Yard-Man 12AE445G701 Owner’s Manual

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty

OF A O A AL

21=inch Rotary Mower- Model E445

iMPORTANT

READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION

Warning: Thisunitisequippedwithaninternalcombustionengineandshouldnotbeusedon or nearanyunimprovedforest-covered,brush- coveredor grass-coveredlandunlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemisequippedwitha sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any). If a sparkarresterisused,it shouldbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorderby theoperator.IntheStateofCaliforniatheaboveisrequiredbylaw (Section4442oftheCaliforniaPublicResourcesCode).Otherstatesmayhavesimilarlaws.Federallawsapplyonfederallands.A sparkarrester forthemufflerisavailablethroughyournearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO.Box361131Cleveland,

Ohio44136-0019.

FORMNO.769-01686B

PRINTEDIN U.S.A.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019

01/16/2006

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.

Table of Contents

Slope Gauge ....................................................... 3

Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4

Setup and Adjustment ....................................... 6

Operating Your Lawn Mower .............................. 8

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower ......................... 10

MTDLLCreservesthe rightto changeproductspecifications,designsandequipmentwithoutnoticeandwithoutincurringobligation.

Finding and Recording Model Number

BEFOREASSEMBLINGYOURNEW EQUIPMENT,please locatethe model plateon the equipmentandcopy the infor-

mationto the sample model plate providedto the right.You can locatethe model plate by standing atthe operatingposi- tion and lookingdown atthe rear ofthe deck.This information

will be necessaryto use the manufacturer'swebsite, to obtain assistancefrom the CustomerSupport Department, or when

contactingan authorizedservice dealer.

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

Safety Labels .................................................... 15

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

Notes Page ........................................................ 18

Warranty ............................................ Back Cover

Model Number Serial Number

IVITD LLC P. O. BOX ;3611;31

CLEVELAND,OH 44136

www.yardman.com 330-220-4683

800-800-7310

Customer Support

Please do NOTreturn the unit to the retailer from which it was

purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.

Ifyou have difficulty assemblingthis product or have any questions regardingthe controls, operation,or maintenanceof this unit,youcanseek helpfromthe experts.Choosefrom the options below:

• Visit www.yardman.com. Click on the Service & Support menu option.

Phonea Customer Support Representativeat 1-800-800-7310.

The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine-relatedissueswith regardsto performance, power-rating,specifica- tions,warranty and service. Pleasereferto the engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator'sManual,packedseparatelywith your unit, for moreinformation.

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WARNING: EngineExhaust,some of its constituents,andcertain vehicle compo- nentscontain or emit chemicals knownto Stateof Californiato cause cancerand

birth defects or other reproductiveharm.

DANGER: This machinewas builtto beoperatedaccordingto the rulesfor safe operationin this manual.As with anytypeof power equipment,carelessnessor error on the part of the operator can result in seriousinjury.This machine iscapableof amputatinghands andfeet andthrowing objects.

Failureto observethe followingsafetyinstructionscould result in serious injury or death.

RNING

This symbol points out important safety

instructionswhich, if notfollowed, could

endangerthe personal

i safety and/or property

ofyourself and others. Readand follow all

instructionsinthis man- ualbefore attempting to

operatethis machine. Failureto complywith

these instructionsmay

resultin personalinjury.

i When youseethis

symbol.

HEED iTS WARNING

Your

i Flesponsibility

I Restrictthe use i of this powermachine

to personswho read.

understand

and followthe warnings

and instructions

in this manual

andon the machine.

Children

Tragicaccidentscanoccurifoperatorisnotalertto presence ofchildren.Childrenareoftenattractedtomowerandmowing activity.Theydonot understandthe dangers.Neverassume thatchildrenwill remainwhereyoulastsawthem.

1. Keepchildrenoutof the mowingareaandunderwatchful careof a responsibleadultotherthanthe operator.

2. Bealert andturn moweroff if a childentersthearea.

3. Beforeandwhilemovingbackwards,lookbehindanddown forsmallchildren.

4. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblindcorners, doorways,shrubs,trees,or otherobjectsthatmayobscure yourvisionofachild whomayrunintothe mower.

5. Keepchildrenawayfromhotorrunningengines.Theycan sufferburnsfroma hotmuffler.

6. Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsoldto operateapower mower.Children14yearsoldandovershouldreadand understandoperationinstructionsandsafetyrulesinthis manualandshouldbetrainedandsupervisedbya parent.

General Operation

1. Readthis operator'smanualcarefullyin its entiretybefore attemptingtoassemblethismachine.Read,understand,

andfollowall instructionsonthemachineandin the manual(s)beforeoperation.Becompletelyfamiliarwith

thecontrolsandthe properuseofthis machinebefore operatingit.Keepthis manualin asafeplaceforfuture andregularreferenceandfor orderingreplacementparts.

2. Thismachineisaprecisionpieceof powerequipment, nota plaything.Therefore,exerciseextremecautionat all times.Yourunithas beendesignedto performonejob: to mowgrass.Do notuseitfor anyotherpurpose.

3. Neverallow childrenunder 14yearsoldto operatethis machine.Children14yearsoldand overshould readand

understandthe instructionsinthismanualandshould betrainedand supervisedbya parent.Onlyresponsible

individualswhoarefamiliarwiththeserulesofsafe operationshouldbeallowedto usethis machine.

4. Thoroughlyinspectthe areawherethe equipmentisto beused.Removeallstones,sticks,wire,bones,toysand otherforeignobjectswhichcouldbetrippedoverorpicked upandthrownby the blade.Thrownobjectscancause seriouspersonalinjury.Planyourmowingpatternto avoid dischargeof materialtowardroads,sidewalks,bystanders andthe like.Also,avoiddischargingmaterialagainsta wallorobstructionwhichmaycausedischargedmaterial toricochetbacktowardtheoperator.

