Operator's Manual
22" Rotary Mowers
Model 503
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 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO.769-00904
(10/03)
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content
Important Safe Operation Practices
Slope Gauge
Assembling Your Lawn Mower
Know Your Lawn Mower
Operating Your Lawn Mower
Page Content Page
3 Making Adjustments 10
6 Maintaining Your Lawn Mower 11
7 Trouble Shooting 13
9 Illustrated Parts List 14
9 Warranty 16
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:
,ranD.MaN)IfM,oLLo I
www.yardman.com 330-220-4683
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,0H 44136
888-888-7318
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.cam 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
looking for could be just
a mouse c//cA awayf
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If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call 1-800-800-7310.
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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 instructions 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 rules of safe operation should be allowed to 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 a walt 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
children, bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet
from the mower 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, no more 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. Ifyou feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.
16. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light. Walk, never
run.
17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or
roads.
18.Iftheequipmentshouldstarttovibrateabnormally,stop
theengineandcheckimmediatelyforthecause.
Vibrationisgenerallyawarningoftrouble.
19.Shuttheengineoffandwaituntilthebladecomestoa
completestopbeforeremovingthegrasscatcheror
uncloggingthechute.Thecuttingbladecontinuesto
rotateforafewsecondsaftertheengineisshutoff.
Neverplaceanypartofthebodyinthebladeareauntil
youaresurethebladehasstoppedrotating.
20.Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrailshield,
dischargecover,grasscatcher,bladecontrolhandleor
othersafetyprotectivedevicesinplaceandworking.
Neveroperatemowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.
Failuretodoso,canresultinpersonalinjury.
21.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancauseaburn.Do
nottouch.
22.Onlyusepartsandaccessoriesmadeforthismachineby
themanufacturer.Failuretodoso,canresultinpersonal
injury.
23.Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthismanual,
usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactyourdealerfor
assistance.Telephone1-800-800-7310forthenameof
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. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part
of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on
a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees,
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 a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
5. When practical, 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 a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a gasoline 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 tilt fuel 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. If gasoline 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 in this manual. "Use of parts which do not
meet the original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!"
4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair
the damage before starting and operating the mower.
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.
9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail
shield are subject to wear and damage which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components and
replace immediately with original equipment
manufacturer's (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual.
"Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment
specifications may lead to improper performance and
compromise safety!"
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.
11. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
12. Observe proper disposal taws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the
environment.
_, ARNING - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: 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.
NOTE: Not all safety labels shown may apply to your lawn mower.
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WARNING
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10feet). 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
o
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.
cO
SECTION3: ASSEMBLINGYOURLAWNMOWER
IMPORTANT:This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
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.
RemovingUnitFromCarton
• 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.
DisconnectingSparkPlugWire
Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug. See Figure 1.
Spark Plug
Wire
SwParkPlug =_
ire\
To secure the upper and lower handle, tighten the
wing nuts near the top of lower handle (carriage
bolts must be seated properly into the
handle).Tighten the wing nuts at the end of the
lower handle to secure the handle to handle
bracket assemblies. See Figure 3.
NOTE: Your mower is shipped with the handle in the
higher position. If you wish to lower the height of the
handle, refer to the Adjustment Section.
Lower
Handle
Wing
Nuts
Handle
Bracket
Assembly
Figure 3
Fasten the cable to the lower handle with the cable
tie found on the lower handle. Pull the cable tie tight
and trim off the excess. See Figure 4.
Cable Tie
Spark Plug
Figure 1
Spark Plug '
SettingUpYourLawnMower
• Raise the lower handle, as shown in Figure 2
(Step1), until it snaps into place. Lift up and pull
back on the upper handle to raise the handle into
the operating position (Step 2). See Figure 2. Make
certain the lower handle is seated securely into the
handle bracket assemblies.
2. Lift upper
handle
1. Lift lower
handle
Figure 2
Lower
Handle
Figure 4
If not already, move rope guide to the first hole
above the lower handle on right side. The wing nut
loosens and secures the rope guide to handle.
See Figure 5.
Starter. Handle
Rope
Nut
Rope
Guide
"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 wing nut.
7
InstallingFrontWheels
• Place the front of the mower deck on raised blocks.
• Remove lock nut from pivot arm assembly, slide
wheel onto pivot arm assembly and secure with
lock nut. See Figure 6.
• Assemble the other side in the same manner.
• If your mower is equipped with hub caps, place hub
caps in position against the inner hub of wheel.
Press firmly around the center portion of the hub
cap in a circular motion. The hub caps are flexible
and they will snap over the wheel hubs.
• Lower the chute deflector carefully to its operating
position keeping your fingers out of the way.
Figure 8
Lock
Arm
Assembly
Hub Cap(If Equipped)
Figure 6
InstallingRearWheels
• Place the rear of the mower deck on raised blocks.
• Remove lock nut from pivot arm assembly, slide
wheel, with hollow side in, onto axle and secure
with lock nut. See Figure 7.
Assemble the other side in the same manner.
_, WARNING: The chute retainer must be
removed and discarded before operating
the mower.
InstallingMulchingBaffle
If your mower is equipped with the optional mulching
baffle, install it on the right side of the deck following
these instructions. Make sure to follow the correct
sequence as indicated here.
• Lift up and hold the side-discharge chute deflector.
• Insert bottom lip of the mulching baffle inside the
chute opening. See Figure 9.
• Snap hooks of the mulching baffle over the hinge
pin of the chute deflector. See Figure 9. The hooks
must snap into place on the hinge pin, locking the
mulching baffle firmly onto the mower. For a close-
up of the hinge pin location, see Figure 9 inset.
• Release the chute deflector.
NOTE: Install bottom lip inside chute opening
(indicated by I in the figure below) before placing hooks
over the hinge pin (indicated by 2 in the figure below).
Lock
Figure 7
RemovingChute Retainer
The chute deflector on your mower is held in an upright
position by a retainer for shipping purposes only.
Remove the retainer, following steps below, before
running the mower for the first time.
• Push the chute deflector up and towards the
engine. Holding the deflector in this position,
remove the retainer. See Figure 8.
Chute
Deflector
\\\
Baffle
Opening
Lip of Mul ,,hing Baffle
(install inside chute opening)
Figure 9
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline
and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual
before operating your mower.
SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER
Read this operator's manual and safety rules before
operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustration in
Figure 10 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself
with the location of various controls and adjustments.
Save this manual for future reference.
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.
RecoilStarter
The recoil starter is attached to the right lower handle.
Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start
the unit. See Figure 10.
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 blade
control handle to stop engine and blade.
is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass
WARNING: This blade control mechanism
its operations.
CuttingHeightAdjustmentLever
These levers are located on each wheel and they are
used to adjust the cutting height. All four levers have to
be at the same relative position to ensure an uniform
cut. See Figure 10.
EngineControls
See the separate engine manual for the location and
function of the controls on the engine.
Blade Control
Handle
Mulching _
Plug
Starter
Discharge
Chute
Figure 10
Cutting Height
Adjustment
StoppingEngine
• Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it to a bolt
on the engine.
again refer to the Safety Section in this
WARNING: Before using your lawn mower,
manual. Always be careful.
NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit
for more detailed instructions.
SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNMOWER
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors with
chute area on the cutting deck. The
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from _1_
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.
GasandOilFill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your mower.
Read instructions carefully.
41k
StartingEngine
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
• Prime engine as instructed in the separate engine
engine running or until the engine has
been allowed to cool for at least two
minutes after running.
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug is
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark
plug.
manual packed with your unit.
• Yourlawnmowermaybeequippedwithaconstant
speedthrottle,whichissetatfullthrottleforbest
performance.
• Standbehindthemowerandsqueezetheblade
controlhandleagainsttheupperhandle.
• Grasprecoilstarterhandleandpullropeoutslowly
untilenginereachesthestartofcompressioncycle
(ropewillpullslightlyharderatthispoint).
Lettheroperewindslowly.Pullropewitharapid,
continuous,fullarmstroke.Keepingafirmgriponthe
starterhandle,lettheropereturntothestarterslowly.
UsingYourLawnMower
Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage the lawn mower 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 ittends
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 the condition of the lawn. Ifmowing has
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
114"maximum before mulching.
SECTION6: MAKINGADJUSTMENTS
CuttingHeightAdjustment
adjustments without first stopping engine
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
and disconnecting spark plug wire.
Each wheel has a height adjustment lever which
provides cutting height adjustment. When the
adjustment 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 Figure 11.
IMPORTANT:All wheels must be placed inthe same
relative position. For rough or uneven lawns, move the
height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will
help stop scalping of the grass.
Height Adjustment
Lever
HandleHeightAdjustment
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower the height proceed as follows:
• Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
• Disconnect the handle from the handle bracket
assemblies by removing the wing nuts.
See Figure 12.
• Position each handle bracket assembly stud into
one of the other holes inthe lower handle.
• Each end of the lower handle must be placed in
same relative position.
• Reassemble wing nuts removed earlier and
reattach starter rope to rope guide.
Lower
f/f Handle
Figure 11
Figure 12
10
SECTION7: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNMOWER
CustomerResponsibilities
£
MAINTENANCE Qe_
SCHEDULE ,_,,_,,,
Lubricate Wheels
t---
© Lubricate Blade Control
_) Clean Deck
n_
a_ Blade Care
Check Oil
Change Oil
7m Replace Air Filter
z_ Clean Engine
uJ
Check Spark Plug
Check SparkArrester (if any)
<e _ ,,J -,u
SERVICE
DATES
GeneralRecommendations
• Always observe safety rules when performing any
maintenance.
• The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover
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 warranty.
• Periodically check all fasteners and make sure
these are tight.
• Some adjustments will have to be made
periodically to maintain your unit properly. All
adjustments in the Making Adjustments section of
this manual should be checked at least once each
season.
• Follow the maintenance schedule under Customer
Responsibilities to get quality performance from
your lawn mower.
Lubrication
Blade Control Handle: Lubricate the pivot points on
the blade control handle at least once aseason with
light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both
directions. See Figure 13.
Wheels: Lubricate the wheels at least once a season
with light oil (or motor oil). If the wheels are removed for
any reason, lubricate the surface of the pivot arm and
inner surface of the wheel with light oil.
Chute Deflector or Mulching Baffle: Lubricate the
torsion spring and pivot point periodically with light oil to
prevent any rust or binding.
Engine: Follow the separate engine manual packed
with you unit for lubrication instructions.
Lubricate
_, WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before
cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of
service work on the lawn mower.
Lubricate
Figure 13
11
Maintenance
NOTE: When tipping the unit or emptying the fuel tank
keep the air cleaner side of engine up. Never tip the
mower more than 90 degrees and do not leave the
mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into
the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.
EngineCare
A list of key maintenance jobs, required for good
performance by the mower, is given below. Follow the
accompanying engine manual for details.
• Change the engine oil regularly, as instructed in the
engine manual. Check oil level before starting
engine every time.
• 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.
• Clean the engine periodically. Remove dirt and
debris 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. Becertain
to remove all grass, dirt, and combustible debris
from muffler area.
• Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to.030" at
least once a season. Refer to the engine manual for
correct spark plug type.
• Inspect muffler periodically and replace if
necessary.
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).
IMPORTANT:We do not recommend the use of a
pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.
CuttingBladeRemoval,Replacement,andSharpening
,_ WARNING: When removing the cutting
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,
especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when
necessary.
blade for sharpening or replacement,
protect your hands with a pair of heavy
gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the
blade.
Removingthe Blade
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
• Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter
and the carburetor are up.
• 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
Ada
Blade Bell
)ort
Bolt
Figure 14
Sharpening the Blade
• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the
blade while it is still on the mower.
• Follow the original angle of grind as a guide. Make
sure that each cutting edge receives an equal
amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade.
Balancingthe Blade
• The blade can be tested by balancing iton 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 end tips facing
up or 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. Ibs. min., 600 in. Ibs. max.
NOTE: To ensure safe operation of your mower, the
blade bolt must be checked periodically for correct
torque.
12
SECTION8: TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem Cause Remedy
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats
Idles poorly
Excessive vibration
Mower will not mulch grass
Uneven cut
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.
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 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 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.
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.
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 vent.
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.
13
SECTION9: PARTSLISTFORMODEL503
3
5
8
/
9
15
31
16
18 19
14
23
lIf Equipped
Model503
Ref,
No,
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
Part No.
747-1161A
749-1092A
746-0946
710-1205
720-0279
720-0284
736-0451
710-1174
725-0157
749-04037
731-0981A_
17098
731-2537
682-3062A
682-3063A
736-3050
712-0431
710-0654A
687-02048
736-0270
741-0751
687-02094
748-0376C
742-0742A
Part Description
Blade Control Handle
Upper Handle
Blade Control Cable - 48.25"
Eye Bolt
Wing Nut
Wing Nut
Shoulder Washer.320 ID x.93 OD
Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0
Cable Tie
Lower Handle
Hub Cap
Hinge Clip
Trail Shield
Handle Bracket Assembly - RH
Handle Bracket Assembly- LH
Flat Washer.406 ID x.812 OD
Lock Nut 3/8 -16
Hex Washer Screw 3/8-16 x 1.0
22" Deck Assembly
Belt Washer.265 x.75
Height Adjuster Bearing
Pivot Arm Assembly
Blade Adapter
22" Mulching Blade
Ref.
No.
25. 710-1044
26. 736-0524A
27. 738-1172
28. 736-0741
29. 734-04086
31. 720-0426
32. 732-1026
33. 747-0710
34. 732-1014
35. 17032A
36. 731-1034B
38. 710-0514
39. 741-0717
40. 687-02080
41. 732-0984B
42. 738-1127
43. 710-0599
44. 734-04089
46. 631-04045
47. 736-0105
48. 712-0130
49. 731-04525
?lf Equipped
Part No.
687-02079
Part Description
Hex Cap Screw 3/8-24 x 1.5
Blade Bell Support
Shoulder Screw 3/8 - 16 x.302
Bell Washer.760 ID x 1.25 OD
Front Wheel Assembly 7x 1.8
Height Adjuster Knob
Front Spring Lever
Hinge Pin
Torsion Spring
Deflector Chute Adapter
Side Discharge Chute Assembly
Hex Cap Screw 3/8-16 x 1.00
Thrust Bearing.688 ID x 1.938 OD
Rear Pivot Arm Assembly - RH
Rear Pivot Arm Assembly - LH
Rear Spring Lever
Shoulder Screw 3/8 - 16 x.442
Screw 1/4-20 x.50
Rear Wheel Assembly 12 x 1.8
Snap Mulching Plug
Bell Washer.401 ID x.870 OD
Hex Lock Nut 3/8-16
Engine Shroud
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 or components thereof are subject to
separate terms as follows: All normal wear parts or
component failures wilt be covered on the product for a period
of 30 days regardless of cause. After 30 days, but within the
two year period, normal wear part failures will be covered
ONLY IF caused by defects in materials or workmanship of
OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts and
components include, but are not limited to: 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 sepa
rate 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
exposu_.
d,
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.
e,
Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.
f.
Service completed by someone other than an
authorized service dealer.
g,
Transportation charges and service calls.
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:1-800-800-7310
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