Operator's Manual
21" Self Propelled
Mulching Mower
Model 565
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.
MTD LLC, P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,0HI0 44136-0019
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO. 769-00545B
(11/2003)
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content
Important Safe Operation Practices
Slope Gauge
Assembling Your Lawn Mower
Know Your Lawn Mower
Operating Your Lawn Mower
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower
Page Content Page
3 Service &Adjustments 13
6 Off Season Storage 14
7 Trouble Shooting 15
9 Illustrated Parts List 16
10 Warranty 20
11
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:
WiTD LLCYaRD,MaN,f,"Pocox3o.3,
vwwv.yardman.com 330-220-4683
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
880-880-7318
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.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
looking for could be just
a mouse c//cA away!
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If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call 1-800-800-7310.
p_ef_e,
NeeJ li}al as._ista_c÷ ? Click _e_e te f_
_UalS O_li_e
!
answer are
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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.
WARNING" 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
safe operation rules should use this machine.
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where 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
wall 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 to protect your eyes
during equipment operation and while performing
an adjustment or repair. 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 look 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 well balanced with sure
footing.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than
half way toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
5. Do not operate the mower while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
6. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on
units so equipped while starting engine.
7. 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.
8. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be
sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing
yourfooting,releasethebladecontrolhandle
immediatelyandthebladewillstoprotatingwithin
threeseconds.
9. Mowindaylightorgoodartificiallight;walk,notrun.
10.Stopthebladewhencrossinggraveldrives,
walkwaysorroads.
11.Iftheequipmentshouldstarttovibrateabnormally,
stoptheengineandcheckimmediatelyforthe
cause.Vibrationisgenerallyawarningoftrouble.
12.Shuttheengineoffandwaituntilthebladecomes
toacompletestopbeforeremovingthegrass
catcheroruncloggingthechute.Thecuttingblade
continuestorotateforafewsecondsafterthe
engineisshutoff.Neverplaceanypartofthebody
inthebladeareauntilyouaresurethebladehas
stoppedrotating.
13.Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrailshield,
dischargecover,grasscatcher,bladecontrol
handleorothersafetyprotectivedevicesinplace
andworking.Neveroperatemowerwithdamaged
safetydevices.Failuretodosocanresultin
personalinjury.
14.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancausea
burn.Donottouch.
15.Onlyusepartsandaccessoriesmadebythe
originalequipmentmanufacturer(O.E.M).Failure
todosocanresultinpersonalinjury.
16.Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthis
manual,usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactyour
dealerforassistance.Telephone1-800-800-7310
forthenameofyournearestdealer.
SlopeOperation
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall
accidents which can result in severe injury. Operation
on slopes requires extra caution. Ifyou 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 caution when changing direction.
,
Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or
bumps which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
,
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 avehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
containers on the ground away from your vehicle
before filling.
5. Ifpossible, 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 will accumulate in the area.
9. Neverremovegascaporaddfuelwhiletheengine
ishotorrunning.Allowenginetocoolatleasttwo
minutesbeforerefueling.
10.Neveroverfillfueltank.Filltanktonomorethan½
inchbelowbottomoffillernecktoprovidespacefor
fuelexpansion.
11.Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
12.Ifgasolineisspilled,wipeitofftheengineand
equipment.Moveunittoanotherarea.Wait5
minutesbeforestartingtheengine.
13.Neverstorethemachineorfuelcontainerinside
wherethereisanopenflame,sparkorpilotlightas
onawaterheater,spaceheater,furnace,clothes
dryerorothergasappliances.
14.Toreducefirehazard,keepmowerfreeofgrass,
leaves,orotherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanupoilorfuel
spillageandremoveanyfuelsoakeddebris.
15.Allowamowertocoolatleast5minutesbefore
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 aforeign 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 laws and regulations.
Improper disposal of fluids and materials can harm
the environment.
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.
DAN@ER
/ WARNINGo
i,II
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
cO
|
I.I.I
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.
i-
Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.
SECTION3: ASSEMBLINGYOURLAWNMOWER
RemovingUnitFromCarton
• Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut
tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open.
