Yard-Man 600 User Manual

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions

carefully before operating equipment.

MTD Products Ltd., P. O. BOX 1386, KITCHENER, ONTARIO N2G 4J1

600 series

Snowthrowers

Printed in U.S.A.

FORM NO

772C0710

(7/2004)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Content Page

Customer Support 2 Important Safe Operation Practices 3 Setting Up Your SnowtThrower 5 Knowing Your Snow Thrower 8 Operation 10

Content Page

Ajustments 13 Maintenance & Service 15 Off Season Storage 19 Trouble Shooting 19 Warranty 21 Illustrated Parts List 22

FINDING MODEL NUMBER

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new snow thrower. It will help you to assemble, prepare and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.

Before you start assembling your new snow thrower, 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 dash panel . 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 Numéro de modèle

XXXXXXXXXX

Serial Number Numéro de série

XXXXXXXXXXX

Copy the model number here:

www.mtdcanada.com

MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1 1-800-668-1238

Copy the serial number here:

ENGINE INFORMATION

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.

CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Please do NOT return the unit to the retailer from which it was purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, please call a Customer Support Representataive. 1-800-668-1238

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.

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 perso nal 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.

Training

1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.

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.

4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper instruction.

5. Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury. Plan your snow throwing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, bystanders and the like.

6. Keep bystanders, helpers, pets and children at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

7. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling, especially when operating in reverse.

Preparation

1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used. Remove all door mats, newspapers, sleds, boards, wires and other foreign objects which could be tripped over or thrown by the auger/impeller.

2. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Throw n objects wh ich ricochet c an cause serious injury to the eyes.

3. Do not operate without wearing adequate winter outer garments. Do not wear jewelry, long scarves or other loose clothing which could become entangled in moving parts. Wear footwear which will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

4. Use a grounded extension cord and receptacle for all units with electric start engines.

5. Adjust collector housing height to clear gravel or crushed rock surfaces.

6. Disengage the control handle before starting the engine.

7. Never attempt to make any adjustments while engine is running, except where specifically recommended in the operator’s manual.

8. Let engine and machine adjust to outdoor temperature before starting to clear snow.

9. 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. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

a. Use only an approved gasoline container. b. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other

sources of ignition. c. Never fuel machine indoors. d. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the

engine is hot or running. e. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before

refueling. f. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than

½ inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space

for fuel expansion. g. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely. h. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and

equipment. Move machine to another area. Wait 5

minutes before starting the engine. i. Never store the machine or fuel container inside

where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light

(e.g. furnace, water heater, space heater, clothes

dryer etc.). j. Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before

storing.

Operation

1. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts, in the auger housing or discharge chute. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.

2. The auger control handle is a safety device. Never bypass its operation. Doing so, makes the machine unsafe and may cause personal injury.

3. The control handle must operate easily in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged position when released.

4. Never operate with a missing or damaged discharge chute. Keep all safety devices in place and working.

5. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

6. Do not operate machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

7. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do

G R A P H IC S S H E E T

not touch.

8. Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel surfaces. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.

9. Exercise caution when changing direction and while operating on slopes.

10. Plan your snow throwing pattern to avoid discharge towards windows, walls, cars etc. To avoid property damage or personal injury caused by a ricochet.

11. Never direct discharge at children, bystanders and pets or allow anyone in front of the machine.

12. Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to clear snow at too fast of a rate.

13. Never operate this machine without good visibility or light. Always be sure of your footing and keep a firm hold on the handles. Walk, never run.

14. Disengage power to the auger/impeller when transporting or not in use.

15. Never operate machine at high transport speeds on slippery surfaces. Look down and behind and use care when in reverse.

16. If the machine should start t o vibrate abnormally, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug and ground it against the engine. Inspect thoroughly for damage. Repair any damage before starting and operating.

17. Disengage the control handle and stop engine before you leave the operating position (behind the handles). Wait until the auger comes to a complete stop before unclogging the discharge chute, making any adjustments, or inspections.

18. Never put your hand in the discharge or collector openings. Always use a clearing tool to unclog the discharge opening.

19. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer.

20. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgment. Call customer assistance for the name of your nearest servicing dealer.

Maintenance And Storage

1. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

2. Disengage the control handle and stop engine. Wait until the auger/impeller come to a complete stop. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting.

3. Check bolts, and screws for proper tightness at frequent intervals to keep the machine in safe working condition. Also, visually inspect machine for any damage.

4. Do not change the engine governor setting or over-speed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.

5. Snow thrower shave plates and skid shoes are subject to wear and damage. For your safety protection, frequently check all components and replace with original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!”

6. Check controls periodically to verify they engage and disengage properly and adjust, if necessary. Refer to the adjustment section in this operator’s manual for instructions.

7. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

8. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.

9. Prior to storing, run machine a few minutes to clear snow from machine and prevent freeze up of auger/impeller.

10. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer etc.

11. Always refer to the operator’s manual for proper instructions on off-season storage.

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.

SECTION 2: SETTING UP YOUR SNOW THROWER

NOTE: The snow thrower is shipped with oil and

WITHOUT GASOLINE. After assembly, refer to separate engine manual for proper fuel and engine oil recommendations.

Unpacking

• Cut along corners of the carto n and lay it down flat. Remove packing material.

• Remove any loose parts included with unit (i.e., operator’s manual, etc.).

• Roll unit out of carton. Check carton th oroughly for any remaining loose part.

Loose Parts

Your snow thrower has been assembled at the factory except the parts shipped loose in the carton. These are listed below.

a. Electric Start Cord (optional) b. Shear Pins and Cotter Pins

Before Assembly

Disconnect spark p lug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent unintended starting.

NOTE: All references in this manual to the left or right

side of the snow thrower is from the operating position only. Exceptions, if any, will be specified.

NOTE: If the connector is not properly assembled, the

shift rod will pivot and changing speed or direction of the snow thrower will not be possible.

Panel varies by model

Figure 1

NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models,

handle panels, lights and chute cranks are some features that may vary by model. Not all features referenced in this manual are applicable to all snowthrower models.

Setting up the Snow Thrower

Handle

1. Observe the lower rear area of the snow thrower to be sure both cables are aligned with r oller guides before pivoting the handle upward until it clicks into the place. See Figure 1.

2. Slide the shift rod connector down over the end of the lower shift rod. Tap the connector until it locks over the lower shift rod. See Figure 2.

3. Tighten two handle knobs firmly to secure the upper handle to the lower handles. See Figure 1.

Connector

Shift Rod

Handle Knob

Figure 2

Chute Assembly (all models)

1. Apply a light lubricant (i.e. 3-in-1 oil) to the base of the chute assembly.

2. Place the chute assembly on the lip of the chute adapter. See Figure 3

3. One end of each chute ke eper is already attached to the chute flange. Pivot the free end of t he chute keeper to align it with the chute flange and push it till it snaps into position. See Figure 4. Repeat with remaining chute keepers.

Chute Assembly

Figure 3

Chute Assembly

Cables

Short

Tube

Chute Support

Tube

Figure 6

2. Position the chute assembly so the chute opening is facing the front of the unit.

3. Place the chute control box on the short tube of the chute assembly and the chute support tube of the chute assembly as shown in Figure 6, cables should be towards the operator.

4. Insert the clevis pin, earlier removed, through the holes on the chute control box and chute support tube. Secure with the hairpin clip. See Figure 5.

For Models with 2Way Chute Control

1. Slip the cables, running from the chute to the handle panel into the cable guide located on top of the engine. See Figure 7 .

Cable Guide

Chute Keeper

Figure 4

For Models with 4 Way Chute Control Box

1. Pull the hairpin clip out of the clevis pin on the chute support tube. Save this hardware.

Hairpin Clip

Chute Support

Tube

4 Way Chute

Control

Box

Clevis Pin

Figure 5

Figure 7

Models with a Chute Directional Control

1. Remove the flat washer and hairpin clip from the end of the chute directional control. Insert the end of the chute directional control into the lower bracket and secure with the flat washer and hairpin clip just removed. See Figure 8.

NOTE: If necessary, the lower bracket can be

adjusted. Refer to Chute Bracket Adjustment. in the Adjustment Section.

Figure 8

Lamp Wire (optional)

1. Make sure the lamp wire is wrapped down the right handle as shown in Figure 9 .

2. Make sure the lamp wire is plugged into the alternator lead wire under the fuel tank. See Figu re 9 inset.

Alternator Lead

Lamp Wire

Chute Clean-out Tool

1. The chute clean-out tool is fastened with a cable tie to the rear of the auger housing for shipping purposes. Cut the cable tie and remove the extension cord (if equipped) before oper ating the snow thrower.

Final Adjustments

After setting up your snow thrower, check the adjustments as instructed below and make any final adjustments necessary before operating the unit .

CAUTION: Failure to comply with these adjustment instructions may cause damage to the u nit.

CAUTION: Prior to ope rating your snow

thrower, refer to Auger Control Test on page 12. Read and follow all instructions carefully and perform all adjustments to verify your snow thrower is operating safely and properly.

Tire Pressure

• Before operating, check tire pressure and reduce pressure in both tires to between 15 psi and 20 psi.

NOTE: If the tire pressure is not equal in both tires,

the unit may not travel in a straight path and the shave plate may wear unevenly.

Skid Shoe

Locate the shave plate and the skid shoes in Figure

10. The space between this shave plate and the

ground can be adjusted, refer to the Adjustment section of this manual.

IMPORTANT:

this snow thrower on gravel as loose gravel can be easily picked up and thrown by the auger causing personal injury or damage to the snow thrower.

It is not recommended that you operate

NOTE

: Wheels are omitted from illustration for clarity.

Figure 9

If for some reason, you have to operate the sno w thrower on gravel, keep the skid sh oe in the highest position for maximum clearance between the ground and the shave plate.

SECTION 3: KNOWING YOUR SNOW THROWER

Electric Starter Button

Oil Fill

Chute Assembly

Clean-out

Tool

Shave Plate

Augers

Drive Control

Gas Cap

Shift Lever

Auger Control

Engine Controls

Recoil Starter

Handle

Electric Starter Outlet

Primer

Ignition

Key

Chute Directional

Control

Choke

Control

Throttle Control

Skid Shoe

Figure 10

WARNING: Read, understand, and follow

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

NOTE: For detailed starting instructions and more

information on all engine controls, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit

Shift Lever

The shift lever is located in the center of the handle panel and is used to determine gorund speed and direction of travel.

Forward

There are six forward (F) speeds. Position one (1) is the slowest and position five (6) is the fastest.

Reverse

There are two reverse (R) speeds. One (1) is the sl ower and two (2) is the faster.

Choke Control

the choke control closes the choke plate on the carburetor and aids in starting the engine.

Throttle Control

The throttle control is located on the engine. It regulates the speed of the engine and will shut off the engine when pushed down completely.

Primer

Depressing the primer forces fuel directly into the engine’s carburetor to aid in cold-weather starting.

Oil Fill

Engine oil level can be checked and oil added through the oil fill.

Ignition Key

The ignition key is a safety devise. It must be fully inserted in order for the engine will start. Remove the ignition key when the snow thrower is not in use.

The choke control is found on t he rear of the engine and is activated by rotating the knob clockwise. Activating

IMPORTANT:

Do not attempt to turn the key.

Auger Control

CHUTE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL

COMMANDE D'ORIENTATION DE LA GOULOTTE

The auger control is located on the left handle. Squeeze the auger control against the handle to engage the augers and start snow throwing action. Release to stop.

Drive Control

The drive control is located on the right handle. Squeeze the drive control against the handle to engage the wheel drive. Release to stop.

2 Way Chute Control (optional)

This two-way control lever is meant to control the distance of snow discharge from the chute. Tilt the lever forward or rearward to adjust the distance snow will be thrown.

Chute Directional Control (optional)

The chute directional control is located on left side of the snow thrower.

To change the direction in which snow is thrown, turn chute directional control as follows:

• Crank clockwise to dischar ge to the left.

• Crank counterclockwise to discharge to the right.

4 Way Chute Control (optional)

This four-way control lever is meant to control the direction and distance of snow discharge fr om the chute. Press the button on the knob and pivot it left or right to rotate the chute to the direction that snow will be thrown. Tilt the lever forward or rearward to adjust the distance snow will be thrown.

Chute Control Lever

Clean-Out Tool

WARNING: Never use yo ur hands to clear

a clogged chute assembly. Shut off engine and remain behind handles until all moving

The tool is designed to clear a clogged chute assemb ly. Refer to Operating Your Snow Thrower section for more detailed information regarding the chut e clean-out tool.

Skid Shoes

The space between the shave plate and th e ground can be adjusted by moving the skid shoes.

For close snow removal and hard packed snow, place skid shoes in the lowest position. Use middle or high position when area to be cleared is uneven or gravel surface.

Make certain the entire bottom surface of the skid shoe is against the ground to avoid uneven wear on the slide shoes.

Recoil Starter Handle

The recoil starter handle is used to manually start the engine.

Electric Starter Button (If so equipped)

Pressing the electric starter button engages the engine’s electric starter when plugged into a 120V power source.

Electric Starter Outlet (If so equipped)

Requires use of a three-prong outd oor extension cord (packed with the snow thrower) and a 120V po wer source/wall outlet.

Augers

When engaged, the augers rotate and draw snow into the housing.

Chute Assembly

Snow drawn into the auger housing i s discharged out the chute assembly.

SECTION 4: OPERATING YOUR SNOW THROWER

Before Starting

WARNING: Read, understand, and follow

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

Gas & Oil Fill-Up

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instr ucted in the separate engine manual packed with your snow thrower. Read instructions carefully.

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.

Starting The Engine

• Attach spark plug wire to spar k plug. Make certain the metal loop on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.

• Make certain both t he auger control and drive control are in the disengaged (released) position.

• Move throttle control up to FAST position. Insert ignition key into slot. Make sure it snaps into place.

Do not attempt to turn the key

NOTE:

inserted into ignition switch.

The engine cannot start unless the key is

Electric Starter (on models so quipped)

• Determine that your home’s wirin g is a three-wire grounded system. Ask a licensed electrician if you are not certain.

CAUTION: If your home’ s wiring system

is not a three-wire grounded system, do

not use this electric starter under any conditions.

WARNING: The optiona l electric starter is

equipped with a grounded three-wi re power cord and plug, and is designed to operate on 120 volt AC household current. It must be used with a properly ground ed three-pron g receptacle at all times to avoid the possibility of electric shock. Follow all instructions carefully prior to operating the electric starter.

WARNING: If your home electrical

system is grounded, but a three-hole

receptacle is not available, do not use your snow thrower’s electric starter.

If you have a grounded three-prong receptacle, proceed as follows:

• Plug the extension cord into the out let located on the engine’s surface. Plug the other end of extension cord into a three-prong 120-volt, grounded, AC outlet in a well-vent ilated area.

• Rotate choke control to FULL choke position (cold engine start).

NOTE: If the engine is already warm, place choke

control in the OFF position instead of FULL.

• Push the primer two or three times for cold engine start, making sure to cover vent hole in the center of the primer when pushing.

NOTE: DO NOT use primer to restart a warm engine

after a short shutdown.

• Push starter button to start engine.

• Once the engine starts, immediately release start er button.

• As the engine warms, slowly rotate the choke control to the OFF position. If the engine falters, quickly rotate the choke control back to FULL and then slowly into the OFF position again.

• When disconnecting the exten sion cord, always unplug the end at the three-prong wall o utlet before unplugging the opposite end from the snow thrower.

Recoil Starter

• Rotate choke control to FULL choke position (cold engine start).

NOTE: If the engine is already warm, place choke

control in the OFF position instead of FULL.

• Push the primer two or three t imes for cold engine start, making sure to cover vent hole in the center of the primer when pushing.

NOTE: DO NOT use primer to restart a warm engine

after a short shutdown.

NOTE: Additional priming may be necessary if the

temperature is below 15° F(9° C).

• Grasp the recoil starter handle and slowly pull the rope out. At the point where it becomes slightly harder to pull the rope, slowly allow the rope to recoil.

• Pull the starter handle with a fi rm, rapid stroke.

IMPORTANT:

snap back. Keep a firm hold on the starter handle and allow it to slowly recoil.

• As the engine warms, slowly rotate the choke control to the OFF position. If the engine falters, quickly rotate the choke control back to the FULL position and then slowly into the OFF position again.

Do not release the handle and allow it to

Stopping The Engine

• Run engine for a few minutes before stopping to help dry off any moisture on the engine.

• To help prevent possible starter freeze-up, proceed as follows:

Electric Starter (on models so equipped)

1. Connect extension cord to the ele ctric starter outlet on the engine, then to 120 volt AC outlet.

2. With the engine running, push the starter button and allow the starter for spin for several seconds. The noise made by the starter is normal. The engine’s starter is not being harmed.

3. When disconnecting the e xtension cord, always unplug the end at the three-prong wall outlet before unplugging the opposite end from the snow thrower.

4. Move throttle control to STOP position.

5. Remove the ignition key.

6. Wipe all snow and moisture from the carburetor cover in the area of the drive control and auger control. Also, engage and release the controls several times.

NOTE: Keep the key in a safe place. The engine

cannot start without the ignition key.

Recoil Starter

1. With engine running, pull starter rope with a rapid, continuous full arm stroke three or four times.

Pulling the starter rope will produce a loud clattering sound, which is not harmful to engine.

2. Move throttle control to STOP position.

3. Remove the ignition key.

NOTE: Keep the key in a safe place. The engine

cannot start without the ignition key.

4. Wipe all snow and moisture from the carburetor cover in the area of the drive control and auger control. Also, engage and release the controls several times.

To Engage Drive

• With the throttle control in the Fast (rabbit) position, move shift lever into one of the six forward (F) positions or two reverse (R) positions. Select a speed appropriate for the snow condit ions and a pace you’re comfortable with.

IMPORTANT:

comfortable and familiar with the operation of the snow thrower.

• Squeeze the auger control against the handle and the augers will turn. Release it and the augers will stop.

• Squeeze the drive contr ol against the handle the snow thrower will move. Release it and drive motion will stop.

IMPORTANT:

speeds or direction of travel) without first releasing the drive control and bringing the snow thrower to a complete stop. Doing so will result in premature wear to the snow thrower’s drive system.

Use the slower speeds until you are

NEVER reposition the shift lever (change

To Engage Augers

1. To engage augers and start snow throwin g, squeeze the left hand auger clutch grip against the left handle. Release to stop augers.

For models with optional interlock mechanism only:

2. While the auger control is engaged, sque eze the drive control to move, release to stop. Do not shift speeds while the drive is engaged.

NOTE: This same lever also locks auger control so you

can turn the chute crank without interrupting the snow throwing process.

3. Release the auger control; the interlock mechanism should keep the auger control engaged until the drive control is released.

4. Release the drive control to stop both the augers and the wheel drive. To stop the auger, both lever s must be released.

Auger Control Test

IMPORTANT:

operating your snow thrower for the first time and at the start of each winter season.

Check the adjustment of the auger control as follows:

• When the auger cont rol is released and in the disengaged “up” position, the cable should have very little slack. It should NOT be tight.

• In a well-ventilated area, start the snow thrower engine as instructed earlier in this section un der the heading Starting the Engine. Make sure the throttle is set in the FAST position.

• While standing in the opera tor’s position (behind the snow thrower), engage the auger.

• Allow the auger to remain engaged for approximately ten (10) seconds be fore releasing the auger control. Repeat this several times.

• With the throttle control in t he FAST (rabbit) position and the auger control in the disengage d “up” position, walk to the front of the machine.

• Confirm that th e auger has completely stopp ed rotating and shows NO signs of motion.

IMPORTANT:

immediately return to the operator’s position and shut off the engine. Wait for ALL moving parts to stop before re-adjusting the auger control.

Perform the following test before

If the auger shows ANY signs of rotating,

Z Fitting

Hex Nut

Cable Should Be Straight

Figure 11

5. The interlock feature will allow you to remove your left hand from the auger control lever.

6. When clearing the first pass through th e snow, control speed of snow thrower according to the depth and condition of snow.

7. On each succeeding pass, readjust the chute to the desired positon and slightly overlap previous path.

8. After the area is cleared, stop t he snow thrower following instructions given below.

• To readjust the cont rol cable, loosen the hex jam nut on the auger control cable “Z” fitting.

• Rotate the coupling end of the cable (without turning the cable) counterclockwise to provide more slack.

• Retighten the hex jam nut. See Figu re 11.

• Repeat Auger Control Test to verify proper adjustment has been achieved.

To Throw Snow

CAUTION: Check the area to be cleared for foreign

objects. Remove, if any.

1. Start the engine following starting instructions.

2. Rotate the discharge chute to the desired position, (away from bystanders and/or buildings) by movin g the chute control.

3. Select the speed according to snow condition.

CAUTION: Never move the shift lever without first

releasing the drive clutch.

4. Engage the auger control and drive control levers as previously stated.

Operating Tips

NOTE: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes

as the engine will not develop full power until it reaches operating temperature.

WARNING: The temperat ure of muffler and

surrounding areas may exceed 150 these areas.

• For most efficient snow remova l, remove snow immediately after it falls.

• Discharge snow downwind whenever possible. Slightly overlap each previous swath.

• Set the skid shoes 1/4" belo w the scraper bar for normal usage. The skid shoes may be adjusted upward for hard-packed snow.

NOTE: It is not recommended that you operate this

snow thrower on gravel as loose gravel can be easily picked up and thrown by the auger causing an injury or damage to the snow thrower.

• If for some reason, you have to operate the snow thrower on gravel, keep the skid shoe in the highest position for maximum clearance between ground and shave plate.

• Clean the snow thrower thorough ly after each use.

F. Avoid

Chute Clean-Out Tool

The chute clean-out tool is conveniently fastened to the rear of the auger housing with a mo unting clip. Should snow and ice become lodged in the chute assembly during operation, proceed as follows to safe ly clean the chute assembly and chute opening:

• Release both the Auger Control and the Control

• Stop the engine by removing the ignit ion key.

• Remove the clean-out tool from the clip which secures it to the rear of the auger housing.

• Use the shovel-shaped end of the clean-out tool to dislodge and scoop any snow and ice which has formed in and near the ch ute assembly.

Drive

WARNING: Never use your hands to clean

snow and ice from the chute assembly or auger housing

• Refasten the clean-ou t tool to the mounting clip on the rear of the auger housing, r einsert the ignition key and start the snow thrower’s engine.

• While standing in the opera tor’s position (behind the snow thrower), engage the auger control for a few seconds to clear any remaining snow and ice from the chute assembly.

Drift Cutters (o n models so equipped)

Drift cutters should be used when operating the snow thrower in heavy drift conditions.

On models so equipped, drift cutters are assembled to the auger housing inverted. Remove the ca rriage bolts by unthreading the hex nuts which secure them, and reinstall the drift cutters in their proper position before operating the snow thrower. See Figure 12 .

If your unit is not equipped with drift cutters, contact Customer Support as instructed on page 2 for information regarding price and availability.

Snow Thrower Model Drift Cutter Kit

All models OEM-390-679

Drift

Cutter

Carriage Screws /

Hex Nuts

Figure 12

Tire Chains (on models so equipped)

Tire chains should be used whenever extra traction is needed. If your unit is not equipped with tire chains, contact Customer Support for informa tion regarding price and availability.

Operating Tips

NOTE: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes.

The engine will not develop full power until it reaches operating temperature.

WARNING: The temperat ure of the muffler

and the surrounding areas may exceed

F(65° C). Avoid these areas.

150

• If possible, remove snow immediatel y after it falls.

• Discharge snow downwind whenever possible.

• Slightly overlap each previou s path.

• Set the skid shoes 1/4" belo w the shave plate for normal usage. Adjust it upward for hard-packed snow and downward when using on gravel or crushed rock.

• Avoid possible starter freeze -up. Clean the snow thrower thoroughly after each use.

SECTION 5: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Never attempt to make any

adjustments while the engine is running, except where specified in operator’s ma nual.

Shift Rod Adjustment

If the full range of speeds (forward and reverse) cannot be achieved, refer to the figures to the right and adjust the shift rod as follows:

Place the shift lever in the fastest forward speed position. Remove the hairpin clip which

secures the ferrule to the shift lever.

Thread the ferrule up or down the shift rod until it aligns with the hole in the shift lever behind

the handle panel. Resecure the ferrule with the hairpin clip removed earlier.

Chute Assembly

The distance snow is thrown can be adjusted by changing the angle of the chute assembly. To do so, stop the engine by removing the ignition key and loo sen the plastic wing knob found on the left side of the chute assembly. Pivot the chute upward or downward before re-tightening the wing knob. See Figure 16 .

Figure 13

Rotate the shift arm clockwise as far as it will go.

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Chute Bracket Adjustment

If the spiral at the bottom of the chut e directional control is not fully engaging with the chute assembly, the ch ute bracket can be adjusted. To do so, loosen the two nuts which secure the chute bracket and reposition it sligh tly before retightening the nuts. See Figure 17 .

Figure 17

Drive Control

When the drive control is released a nd in the disengaged “up” position, the cable should have very little slack. It should NOT be tight.

Check the adjustment of the drive control as follows:

1. With the drive control disengaged, push the snow thrower gently forward. The unit should roll freely.

2. Engage the drive control and gently attempt to push the snow thrower forward. The wheels should not turn. The unit should not roll freely.

3. With the drive control disengaged, move the shift lever back and forth between the R2 position and the F6 position several times. There should be no resistance in the shift lever.

If any of the above tests failed, th e drive cable is in need of adjustment. refer to Figure 18 and procee d as follows:

• Loosen the hex jam nut on the aug er control cable “Z” fitting and rotate the coupling end (without turning the cable) of the cable downward to provide more slack or upward to take up slack. See Figure 18 .

Disengaged

Figure 18

Skid Shoes

NOTE: The space between the skid shoes and the ground can be adjusted. See Figure 19. For close snow removal, place skid shoe in the low position. Use middle or high position when area to be cleared is uneven.

NOTE: Some models are equipped with reversible skid

shoes and may be turned over to increase their lifespan. See Figure 19.

CAUTION: Loose gravel can be picked up

and thrown by the auger, causing injury to the operator and bystanders and/or damage to the snow thrower and surrounding property.

• Adjust skid shoes by loosening the four he x nuts (two on each side) and carriage bolts. Move skid shoes to desired position.

• Make certain the e ntire bottom surface of skid shoe is against the ground to avoid uneven wear on the skid shoes. Retighten nuts and bolts secu rely.

• Retighten the hex jam nut and repeat all three tests to verify proper adjustment has been achieved.

Auger Control

Refer to Auger Control Test on Page 12 to adjust the auger control.

Standard

Figure 19- Skid Shoes

Reversible

SECTION 6: MAINTAINING AND SERVICING YOUR SNOW THROWER

WARNING: Before lubricating, repairing, or

inspecting, disengage all controls and stop engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop.

Engine

Refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit for all engine maintenance.

Lubrication

Engine

Refer to the separate engine manua l packed with your unit.

Gear Shaft

The gear (hex) shaft should be lubricated at least once a season or after every 25 hours of operation.

• Remove the lower f rame cover by removing the two screws which secure it.

• Apply a light coating of an all-weather multipurpose grease to the hex shaft. Se e Figure 20.

the spacers. Also lubricate the flange bearings found at either end of the shaft. See Figure 21.

Bearing

Shear Pins

Spacers

Figure 21- 30” Auger Shown

Bearing

Shear Pins

Augers

The augers are secured to the spiral shaft with shear pins and cotter pins. See Figure 21. If you hit a foreign object or ice jam, the snowthrower is designed so that the shear pins will shear.

If the augers will not turn, check to see if the shear pins have sheared. Replacements have been provided with the snowthrower. When replacing pins, spray an oil lubricant into shaft before ireassembling.

IMPORTANT:

anything other than OEM Part No.

shear pins

components as a result of failing to do so will NOT be covered by your snow thrower’s warranty.

NEVER replace the auger shear pins with

738-04124 replacement

. Any damage to the auger gearbox or other

Figure 20

IMPORTANT:

drive plate.

Keep lubricant off the friction wheel and

Wheels

Oil or spray lubricant into bearings at wheels at least once a season. Remove wheels, clean and coat axles with a multi-purpose automotive grease.

Chute Directional Control

• Once a season, the spiral end on the chute directional control should be greased with multipurpose automotive grease.

Auger Shaft

• At least once a season, remove the shear pins on auger shaft. Spray lubricant inside shaft, around

Gear Case

The auger gear case has been filled with grease at the factory. If disassembled for any reason, lubricate with two ounces of grease (Part Number 737-0168 ).

IMPORTANT:

the seals could result. Be sure the vent plug is free of grease in order to relieve pressure.

Do not overfill the gear case. Damage to

WARNING: Before servicing, repairing, or

inspecting, disengage all controls and stop engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop.

Shave Plate and Skid Shoes

• The shave plate and skid shoes o n the bottom of the snow thrower are subject to wear. They should be checked periodically and replaced when necessary.

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