5. Tohelpavoidbladecontactorathrownobjectinjury, stayinoperatorzone behindhandlesand keepchildren, bystanders,helpers,and petsat least75feetfrommower whileitis inoperation.Stopmachineifanyoneenters

area.

6. Alwayswearsafetyglassesor safetygogglesduringopera- tionandwhile performinganadjustmentor repairto protect youreyes.Thrownobjectswhichricochetcancauseserious injurytothe eyes.

7. Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoesand close-fitting slacksandshirts. Shirtsand pantsthatcoverthe armsand legsandsteel-toedshoesarerecommended.Neveroperate thismachinein barefeet,sandals,slipperyorlightweight (e.g.canvas)shoes.

8. Do notputhandsorfeet nearrotatingpartsor undercutting deck.Contactwithbladecanamputatehandsandfeet.

9. A missingor damageddischargecovercancauseblade contactor thrownobject injuries.

10.Manyinjuriesoccuras a resultofthemowerbeing pulled overthefoot duringa fall causedbyslippingor tripping. Do notholdontothe mowerifyouarefalling;releasethe handleimmediately.

11.Neverpullthe mowerbacktowardyouwhileyouare walking.Ifyoumust backthe mowerawayfroma wallor obstructionfirstlookdownandbehindtoavoidtrippingand thenfollowthesesteps:

a. Stepbackfrommowertofullyextendyourarms. b. Besure youarewellbalancedwithsurefooting.

c. Pullthe mowerbackslowly,no morethan half way

towardyou.

d. Repeatthesestepsas needed.

12.Donotoperatethe mowerwhileunderthe influenceof alcoholordrugs.

13.Donotengage theself-propelledmechanismon unitsso equippedwhilestartingengine.

14.Thebladecontrolhandleisasafetydevice.Neverattempt tobypassitsoperation.Doingso makesthe safetydevice inoperativeandmayresult in personalinjurythrough contactwiththe rotatingblade.Thebladecontrolhandle mustoperateeasily in bothdirectionsandautomatically returntothe disengagedpositionwhenreleased.

15.Neveroperatethe mowerinwetgrass.Alwaysbesureof yourfooting. A slipandfall cancauseseriouspersonal injury.If youfeelyouarelosingyourfooting,releasethe bladecontrolhandleimmediatelyand the bladewillstop

rotatingwithinthreeseconds.

16.Mowonlyin daylightor goodartificiallight.Walk,neverrun.

17.Stopthe bladewhencrossinggraveldrives,walksor roads.

18.Iftheequipmentshouldstartto vibrateabnormally,stopthe engineandcheckimmediatelyforthe cause.Vibrationis generallya warningoftrouble.

19.Shutthe engineoff andwaituntilthebladecomesto a completestopbeforeremovingthegrasscatcheror unclog- gingthechute. Thecuttingblade continuesto rotatefor a fewseconds

after theengineisshutoff. Neverplaceanypartofthe body

inthebladeareauntilyouaresurethe bladehasstopped rotating.

20. Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrailshield,discharge cover,grasscatcher,bladecontrolhandle,or othersafety

protectivedevicesin placeandworking.Neveroperate mowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.Failuretodo so can resultin personalinjury.

21. Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcan causeaburn.Do

nottouch.

22.Onlyusepartsand accessoriesmadeforthis machineby

manufacturer.Failuretodo so canresultinpersonalinjury.

23. Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthis manual,

usecareand goodjudgment.Contactyourdealerfor

assistance.Telephone1-800-800-7310forthe nameofyour

nearestdealer.

Slope Operation

Slopesare amajorfactorrelatedto slipandfallaccidentswhich can resultinsevereinjury.Operationonslopesrequiresextra caution.Ifyoufeeluneasyona slope,do notmowit.Foryour

safety,usetheslopegaugeincludedaspartof this manualto

measureslopesbeforeoperatingthis unitonaslopedor hilly

area.Iftheslopeisgreaterthan 15degrees,donot mowit.

Do:

1. Mowacrossthefaceofslopes; neverup anddown. Exerciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon

slopes.

2. Watchfor holes,ruts,rocks, hiddenobjects,or bumpswhich can causeyouto slipor trip.Tallgrass canhideobstacles.

3. Alwaysbesureofyourfooting.A slip andfallcancause seriouspersonalinjury.Ifyoufeelyouare losingyour

balance,releasethebladecontrolhandleimmediately,and

the bladewill stoprotatingwithin 3seconds.

Do Not:

1. Donot mowneardrop-offs,ditchesorembankments,where you couldloseyourfootingor balance.

2. Donot mowslopesgreaterthan 15degreesasshownon the slopegauge.

3. Donot mowon wetgrass.Unstablefootingcouldcause slipping.

Service

Safe HandlingOf Gasoline:

1. To avoidpersonalinjury orpropertydamageuseextreme care inhandlinggasoline.Gasolineisextremelyflammable andthevaporsareexplosive.Seriouspersonalinjurycan occurwhengasolineisspilledonyourselforyourclothes whichcanignite.

2. Wash yourskin andchangeclothesimmediately.

3. Useonly anapprovedgasolinecontainer.

4. Neverfillcontainersinsideavehicleoron atruckor trailer bedwitha plasticliner.Alwaysplacecontainersonthe

groundawayfromyourvehicle beforefilling.

5. Removegas-poweredequipmentfromthetruck ortrailer

andrefuelit onthe ground.Ifthis is notpossible,thenrefuel suchequipmenton a trailerwitha portablecontainer,rather thanfroma gasoline dispensernozzle.

6. Keepthe nozzleincontactwiththe rimofthefueltank or

containeropeningat alltimesuntil fuelingis complete.Do

notuseanozzlelock-opendevice.

7. Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars,pipesand othersources

of ignition.

8. Neverfuelmachineindoorsbecauseflammablevaporswill

accumulatein thearea.