• Remove loose parts included with unit (i.e.,
operator's manual, oil, etc.).
• Cut corners and lay carton down flat. Remove
packing material.
• Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton
thoroughly for loose parts.
NOTE: Make sure not to crimp cables while removing
loose parts or the entire unit from the carton.
ToolsRequired
• Pair of Pliers
• Funnel
• Set of adjustable wrenches
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the mower
and/or front or behind the mower is observed from the
operating position.
HardwarePack
Please identify each piece of the
hardware pack as shown in
figure here.
Wing
Nut (2)
?
Carriage
Bolt (2)
Raise the lower handle in the direction shown in
Figure 1 (step 2) till it snaps into place.
Raise the upper handle in the direction shown in
Figure 1 (step 3). Tighten the wing nuts which are
already on the handle. See Figure 2.
_ Upper Handle
,Lower Handle
i/-
i , htenth,s
Figure 2
NOTE: Make sure to route the cables inside the lower
handle. Also do not crimp the cables while lifting the
handle up.
• For shipping purposes, the hairpin clip is placed in
the outer hole of the weld pin on the lower handle.
Remove the hairpin clip from the outer hole of the
weld pin. See Figure 3.
• Using a pair of pliers, insert the hairpin clip into the
inner hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side.
See Figure 3.
DisconnectingSparkPlug
• Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug.
AssemblingHandle
• Remove grass bag from the unit and set it out of the
way. See Figure 1 (step 1).
• Remove any packing material which may be
between the upper and lower handles for shipping
purposes.
2. Lift lower handle
Move bag
away
3. Lift upper
handle
Figure 1
Carriage Bolt
Wing Nut
Hairpin Clip/%_"
• Insert the carriage bolt, included in the hardware
pack, in the upper hole on the handle mounting
bracket (carriage bolt must go to the inside of
handle). Secure with one plastic wing nut, also
included in the hardware pack. Repeat on the other
side with remaining items from the hardware pack.
• 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.
.d_dandle
Mounting Bracket
Pin
Figure 3
AttachingStarterRope
The rope guide is already attached to the right side of
the upper handle of your mower. See Figure 4.
• With spark plug wire disconnected and grounded,
hold the blade control handle against the upper
handle, and pull the starter rope out of the engine.
• Slip the rope through the rope guide as shown
below. Tighten the wing nut holding the rope guide
to the upper handle.
\\ Wing Nut
Starter ...... f/_-_ \ \ _,/ Upper
Rope Guid
Rope e__re_\_ I'lanale
Figure 4
AssemblingGrassCatcher
NOTE: If the grass catcher came pre-assembled,
proceed to the next section. If not, follow the steps
below to assemble it before attaching to the mower.
_ ARNING: When using the mower to baggrass clippings, make sure the hooks on the
grass catcher are firmly seated on the chute
pivot rod, and the rear discharge door rests
firmly against the top of the grass catcher.
AttachingGrassCatcher
• Lift the rear discharge door and place the grass
catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of discharge door
so that it rests on the grass catcher. See Figure 6.
Rear Discharge
Door
Insert frame into grass bag with the black plastic
side on the bottom of bag. See Figure 5.
Grass Catcher
Plastic
Channel
Insertframe
Grass Catcher
Assembly
Complete
/
Figure 5
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 of the plastic
channels except the center top of the bag attach
from the outside of bag. The center top of the bag
attaches from inside the bag. See Figure 5.
Figure 6
Converting To Mulcher
• Lift the rear discharge door on the mower and lift
the grass catcher up. Release the discharge door
to allow it to close the rear opening of the mower.
ConvertingToSideDischarge
• Make sure the grass catcher is off the unit and the
rear discharge door is closed. Refer to Figure 7.
• On the side of the mower, lift the mulching plug.
See Figure 7.
• Slide the two hooks of the side-discharge chute
under the hinge pin on the mulching plug assembly.
Lower the side mulching plug.
• Do not remove the side mulching plug at any time,
even when you are not mulching.
