Operator’s Manual
21” Self Propelled
Mulching Mower
Model 559
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 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
ECO # 2844
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.
770-10145B.fm
(10/2000)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices...................................................................3
Slope Guage......................................................................................................6
Hardware Pack..................................................................................................7
Unpacking..........................................................................................................7
Assembling Your Lawn Mower...........................................................................7
Know Your Lawn Mower....................................................................................9
Operating Your Lawn Mower .............................................................................10
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower...........................................................................11
Service...............................................................................................................12
Off-Season Storage...........................................................................................15
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................15
Parts List............................................................................................................16
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
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. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or
an authorized dealer.
• You can locate the model number by standing behind the unit in the operating position and looking
down at the cutting deck. A sample model plate is explained below. For future reference, please copy
the model number and the serial number of the equipment in the space below.
(Model Number)
CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
(Serial Number)
MTD PRODUCTS INC
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD (4683) or 1- (800)-800-7310 to reach a Customer Support
representative. Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you
call. See previous section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial
number in order to process your call .
2
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger
the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol—HEED ITS WARNING.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit
chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with
any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This
machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
General Operation
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely
familiar with the controls and the proper use of this
machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.
2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all
times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and supervised by a
parent. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with
these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use
this machine.
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and
other foreign objects which could be tripped over or
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can
cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern
to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material
against a 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 or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or
light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands
and feet.
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.
10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the
handle immediately.
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first 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.
12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units
so equipped while starting engine.
14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the
safety device inoperative and may result in personal
injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade
control handle must operate easily in both directions and
automatically return to the disengaged position when
released.
15. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal
injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.
16. Mow in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.
17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walkways
or roads.
18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.
Never place any part of the body in the blade area until
you are sure the blade has stopped rotating.
20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or
3
other safety protective devices in place and working.
Never operate mower with damaged safety devices.
Failure to do so, can result in personal injury.
21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
the original equipment manufacturer (O.E.M). Failure to
do so can result in personal injury.
23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for
assistance. Telephone 1-800-800-7310 for the name of
your nearest dealer.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents
which can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes
requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part
of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on
a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees,
do not mow it.
Do:
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps
which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately,
and the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.
Do Not:
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
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious
personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on
yourself or your clothes which can ignite.
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
3. Use only an approved gasoline container.
4. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
5. When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser
nozzle.
6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors
will accumulate in the area.
9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot
or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes
before refueling.
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel
expansion.
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes
before starting the engine.
13. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a water
heater, space heater, furnace ,clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.
15. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.
General Service:
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
4
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.
Your Responsibility
• Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in
this manual and on the machine.
129 9 AC
5
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.
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.
F
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O
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E
R
O
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E
D
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I
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,
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
WARNING
15
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1
5
o
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6
SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Removing Unit From Carton
• 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.
Tools Required
• 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.
Hardware Pack
Please identify each piece of the hardware pack as
shown in Figure 1.
Assembling Handle
• Remove grass bag from the unit and set it out of the
way. See Figure 3 (step 1).
• Remove any packing material which may be
between the upper and lower handles for shipping
purposes.
2. Lift lower handle
1. Move bag
away
3. Lift upper
handle
Figure 3
• Raise the lower handle in the direction shown in
Figure 3 (step 2) till it snaps into place.
• Raise the upper handle in the direction shown in
Figure 3 (step 3). Tighten the wing nuts which are
already on the handle. See Figure 4.
Wing Nut
1/4-20 (2)
Figure 1
Carriage Bolt
1/4-20 (2)
Disconnecting Spark Plug
• Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it
against the engine. See Figure 2.
• Attach the spark plug wire to a bolt on the engine to
ground it.
Spark Plug
Wire
Spark Plug
Figure 2
Upper Handle
Lower Handle
Tighten this
wing nut
Figure 4
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.
7
• Using a pair of pliers, insert the hairpin clip into the
inner hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side.
See Figure 5.
Carriage Bolt
Starter
Rope
Wing Nut
Upper Handle
Upper Hole
Handle
Mounting
Brkt.
Wing Nut
Move Hairpin Clip
Figure 5
• After you have moved the hairpin clip, install the
carriage bolt, (carriage bolt must go to the inside of
handle) included in the hardware pack, in the upper
hole on the handle mounting bracket. Secure with
one plastic wing nut, also included in the hardware
pack. Repeat process on other side.
• Attach cables to the lower handle with the two cable
ties already on the lower handle, insert pegs on
cable ties into the holes on the lower handle. Pull
cable ties tight and cut off the extra. See Figure 6 .
Cable Tie
Lower
Handle
Rope Guide
Lower Handle
Figure 7
NOTE: Leave rear mulching baffle in place if you want
to use your mower as a mulcher.
Attaching Grasscatcher
• Remove the mulching baffle in order to install and
use the grass catcher.
• Lift the rear discharge door and remove the rear
mulching baffle from the mower. See Figure 8.
Rear Mulching Baffle
Figure 8
NOTE: Make sure that the cables are routed to the
outside of the handle and out of the way when attaching
the grasscatcher.
Figure 6
Attaching Starter Rope
The rope guide is already attached to the right side of
the upper handle of your mower. See Figure 7.
• With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the
upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the
engine.
• Slip the rope through the rope guide as shown
below. Tighten the wing nut holding the rope guide
to the upper handle.
• Holding open the rear discharge door, place the
grasscatcher on the pivot rod. Let go of the
discharge door so that it rests on the grass catcher.
See Figure 9.
• To remove the grasscatcher: Lift the rear
discharge door and lift the grasscatcher up.
Reinstall the rear mulching baffle and release the
rear discharge door.
Discharge
Door
Grass
Catcher
Figure 9
8
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustrations in Figure
10 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this
manual for future reference.
WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the
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.
Drive Clutch Control
Upper Handle
Starter Rope
Lower Handle
Grasscatcher Bag
Blade Control Handle
Oil Fill Cap
Gas Cap
Cutting Height
Adjustment Levers
Primer
Starter Rope
The starter rope is attached to the handle. Stand behind
the unit and pull the starter rope to start the unit.
Primer
The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor. Use
it to assist in starting a cold engine, but do not use it
when restarting a warm engine after a short shutdown.
Refer to Figure 10.
Blade Control Handle
WARNING: This control mechanism is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations or alter it in any way.
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.
Figure 10
Drive Clutch Control
The drive clutch control lever is located on the upper
handle and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze the
lever against the upper handle to engage drive; release
lever to slow down or disengage drive.
Grasscatcher Bag
The grass catcher bag is used for collection of grass
clippings. When the bag is full, remove from mower and
empty it at a proper disposal site.
Stopping Engine
• Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and move away from
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
9
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Read, understand, and follow
all instructions and warnings on the machine
and in this manual before operating.
Gas & Oil Fill-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.
Before Starting Mower
• 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.
• Check the drive clutch control for proper
adjustment. If the mower does not propel itself or
the drive wheels hesitate with the drive clutch
engaged, perform the drive clutch control
adjustment as instructed on page 14 of this manual.
Throttle Speed
Your lawn mower engine is equipped with a constant
speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance.
Starting Engine
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the
operator is standing near the lawn mower
while starting engine or operating mower.
Never run engine indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and
deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose
clothing away from any moving parts on
engine and lawn mower. When starting the
unit for the first time, face the mower against
a solid object such as wall, fence, etc. Start
the unit and if it shows any signs of motion
while the drive clutch control is still engaged,
shut the engine off immediately.
• Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds
between each push. In cold weather around 55o 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). 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.
Stopping Engine
• Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and move away from
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
Using Your Lawn Mower
WARNING: Never operate the mower
unless the hooks on the grasscatcher are
seated in the slots on the handle bracket
assemblies, and the rear discharge door rests
firmly against the top of the grasscatcher.
• You can use your mower as a mulching mower or a
rear bagger.
• Do not operate the mower without the rear
mulching baffle or the grasscatcher bag properly
installed.
• 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,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and
could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick
grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut.
• For a 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.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove spark plug wire from
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for
any damage. Repair the damage before
restarting and operating the mower. Extensive
vibration of the mower during operation is an
indication of damage. The unit should be
promptly inspected and repaired.
10
Adjusting Cutting Height
Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on
page 15 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.
Bagging Grass Clippings
You can use the grasscatcher bag to collect clippings
while you are operating the mower. Attach the
grasscatcher following instructions on page 8 of this
manual. The grass clippings will automatically collect in
the bag as you run the mower. Operate the mower till
the grass bag is full. Do NOT allow the bag to overfill
with grass clippings. Stop the engine completely by
releasing the control handle. Make sure that the unit
has come to a complete stop. To empty the grass bag
proceed as follows:
Pull bag up and away
• Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away
from the mower to dispose of the grass clippings
See Figure 11.
SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Discharge
Door
Figure 11
WARNING: Always stop the engine and
disconnect the spark plug wire before
performing any maintenance work or
adjustments on your lawn mower.
Cleaning Mower
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 electric components, spindles,
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.
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.
Engine Maintenance
• 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 foam filter in the air cleaner every 25 hours
of use and replace the paper filter component every
100 hours. You may have to service the air filter
more frequently if you 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 a fire hazard. Make sure to avoid muffler
and surrounding areas while the mower engine is
hot because temperature of these areas of the
engine may exceed 150o F.
11
Lubrication
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 axle bolt and the inner
surface of the wheel with light oil.
Chute Deflector & Rear Discharge Door
• Lubricate the torsion spring and the pivot point on
each end of the chute deflector and the rear
discharge door using a light oil. This will prevent
rusting and ensure that the deflector, which is a
safety device, can always work properly.
Engine
• Follow the engine manual instructions and
recommended schedule for lubricating engine
components.
Transmission
• The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at
the factory and does not require lubrication on a
regular basis as part of maintenance. However, if
you disassemble the transmission for any reason,
refill with two ounces of Alvania grease (part # 737-
0168) as part of reassembly.
SECTION 7: SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Blade Care
Periodically inspect the blade adapter and pulley for
cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace
when necessary.
WARNING: When removing the cutting
blade 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 Remove Blade:
• Remove the bolt and bell washer which hold the
blade-pulley assembly to the engine crankshaft.
See Figure 12.
Lock Nut
Blade
Adapter
Hex Bolt
Bell
Washer
Figure 12
• Remove the blade-pulley assembly from the
crankshaft.
• Remove the two bolts and lock nuts from the blade
assembly. See Figure 12.
Pulley
Assembly
Lock Nut
Blade
Hex Bolt
Hex Bolt
• Remove the blade from the blade adapter and
pulley.
To Replace Blade:
• Before reinstalling the blade-pulley assembly to the
unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner
surface of the blade adapter with light oil or engine
oil.
• Also lubricate the bolt holes, bolt and the inner
surface of the nuts.
• Install the blade adapter on the pulley with the “star”
away from the pulley. See Figure 12.
• Place the new blade on the blade adapter with the
side marked bottom (or with part number) facing
away from the adapter.
• Secure the blade to the assembly with two hex
bolts and lock nuts. Tighten the hex bolts to the
recommended torque. Refer to ‘Blade Mounting
Torque’ section on next page.
• Install the blade assembly on the crankshaft.
Secure with the hex bolt and bell washer (cupped
side of washer to blade) and tighten to the
recommended torque. Refer to ‘Blade Mounting
Torque’ section on next page.
IMPORTANT:
engine is specially heat-treated. Do not substitute. To
order replacement bolt, refer to the parts list in the back
of this manual.
The bolt used to secure the blade to the
WARNING: To ensure safe operation of
your unit, all nuts and bolts must be checked
periodically for correct tightness.
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.
12
Drive Belt
Pulley
Idler
Bracket
NOTE: The wheels have
been moved forward in
this picture for clarity.
Do not remove the
wheels away from the
mower housing while
doing the job.
Bolt
Shoulder
Screw
Front Drive
Cover
Figure 13
• 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.
Blade Mounting Torque:
Blade adapter bolts: 120 in.lbs. minimum, 150
in.lbs.maximum Center bolt: 450 in.lbs. minimum, 600
in.lbs. maximum.
Lock Nut
Keeper
Belt
Idler
Spacer
• Remove the belt from the transmission pulley as
shown in Figure 14.
• Lift and stabilize the front of the deck.
• Loosen the center hex bolt and lower the blade and
engine pulley until there is adequate clearance to
move the belt past the belt keeper.
• Remove the belt from the engine pulley and around
the blade. See Figure 14.
• Reassemble in reverse order with new belt (part #
754-0465).
• Begin idler reassembly by inserting bolt up through
the idler bracket hole. Adjust the drive clutch
following instructions on page 13.
Right Front
Wheel
Engine
Pulley
Left Front
Wheel
Replacing Drive Belt
• Remove the two shoulder screws from on top of the
deck which secures the front drive cover to the
mower deck. See Figure 13.
• Remove the front drive cover from the unit by lightly
pressing inward on the sides of the front drive
cover. This will release the tabs that secure the
front drive cover to the height adjuster brackets.
• Remove the idler and related hardware from the
idler bracket using 7/16” wrench and socket. See
Figure 13.
13
Center
Hex Bolt
Remove belt
from around
pulley and blade
Figure 14
Adjusting Drive Clutch Control
• The drive clutch adjustment wheel is located on the
drive clutch control handle housing and is used to
tighten or loosen tension on the drive cable.
Perform this adjustment if the following exists.
a. The mower does not propel itself with the
drive clutch engaged.
b. The mower’s drive wheels hesitate with the
drive clutch engaged.
• To resolve the above problems, rotate the
adjustment wheel with your fingers: clockwise to
tighten the cable, and counter-clockwise to loosen
the cable. See Figure 15 .
To tighten
cable
Adjustment
Wheel
To loosen
cable
Figure 15
• 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 te handle brackets. Attach the starter rope as
instructed in the Assembly section.
Adjusting Cutting Height
IMPORTANT:
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
position 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 17.
• For rough or uneven lawns, move the height
adjustment handles to higher cutting height
position.
All wheels must be placed in the same
Height Adjustment
Lever
Adjusting Handle Height
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 5.
• 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 16. Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the
handle mounting bracket.
Notch
Lower
Handle
Figure 17
Adjusting Carburetor
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.
Figure 16
14
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE
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 12 of this
manual.
• 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.
SECTION 9: TROUBLE-SHOOTING
Engine
• Follow recommendations in the accompanying
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.
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION
Engine fails to start 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
Engine runs erratic 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
Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low
2. Air flow restricted
Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high
speed
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug faulty, or gap too wide
Excessive vibration 1. Blade loose or unbalanced
Mower will not mulch
grass
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not at same height
1. Spark plug gap too close 1. Adjust gap to.030 inches.
2. Dirty air cleaner
2. Bent cutting blade
3. Bent engine crankshaft
1. Wet grass
2. Excessively high grass
3. Dull blade
2. Dull 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 clean, 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. Reset gap to.030 inches or replace spark plug.
2. Clean air cleaner.
1. Tighten blade and adapter, balance blade.
2. Replace blade.
3. Contact the nearest service center
1. Wait until grass is dry to cut.
2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at
desired height.
3. Sharpen or replace blade.
1. Reposition all wheels at same height.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your local authorized service dealer.
15
SECTION 10: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL 559
2
5
7
1
3
4
6
23
67
8
66
68
65
15
17
69
13
60
62
72
56
10
55
18
70
77
16
54
81
12
79
20
53
17
19
27
52
18
26
71
74
21
38
39
75
25
29
76
28
36
30
34
33
31
32
24
35
78
11
9
14
45
80
73
61
58
59
63
64
16
42
43
44
40
37
41
MODEL 559
Ref. No Part No. Description
731-1057 Upper Drive Cover
1.
731-0620 Drive Lever
2.
731-1058 Lower Drive Cover
3.
731-1059 Mounting Cap
4.
710-1667A Screw # 10-16 x .625
5.
746-0960 Drive Cable
6.
747-0824 Control Lever
7.
749-0439B Upper Handle (Incl. Ref. No. 9)
8.
720-0294 Foam Grip, 9”
9.
712-0324 Hex Lock Nut, 1/4-20
10.
746-0883 Throttle Housing
11.
710-1270 Oval C-Sunk Screw 1/4-20 x 1.31
12.
720-0279 Handle Knob
13.
720-0314 Handle Knob
14.
710-1205 Eye Bolt
15.
746-0554 Control Cable, 40.5”
16.
710-1174 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0
17.
682-3058 RH Bracket Ass’y
18.
(Incl. Ref. 54, 56, 59, 60 & 62)
682-3059 LH Bracket Ass’y (Not Shown)
726-0240 Cable Tie
19.
714-0104 Cotter Pin
20.
710-1007 Self-Tapping Screw
21.
664-0084 Grassbag Assembly
23.
710-1650 Shoulder Screw # 12 -24
24.
631-0075B Engine Spacer
25.
751B213146 Clamp Casing
26.
710-1237 Hex Screw TT #10-32 x .625
27.
782-0080 21” Rear Discharge Deck
28.
782-5004 RH Rear Baffle
29.
710-1017 Screw AB: 1/4-14: .625
30.
782-5003 LH Rear Baffle
31.
710-0216 Hex Screw 3/8-16 x .75
32.
736-0331 Bell Washer .39 x 1.13 x .062
33.
712-0431 Hex Nut 3/8-16
34.
731-1937 Transmission Cover (Yellow)
35.
782-5002 Front Baffle
36.
754-0465 V-Belt, 3/8 x 35.68”
37.
712-0324 Hex Nut 1/4-20
38.
Ref. No Part No. Description
756-1146 Drive Pulley
39.
748-0411 Blade Adapter
40.
742-0741 21” Mulching Blade
41.
736-0452 Flat Washer .516 x 1.5 x .134
42.
710-0606 Hex Screw 1/4-20 x 1.50
43.
710-1257 Hex Screw 3/8-24 x 2.50
44.
749-0907A Lower Handle
45.
712-0130 Hex Lock Nut 3/8-16
52.
736-0356 Bell Washer 0.39” I.D.
53.
712-3005 Hex Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16
54.
710-0896 Hex Scr. w/Washer 1/4-14 x .625
55.
682-3056A RH Handle Bracket
56.
682-3057A LH Handle Bracket (not shown)
710-0286 Pan Head Screw
58.
17488A RH Pivot Bar
59.
17489A LH Pivot Bar (not shown)
732-0866 Height Adj. Lever
60.
720-0312 Foam Grip
61.
738-0507B Shoulder Scr .500 Dia. x .434
62.
736-0105 Washer .401 x .870 x .063
63.
734-1860 Wheel, 14 x 2 Yellow (Link Trd.)
64.
736-0182 Spring Washer .50 I.D. x 1.0 O.D.
65.
736-0456 Flat Washer .510 x 1.373 x .04
66.
738-0481 Shoulder Screw
67.
732-0700 Wire
68.
731-1236 Rear Trailing Shield
69.
747-0996 Pivot Rod
70.
732-0809 Torsion Spring
71.
782-7599A Rear Discharge Door
72.
747-0995A Grasscatcher Frame
73.
712-0271 Hex Nut
74.
711-1293 Screw
75.
782-5007A Plastic Mulching Baffle
76.
750-0434 Spacer .375 x .50 x 1.02” Lg.
77.
738-1002 Shoulder Screw 1/4-14
78.
710-0703 Carriage Bolt 1/4-20
79.
712-0397 Wing Nut
80.
710-0514 Hex Bolt 3/8-16 x 1.0”
81.
17
MODEL 559
1
2
3
55
39
40
51
47
53
51
58
52
44
40
43
41
46
42
39
37
33
19
49
32
36
20
34
31
30
10
5
7
8
14
16
25
9
12
23
4
6
15
22
11
17
29
13
56
30
31
21
57
32
19
48
33
43
42
41
38
36
35
20
58
45
47
52
53
46
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.
54
50
24
26
28
27
28
18
MODEL 559
Ref. No Part No. Description
712-3025 Hex Jam Nut 5/16-24
1.
736-0425 Bell Washer .325 x .930 x .045
2.
656-0047 Pulley Assembly
3.
736-0425 Bell Washer .325 x .930 x .045
4.
712-0896 Lock Nut 1/4-28
5.
736-0406 Flat Washer .442 x 1.38 x .060
6.
782-7598 Belt Keeper
7.
741-0124 Ball Bearing
8.
721-0457 Oil Seal
9.
750-1050 Flange Spacer
10.
682-0028 Idler Bracket Assembly
11.
741-0682A Bearing Sleeve
12.
732-0849A Extension Spring
13.
710-0299 Hex Cap Screw 1/4-28 x 1.00
14.
736-0570 Flat Washer .865 x 1.145 x .030
15.
741-0699 Needle Bearing .438 x .625 x .500
16.
721-0325 Plug 1/4 x .437
17.
618-0300A Upper Housing
18.
721-0329 Oil Seal .500 x .687 x .094
19.
741-0673 Flange Bearing
20.
611-0105A Output Shaft
21.
736-0520 Flat Washer .504 x .700 x .030
22.
717-1492 Pinion Shaft 10T
23.
736-0314 Thrust Washer .375 x .70 x .030
24.
736-0569 Thrust Washer .388 x .625 x .062
25.
618-0299A Lower Housing
26.
741-0672 Flange Bearing .378 x .531 x .370
27.
710-1276 Hex Screw w/Washer 1/4-20 x .750
28.
618-0298B Transmission Assembly
29.
Ref. No Part No. Description
732-0708 Bearing Retainer
30.
741-0604 Bearing Sleeve .50 I.D.
31.
748-0355 Bearing Support
32.
736-0447 Wave Washer 1.5 x 1.0 x .029
33.
782-0512B RH Height Adj. Plate
34.
782-0511A LH Height Adj. Plate
35.
682-0509 Pivot Plate Assembly
36.
732-0706 RH Front Lever
37.
732-0707 LH Front Lever
38.
720-0190 Knob
39.
710-0216 Hex Cap Screw 3/8-16 x .75
40.
736-0474 Washer DD 1.5” O.D.
41.
716-0102 Snap Ring 1.0 dia.
42.
782-7551 Wheel Dust Cap
43.
717-1762 Gear 14T RH FWD
44.
717-1761 Gear 14T LH FWD
45.
734-1983 Wheel, 8x2 Yellow (Link Trd.)
46.
731-1426 Hubcap: Yellow
47.
682-0512A RH Height Adj. Assembly
48.
682-0511A LH Height Adj. Assembly
49.
682-0030 Cable Idler Bracket Assembly
50.
715-0221 Dowel Pin
51.
736-3013 Flat Washer 1/2 x 1.00 x .063
52.
714-0101 Cotter Pin .08 x 1.42
53.
738-1002 Screw
54.
754-0465 Belt
55.
750-1165 Sleeve Spacer .52 I.D. x 10.1” Lg.
56.
750-1166 Sleeve Spacer .52 I.D. x 2.1” Lg.
57.
716-0865 Snap Ring
58.
19
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD
PRODUCTS INC (“MTD”) 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
material 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 accessory or attachment not
approved by MTD Products Inc. for use with the product(s)
covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any
resulting damages.
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to
separate terms as follows: All normal wear part or component failures will be covered on the product for a period of
90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the
two year period, normal wear part failures will be covered
ONLY IF caused by defects in material or workmanship of
OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts and components include, but are not limited to, belts, blades, blade
adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow
thrower skid shoes, shave plates and tires. Batteries are
covered by a 90-day limited replacement warranty.
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, please check for a listing in the Yellow
Pages or contact the Customer Service Department of
MTD PRODUCTS INC by calling 1-800-800-7310 or writing to P.O. Box 368022, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the
following cases:
a.The engine or component parts thereof. These items
carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Please
refer to the applicable manufacturer’s warranty on
these items.
b.Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders have a sepa-
rate one year warranty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,
blade sharpening and tune-ups, or adjustments such
as brake adjustments, clutch adjustments or deck
adjustments; and normal deterioration of the exterior
finish due to use or exposure.
d.MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold
or exported outside of the United States of America,
its possessions and territories, except those sold
through MTD’s authorized channels of export distribution.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or 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 or guaranty, 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. (Some states do not
allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so
the above limitation may not apply to you.)
The provisions as set forth in this Warranty provide
the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sales.
MTD shall not be liable for incidental or consequential
loss or damages including, without limitation,
expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn
care services, for transportation or for related
expenses, or for rental expenses to temporarily
replace a warranted product. (Some states do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above exclusion or limitation 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 the 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 use or misuse or inability to use
the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than
the original purchaser, original lessee or 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.
20
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