9. Neverremovegascap oraddfuelwhileengineishot or running. Allowengineto coolatleasttwo minutesbefore refueling.

10.Neveroverfillfueltank.Filltankto nomorethanY2inch belowbottomoffiller neckto providefor fuelexpansion.

11.Replacegasolinecap andtightensecurely.

12.Ifgasolineis spilled,wipeitoff theengineandequipment. Moveunitto anotherarea.Wait5minutesbeforestarting engine.

13.Neverstorethe machineorfuel containernearanopen flame,sparkor pilot lightasona waterheater,space heater,furnace,clothesdryer,orothergasappliances.

14.Toreducefire hazard,keepmowerfreeof grass,leaves, orotherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanupoil orfuelspillageand removeanyfuel soakeddebris.

15.Allowa mowertocool at least5 minutesbeforestoring.

GeneralService:

1. Neverrunanengineindoorsorina poorlyventilatedarea. Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,anodorlessand deadlygas.

2. Beforecleaning,repairing,orinspecting,makecertainthe bladeandall movingpartshavestopped.Disconnectthe sparkplugwireandgroundagainstthe engineto prevent unintendedstarting.

3. Checkthebladeandenginemountingboltsatfrequent intervalsfor propertightness.Also,visuallyinspectbladefor damage(e.g.,bent,cracked,worn)Replacebladewiththe originalequipmentmanufacture's(O.E.M.)bladeonly,listed inthismanual."Useof partswhichdo notmeetthe original equipmentspecificationsmayleadto improperperformance andcompromisesafety!"

4. Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut.Wrapthebladeor wear gloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.

5. Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstightto besurethe equip- mentis insafeworkingcondition.

6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheirproperopera- tionregularly.

7. Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stopthe engine,discon- nectthesparkplugwireandgroundagainsttheengine. Thoroughlyinspectthemowerforanydamage.Repairthe damagebeforestartingandoperatingthemower.

8. Neverattemptto makeawheelor cuttingheightadjustment whiletheengineis running.

9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail shieldaresubjecttowear anddamagewhichcouldexpose movingpartsor allowobjectsto bethrown.Forsafety protection,frequentlycheckcomponentsandreplaceim- mediatelywithoriginal equipmentmanufacturer's(O.E.M.) partsonly,listedinthis manual."Useofpartswhich do notmeetthe originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"

10.Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingor overspeedthe engine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe maximumsafeoperating speedoftheengine.

11.Maintainorreplacesafetylabels,asnecessary.

12.Observeproperdisposallawsand regulations.Improper disposaloffluidsand materialscanharmtheenvironment.

WARNING

Thissymbol points out importantsafety instructionswhich, if notfollowed,could

endangerthe personal safety and/or property

ofyourself andothers.

Readand followall

instructions inthis man- ual before attemptingto

operatethis machine.

Failureto comply with

these instructionsmay result in personalinjury. Whenyousee this

symbol.

HEED iTS WARNING

Your

Responsibility

Restrictthe use

ofthis powermachine

to personswho read.

understand

and followthe warnings

and instructions

inthis manual

and on the machine.

NOTE:Standbehind

themowerasifyou

i weregoingtooperate

it. Yourrighthand cot-

' respondsto the right

sideof the mower;your left hand corresponds

to the left side ofthe

mower.

, IMPORTANT i DO NOTcrimp the

cableswhen liftingthe

handleup.

Hardware Pack

CarriageBolts(2)

Step 1

1. Removeanypackingmaterialwhichmaybebetween upperandlowerhandles.

a. Pullupand backon upperhandleasshownin

Step1.Makecertainthe lowerhandleis seated securelyintothehandlemountingbrackets.

b. Tightenstarknobssecuringupperhandleto

lowerhandle.Makesurethateachcarriageboltis seatedproperlyinthehandle.

2. Locatehairpinclip inone holeon theweldpinon each sideof lowerhandle.

a. Removehairpinclipfromthis hole.Usingapairof

pliers,inserthairpinclipintotheotherholeon the weldpin. Repeaton otherside.

b. Insertacarriageboltfromthehardwarepackinto

theupperholeonthehandlemountingbracket. Securewithone plasticwingnut,alsoincluded inthehardwarepack.Repeatonothersidewith remainingitemsfromhardwarepack.

Theropeguideisattachedtotherightsideofthe lowerhandle.Loosenthewingnutwhichsecuresthe ropeguide.

a. Holdthebladecontrolagainstupperhandle. b. Pullstarterropeoutofthe engine.Releasethe

bladecontrol.

c. Slipstarterropeintoropeguide.Tightenwingnut.

4. Insertpostoncabletiesintoholes providedon the lowerhandle.Pullcabletietightandtrimexcess.

IMPORTANT

This unit isshipped without gasoline or

oil inthe engine. Fill

up gasolineandoil as instructedin the

accompanyingengine manual BEF(JRE

operatingyour mower.

Step 2

Step 3 Step 4

5. An adjustingplateandthumbleverateachwheel positionprovidescuttingheightadjustment.

a. Depresslevertowardswheel. b. Moveittoanyof theninepositionsfordesired

cuttingheight.SeeStep5.

c. Releaselevertowardsmowerdeck.

6. Followstepsbelowto assemblethegrasscatcher: a. Placebagoverframesothat itsblackplasticside

is at thebottom.

b. Slip plasticchannelof grassbagoverhooksonthe

frame.SeeStep6.All theplasticchannelsexcept centertopof bagattachfromoutsideofbag.

c. Attachcentertopofbagfrominsideofbag.

7. Followstepsbelowto attachgrasscatcher: a. Liftreardischargedoor.

b. Placegrasscatcheron thepivotrod.Letgo

ofdischargedoorsothatit restson thegrass catcher.SeeStep7.

Toremovegrasscatcherorconverttoa mulcher,lift rear dischargedooron themowerandliftgrasscatcherup andoutofthe pivotrod.Releasereardischargedoorto allowittocloserearopeningof mower.

__ ARNING: Never operate mower

unlessthe hooks on the grass catcher are firmly seated on the

pivot rod and the rear discharge door rests firmly against top of

the grass catcher.

Step 5

uStment

CUTTING HEIGHT

Step5

All wheelsmust be placedin the same relative positionl

GRASSCATCHER

Step8

Makecertain bagis turned right side out before assembling

(warninglabel Willbe

onthe outside)i

Step 6

Step 7

WARNING

Never operate mower

unlessthe hooks on

the grasscatcher are

firmly seated on the

pivot rod and the rear

discharge door rests

firmly against top of

the grasscatcher.

Know Your Lawn Mower

_=== BladeControl

Drive

Control

Electric Starter

Starter

WARNING

The blade control mechanism is a

safety device. Never attempt to bypass its

operations.

I 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.

Keep hands and feet

away from the chute area on cutting deck.

Referto warning label onthe unit.

Now that you have setup your lawn mower for op- eration, it's important to become acquainted with its controls and features. This knowledge will allow you to use your new equipment to its fullest potential.

Blade Control

The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

_ WARNING:Thisblade control mecha-

nism isa safetydevice. Neverattempt to bypass itsoperations.

Drive Control

The drive control is located on the underside of the upper handle and is used to engage the drive.

Squeeze it against the upper handle to engage the drive; release it to slow down or stop mower from propelling. See Figure 1.

Cutting Height Adjustment Levers

One adjustment lever is located on each wheel and is used to adjust the cutting height. All four levers

have to be at the same relative position to ensure a uniform cut.

Gas Fill

Cutting Height

Adjustment Lever (one at each

wheel)

Figure 1

Recoil Starter

The recoil starter is attached to the right lower han- dle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.

Electric Start Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is located on the left side of the handle panel. It is used only for the electric starter.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine manual for this. See Figure 1 above for location of the

oil fill.

2. Servicethe enginewithgasolineasinstructedinthe enginemanual. SeeFigure1abovefor locationof gasfill.

_ ARNING:Useextremecarewhenhan-

dling gasoline.Gasolineis extremely flammableand the vapors areexplosive.

Neverfuel the machine indoorsor while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish

cigarettes, cigars, pipesandother sources of ignition.

WARNING:The operationof any lawn mowercan result inforeign objects being thrownintothe eyes,whichcan damageyoureyesseverely.Always

wearsafetyglasseswhileoperating

the mower,or whileperforming any adjustmentsor repairson it.

Starting Engine

,__ WARNING:Besurenoone otherthan

1. Pushprimerthreetimes.Waitabouttwoseconds betweeneachpush.SeeFigure2. Intemperature around550For below,primefivetimes.Donotprime to restarta warmengine.

2. Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethebladecontrol againstupperhandle.SeeFigure2.

3. Recoil Start: Grasprecoilstarterhandleandpull

ropeoutwitha rapid,continuous,fullarmstroke.See

Figure2.Keepingafirmgriponthe starterhandle,let the roperewindslowly.Repeatuntilenginecranks.Let the roperewindeachtimeslowly.

Electric Start: Turnignitionkeyto the rightto start theengine.Releasethekeyaftertheenginestarts.

theoperatorisstandingnearthe lawn

, mowerwhilestartingengineor operat-

ingmower. Neverrun engine indoors

or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaustcontains carbon monox-

ide,an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands,feet,hair andloose clothing

awayfromany moving partson engine and lawnmower.

Stopping Engine

1. Releasebladecontrolto stoptheengineand blade.

2. Disconnectsparkplugwirefromsparkplugand groundagainsttheengine.

_kl ARNING:Waitfor the bladeto stop

completelybeforedoing any work on the mower or to removethegrass

catcher.

UsingYour Lawn Mower

_hi= ARNING:Neveroperateyour mower

Besurelawnisclearof stones,sticks,wire,or other objectswhichcoulddamagelawnmowerorengine. Suchobjectscouldbe accidentlythrownbythemower in anydirectionandcauseseriouspersonalinjurytothe operatorandothers.

without eitherthe rear door or the entire

grass catcher assembly firmly secured.

Figure 2

__IIL ARNING:if you strikeaforeign

1. Oncetheengineis running,squeezethedrive controlagainsttheupperhandleto propelmower.

2. Forbest results,do notcut wetgrass.

3. Fora healthierlawn,nevercut offmorethanone- thirdof thetotallengthofthegrass.

object,stopthe engine. Remove wire from the spark plug,thoroughly

inspectmowerfor anydamage,and repairdamagebeforerestarting and

operating. Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an indica- tion of damage.The unit should be promptly inspectedandrepaired.

Using as Mulcher

Formulchinggrass,removethegrasscatcherfromthe mower.The reardischargedoorshouldbeclosed.

1. Foreffectivemulching,do notcut wetgrass.

2. Newor thick grassmayrequirea narrowercut. Adjustgroundspeedaccordingtoconditionoflawn.

3. If thegrasshasbeenallowedto growinexcessof 4 inches,mulchingisnot recommended.Usethe grasscatcherto bagclippingsinstead.

Using Grass Catcher

Youcanusethegrasscatchertocollectclippingswhile youareoperatingthemower.

1. Attachgrasscatcherfollowinginstructionson page

7.Grassclippingswill automaticallycollectinbagas yourunmower.Operatemowertillgrassbagisfull.

2. Stopenginecompletelybyreleasingtheblade control.Makesurethattheunithas cometoa

completestop.

3. Liftdischargedoorandpullgrassbagup andaway fromthe mowertodisposeofthegrassclippings.

Mower

WARNING

The operation of any

lawnmower can result inforeign objects

being thrown into

the eyes, which can damage your eyes

severely. Always wear safety glasseswhile

operating the mower, or while performing any adjustments or

repairs on it.