Mulching Plug
Hinge
Hooks
(Slide hooks under the two
sides of hinge pin)
Figure 7
SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER
Read this owner's manual and safety rules before
operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustrations
in Figure 8 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 operator's eyes thus causing
severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasses while operating the mower, or while
performing any adjustments or repairs on it.
Control Handle
j Lower Bail Handle
Starter Rope
The starter rope is attached to the handle. Stand behind
the unit and pull the starter rope to start the unit.
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 the blade.
_ ARNING: The blade control handle is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations or alter it in any way.
Lower Bail Handle
The lower bail handle is located on the upper handle
and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze the lower bail
handle against the upper handle to engage the drive;
release it to slow down or stop the mower from
propelling.
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 uniform cut.
MulchingPlug
The mulching plug is used only for mulching purposes.
Instead of collecting the grass clippings in a grass
catcher, your mower has the option of recirculating the
clippings back to the lawn. Make sure that the rear
discharge door is closed and the grass catcher is
removed from the unit while mulching.
Bag
Side-Discharge
Chute
NOTE: For engine controls, please refer to
the engine manual.
Mulchil
Plug :utting Height
Adjustment Levers
Figure 8
SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNMOWER
ToStopEngine
,_ WARNING" Read and understand all
instructions and warnings on the machine and
in this manual before operating.
Gas&OilFill-Up
• Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow
relevant instructions in the engine manual for this.
• Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in
the engine manual.
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never
fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is
hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars,
pipes and other sources of ignition.
BeforeStartingMower
• 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.
• Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against
the engine to prevent accidental starting while
equipment is unattended.
NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit
for more detailed instructions.
UsingYourLawnMower
• You can use your mower as a mulcher or a rear
bagger or for side discharge of grass.
• Be sure that the 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.
• For a healthy lawn, always cut off one-third or less
of the total length of the grass. Lawn should be
trimmed in fall as long as there is growth.
ThrottleSpeed
Your lawn mower engine is equipped with a constant
speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance.
StartingEngine
,_ WARNING" Be sure no one other than theoperator is standing near the lawn mower while
starting engine or operating mower.
WARNING: Never run engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
WARNING: Keep hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away from any moving parts on
engine and lawn mower.
• Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds
between each push. In cold weather around 55° F
or below, prime five times. Do not prime to restart a
warm engine after a short shutdown.
• Standing behind the mower, depress the blade
control handle and hold it against the upper handle.
• Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches the start of compression cycle
(rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Keeping
a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind
slowly.
,_ WARNING: If the mower strikes a foreignobject, stop the engine. Remove spark plug
wire from the spark plug and thoroughly inspect
for any damage. Repair the damage promptly
before restarting and operating the mower.
AdjustingCuttingHeight
Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on
page 14 for instruction on how to adjust the cutting
height and the handle height.
For best results in mowing, keep the cutting height
position high until you can determine a suitable height.
BaggingGrassClippings
You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings
while you are operating the mower.
• Attach grass catcher following instructions on page
8. Grass clippings will automatically collect in the
bag as you run the mower. Operate the mower till
the grass bag isfull.
• Stop engine completely by releasing the blade
control handle. Make sure that the unit has come to
a complete stop.
• Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away
from the mower to dispose of the grass clippings.
10
SECTION6: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNMOWER
• Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if
necessary. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters
,_ WARNING" Always stop the engine anddisconnect the spark plug wire before
performing any maintenance work or
adjustments on your lawn mower.
CleaningMower
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned
after each use to prevent any build-up of grass
clippings, leaves, dirt, or other debris. If this debris is
allowed to accumulate, it will result in rust and
corrosion.
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may
cause damage to pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The
use of water will result in shortened life and reduce
serviceability.
• Disconnect spark plug wire.
• Drain the gasoline from the lawn mower, or place a
piece of plastic under the gas cap.
• Tip the mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep
the side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold the
mower firmly.
• Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.
• Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If
you had put plastic under the gas cap, make sure to
remove it now.
can create a fire hazard.
