blade.

,_ WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade

• When sharpening the blade, follow the original

• The blade can be tested by balancing iton a round

adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a

foreign object. Replace when necessary.

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, may damage the

mower and/or cause personal injury.

shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy
side until it balances evenly. It is recommended that
the blade always be removed from the adapter for

the best test of balance.

Blade
Adapter_

_1 Support

/

Hex Bolt

Figure 12

• 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 (or
engine oil).Also lubricate the bolt hole and bolt.

To ReinstallBlade:

• 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 inthe operating

position.

• Make sure the blade is aligned with and seated
onto the blade adapter flanges.

• Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the

notches on the blade bell support are aligned with

the small holes inthe blade. See Figure 12.

• Replace hex bolt. Tighten to recommended torque.

Blade Torque: 450 in. Ibs. rain., 600 in. Ibs. max.

• To ensure safe operation of mower, check all nuts
and bolts periodically for correct torque.

11

CuttingDeck

• 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. Ifthis
debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust

and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching.

• The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).

NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure

washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to bearings or the engine. The use of
water will shorten fife and reduce serviceability.

Engine

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

SECTION8: OFF-SEASONSTORAGE

• Maintain engine oil as instructed in the engine
manual.

• Service air cleaner every 25 hours of operation
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.

• 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;

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) cleaned
to permit proper air circulation which is essential to
engine performance and life. Make sure to remove
all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler

area.

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

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

NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure

washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to bearings or the engine. The use of

water will result in shortened life and reduce
serviceability.

• Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.

• Coat mower's cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.

• Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next

to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in

an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the lawn mower, especially cables and all
moving parts, before storing it for the off-season.

12

SECTION9: TROUBLESHOOTINGGUIDE

Trouble

Engine fails to start

Engine runs erratic

Engine overheats

Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high
speed

Idles poorly

Excessive vibration

Mower will not mulch
grass

Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly. 1.

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.

1. Spark plug wire loose.

2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.

3. Vent in gas cap plugged.

4. Water or dirt in fuel system.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

6. Carburetor out of adjustment.

1. Engine oil level low.

2. Air flow restricted.

3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.

1. Spark plug gap too close.

1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too
wide.

2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.

3. Dirty air cleaner.

1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.

2. Bent cutting blade.

1. Wet grass.

2. Excessively high grass.

3. Dull blade. 3.

2. Dull blade. 2.

Possible Cause(s)

4. Clean fuel line.

4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.

Corrective Action

1. Engage blade control handle.

2. Connect wire to spark plug.

3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

5. Clean, adjust gap or replace.

6. Wait afew minutes to restart. Do not prime.

1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.

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

3. Clear vent.

5. Clean air cleaner.

6. Adjust carburetor.

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.

2. Remove blower housing and clean.

3. Adjust carburetor.

1. Adjust gap to .030".

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. Wait until later to cut.

2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow
again at desired height or make a narrower
cutting swath (1/2 width).

Sharpen or replace blade.
Place all four wheels in same height position.

Sharpen or replace blade.

13

SECTION10: PARTSLISTFORMODEL109

7

16

17 -_,.._\ \

12

\

24

14

_.,,,_ 19

Model109

Ref. No.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

Pa_ No.

747-1161A
736-0451
736-0524A
710-1044
747-0710
749-1092A
710-1205
710-1174
749-0928A
720-0279
720-0284
714-0104
746-1130
726-0240

17098
731-04019
682-0139
742-0740
720-0426
732-0404
734-2004A
736-0504

Description

Control Handle
Saddle Washer

Blade Bell Support
Hex Bolt

Hinge Pin
Upper Handle
Rope Guide
Carriage Bolt

Lower Handle

Wing Nut

Hand Knob
Hairpin Clip

Control Cable 40"
Cable Tie

Hinge Clip
Trail Shield

20" Cutting Deck Assembly
20" Mulching Blade
Height Adjustment Knob
Spring Lever
Wheel Assembly

Wave Washer

Ref. No.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

Part No.

731-1933
731-1426A
738-0507B
687-02077

687-02076

682-3024
682-3025

748-0376C
753-0588

732-0731
687-02074
687-02075

782-7006
736-0270
710-0599
710-0654A
731-1409B
682-7002
712-0431
15261A

Description

Front Deck Cover
Hubcap: Radial Spoke, Yellow

Shoulder Bolt

Pivot Arm Assembly - RH Front
Pivot Arm Assembly - LH Rear

Pivot Arm Assembly - LH Front
Pivot Arm Assembly - RH Rear
Handle Bracket Assembly RH

Handle Bracket Assembly LH*
Blade Adapter

Blade Adapter Kit (for service)

Torsion Spring

Height Adjust. Assembly RH
Height Adjust. Assembly LH*

Mounting Bracket
Bell Washer

Hex Washer Hd. TT Screw
TT Sems Screw
Chute Deflector

Mulching Plug Assembly

Hex Lock Nut

Height Adjustment Plate

Not shown in Illustration on previous

NOTE: For painted parts, please refer to

the list of color codes below. Please add
the applicable color code, wherever

needed, to the part number to order a
replacement part. For instance, if a part
numbered 700-xxxx is painted Yard-Man
Green, the part number to order would be

700-xxxx-0665.

Yard-Man Green: 0665

Yard-Man Yellow: 0674

Powder Black: 0637

page

15

MANUFACTURER'S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:

YaRD.MaNTM

®

The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the
United States, its possessions and territories.

"MTD" warrants this product against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the
date of original purchase and wilt, at its option, repair or
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in
materials or workmanship. This limited warranty shall only
apply if this product has been operated and maintained in
accordance with the Operator's Manual furnished with the
product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse,
commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of
other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the
installation or use of any part, accessory or attachment not
approved by MTD for use with the product(s) covered by this
manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damage.

Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in
material and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from
the date of purchase. Normal wear parts include, but not
limited to items such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade
adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower
skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.

HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,
WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized
service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your
Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131,
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or log
on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.

This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the
following cases:

a,

The engine or component parts thereof. These items

may carry a separate manufacturer's warranty. Refer
to applicable manufacturer's warranty for terms and

conditions.

b,

Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a

separate one year warranty.

C.

Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,

blade sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch
adjustments, deck adjustments, and normal

deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or
exposure.

d,

Service completed by someone other than an

authorized service dealer.

e,

MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or

exported outside of the United States, its possessions
and territories, except those sold through MTD's
authorized channels of export distribution.

f,

Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.
Transportation charges and service calls.

g.

No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose,
applies after the applicable period of express written

warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other

express warranty, whether written or oral, except as
mentioned above, given by any person or entity,
including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product,
shall bind MTD. During the period of the warranty, the
exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product

as set forth above.
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the

sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or
damage including, without limitation, expenses incurred
for substitute or replacement lawn care services or for
rental expenses to temporarily replace awarranted
product.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how

long an implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or
limitations may not apply to you.

In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the
amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration

of safety features of the product shall void this warranty.

You assume the risk and liability for toss, damage, or injury to
you and your property and/or to others and their property
arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product.

This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the
original purchaser or to 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.

IMPORTANT:Owner must present Original Proof of
Purchase to obtain warranty coverage.

MTD LLC, P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-0019;Phone:[phone]