Be sureno one other

than the operator is

standing near the lawn mower while starting

engine or operating

mower. Never run

engine indoorsor

n enclosed, poorly

ventilated areas. En-

gineexhaust contains

carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands,feet,

hair and loose clothing

away from any moving

partson engine and lawn mower.

Maintaining

WARNING

Lubrication

1. Lubricatepivotpointson thebladecontrolatleast oncea seasonwithlightoil.Thebladecontrolmust operatefreelyinboth directions.SeeFigure3.

2. Lubricatethewheelsatleastonceaseasonwith lightoil (ormotoroil). If wheelsareremovedforany

reason,lubricatesurfaceof thepivotarmandinner surfaceof thewheelwithlightoil.SeeFigure3.

3. Lubricatethetorsionspringandpivotpointonthe rear dischargedoorperiodicallywithlightoil toprevent rust.See Figure3.

4. Thetransmissionis pre-lubricatedandsealedatthe factoryanddoesnotrequirelubrication.

5. Followtheaccompanyingenginemanualforlubrica- tionscheduleandinstructionforenginelubrication.

Deck Care

Figure 3

1. Disconnectsparkplugwire.Draingasolinefromlawn mower,or placeapieceof plasticunderthegascap.

2. Tip mowersothat it restsonthe housing.Keepthe sidewiththeaircleanerfacingup.Hold mowerfirmly.

A vaysstope,g ne;

disconnect spark

pluglandground againstenginebefore

cleaning,lubricating

ordoinganykindof

intenanceon your

machine:

We donot recommend

the use of pressure washers orgaiden

hoseto C!eanyour

unit.Thesemay cause damageto electric components spindles

pulleys;bearings,or

theenginelThe use OfwaterWillresult in

shortened life and

reduceserviCeabilityl

Figure 4

General Recommendations

1. Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing anymaintenance.

2. Thewarrantyonthislawnmowerdoesnotcover itemsthathavebeensubjectedtooperatorabuse ornegligence.Toreceivefullvaluefromwarranty, operatormustmaintainthelawn moweras

instructedhere.

3. Changingofengine-governedspeedwill void enginewarranty.

4. Alladjustmentsshouldbecheckedat leastonce eachseason.

Periodicallycheckallfastenersandmakesurethese aretight.

WARNING:Always stopengine, disconnect sparkplug, and ground against enginebeforecleaning, lubricating or doing any kindof maintenanceon yourmachine.

_ ARNING:Nevertip the mowermore

3. Scrapeandcleantheundersideofthedeckwitha suitabletool.Donotspraywithwater.

4. Putthemowerbackonitswheelsonthe ground.If youhadputplasticunderthegascapearlier,make

sureto removeitnow.

than 90 degrees in anydirections and do not leavethe mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain intothe upper partof the engine causing a starting problem.

Engine Care

1. Maintainoillevelasinstructedin enginemanual.

2. Serviceaircleanerevery25hoursundernormal conditions.Cleaneveryfewhoursunderextremely dustyconditions.Refertoenginemanual.

3. Cleansparkplugandresetthegaponcea season. Checkenginemanualforcorrectplugtypeandgap specifications.

4. Cleanengineregularlywitha clothorbrush.Keepthe coolingsystem(blowerhousingarea)cleantopermit properaircirculation.Removeall grass,dirtand

combustibledebrisfrommufflerarea.

Replacing Rear Flap

1. Toremoverearflap,liftupthereardischargedoor, andcutoffthe flatendofthewire rodwhichsecuresit

tothedeck.SeeFigure4.

2. Attachthenewflapand newrodto deck,bendingthe endsof thenewrodovertosecureto deck.

__IL ARNING:Whenremovingcutting

1. Disconnectsparkplugwirefromsparkplug.Turn moweron itssidemakingsurethatthe airfilterand thecarburetorareup.

2. Removebolt,bladebellsupport,blade,andblade adapterfromthe enginecrankshaft.SeeFigure5.

3. The bladecanbe sharpenedwithafileor on a grind- ing wheel.Donotattempttosharpenthebladewhile it is stillonthemower.Whensharpeningblade,follow originalangleofgrind.Grindcuttingedgesequallyto keepbladebalanced.

4. Removebladefromtheadapterfortestingbalance.

Balancethebladeona roundshaftscrewdriverto

check.Removemetalfromtheheavysideuntilit balancesevenly.

blade for sharpeningor replacement, protectyourhandswitha pairof heavy gloves or usea heavy ragto hold blade.

_ _ i i i iii _ _ ii _i ii ii

Maintaining

You r LaWn

MOwer

Figure 5

WARNING

_ WARNING:Anunbalanced bladewill

5. Lubricatetheenginecrankshaftandthe innersurface ofthebladeadapterwithlightoil. Slidetheblade adapterontotheenginecrankshaft.Placetheblade on theadaptersuchthatthesideoftheblademarked "Bottom"(orwithpartnumber)facesthegroundwhen themowerisintheoperatingposition.Makesurethat bladeisalignedandseatedon bladeadapterflanges.

6. Placebladebellsupportonthe blade.Alignnotches on thebladebell supportwith smallholesinblade.

Replacehexboltandtightenhexboltto torque:450

in.Ibs.min.,600in.Ibs.max.

Toensuresafeoperationofyourmower,periodically checkthe bladeboltforcorrecttorque.

causeexcessivevibration whenrotating athigh speeds, itmay causedamage to mower,andcould break causing

personalinjury.

Belt Care

1. Removetwoshoulderscrewssecuringfrontdrive covertomowerdeck.SeeFigure6. Pressinwardon

sidesoffrontdrivecoverand releasetabsthatsecure it to theheightadjusterbrackets.Removedrivecover

frommower.

Loosenscrewholdingbelttensionspringtotrans- mission.SeeFigure6 inset.Donotremovescrew completely.As youloosenit,tensiononthebeltwillbe

released.

Pushtransmissionup slightlyandslide beltoff the transmissionpulley.Lift mowertoaccessbeltfrom undersideofmower.Slidebeltoffof enginepulleyand aroundtheblade.SeeFigure7.

Figure 6

Figure 7

4. Replacewithnewbelt,workingaroundblade.Make surebelt isfirmlyseatedonenginepulleywhile pullingfromtheothersideand slidingitaroundthe transmissionpulley.Tightenscrewloosenedearlier tosecurebelttensionspringtothetransmission.

Reassemblefrontdrivecover.

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or

replacement or when sliding the belt

around it, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves

or use a heavy rag to

hold the blade.

An unbalanced blade will cause excessive

vibrationwhen rotat-

ing at high speeds. It

may cause damage to mower, and could

break causing per- sonal injury.

Replacing Battery

Your LaWn

Mower

WARNING

Batteriescontain

sulfuricacidwhich

maycauseburns.Do

notshortcircuitor

mutilate batteriesin anyway.Do not put

batteries infire as these may burst or

i releasetoxic materials.

The battery contains corrosivefluid and

toxic material; handle with care and keep

away from children. Do not puncture,

disassemble, mutilate or incineratethe

battery. Explosive gasescouId be

i ventedduring charg- i ingor discharging.

Use in a well venti- lated area, away from

sources of ignition. Useonly the battery

i charger suppliedwith

this mower.

_ ARNING:Batteriescontain sulfuric acid

__ circuit or mutilate batteries inanyway.

1. Loosenroundhandleknobssecuringupperand

2. Removethetwo screwssecuringbatterycoverto

3. Openbatterycover,removepositiveandnegative

NOTE:Thebatteryyou havemaydifferslightlyfromthe oneshowninFigure9. Referto the PartsList.

IMPORTANT:Whenreplacingbatterypackinhandle panel,batterypackmustbepositionedwiththepositive terminaltothe leftsideandthe negativeterminaltothe rightside ofpanel(Positiveterminalisclosesttothe key switch),Figure9.Replacingbatterypackincorrectlywill causeseriousdamage.

4. Reattachbatterycoverto batteryhousingbysecur-

5. Foldhandlesbackup andtightenhandleknobs.

which may cause burns. Donot short

Donot put batteries in fire as these may burst or releasetoxic materials.

lowerhandlesandcarefullyfoldthe upperhandle downtowardthe lowerhandleas shownin Figure8.

batteryhousingandplacethemtothe side,Figure8.

leadsfrombattery,removeandreplacewithnew battery,Figure9.Connectthepositiveleadtothe positivesideofthebatterypack,thenconnectthe negativeside.

ingwiththetwoscrewsremovedearlier,makingsure tosnapthewireconduiton the leftintoplaceonthe housing.

Charging Battery

_ ARNING:The battery contains cor-

NOTE:Thespecialdesignedplugon the chargerwill onlyfit intothe plugon thebatterybox.

1. Plugthe batterychargerintotheporton the

2. Insertthebatterychargerplugintoastandard120

3. Aftercharging,disconnectchargerplugfromoutlet

IMPORTANT:Do notremovethebatterypackfrom theelectricstarterhousingforanyreasonotherthan replacement.

rosive fluid and toxic material; handle

with care and keep awayfrom children.

Donot puncture,disassemble, mutilate or incineratethe battery. Explosivegases could bevented during charging or discharging. Use ina well ventilated area, away from sources of ignition.

undersideofthebatteryhousing,Figure10.

volthouseholdoutlet,Figure10.Chargebattery for8to 10hoursbeforeinitialuse.Donot charge longer than 12hours. The batteryshouldonlyneed tobechargeduponinitialsetupandafteranyother extendedperiodsof non-use.

first,thendisconnectchargerleadfrombattery.

Figure 8

Positive

Terminal

Nega'tive

Terminal

Figure 9

IMPORTANT:Alwaysplugchargerleadintobatterypack leadfirst,andtheninsertbatterychargerpluginto120

voltstandardhouseholdoutlet.Followthisorderof action everytimeyouchargethebattery.

Replacing Fuse

Theelectricstartercircuitandbatteryare protectedby a 40 amperefuse.Ifthefuseburnsout,theelectricstarter willnotoperate.Iftheunitfailsto startwiththeelectric starter,performthefollowingstepstocheckthefuse insidethebatteryhousing:

1. Openthe batterycoveras describedinReplacing Battery, seeFigure8.

2. Removefusefromsocketandinspectas shownin Figure11.If itisburnedout,replacewith standard

automotive40amperefuse.

3. Carefullyplacewiringbackintohousing,closebattery

cover,andfold upperhandlebackintoplace.

Maintainin

NOTE:Theenginecan bestarted manually if the fuse

burns out.

Off-Season Storage

Thefollowingstepsshouldbetakentoprepareyourlawn mowerforstorage.

• Cleanandlubricatemowerthoroughlyasdescribedin

thelubricationinstructions.

• Wedonotrecommendtheuseofapressurewasher

or gardenhoseto cleanyour unit.

• Referto enginemanualforcorrectenginestorage

instructions.

Coatmower'scuttingbladewithchassisgreaseto preventrusting.

Storemowerina dry,cleanarea.Donotstorenextto corrosivematerials,suchasfertilizer.

Whenstoringany typeofpowerequipmentina poorly ventilatedormetalstorageshed,careshouldbe takento

rust-proofthe equipment.Usingalightoilor silicone,coat theequipment,especiallycablesandall movingpartsof yourlawnmowerbeforestorage.

Battery Thebatterymustbe storedwitha fullcharge.Extended storageofa dischargedbatterywillreducelifeand capacityofthebattery.

e ownFust

_, ,J

Figure 11

WARNING

Do not remove the

battery pac kfr

the electric starter

reason other than

The engine can be started manually if

the fuse burns out.

For repairs beyond

the minor

ments listed here, contact anauthorized

service dealer.

Problem Cause Remedy

Enginefailsto start 1....Bade contro d sengaged 1 Engagebade contro

2. Sparkplugwiredisconnected. 2. Connectwiretosparkplug.

3. Fueltankemptyorstae fue 3. F tankwth cean freshgaso ne.

4. Engnenotprimed 4 Primeengneas instructedn "OperatingYourLawnMower.

5. Faultysparkplug. 5. Clean,adjustgap,orreplace.

6. Blockedfuel line. I 6. Cleanfuelline,

7. Enginef coded. 7. Waita fewminutesto restart,but

I do notprme.

8. Burntfuse.(ElectricStartOnly) 8. Replacefuse(seeMaintenance

" " section)

Engineruns erratic 1, Sparkplugwireloose, 1, Connectandtightenspark

plugwire,

2, Blockedfuel lineor stalefuel, 2, Cleanfuelline;filltankwithclean,

freshgasoline,

3, Ventingascapplugged, 3, Clearvent, 4, Waterordirt infuelsystem, 4, Drainfueltank,Refillwith

freshfuel,

5, Dirtyair cleaner, 5, Referto enginemanual, 6, Carburetoroutofadjustment, 6, Referto enginemanual,

Engineoverheats 1....Engne o eve ow 1 F crankcasewthpropero

2. Air flowrestricted. I 2. Removeblowerhousing andclean.

\_i 3J

3. Carburetornotadjustedproperly. 3. Referto enginemanual.

Occasionalskips 1, Sparkpluggaptooclose, 1, Adjustgapto ,030",

(hesitates)at 2, Carburetoridlemixtureadjustment 2, Refertoenginemanual,

highspeed improperlyset.

Idlespoorly 1. Sparkplugfouled,faulty orgap 1. Resetgapto .030"or repace

toowide. sparkplug.

2 Carburetormproperyadjusted I 2 Referto engnemanua

I ....

3. D rtya r ceaner. 3. Referto engnernanua.

Excessive 1, Cuttingbladelooseor unbalanced, 1, Tightenbladeandadapter,

Vibration Balanceblade.

2. Bentcuttingblade. 2. Seean authorizedservicedealer.

MowerwIInot 1 Wetgrass. 1. Do notmowwhen grassiswet; wait

m h r unt aterto cut

u C g ass

2. Excessivelyhighgrass 2. Mowonceat a highcuttngheight

I thenmowagainatdesire(Jheightor

3. Dull blade. I makea narrowercuttingpath.

. 3. Sharpenorreplaceblade.

Unevencut 1. Dullblade. 1. Sharpenorreplaceblade.

Mowerwillnot 1. Beltnotinstalledproperly 1. Checkbeltforproperpulleyinstal-

self propel 2. Debriscloggingdriveoperation, lationandmovement.

3 Dama-edorwornbelt 2. Stopenginedisconnectsparkplug

I " u • w re andceanoutdebrs

. 3. Inspectandreplacebelt.

I •

Safety Labels Found On Your Lawn Mower

Safety

WARNING

DO NOT remove safety

(or any)labels from

mowerfor any reason,

747-1161A BladeControl 687-02070A

2 749-1233B UpperHandle 42 710-1652 3 747-04080 GrassCatcherFrame 43 712-04065 4 749-0928A LowerHandle 44 714-0104

5 720-0279 WingNut 45 710-0654A 6 710-1205 RopeGuide 46 687-02193 7 710-1174 CarriageBolt,5/16-18x 2 8 664-04027 GrassBagAssembly

9 720-04072 HandKnob 10 712-04064 FlangeLockNut1/4-20

11 726-0240 CableTie 49 710-1650 12 710-0703 CarriageBolt,1/4-20 50 746-04282

13 731-04134A RearDischargeDoor 51 754-04101 14 750-04162 Spacer 52 618-04376 15 732-04089A TorsionSpring- LH 53 731-05021A 16 732-04090A TorsionSpring- RH

17 734-04087 RearWheel,8"x 1.8" 18 731-04150C RearBaffle

19 756-04017 inputPulley 57 710-0216 20 787-01277 Deck- 21" 58 715-0221

21 715-04011 RollPin 59 717-1762 22 782-5002B FrontBaffle 717-1761

23 748-04015A BladeAdapterw/Pulley 60 710-04531 24 742-0741 21"StandardCut Blade 61 782-7551A

25 710-1257 HexBolt, 3/8-24x 2.5 62 716-0102 26 687-02044 PivotPlateAssembly 63 736-0474 27 736-0524B BladeBellSupport 64 750-04595 28 787-01298 HeightAdjustmentPlate- RH 65 725-04293

787-01299 HeightAdjustmentPlate- LH 66 725-04329

29 720-0426 AdjustmentLeverKnob 67 725-0201 30 732-0706 FrontLever- RH 68 710-1667A

732-0707 FrontLever- LH 69 725-04323

31 738-04136 ShoulderScrew 70 728-0199 32 634-04100 FrontWheel,8"x 1.8" 71 725-04347

33 710-04371 Screw,1/4-15x 1.250 72 710-0136 34 746-04281 ControlCable- 50.56" 73 736-0270

35 750-04594 SleeveSpacer- RH 74 731-05459 36 731-04998 Trailshield 75 787-01292 37 732-0700 TrailshieldWire 787-01291

38 712-0397 WingNut, 1/4-20 39 747-04035 RearDoorPivotRod

40 732-04175 SpringLever 41 687-02071A PivotArmAssembly- RH

687-02194 Ht.Adj.Assy.Front- RH

47 687-02069 RearHandleBracketAssy.- LH

687-02068 RearHandleBracketAssy.- RH

48 747-1214 DriveControl

54 732-1043 BeltTensionSpring 55 682-0015 BearingAssembly

56 736-0447 WaveWasher

76 725-04310t HarnessExtension 77 751-10153t EngineBracket 78 731-04525t EngineShroud

t NotShown

PivotArmAssembly- LH

AB Screw

FlangeLockNut,3/8-16 HairpinClip

TT SeresScrew,3/8-16x 1.00

Ht.Adj. Assy.Front- LH

ShoulderScrew DriveCable

V-Belt TransmissionAssembly

FrontDriveCover

HexScrew DowelPin

Gear,14T- RH Gear,14T- LH

Screw1/4-20

WheelDustCap

SnapRing

Washer,1.5"OD

SleeveSpacer- LH ElectricStarterHarnessAssembly

BatteryCharger12V Key

Screw,#10-16x .75 12VoltBattery

PlasticRivet KeySwitch

Screw,1/4-20x 1.75 BellWasher

ElectricStartBatteryHousing RearHandleBracketRH RearHandleBracketLH

Toorder replacement

parts, call

1o800-800o7310

or visit us online at www.yardman.com

iMPORTANT:Fora proper working machine,use

FactoryApprovedParts. V-BELTSare specially

designedto engageand

disengage safely.A substitute (non-OEM)

V-Belt canbedangerous by not disengaging

completely.

NOTE:Forpaintedparts, pleasereferto the list of

colorcodesbelow.Please add the applicable color

code,whereverneeded, to the partnumber to

orderareplacementpart.

For instance, if a part numbered700-xx×xis

paintedgreen,the part number to order wouldbe

700-xxx×-0665

Green: 0665 Powder Black: 0637

NOTES:

Use this page to write down important information.

NOTES:

Use this page to write down important information.

MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR

ThelimitedwarrantysetforthbelowisgivenbyMTDLLCwithrespectto newmerchandisepurchasedandusedin theUnitedStates,itsposses-

sionsandterritories. "MTD"warrantsthisproductagainstdefectsin materialandworkmanship

fora periodoftwo(2)yearscommencingonthe dateof originalpurchase andwill,atits option,repairor replace,freeof charge,anypartfoundto bedefectiveinmaterialsor workmanship.Thislimitedwarrantyshallonly applyif this producthasbeenoperatedandmaintainedinaccordance withtheOperator'sManualfurnishedwiththeproduct,andhasnotbeen subjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse,neglect,accident,improper maintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft,fire,water,ordamagebecause ofotherperilornaturaldisaster.Damageresultingfromtheinstallationor useof anypart,accessoryorattachmentnotapprovedbyMTDforuse withtheproduct(s)coveredbythis manualwillvoidyourwarrantyasto anyresultingdamage. Normalwearpartsarewarrantedto befreefromdefectsinmaterialand workmanshipfora periodofthirty(30)daysfromthedateof purchase. Normalwearpartsinclude,butarenotlimitedto itemssuchas:batteries, belts,blades,bladeadapters,grassbags,riderdeckwheels,seats,snow throwerskidshoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberandtires. NOWTOOBTAINSERVICE:Warrantyserviceisavailable,WITH PROOFOFPURCHASE,throughyourlocalauthorizedservicedealer.To locatethedealerin yourarea,checkyourYellowPages,orcontactMTD

LLCat RO.Box361131,Cleveland,Ohio44136-0019,or call1-800-800- 7310or logon toourWebsiteat www.mtdproducts.com.

Thislimitedwarrantydoesnot providecoverageinthefollowingcases: a. Theengineor componentpartsthereof.Theseitemsmaycarrya

separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Refertoapplicablemanufacturer's warrantyfortermsandconditions.

b. Logsplitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateoneyear

warranty.

c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuchas lubricants,filters,blade

sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck adjustments,andnormaldeteriorationoftheexteriorfinishduetouse

orexposure.

d. Servicecompletedbysomeoneotherthananauthorizedservice

dealer.

e. MTDdoesnotextendanywarrantyforproductssoldorexported

outsideofthe UnitedStates,itspossessionsandterritories,except thosesoldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsofexportdistribution.

f. ReplacementpartsthatarenotgenuineMTDparts. g. Transportationchargesandservicecalls.

No impliedwarranty,includinganyimpliedwarranty of merchant- ability of fitness for a particularpurpose,applies afterthe applicable periodof expresswritten warranty above as to the partsas identi- fied. Noother expresswarranty, whether written or oral, exceptas mentionedabove,givenby anypersonor entity,includinga dealer or retailer,with respect to anyproduct,shallbind MTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty, the exclusive remedyisrepairor replacement of the productas set forth above. Theprovisionsas set forth inthis warranty providethe sole and exclusive remedyarising from the sale. MTDshall not beliable for incidentalorconsequential loss or damageincluding,without limitation, expensesincurredfor substitute orreplacementlawncare services or for rentalexpensesto temporarily replaceawarranted

product.

Somestatesdo not allowtheexclusionor limitationofincidentalor consequentialdamages,or limitationson howlonganimpliedwarranty

lasts,sotheaboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynotapplytoyou.

Innoeventshallrecoveryofany kindbegreaterthantheamountof the purchasepriceof theproductsold.Alterationof safetyfeatures of the productshall void this warranty. Youassumetheriskandliabilityfor loss,damage,orinjurytoyouandyourpropertyand/ortoothersandtheir propertyarisingout ofthemisuseor inabilitytousetheproduct. Thislimitedwarrantyshallnotextendto anyoneotherthantheoriginal purchaseror tothepersonforwhomitwaspurchasedasa gift.

HOWSTATELAWRELATESTOTHISWARRANTY: Thislimitedwar-

rantygivesyouspecificlegalrights,andyou mayalsohaveotherrights whichvaryfromstatetostate. IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginalProofofPurchasetoobtain warrantycoverage.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310

Yard-Man 12AE445G701 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual