Yard-Man 556 Operator's Manual

Operator's Manual

21" Self Propelled

Mulching Mower

Model Series 556

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,OHIO44136-0019

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

FORM NO. 769-01608

(2/3/2005)

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/P o Box3o,,3,

www.yardman.com 330-220-4683

CLEVELAND,OH 44136

800-800-7310

Copy the serial number here:

CUSTOMERSUPPORT

Please doNOTreturntheunitto the retailer fromwhereit waspurchased,withoutfirstcontactingCustomerSupport.

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

Visit yardman.corn 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 a__?

a mouse crick away!

NeeJ li}al as._ista_c÷ ? Click _e_e te f_

_uals O_li_e

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

answer you az_s

looking Mr could be just a mouse crick away!

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 inthis 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 inthe 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. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. Before operating this unit on a slope or hilly area, use the slope gauge on page 6 to measure slopes. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees,

do not mow it.

Do:

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. If you 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 injurycan 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. Ifpossible, remove gas-powered equipment from

the truck or trailerand refuel it on the ground. Ifthis

isnot 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 indoorsbecause flammable vapors will accumulate in the area.

9. Neverremovegascaporaddfuelwhiletheengine ishotorrunning.Allowenginetocoolatleasttwo minutesbeforerefueling.

10.Neveroverfillfueltank.Filltanktonomorethan_/2 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 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 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 inthis manual and on the machine.

#ANaSR

/ WARNING

UJ o_

|,ql

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

15 o

_ WARNING

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.

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

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. NOTE: The indentation in your mowing deck is

intentional and not a defect. It allows the manufacturer different configurations than the one you currently

have. See Figure 1.

Indentation Intentional

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 2

Raise the lower handle in the direction shown in Figure 2 (step 2) till it snaps into place.

Raise the upper handle inthe direction shown in Figure 2 (step 3). Tighten the wing nuts which are

already on the handle. See Figure 3.

Figure I

ToolsRequired

• Pair of Pliers

• Funnel

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 Carriage

Nut(2) Bolt (2)

AssemblingHandle

Remove grass bag from the unit and set it out of the way. See Figure 2 (step 1).

ower Handle

__ Upper Handle

= wing nut

Tighten this

Figure 3

NOTE: Make sure to route the cables inside the lower handle. Also do not crimp the cables while rifting 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 4.

• Using a pair of pliers, insert the hairpin clip into the

inner hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side.

See Figure 4.

Carriage Bolt

Grass Catcher

*/Frame Insert frame

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.

_)_andle

Mounting Bracket

Figure 4

AttachingStarterRope

The rope guide is already attached to the right side of the upper handle of your mower. See Figure 5.

• With spark plug wire disconnected and grounded, hold the blade control 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 Upper

StarterRope.........." _//_/__'__Handle

Plastic

Channel

Figure 6

Slip the openings inthe 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 6.

_ ARNING: When using the mower to bag

grass 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.

Grass Catcher Assembly

lete

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 7.

Rear Discharge Door

OozeOu, e

Figure 5

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.

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

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 inforeign 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.

-Blade Control

_Drive Control

StarterRope

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

BladeControl

The blade control is located on the upper handle of the

mower. The blade control must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the blade control to stop the engine and the blade.

_ WARNING: The blade control is a safety

DriveControl

The drive control is located on the upper handle and is

used to engage the drive. Squeeze the drive control 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.

device. Never attempt to bypass its operations or alter it in any way.

Grass Catcher

Bag

Cutting Height Adjustment Levers

NOTE: For engine controls, please refer to

the engine manual

Figure 8

SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNMOWER

_ ARNING" Read and understand all

Gas&OilFill-Up

• Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow

• Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in

BeforeStartingMower

• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain

ThrottleSpeed

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

StartingEngine

instructions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating.

relevant instructions inthe engine manual for this.

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.

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.

Choke Leverf

Move the choke lever all the way backward into the choke position. Once the engine iswarm, the lever will automatically revert to the RUN position. Refer Standing behind the mower, depress the blade control 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). Let the rope rewind slowly. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly.

ToStopEngine

• Release the blade control to stop engine and blade.

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

Recoil

Starter

Fuel Valve

Figure 9

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.

• Make sure the fuel valve lever found on the left side of the engine is in the ON position. See Figure 9.

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.

• 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.

AdjustingCuttingHeight

Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on page 13 for instruction on how to adjust the cutting

You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings while you are operating the mower.

_ ARNING" 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.

height and the handle height. For best results in mowing, keep the cutting height

position high until you can determine a suitable height.

BaggingGrassClippings

• 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 is full.

• 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.

SECTION6: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNMOWER

_ ARNING" Always stop the engine and

disconnect 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. Ifthis 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.

_ ARNING: 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 bythe 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.

• Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if

necessary. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters

can create afire hazard.

_ ARNING: Avoid muffler and surroundingareas while the mower engine is hot because

temperature of these areas of the engine may

exceed 150° F.

Lubrication

Lube

_ ARNING: When removing the cuttingblade for sharpening or replacement, protect

hands by using heavy gloves or a thick rag to grasp the cutting blade.

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.

• Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up.

To RemoveBlade:

• Remove the hex bolt which holds the blade adapter-pulley assembly to the engine crankshaft.

See Figure 11. Remove the pulley assembly and the bell support from the crankshaft.

Remove blade from the blade adapter and pulley.

Pulley___ Spacer Flat Washer k_---_""--_ _--.__ ._ Belt

Blade_ __

@b Spring Washer

Lube

Figure 10: 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.

RearDischargeDoor

• Lubricate the torsion spring and the pivot point on each end of the rear discharge door using a lightoil.

Transmission

• The transmission ispre-lubricated and sealed at

the factory and does not require lubricationon a

regular basis as part of maintenance.

BladeControl

• Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control 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.

Blade Bell Support

HexBolt _

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 # on a

round shaft screwdriver or ablade balancer.

_Adapter-Pulley

Assembly

Figure 11

BladeCare

• Periodically inspect the blade adapter and pulley for cracks, especially if you strike aforeign object.

• If the blade is not balanced, remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

SECTION7: SERVICE& ADJUSTMENTS

ReplacingDriveBelt

• Remove two shoulder screws securing the front drive cover to the mower deck. See Figure 12.

Loosen this screw

Shoulder

_Screw

Screw

Transmission Cover

Figure 12

• 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

12. 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.

_ ARNING" 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 13.

• 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 13

ReplacingRearFlap

• To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 14.

• Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending

the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.

Discharge

Door

Handle Bracket Rear _nd

Bracket

_ __ear

Figure 14

AdjustingCuttingHeight

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.

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.

Flap

Height Adjustment Lever

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.

Figure 15

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 inthe Maintain Your Lawn Mower

section of this manual.

• Lubricate mower as instructed on page 12.

• 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.

_ WARNING: Ifany 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.

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

1. Blade control 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 infuel system

5. Dirty air cleaner

1. Engine oil level low

2. Airflow restricted

1. Engage blade control.

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. (hesitates) at high speed

Idles poorly 1. Spark plug faulty, or gap too wide 1. Reset gap to.030 inches or replace spark plug.

2. Dirty air cleaner 2. Clean air cleaner.

Excessive vibration 1. Blade loose or unbalanced 1. Tighten blade and adapter, balance blade.

2. Bent cutting blade 2. Replace blade.

3. Bent engine crankshaft 3. Contact the nearest service center

Mower will not 1. Wet grass 1. mulch grass 2. Excessively high grass 2.

Wait until grass is dry to cut. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow

again at desired height.

Uneven cut

Mower will not

self propel

3. Dull blade 3.

1. Wheels not at same height 1.

2. Dull blade 2.

1. Belt not installed properly. 1.

2. Debris clogging drive operation.

Sharpen or replace blade. Reposition all wheels at same height.

Sharpen or replace blade. Check belt for proper pulley installation and

movement.

Stop engine, disconnect spark plug wire and

clean out debris.

3. Damaged or worn belt.

Inspect and replace belt.

NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above,

contact your local authorized service dealer,

SECTION10: PARTSLISTMODEL556

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\@,

ModelSeries556

Ref. No

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

40.

41.

42.