,_ WARNING: Avoid muffler and surrounding
areas while the mower engine is hot because
temperature of these areas of the engine may
exceed 150°F.
Lubrication
Lube
,_ WARNING" Never tip the mower more than
90 degrees in any directions 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 detailed list and
instructions.
• Change engine oil regularly, as instructed in the
engine manual. Check oil level before starting
engine every time.
• Service air cleaner regularly. You may have to
service this more frequently ifyou are operating the
mower under extremely dusty conditions.
• Clean the engine periodically. Remove dirt and
debris with a cloth or brush.
• 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.
Figure 9: Lubrication Chart
Wheels
• Lubricate the wheels and 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.
MulchPlug & RearDischargeDoor
• Lubricate the torsion spring and the pivot point on
each end of the rear discharge door using a light oil.
Transmission
• The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at
the factory and does not require lubrication on a
regular basis as part of maintenance.
11
BladeControl
• Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle and the brake cable at least once a season
with light oil. The blade control must operate freely
in both directions.
Engine
• Follow the engine manual instructions and
recommended schedule for lubricating engine
components.
BladeCare
• Periodically inspect the blade adapter and pulley
for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object.
Replace when necessary.
,_ WARNING" When removing the cutting
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
• Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter
To RemoveBlade:
• Remove the hex bolt which holds the blade
blade for sharpening or replacement, protect
hands by using heavy gloves or a thick rag to
grasp the cutting blade.
and the carburetor are up.
adapter-pulley assembly to the engine crankshaft.
See Figure 10. Remove the pulley assembly and
the bell support from the crankshaft.
Remove blade from the blade adapter and pulley.
To ReplaceBlade:
• Before reinstalling the blade-pulley assembly to the
unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner
surface of the blade adapter with light oil.
• Also lubricate the bolt hole and the hex bolt.
• Insert the hex bolt, earlier removed, through the
center holes on the blade bell support and the
blade adapter-pulley assembly respectively.
• Install the blade assembly on the crankshaft.
Tighten the hex bolt to the recommended torque.
Blade Mounting Torque:
Center bolt: 450 in.lbs, minimum, 600
in.lbs, maximum.
To Sharpen 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.
NOTE: An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause
damage to the mower and could break, causing
personal injury. Test the blade by balancing it on a
round shaft screwdriver or a blade balancer.
• If the blade is not balanced, remove metal from the
heavy side until it balances evenly.
BladJ
Blade Bell
Support _.
Figure 10
Adapter-Pulley
Assembly
Hex Bolt
12
SECTION7: SERVICE& ADJUSTMENTS
ReplacingDriveBelt
• Remove two shoulder screws securing the front
drive cover to the mower deck. See Figure 11.
Loosen this screw
Shoulder
_Screw
Screw
Transmission Cover
Figure 11
• Press inward on the sides of the front drive cover
and release the tabs that secure the front drive
cover to the height adjuster brackets. Remove drive
cover from the mower.
• Using a torx wrench, loosen the screw holding the
belt tension spring to the transmission. See Figure
11. Do not remove the screw completely. As you
loosen the screw, tension on the belt will release.
• Push the transmission up a little and slide the belt
off the transmission pulley.
• Lift the mower to access the belt from the underside
of the mower.
,_ WARNING" Use a thick piece of rag tohandle the blade while sliding the belt in the
next step. Make sure the engine does not start
at all while doing this job.
• Slide the belt off the engine pulley and around the
blade. See Figure 12.
• Replace with the new belt, working around the
blade. Make sure the belt is firmly seated on the
engine pulley while pulling from the other side and
sliding it around the transmission pulley.
• Put the mower down with all four wheels firmly
placed on one level.
Front Drive
Tighten the screw, loosened earlier, to secure the
belt tension spring to the transmission, and
reassemble the front drive cover.
Right Front Left Front
Wheel _ Wheel
Figure 12
ReplacingRearFlap
• To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures itto the deck. See Figure 13.
• Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.
Discharge
Door
Bracket
Handle __
AdjustingHandleHeight
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position.
• 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. Refer to Figure 3.
• Remove the carriage bolts and wing nuts from the
handle brackets. Press out on the legs of the lower
handle. Remove lower handle from the mower.
• Turn the lower handle around so the notch on the
bottom of the lower handle is facing forward as
shown in Figure 14. Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the
handle mounting bracket.
Rear _nd
- _.o_,..........
Bracket
Rear
Flap
Figure 13
13
\
Notch
Lower
Handle
Figure 14
Reassemble the upper handle to the lower handle.
Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes of the weld
pins and replace the carriage bolts and wing nuts
on the handle brackets. Attach the starter rope as
instructed in the Assembly section.
AdjustingCuttingHeight
IMPORTANT: All wheels must be placed in the 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.
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel
provides cutting height adjustment. Each adjusting
plate has nine height positions. Height of cut will be
changed when you move the thumb lever from one
position to another.
• Simply depress the lever towards the wheel and
move the lever assembly to desired position. See
Figure 15.
For rough or uneven lawns, move the height
adjustment handles to higher cutting height
position.
Height Adjustment
Lever
Figure 15
AdjustingCarburetor
If the engine is running rough, minor adjustments to the
carburetor may be required to compensate for
differences in fuel, temperature, altitude and load.
NOTE: Dirty air cleaner may cause an engine to run
rough. Before adjusting carburetor, check air cleaner.
To adjust the carburetor, please follow the
recommendations and instructions on carburetor
adjustment in the engine manual.
,_ WARNING: If any adjustments are made to
the engine (e.g. carburetor) while the engine is
running, keep clear of all moving parts. Be
careful of heated surfaces like the muffler.
SECTION8: OFF-SEASONSTORAGE
Prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or
more. Store the mower in a clean, dry area.
Mower
• Clean underside of the mower following
instructions in the Maintain Your Lawn Mower
section of this manual.
• Lubricate mower as instructed on page 11.
• You can fold your mower's handle for convenient
storage: Remove the starter rope from the rope
guide; loosen the two hand knobs on the sides of
the handle, and let the upper handle fold down to
the rear. Move the hairpin clips to the outer hole in
the weld pins on the handle mounting brackets.
Spread the sides of the lower handle, and push it
forward and down.
• Inspect and replace/sharpen blade, if required.
14
Engine
• Follow recommendations in the engine manual for
off-season storage of the engine.
• Change oil if it has not been changed in the last
three months. For instructions on how to change oil,
refer to the engine manual.
• Clean engine and remove any grass clippings.
Other
Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust
and/or dirt in the gasoline will cause problems.
Store unit in a clean, dry area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: If storing in an unventilated or metal storage
shed, be certain to rustproof the equipment by coating
with a light oil or silicone.
SECTION9: TROUBLE-SHOOTING
Problem Possible Cause Corrective Action
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats
Occasional skip Spark plug gap too close
(hesitates) at high
speed
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug faulty, or gap too wide 1. Reset gap to.030 inches or replace spark plug.
Excessive vibration 1. Blade loose or unbalanced 1. Tighten blade and adapter, balance blade.
Mower will not 1. Wet grass 1. Wait until grass is dry to cut.
mulch grass 2. Excessively high grass 2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not at same height 1. Reposition all wheels at same height.
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
1. Engine oil level low
2. Airflow restricted
1.
2. Dirty air cleaner 2. Clean air cleaner.
2. Bent cutting blade 2. Replace blade.
3. Bent engine crankshaft 3. Contact the nearest service center
3. Dull blade 3. Sharpen or replace blade.
2. Dull blade 2. Sharpen or replace blade.
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill up tank with fresh gasoline.
4. Clean fuel line.
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Wait a few 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.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Clean air cleaner. Refer to engine manual.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Clean lawn mower engine.
1. Adjust gapto.030 inches.
again at desired height.
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments fisted above, contact your local authorized service dealer.
15
SECTION10: PARTSLISTFORMODEL565
/
52
23
_14
79
25
/
51
/
34
IMPORTANT: For a proper working machine, use
Factory Approved Parts. V-BELTS are specially
designed to engage and disengage safely. A
substitute (non OEM) V-Belt can be dangerous by
not disengaging completely.
_6
67
6
_7
37
16
Model565
Ref. No Part No.
1. 747-1214
2. 710-0599
3. 736-0270
4. 17032A
5. 732-1014
6. 756-04017
7. 747-1161A
8. 749-1092A
9. 731-04177
10. 687-02055
11. 747-0710
12. 732-0708
13. 720-0279
14. 720-0284
15. 710-1205
16. 746-1114
17. 710-1174
18. 687-02033
687-02031
19. 726-0240
20. 714-0104
21. 710-1008
22. 746-04112
23. 664-04027
24. 710-1650
25. 631-0075B
26. 741-0604A
27. 748-0355
28. 787-01106
29. 782-5003
30. 710-1017
31. 782-5004A
32. 710-0216
33. 732-04090
34. 712-0431
35. 731-04580
36. 782-5002A
37. 754-0637A
38. 736-0447
39. 750-04178
40. 748-04015A
41. 742-0741
42. 736-0524A
* Not shown in illustration
Description
Lower Bail Handle
TT Screw 1/4-20 x 0.5
Bell Washer.265 x 0.75
Deflector Chute Adapter
Torsion Spring
Input Pulley
Blade Control Handle
Upper Handle
Chute Deflector
Mulch Plug Complete
Hinge Pin
Bearing Retainer
Handle Knob
Handle Knob
Eye Bolt
Control Cable - 50.56"
Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0
RH Handle Bracket
LH Handle Bracket
Cable Tie
Cotter Pin
Self-Tapping Sems Screw
Drive Cable - 50.50"
Grassbag Assembly
Shoulder Screw # 12 -24
Engine Spacer
Bearing Sleeve
Bearing Support
21" Deck
LH Rear Baffle
Screw AB: 1/4-14:.625
RH Rear Baffle
Hex Screw 3/8-16 x.75
Torsion Spring RH
Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16
Transmission Cover (Yellow)
Front Baffle
V-Belt
Wave Washer
Sleeve Spacer 9.04" Lg.
Blade Adapter w/Pulley
21" Mulching Blade
Blade Bell Support
Ref.No
43.
44.
45.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
88.
Part No.
687-02044
710-1257
749-0928A
720-0426
732-04089
634-04100
716-0865
717-1762
717-1761
747-04080
736-0451
712-3005
710-1652
687-02056
687-02057
715-0221
736-0474
687-02039
687-02040
732-0866
720-0312
738-0507B
734-04089
782-0512B
782-0511A
732-0706
732-0707
732-0700
731-1236
747-0996
716-0102
731-04134
782-7551
750-1166
750-04162
715-04011
710-0703
712-0397
618-0657
732-1043
682-0512A
682-0511A
Description
Pivot Plate Assembly
Hex Screw 3/8-24 x 2.50
Lower Handle
Adjustment Knob
Torsion Spring LH
Wheel 8 x 1.8
Snap Ring
Gear 14T RH FWD
Gear 14T LH FWD *
Grass Bag Frame
Saddle Washer
Hex Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16
]-T Scr. w/Washer 1/4-20 x.625
RH Handle Bracket Assembly
LH Handle Bracket Assembly
Dowel Pin
Washer
Pivot Arm Assembly - RH
Pivot Arm Assembly - LH
Rear Spring Lever
Foam Grip
Shoulder Scr.500 Dia. x.434
Wheel, 12 x 1.8
Height Adjuster Plate - RH
Height Adjuster Plate - LH*
Front Lever- RH
Front Lever- LH*
Wire
Rear Trailing Shield
Pivot Rod
Snap Ring
Rear Discharge Door
Wheel Dust Cap
Slev. Spacer 2.1" Lg.
Spacer.375 x.50 x 1.02" Lg.
Roll Pin
Carriage Bolt 1/4-20
Wing Nut
Transmission Assembly
Belt Tension Spring
Height Adjustment Assembly RH
Height Adjustment Assembly LH*
17
NOTES
18
NOTES
19
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 a warranted
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
2O
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