Part No.

747-1214 710-0599

782-5004B 782-5003A 710-1017 731-2626 747-1161A 749-1092A 631-0075B 736-0250 736-04173 750-04438 720-0279 720-0284 710-1205 746-1113 710-1174 687-02033 687-02031 726-0240 714-0104 710-1008 746-04112A 664-04027 710-1650 682-0015 756-04160 756-04161 787-01248 731-0981A 750-1166 710-0216 732-04090A 712-04065 731-05013A 782-5002B 754-0637A 736-0447 750-04178 748 -04082 742-0741 736-0524B 687-02044

Description Ref.No Drive Control 43. TT Screw 1/4-20 x 0.5 44. Rear RH Baffle 21" Rd. 45. Rear LH Baffle 21" Rd. 46.

Hex Washer Head Tap Screw 47. Deluxe Bail Cover 48.

Blade Control 49. Upper Handle 50.

Engine Assembly Spacer Flat Washer 1.00 x 1.75 x .107 51.

Spring Washer 1.005 x 1.825.048 52. Sleeve Spacer 25mm x1.375 x.440 53.

Handle Knob 54. Handle Knob 55.

Eye Bolt Control Cable - 37.75" 56.

Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0 57. Handle Bracket - RH 58.

Handle Bracket - LH Cable Tie 59. Cotter Pin 60.

Self-Tapping Sems Screw 61. Drive Cable - 50.50" 62.

Grassbag Assembly 63. Shoulder Screw # 12 -24

Front Bearing Assembly 64. Half Key Pulley 25mm x 2.62 O.D. Half Upper Pulley 25mm x 2.62 O.D. 65.

21" Deck SS SP 66. Hub Cap 67.

Slev. Spacer 2.1" Lg. 68. Hex Screw 3/8-16 x.75 69.

Torsion Spring - RH 70. Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16 71. Transmission Cover (Black) 72.

Front Baffle 73. V-Belt 74. Wave Washer 75.

Sleeve Spacer 9.04" Lg. 76. Blade Adapter w/Pulley 77. 21" Mulching Blade Blade Bell Support 78. Pivot Plate Assembly

Part No.

710-1257

749-0928A 732-1043 720-0426 732-04089A 734-2042 716-0865 717-1762 717-1761 747-04080 736-0451 712-3005 710-1652 687-02057 687-02056 715-0221 736-0474 687-02039 687-02040 732-0866 720-0312 738-0507B 734-04093 782-0512B 782-0511A 732-0706 732-0707 732-0700 731-04998 747-0996 716-0102 731-04134A 782-7551A 756-04017 750-04162 715-04011 710-0703 712-0397 618-0657 682-0512A 682-0511A 736-0182

Description

Hex Screw 3/8-24 x 2.50 Lower Handle

Belt Tension Spring Adjustment Knob Torsion Spring - LH

Front Wheel, 8 x 2.125 GearZag BIk Snap Ring

Gear 14T RH FWD Gear 14T LH FWD

Grass Bag Frame Saddle Washer

Hex Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16 TT Scr. w/Washer 1/4-20 x.625

Handle Bracket Assembly - LH

Handle Bracket Assembly - RH

Dowel Pin Washer

Pivot Arm Assembly - RH

Pivot Arm Assembly - LH

Rear Spring Lever

Foam Grip Shoulder Scr.500 Dia. x.434

Rear Wheel, 12 x 2.125

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

Input Pulley Spacer.375 x.50 x 1.02" Lg.

Roll Pin Carriage Bolt 1/4-20

Wing Nut Transmission Assembly

Height Adjustment Assembly - RH

Height Adjustment Assembly - LH Spacer Washer .500 x 1.00 x .022

BAGGER DOOR

O'}

RIGHT SIDE OF HANDLE BARS ADJACENT TO DOUBLE BAnLS

FACUNG iNSiDE OF HANDLES

NOTES

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 will, 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 inyour 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:

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.

Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a

separate one year warranty.

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.

Service completed by someone other than an

authorized service dealer.

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.

Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts. 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 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 loss, 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,0HI0 44136-0019; Phone:1-800-800-7310

Yard-Man 556 Operator's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual