SELF-PROPELLED ROTARY LAWN MOWER

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SELF-PROPELLED ROTARY
LAWN MOWER

   WARNING: This lawn mower 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
 authorized service center.

193733 Rev. 8 01.20.10 BY                                                Printed in U.S.A.
TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed
                                      TABLE OF CONTENTS                                                        to an authorized Service Center.
Safety Rules ................. 2-3     Maintenance ............. 16-19   Storage ..................... 25-26    PROBLEM                CAUSE                           CORRECTION
Assembly ...................... 4-7    Service and                       Troubleshooting ........ 26-27        Loss of power      1. Rear of lawn mower                1. Raise cutting height.
Operation.................... 8-15     Adjustments.............. 19-24                                                               housing or cutting blade
                                                                                                                                     dragging in heavy grass.
                                         SAFETY RULES                                                                             2. Cutting too much grass.           2. Raise cutting height.
                                                                                                                                  3. Dirty air filter.                 3. Clean/replace air filter.
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing ob-                                          4. Buildup of grass, leaves,         4. Clean underside of mower
jects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.                                 and trash under mower.               housing.
   Look for this symbol to point out impor-        • Do not pull mower backwards unless                                           5. Too much oil in engine.           5. Check oil level.
tant safety precautions. It means                     absolutely necessary. Always look down                                      6. Walking speed too fast.           6. Cut at slower walking speed.
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!                            and behind before and while moving
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.                              backwards.                                               Poor cut –         1. Worn, bent or loose blade.        1. Replace blade. Tighten
   WARNING: In order to prevent accidental • Never direct discharged material toward                           uneven                                                     blade bolt.
starting when setting up, transporting, ad-           anyone. Avoid discharging material against                                  2. Wheel heights uneven.             2. Set all wheels at same
justing or making repairs, always disconnect          a wall or obstruction. Material may richo-                                                                          height.
spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot        chet back toward the operator. Stop the                                     3. Buildup of grass, leaves          3. Clean underside of
come in contact with plug.                            blade when crossing gravel surfaces.                                           and trash under mower.               mower housing.
   WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its • Do not operate the mower without
constituents, and certain vehicle compo-              proper guards, plates, grass catcher or                  Excessive          1. Worn, bent or loose blade.        1. Replace blade. Tighten
nents contain or emit chemicals known to              other safety protective devices in place.                vibration                                                  blade bolt.
the State of California to cause cancer and • See manufacturer’s instructions for                                                 2. Bent engine crankshaft.           2. Contact a qualified service
birth defects or other reproductive harm.             proper operation and installation of                                                                                center.
   WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and              accessories. Only use accessories ap-
related accessories contain lead and lead             proved by the manufacturer.                              Starter rope       1. Engine flywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to
compounds, chemicals known to the State • Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel                               hard to pull          when control bar is released.    upper handle before
of California to cause cancer and birth               drives, walks, or roads.                                                                                        pulling starter rope.
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash           • Stop the engine (motor) whenever you                                         2. Bent engine crankshaft.       2. Contact a qualified service
hands after handling.                                 leave the equipment, before cleaning the                                                                        center.
    CAUTION: Muffler and                              mower or unclogging the chute.                                              3. Blade adapter broken.         3. Replace blade adapter.
other engine parts become                          • Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until                                   4. Blade dragging in grass.      4. Move lawn mower to cut
extremely hot during                                  the blade comes to complete stop before                                                                         grass or to hard surface.
operation and remain hot                              removing grass catcher.
after engine has stopped.                          • Mow only in daylight / good artificial light.             Grass catcher      1. Cutting height too low.           1. Raise cutting height.
To avoid severe burns on                           • Do not operate the machine while under                    not filling        2. Lift on blade worn off.           2. Replace blade.
contact, stay away from these areas.                  the influence of alcohol or drugs.                       (If so equipped)   3. Catcher not venting air.          3. Clean grass catcher.
                                                   • Never operate machine in wet grass.
I. GENERAL OPERATION                                  Always be sure of your footing: keep a                   Hard to push       1. Grass is too high or wheel        1. Raise cutting height.
• Read, understand, and follow all                    firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.                                      height is too low.
   instructions on the machine and in the          • Disengage the self-propelled mech-                                           2. Rear of lawn mower                2. Raise rear of lawn mower
   manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly           anism or drive clutch on mowers so                                             housing or cutting blade             housing one (1) setting
   familiar with the controls and the proper          equipped before starting the engine.                                           dragging in grass.                   higher.
   use of the machine before starting.             • If the equipment should start to vibrate                                     3. Grass catcher too full.           3. Empty grass catcher.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under              abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and                                     4. Handle height position not        4. Adjust handle height to suit.
   rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-             check immediately for the cause. Vibra-                                        right for you.
   charge opening at all times.                       tion is generally a warning of trouble.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who          • Always wear safety goggles or safety glass-               Loss of drive      1.   Belt wear.                      1.   Check/replace drive belt.
   are familiar with the instructions, to oper-       es with side shields when operating mower.               or slowing of      2.   Belt off of pulley.             2.   Check/reinstall drive belt.
   ate the machine.                                                                                            drive speed        3.   Drive cable worn or broken.     3.   Replace drive cable.
                                                   II. SLOPE OPERATION                                                            4.   “Loose” drive control system.   4.   Adjust drive control.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
                                                   Slopes are a major factor related to slip &
   toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which
                                                   fall accidents which can result in severe in-
   could be picked up and thrown by blade.
                                                   jury. All slopes require extra caution. If you
• Be sure the area is clear of other people
                                                   feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
   before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
   enters the area.                                DO:
• Do not operate the mower when bare-              • Mow across the face of slopes: never
   foot or wearing open sandals. Always               up and down. Exercise extreme caution
   wear substantial foot wear.                   2 when changing direction on slopes.                                                                    27
ENGINE                                              CYLINDER                                          • Remove obstacles (rocks, tree limbs, etc.)        away from your vehicle before filling.
FUEL SYSTEM                                         • Remove spark plug.                              • Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall           • Remove gas-powered equipment from the
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum           • Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through             grass can hide obstacles.                         truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If
deposits from forming in essential fuel system        spark plug hole into cylinder.                  DO NOT:                                             this is not possible, then refuel such equip-
parts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose,   • Pull starter handle slowly to distribute oil.   • Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or            ment with a portable container, rather than
or tank during storage. Alcohol blended fuels       • Replace with new spark plug.                      embankments. The operator could lose              from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
(called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol)       BATTERY (IF EQUIPPED)                               footing or balance.                             • Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
can attract moisture which leads to separa-                                                           • Do not trim excessively steep slopes.             of the fuel tank or container opening at
                                                    Disconnect the battery from the engine
tion and formation of acids during storage.                                                           • Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot-            all times until fueling is complete. Do not
                                                    connector and charge battery 48 hours.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of                                                                ing could cause slipping.                         use a nozzle lock-open device.
an engine while in storage.                         OTHER                                                                                               • If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
                                                    • Do not store gasoline from one season           III. CHILDREN                                       clothing immediately.
• Drain the fuel tank.                                                                                Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
• Start the engine and let it run until the           to another.                                                                                       • Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap
                                                    • Replace your gasoline can if your can           not alert to the presence of children. Children     and tighten securely.
   fuel lines and carburetor are empty.                                                               are often attracted to the machine and the
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner              starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your                                                          V. GENERAL SERVICE
                                                      gasoline will cause problems.                   mowing activity. Never assume that children
   products in the fuel tank or permanent                                                             will remain where you last saw them.             • Never run machine inside a closed area.
   damage may occur.                                • If possible, store your unit indoors and                                                         • Never make adjustments or repairs with
                                                      cover it to protect it from dust and dirt.      • Keep children out of the trimming area
• Use fresh fuel next season.                                                                           and under the watchful care of another            the engine (motor) running. Disconnect the
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable al-          • Cover your unit with a suitable protective                                                          spark plug wire, and keep the wire away
                                                      cover that does not retain moisture. Do           responsible adult.
ternative in minimizing the formation of fuel                                                         • Be alert and turn machine off if children         from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer           not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe,                                                          • Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
                                                      which allows condensation to form and             enter the area.
to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.                                                        • Before and while walking backwards,               attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer       will cause your unit to rust.                                                                       ment in good condition.
                                                                                                        look behind and down for small children.
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes           IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while                                                                 • Never tamper with safety devices. Check
                                                                                                      • Never allow children to operate the mower.
after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer     engine and exhaust areas are still warm.          • Use extra care when approaching blind             their proper operation regularly.
to reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas          CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower              corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects        • Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other
tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.       with gasoline in the tank inside a building         that may obscure vision.                          debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage.
ENGINE OIL                                          where fumes may reach an open flame                                                                   Allow machine to cool before storing.
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace            or spark. Allow the engine to cool before         IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE • Stop and inspect the equipment if you
                                                    storing in any enclosure.                         Use extreme care in handling gasoline.              strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
with clean oil. (See “ENGINE” in the Main-
                                                                                                      Gasoline is extremely flammable and the             before restarting.
tenance section of this manual).
                                                                                                      vapors are explosive.                            • Never attempt to make wheel height
                                                                                                      • Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes          adjustments while the engine is running.
                                                                                                        and other sources of ignition.                 • Grass catcher components are subject to
                                                                                                      • Use only an approved container.                   wear, damage, and deterioration, which
TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed                                   • Never remove gas cap or add fuel with             could expose moving parts or allow objects
to an authorized Service Center.                                                                        the engine running. Allow engine to cool          to be thrown. Frequently check components
 PROBLEM                  CAUSE                                CORRECTION                               before refueling.                                 and replace with manufacturer’s recom-
                                                                                                      • Never refuel the machine indoors.                 mended parts, when necessary.
Does not start         1. Dirty air filter.                   1. Clean/replace air filter.            • Never store the machine or fuel contain- • Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
                       2. Out of fuel.                        2. Fill fuel tank.                        er where there is an open flame, spark            Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
                       3. Stale fuel.                         3. Drain fuel tank and refill tank        or pilot light such as a water heater or on       use extra caution when servicing them.
                                                                 with fresh, clean gasoline.            other appliances.                              • Do not change the engine governor set-
                       4. Water in fuel.                      4. Drain fuel tank and refill tank      • Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on        ting or overspeed the engine.
                                                                 with fresh, clean gasoline.            a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.   • Maintain or replace safety and instruc-
                       5. Spark plug wire is                  5. Connect wire to plug.                  Always place containers on the ground             tion labels, as necessary.
                           disconnected.
                       6. Bad spark plug.                     6. Replace spark plug.                  CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new Lawn Mower. It has been designed, engi-
                       7. Loose blade or broken               7. Tighten blade bolt or                neered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.
                           blade adapter.                         replace blade adapter.              Should you experience any problems you cannot easily remedy, please contact your
                       8. Control bar in released             8. Depress control bar to               nearest authorized service center. They have competent, well trained technicians and
                           position.                              handle.                             the proper tools to service or repair this unit.
                       9. Control bar defective.              9. Replace control bar.                 • Read the SAFETY RULES and this Operator's Manual in its entirety before you at-
                                                                                                        tempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower to insure proper operation and to
                       10. Fuel valve lever (if so            10. Turn fuel valve lever                 prevent injury to yourself and others. Save this manual for future reference.
                           equipped) in OFF position.             to the ON position.                 • Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those
                       11. Weak battery (if equipped).        11. Charge battery.                       parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation
                       12. Disconnected battery               12. Connect battery to engine.            of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely.
                           connector (if equipped).                                                     Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
                                                                                                      • All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have
                                                26                                                      been placed in the parts bag.                3
TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON                                                                                                            STORAGE
• Remove all loose parts from carton.
• Remove lawn mower housing with care. Avoid touching blade under housing. Always                Immediately prepare your lawn mower for          Operator                            MOWING
  wear gloves or other protection when working under or lifting mower.                           storage at the end of the season or if the       presence                           POSITION
                                                                                                 unit will not be used for 30 days or more.       control bar
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU ASSEMBLE OR OPERATE YOUR LAWN
                                                                                                    CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
MOWER
                                                                                                 with gasoline in the tank inside a building
Do I have a side or rear discharge lawn            What is the right and left side of the        where fumes may reach an open flame
mower?                                             lawn mower?                                   or spark. Allow the engine to cool before        FOLD
Look for the grass discharge opening on            When right hand (RH) or left hand (LH) is     storing in any enclosure.                        FORWARD                                 Upper
your mower. If the opening is on the right         mentioned in this manual, it means when                                                        FOR                                    handle
side of the mower housing, it is a side            you are in the operating position (standing   LAWN MOWER                                       STORAGE
discharge mower. If the opening is at the          behind the handle).                           When lawn mower is to be stored for a pe-
back of the mower housing, it is a rear dis-       What kind of engine is on my lawn             riod of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all                                          Handle
charge mower. Only rear discharge lawn             mower?                                        dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean,                                             knob
mowers have a grass catcher included with          When learning how to operate your new         dry area.
the mower. Approved grass catchers for             lawn mower, you will need to know what        • Clean entire lawn mower (See “CLEAN-
side discharge mowers may be purchased             kind of engine powers the mower. A decal         ING” in the Maintenance section of this                                        Lower handle
from your nearest authorized dealer.               on the engine will indicate the manu-            manual).
Do I have a mulching lawn mower?                   facturer and type or brand name of the        • Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
Look for the grass discharge opening on                                                             section of this manual.                       2 POSITION / “ADJUSTABLE” HANDLES
                                                   engine.
your mower. Raise the discharge guard                                                            • Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and      When setting you handles up from the
(rear door on rear discharge mowers). If                BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES                   pins are securely fastened. Inspect           storage position, the lower handle will
the opening is closed off by a plate, then                                                          moving parts for damage, breakage and         automatically lock into mowing position.
your lawn mower is mulcher ready. To                                                                wear. Replace if necessary.
convert to a discharging mower, see the                                                          • Touch up all rusted or chipped paint           3 POSITION HANDLES
Operation section of this manual.                                                                   surfaces; sand lightly before painting.       When setting up your handle from the stor-
                                                                                                                                                  age position, the lower handle will require
                                                                                                                                                  manually locking into the mowing position.
                  FRONT                                                                          HANDLE
                                                                                                 Your handle may be folded for storage as                        3 POSITION “EZ”
                                                                                                 shown.
                                                                                                 • Squeeze the bottom ends of lower               Knob                                      Bolt
                                                                                                   handle towards each other until handle
    LEFT                           RIGHT                                                           clears the handle brackets and swing
                                                       TECUMSEH                HONDA               handles forward over mower.                                                           Handle
    HAND                           HAND
    SIDE                            SIDE
                                                        ENGINES               ENGINES            • Loosen upper handle mounting hard-                                                adjustment
                                                                                                   ware enough to allow upper handle to be                                               bracket
                                                                                                   folded back.
                                                                                                 IMPORTANT: When folding handles for
                                                                                                 storage or transportation, be sure to fold
                                                                  ®                              handles as shown or you may damage the
              BACK or REAR
                                                                                                 control cables.
            (Operating Position)
                                                                                                                  SQUEEZE
                                     ASSEMBLY                                                                     TO FOLD
                                                                                                                                                                3 POSITION “QUICK”
                                                                                                                 Lower handle                                                        Handle pin
   CAUTION: Do not operate this lawn               HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
                                                                                                                                                      SQUEEZE
mower without the discharge guard or an            MOWER
entire approved grass catcher in place.            UNFOLD HANDLE
These guards are for your protection and                                                                                                          Handle
                                                   IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so                                                          adjustment
are required by the American National
                                                   as not to pinch or damage control cables.                                                      bracket
Standards Institute and Consumer Prod-
ucts Safety Commission.                            2 POSITION / “ADJUSTABLE” HANDLES
   CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire             • Raise handles until lower handle section
from spark plug and place wire where it              locks into place in operating position.
cannot come in contact with plug.

                                               4                                                                                                 25
MODELS WITH GEARCASE-MOUNTED                    • Route the other end of the new drive belt     Operator                          MOWING           ALL HANDLES
BELT KEEPER AND NO DEBRIS SHIELD:                  through hole in housing.                     presence                         POSITION          • Raise upper handle section into place on
                                                • Return mower to upright position.             control bar
• Remove drive cover.                                                                                                                                lower handle, remove protective padding
• Remove spring and belt keeper.                • Install new belt on gearcase pulley.                         LIFT                                  and tighten both handle knobs.
                                                • Reinstall belt keeper and spring.                              UP                                • Remove handle padding holding opera-
• Remove belt from gearcase pulley.
                                                • Reinstall drive cover.                                                                             tor presence control bar to upper handle.
                                                NOTE: Always use factory approved belt                                                             • Your lawn mower handle can be ad-
                                                to assure proper fit and long life.                    LIFT                          Upper           justed for your mowing comfort. Refer to
                                                • Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter          UP                           handle           “ADJUST HANDLE” in the Service and
                                                   and carburetor down.                                                                              Adjustments section of this manual.
                                                • Reinstall blade and blade adapter.                                                               NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
                                                                                                                                    Handle         wheels on your lawn mower may not be
                                                                                                                                      knob         adjusted to the same position as the front
                                                ENGINE                                                                                             wheels. Before operating mower adjust all
                                                                                                                                                   wheels to the same cutting height.
                                                CARBURETOR
                                                                                                                              Lower handle
                                                The carburetor has been preset at the fac-
                                                tory and adjustment should not be neces-
                                                sary. However, minor adjustment may be          3 POSITION “EZ” HANDLES                            INSTALL REAR WHEELS
Gearcase pulley                       Drive
                                      cover     required to compensate for differences in       • Raise lower handle section to operating          (HIGH WHEEL MOWERS ONLY)
                                                fuel, temperature, altitude or load.              position and align hole in handle with           Some high wheel models require washers
                                      Spring    • The air filter must be assembled to the         one of three height positioning holes.           which will be provided in a parts bag. If provid-
                                                  carburetor when running engine.               • Insert handle bolt through handle and            ed, install washers on the axle first as shown.
                                                • Best carburetor adjustment is obtained          bracket and secure with knob.                    • Install one (1) rear wheel on the axle of
                                        Belt      when fuel tank is 1/4 full.                   • Repeat for opposite side of handle.                rear wheel adjuster.
                                     keeper     • In order for the engine to run, the opera-                                                       • Install 3/8-16 locknut and tighten securely.
                                                  tor presence control bar must be held                                                            • Repeat procedure for other rear wheel.
                                        Belt      in the operating position. Therefore,         Knob                                    Bolt
                                                  and assistant will be required to hold
                                                  the control bar in the operating position                                          Handle                                            Axle
                                                  when making final adjustment to the                                            adjustment                                O-Ring
                                                  carburetor.                                                                        bracket
                                                See the ADJUSTMENT section of your
                                                engine manual for further instructions.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. See
  engine manual for proper direction of
  turning over the engine.                      ENGINE SPEED
• Remove blade and blade adapter.               The engine speed has been factory set.                                                                                           Washer
• Remove belt from blade adapter.               Do not attempt to increase engine speed
• Position the blade adapter on the engine      as it may result in personal injury. If you
                                                                                                                                                   Flanged                       Wheel
  crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and        believe the engine is running too fast                                                             locknut                       assembly
  crankshaft keyway are aligned; and that       or too slow, take your lawn mower to an         3 POSITION “QUICK” HANDLES
  the drive belt is inside the tabs of the      authorized engine service center for repair     • Raise lower handle section to operating
  belt retainer.                                and adjustment.                                   position and squeeze the bottom ends
Blade adapter     Key             Crankshaft                                                      of lower handle towards each other until
                                     keyway     THROTTLE CONTROL                                  the pin in handle can be inserted into
                                                If it becomes necessary to adjust or re-          one of the three height adjustment holes.        ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
Lockwasher                                      place the throttle control, see the ADJUST-                                                        (REAR DISCHARGE MOWERS ONLY)
                                                MENT section of your engine manual.                                              Handle pin
      Blade                                                                                       SQUEEZE                                          IMPORTANT: If your model lawn mower
                                                                                                                                                   is mulcher ready, the mulcher plate or plug
                                                                                                                                                   must be removed before using mower as
                                                                                                Handle                                             a bagger. To convert mower to bagging or
                                                                                                adjustment
                                                                                                bracket
                                                                                                                                                   discharging, see the Operation section in
Blade
bolt Hardened                           Belt
                                                                                                                                                   this manual.
      washer      Trailing edge     retainer                                                                                                       Look at the different grass catcher illustra-
                                                                                                                                                   tions that follow. Determine which type
                                                                                                                                                   of grass catcher you have and follow the
                                                                                                                                                   appropriate instructions.

                                               24                                                                                              5
“FABRIC TOP” GRASS CATCHERS                              HINGE BRACKET MOUNTED                                      Crankshaft
                                                                                                                                                    Blade
TO ASSEMBLE AND ATTACH GRASS                                                             Rear door     Housing hole                               adapter
CATCHER
• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
                                                                             Hinge bracket
  with rigid part of bag on the bottom.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
                                                                                              Grass
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold                                                  catcher                                            Hardened
them in warm water for a few minutes. If                                                      frame                                               washer
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.                                                                 Tab
• Lift the rear door on the mower housing.
• For HINGE BRACKET mounted catcher,
  place the grass catcher frame onto the                                                                                                           Blade
                                                                                                                                                     bolt
  formed tabs on the rear door hinge                                                                                    Debris shield                        Gearcase pulley                        Drive
  bracket.                                                                                                                                                                                          cover
• For HANDLE BRACKET mounted                                                                           Trailing edge                       Lock-washer
  catcher, place frame side hooks into                 Formed tabs
                                                                                                                                                                                                   Spring
  slots in handle brackets.                                                                                                   OR:
• For DOOR PIVOT PIN mounted catcher,
  place the grass catcher frame hooks                                                                            Crankshaft       Tab                                                                 Belt
  onto the door pivot pins.                                                                                                                                                                        keeper
                                                        HANDLE BRACKET MOUNTED                         Housing
• For DOOR SLOT mounted catcher,                                                                       hole                                        Blade
                                                   Handle bracket hooks          Rear          Grass                                                                                                   Belt
  place the grass catcher frame hooks into                                                                                                       adapter
                                                                                 door        catcher
  the slots of the rear door.                                                                 handle
NOTE: The grass catcher is secured to the
lawn mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.                                                                                                          Hardened
                                                                                                                                                 washer
                                     Frame
                                     handle                                                                                                                  • Place new drive belt in engine pulley
                                                                                                                                                               and belt retainer of debris shield.
                                                                                                                                  Debris           Blade
                                                                                                                                  shield             bolt                                    Engine pulley
                                                   Catcher frame side hook
                                                                                                       Screw      Trailing edge              Lock-washer
                                                         DOOR PIVOT PIN MOUNTED                                                                                                                 Drive belt
                                                           Pivot pins          Rear            Grass
                                                                               door          catcher
                                                                                              handle

Vinyl                                Frame                                                                                                                   Belt
bindings                            opening                                                                                                                  retainer
                                                                                                                                                                    Debris shield

                                                                                                       MODELS WITH GEARCASE-MOUNTED                          • Route the other end of the new drive belt
   CAUTION: Under normal usage, the                                                                    BELT KEEPER AND DEBRIS SHIELD:
                                                   Catcher frame hook                                                                                           through hole in housing.
catcher material is subject to deterioration
                                                                                                       • Remove drive cover.                                 • Reinstall debris shield.
and wear and should, therefore, be                          DOOR SLOT MOUNTED                          • Remove spring and belt keeper.                      • Return mower to upright position.
checked frequently for replacement. Any                                       Rear door slots          • Remove belt from gearcase pulley.                   • Install new belt on gearcase pulley.
replacement catcher should be checked to                                                       Grass   • Turn lawn mower on its side. See                    • Reinstall belt keeper and spring.
ensure compliance with original manufac-                                                     catcher     engine manual for proper direction of               • Reinstall drive cover.
turer's specifications.                                                                       handle     turning over the engine.                            NOTE: Always use factory approved belt
   CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower                                                                      • Remove blade, engine pulley and debris              to assure proper fit and long life.
without the discharge guard (rear door),                                                                 shield.                                             • Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter
approved grass catcher, clipping deflector                                                             • Remove engine pulley and belt from                     and carburetor down.
or mulcher plate in place. Never attempt                                                                 debris shield.                                      • Reinstall blade.
to operate mower with the discharge guard
(rear door) removed or propped open.               Catcher frame hook
                                               6                                                                                                            23
MODELS WITH GEARCASE-MOUNTED                   REAR WHEEL DRIVE MODELS:                         SPARK PLUG BOOT                                      UNITS WITH DECK-MOUNTED
BELT KEEPER AND NO DEBRIS SHIELD:              MODELS WITH IDLER ASSEMBLY:                      On some models a spark plug boot is                  BATTERY:
• Remove drive cover and belt keeper.          • Disconnect spark plug wire from spark          packed loose in the parts bag. If your               • After charging, connect engine connector
• Remove belt from gearcase pulley.              plug and place wire where it cannot            model has the boot, install on spark plug              (male) to battery connector (female).
• Turn lawn mower on its side. See               come in contact with plug.                     wire and reconnect spark plug wire to                Your engine has an integral alternator for
   engine manual for proper direction of       • Remove screws retaining drive cover            spark plug.                                          partial charging. Connect your battery
   turning over the engine.                      (not shown); and remove drive cover                                                                 charger to charge battery as required.
                                                                                                   Spark plug
• Remove blade and blade adapter.                from lawn mower housing.                                                                            IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will
• Remove belt from pulley of blade             • Remove drive cable from anchor, then                                                                not charge a discharged battery.
   adapter.                                      detach it and return spring (if equipped)
• Install new belt by reversing above            from idler arm assembly.                                                                            ALL UNITS:
   steps.                                      • Remove idler arm assembly from hous-                                                                At the end of the mowing season the
NOTE: Always use factory approved belt           ing by removing hex nut; then remove                                                                battery should be charged for 48 hours to
to assure fit and long life.                     drive belt from drive pulley, belt keepers                                                          protect the battery during winter storage.
                                                 and idler arm assembly.                                                                                CAUTION: Always disconnect the
                                                                                                                                                     engine connector from the battery con-
                                    Drive
                                                                                                                                                     nector to prevent accidental starting when
                                               Drive pulley                Drive cable anchor                                                        transporting or storing your lawn mower
                                    cover                                      Housing holes                                              Boot
                                                                                                                                                     after the season.

                                                                                                TO PREPARE BATTERY                                      HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY SWITCH
                                                                        Drive belt
                                                                                                (ELECTRIC START MODELS ONLY)                                 Engine                        Harness
                                 Gearcase                                                       NOTE: Your battery must be charged                           connector                    connector
                                    pulley                                                      before you can start your lawn mower.                        (male)                        (female)

                                               Belt                         Return Idler arm    UNITS WITH HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY
                                      Belt     keepers        Hex nut       spring assembly     SWITCH:
                                   keeper                                                       • Connect battery charger connector
  Belt                                                                                            (male) to harness connector (female).
                                               • Turn lawn mower on its side. See engine
                                                  manual for proper direction of turning        UNITS WITH DECK-MOUNTED
                                                  over the engine.                              BATTERY:
                                                                                                                                                                         Battery
Blade adapter    Key             Crankshaft    • Use a wood block between blade and             • Disconnect engine connector (male)                                     charger
                                    keyway        mower housing to prevent blade from             from battery connector (female).                                                         Charger
                                                  turning when removing blade bolt.             • Connect battery charger connector                                                connector (male)
Lockwasher
                                               NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves               (male) to battery connector (female).
         Blade                                 and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.              ALL UNITS:                                                  DECK-MOUNTED BATTERY
                                               • Remove blade bolt.                             • Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.            Battery charger                         Battery
                                               • Remove blade, attaching hardware (bolt,          outlet.                                                                                       box
                                                  lock washer, hardened washer), blade          • Leave battery charger connected for 24
                                                  adapter and debris shield. Note that the                                                                     Charger
Blade                                                                                             hours before starting your engine for the
                                                  debris shield has a tab which fits into the     first time.                                        Harness connector
bolt Hardened                          Belt                                                                                                          connector  (male)
      washer     Trailing edge     retainer
                                                  housing hole.
                                               • Remove drive belt from engine pulley;          UNITS WITH HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY                        (female)
                                                  discard old belt.                             SWITCH:
                                               • Install new belt by reversing above            • After charging, disconnect harness
                                                  steps.                                          connector (female) from battery charger
                                               NOTE: Always use factory approved belt             connector (male).
                                               to assure fit and long life.                     Connect your battery charger to charge
                                               • The recommended tightening torque is           battery after each use.
                                                  35-40 ft. lbs.                                IMPORTANT: The engine will not recharge
                                               IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat            your battery.                                        Engine connector (male)
                                               treated.

                                              22                                                                                                 7
“AUTO WALK” or “VARI-SPEED” MODELS:          MODELS WITH GEARCASE-MOUNTED
                                   OPERATION                                                           • Remove drive cover and belt keeper.        BELT KEEPER AND DEBRIS SHIELD:
                                                                                                       • Remove belt from gearcase pulley by        • Remove drive cover and belt keeper.
              The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into                   pushing down on pulley and rolling belt   • Remove belt from gearcase pulley.
              the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety                         off it.                                   • Turn lawn mower on its side. See
              glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any                 • Turn lawn mower on its side. See              engine manual for proper direction of
              adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide                      engine manual for proper direction of        turning over the engine.
              vision safety mask worn over spectacles.                                                    turning over the engine.                  • Remove blade, engine pulley and debris
                                                                                                       • Remove blade and debris shield.               shield.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER                          • Reinstall wheel components in the same
                                                                                                       • Remove belt from engine pulley on          • Remove belt and engine pulley from
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL                                  order as they were before removal.
                                                      Tighten securely.                                   crankshaft.                                  debris shield.
                                                    • Make sure all wheels are at same height.         • Install new belt by reversing above        • Install new belt by reversing above
MODELS WITH REMOTE THROTTLE
                                                                                                          steps.                                       steps.
Engine speed is controlled by the throttle                                                             NOTE: Always use factory approved belt       NOTE: Always use factory approved belt
control located on the upper handle.                Flat washer                                        to assure fit and long life.                 to assure fit and long life.
• Move lever forward to FAST engine
  speed for starting and better bagging.
• Move lever backward for SLOW engine               Wheel
  speed.                                                                                                                                                                                     Drive
• Some models have engines equipped                                                                                                                                                          cover
  with a choke feature. Move the lever all          Bolt
  the way forward to the CHOKE position
  when starting a cold engine.                                                                3/8-16   Drive
                                                                                 Spacer      Locknut   cover   Belt
                                                                                                                                                                                      Gearcase
                            SLOW                                                                         Belt keeper                                                                     pulley
               FAST
                                                                                                       PUSH DOWN
                                                    MODELS WITH “QUICK ADJUST”
                                                    WHEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTERS                                                OR:                                                                  Belt
CHOKE                                               NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear                                                                                                   keeper
(START)                                                                                                                                                Belt
                                                    wheels on your lawn mower may not be                                               Drive
                                                    adjusted to the same position as the front                                         cover
                                                    wheels. Before operating mower adjust all
                                                    wheels to the same cutting height.                                                                                     Engine pulley
                                                    • Raise wheels for low cut and lower
                                                      wheels for high cut.
                                                    • Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
                                    Remote
                                                      ments. Medium position is best for most                                                                                              Drive belt
                                                      lawns.                                              Belt
                                     throttle                                                             keeper                       PUSH
                                     control        • To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster
                                                                                                                                      DOWN
                                                      lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or
                                                      down to suit your requirements. Be sure
MODELS WITH FIXED SPEED ENGINES                       all wheels are in the same setting.
Engine speed was set at the factory for             NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when
optimum performance. Engine speed is                plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-             Belt                                 Belt
not adjustable.                                                                                                                                     retainer
                                                    position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever
                                                    to be positioned between the plate tabs.                                                               Debris shield
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Adjust cutting height to suit your require-         LEVER BACKWARD               Plate tab
                                                    TO LOWER MOWER
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns. Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
MODELS WITH MANUAL ADJUST
BOLT-ON WHEELS
• Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and
  reassemble in desired adjustment hole.            LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever

                                                8                                                                                               21
3 POSITION “EZ”                                  TO REMOVE / REPLACE DRIVE BELT                     FOR MULCHING MOWERS ONLY                           “SIDE DISCHARGE ONLY” MOWERS
The handle on your lawn mower has three          FRONT WHEEL DRIVE MODELS:                          Most mulching mowers are shipped ready             MULCHER PLATE TYPE
(3) height positions - adjust to height that                                                        to be used as a mulcher.                           To convert to bagging or discharging,
suits you.                                       “STANDARD” OR “DUAL BAIL” MODELS:
                                                                                                    “REAR DISCHARGE ONLY” MOWERS                       mulcher plate must be removed from un-
• Remove knob and carriage bolt on one           • Remove drive cover. Remove belt from                                                                derside of lawn mower.
  side of the lower handle.                         gearcase pulley by pushing down on              Some models have a seperate mulcher
                                                                                                    plug, other models have the mulcher plug           • Remove the four (4) screws and lock nuts
• While holding handle assembly, remove             pulley and rolling belt off it.                                                                      securing the mulcher plate to the mower.
  knob and carriage bolt from opposite           • Turn lawn mower on its side. See                 built into the rear door. To convert to bag-
                                                                                                    ging or discharging, the plate or plug (if         • Store mulcher plate and hardware in a
  side, align hole in handle with desired           engine manual for proper direction of                                                                safe place.
  hole in handle bracket and reassemble             turning over the engine.                        so equipped) must be removed from the
                                                                                                    discharge opening of the lawn mower.               • Mower can now be used for side
  bolt and knob and tighten securely.            • Remove blade.                                                                                         discharging or optional grass catcher
• Align opposite side of handle with same        • Remove debris shield.                            • Open rear door and remove mulcher
                                                                                                       plate or plug (if so equipped). Store             accessory can be attached.
  positioning hole and secure with bolt and      • Remove belt from engine pulley on                                                                   • To return to mulching operation, simply
  knob.                                             crankshaft.                                        mulcher plate or plug in a safe place.
                                                                                                    • You can now install grass catcher or               reinstall mulcher plate and tighten hard-
High
                                                 • Place new drive belt in the belt retainers                                                            ware securely.
                                          Bolt      of the debris shield (if equipped).                optional clipping deflector accessory.
Med.                                                                                                                                                   Screw and
Low                                              • Install new belt by reversing above steps.       • To return to mulching operation, install         lock nut
                                                 NOTE: Always use factory approved belt                mulcher plate or plug into discharge
                                                 to assure fit and long life.                          opening of mower.
                                       Handle                                                          CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
                                                                  PUSH
                                   adjustment                     DOWN                              without mulcher plate/plug in place or ap-
                                       bracket                                                      proved clipping deflector or grass catcher
                                                                                                    in place. Never attempt to operate the
                                                                                                    lawn mower with the rear door removed or
                                                                                                    propped open.
Knob                                                       Belt                                                 MULCHER "PLATE"
                                                 Drive
3 POSITION “QUICK”                               cover
The handle on your lawn mower has three                  Pulley
(3) height positions - adjust to height that
suits you.                                                                                                                                                                            Mulcher plate
• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower               DEBRIS SHIELDS WITH BELT RETAINERS:
  handle towards each other until the pin                                                                                                              MULCHER PLUG TYPE “A”
                                                                           Belt retainers                                                              To convert to mulching operation, mulcher
  in handle can be inserted into one of the
  three height adjustment holes.                                                                                                                       plug must be installed into discharge open-
                                                                                                                Slots                                  ing of mower.
 High                 Handle pin                                                       Drive belt                                     Mulcher          • Open discharge guard.
                                       Handle                                                                                       plate tabs         • Insert tab of mulch plug into housing
 Medium                            adjustment                                                                    MULCHER "PLUG"                          opening.
                                       bracket
                                                                                                                                                       • Align hooks of mulch plug over hinge
SQUEEZE                                                                                                                                                  rod of discharge guard. Push mulch plug
                                                                                                                                                         down until mulch plug is seated in hous-
 Low                                                                                                                                                     ing opening.
                                                                                                                                                         CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
                                                                                                                                                       without discharge guard, approved grass
                                                 Debris shield                                                                                         catcher or mulcher plug in place.
                                                                    OR:
                                                                                                               Mulcher                                             Hinge rod
                                                                       Engine pulley
                                                                                                               plug                                    Discharge
                                                                                                                                                       guard
                                                                                                     MULCHER PLUG BUILT INTO REAR DOOR
                                                                                       Drive belt
REAR DEFLECTOR (IF EQUIPPED)
The rear deflector, attached between the
                                                                                                                                                       Housing
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to                                                                                                              opening
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower       Belt
into the operator mowing position. If the                                                                                                                              Hooks
                                             retainer
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.                                  20       Debris shield                                                                                  9             Mulcher plug                  Tab
MULCHER PLUG TYPE “B”                                                                          3. Close mulcher door (if equipped).
To convert to bagging or discharging:                                                          4. Connect a garden hose to the fitting                                  Hose
• Lift discharge guard and remove                                                                   where shown.
  mulcher plug.                                                                                IMPORTANT: Be sure the garden hose is
• Mower can now be used for side dis-                                                          not routed under the lawn mower housing
  charging or optional grass catcher can                                                       or entangled in the wheels.
  be attached.                                                                                 5. Turn on water supply and check for
• To return to mulching operation, simply                                                           leaks at the fitting.
  reinstall mulcher plug as shown, making                                                      If no leaks are present, start engine (as
  sure tab is seated properly.                                                                 described in the Operation section of this
  CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower                        Slots                             manual) and let engine run until the under-
without discharge guard, approved grass                                                        side of the lawn mower is clean.
catcher or mulcher plug in place.                                                                   WARNING: Do not engage the drive
                                                                                    Mulcher                                                                             Fitting
                                                                                               system during the washout process.
                                                SIDE DISCHARGING                  plate tabs   6. Shut off the engine.
                                                • Mulcher plate must be installed into rear    7. Shut off water supply and remove hose
                                                  discharge opening of mower (see above             from fitting.                             GRASS CATCHER (IF SO EQUIPPED)
                                                  instructions).                               CAUTION: Do not remove hose from               Grass catcher may be hosed with water
 Lift                                                                                                                                         but must be dry when used.
 discharge                                      • Open mulcher door and install discharge      fitting while engine is running. Water in
 guard                                            deflector under door as shown.               engine can result in shortened engine life.       CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
                                                • Mower is now ready for discharging           8. Start engine (as described in the Op-       catcher material is subject to deterioration
                                                  operation.                                        eration section of this manual) and let   and wear and should therefore be checked
                                                • To convert to mulching or bagging                 engine run for a full minute to remove    to ensure compliance with original
                                                  operation, discharge deflector must be            excess water from mower.                  manufacturer specifications.
                                                  removed and mulcher door must be
                                                  closed.
                                                                                                                      SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
              Install                    Tab                                                     CAUTION: Before performing any service or adjustments:
              mulcher plug                                                                     • Release operator presence control bar.
                                                                                               • Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.
                                                                                               • Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in
                                                                                                 contact with plug.

                                                                                               LAWN MOWER                                         Mowing                   Mowing
                                                                                               TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT                           position                 position
                                                                                               See “TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT” in
                                                Open mulcher door                              the Operation section of this manual.
                                                Discharge deflector
                                 MOWER IS                                                      TO ADJUST HANDLE
                               NOW READY                                                                                                    Hairpin              Handle
                             FOR MULCHING                                                      2 POSITION HANDLES                           cotter               bracket
                                OPERATION                                                      The handle can be mounted in a high or       Mounting
                                                                                               low position. The mounting holes in the      pin
                                                                                               bottom of lower handle are off center for            LOW POSITION      HIGH POSITION
“COMBI-CUT” MOWERS                                                                             raising or lowering the handle.
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be                                                        • Remove upper handle and all parts at-
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging                                                          tached to lower handle.
or discharging:                                                                                • Remove hairpin cotters from lower
                                                                                                  handle bracket mounting pin.
REAR BAGGING                                                                                   • Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
• Open rear door and remove mulcher                                                               from mounting pins.
  plate. Store mulcher plate in a safe                                                         • Turn lower handle over to raise or lower
  place.                                                                                          handle.
• You can now install grass catcher.                                                           • Squeeze lower handle in and position
• To convert to mulching or discharging                                                           holes onto mounting pins on handle
  operation, install mulcher plug into rear                                                                                                        TURN LOWER
                                                                                                  bracket.                                         HANDLE OVER
  discharge opening of mower, making                                                           • Reassemble hairpin cotters onto pins.             TO ADJUST HEIGHT
  sure all tabs are seated properly.                                                           • Reassemble upper handle and all parts
                                               10                                                 removed from lower handle.              19
DRIVE WHEELS                                     • Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole or   SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN                   OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL
Check drive wheels each time before you            to “FULL” line on dipstick on models so        CONVERTING YOUR “COMBI-CUT”                     BAR
mow to be sure they move freely.                   equipped. Keep oil at proper level.            LAWN MOWER                                      Your lawn mower is equipped with an op-
The wheels not turning freely means trash,                                                                                                        erator presence control bar which requires
grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel                                                       FOR MULCHING -
                                                 AIR FILTER                                                                                       the operator to be positioned behind the
area and must be cleaned to free drive                                                            • Rear mulcher plate installed and rear
                                                 Your engine will not run properly and may          door closed.                                  lawn mower handle in order to start and
wheels.                                          be damaged by using a dirty air filter.                                                          operate the lawn mower.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels,                                                           • Mulcher door closed.
                                                 Clean the element after every 25 hours                                                              CAUTION: Federal regulations require
check both drive wheels.                         of operation or every season. Replace            FOR REAR BAGGING -                              an engine control to be installed on this
• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not     the air filter every 100 hours of operation      • Rear mulcher plate removed.                   lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
   turn freely, contact your nearest autho-      or every season, whichever occurs first.         • Grass catcher installed.                      of blade contact injury. Do not under
   rized service center.                         Service air cleaner more often under dusty       • Mulcher door closed.                          any circumstances attempt to defeat the
                                                 conditions. See the maintenance section                                                          function of the operator control. The blade
                                                                                                  FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
GEAR CASE                                        of your engine manual.                                                                           turns when the engine is running.
                                                                                                  • Rear mulcher plate installed and rear
• To keep your drive system working
                                                                                                     door closed.
  properly, the gear case and area around        MUFFLER                                          • Discharge deflector installed.
  the drive should be kept clean and free        Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it                                                       DRIVE CONTROL
  of trash build-up. Clean under the drive                                                           CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
                                                 could create a fire hazard and/or damage.        without rear mulcher plate or plug in place     “STANDARD DRIVE” CONTROL
  cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant to                                                       or approved grass catcher in place. Never       • Self-propelling is controlled by holding
                                                 SPARK PLUG                                       attempt to operate the lawn mower with            the operator presence control bar down
  the proper level at the factory. The only
  time the lubricant needs attention is if       Replace spark plug at the beginning of           the rear door removed or propped open.            to the handle and pushing the drive
  service has been performed on the gear         each mowing season or after every 100                                                              control lever forward until it clicks; then
  case.                                          hours of operation, whichever occurs first.                                                        releasing the lever.
                                                 Set spark plug gap according to engine           GRASS CATCHER                                   • Forward motion will stop when the op-
GEAR CASE WITH METAL HOUSING:                    manual specifications.                           (REAR BAGGING MODELS ONLY)                        erator presence control bar is released.
• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco                                                                                                         To stop forward motion without stopping
  Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.                                                             TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
                                                 CLEANING                                                                                           engine, release the operator presence
  750369. Do not substitute.                                                                      • Simply open rear door and lift grass            control bar slightly until the drive control
                                                 IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep               catcher up and away from mower.                disengages. Hold operator presence
GEAR CASE WITH PLASTIC HOUSING:                  mower housing free of grass build-up and         NOTE: Do not drag the bag when                    control bar down against handle to con-
• If lubricant is required, use only ELF         trash. Clean the underside of your mower         emptying. It will cause unnecessary wear.         tinue mowing without self-propelling.
  Multis EP00. Do not substitute.                after each use.                                     CAUTION: Under normal usage, the             • To keep drive control engaged when
                                                 • Clean the underside of your lawn mower         catcher material is subject to deterioration      turning corners, push down on handle
ENGINE                                              by scraping to remove buildup of grass        and wear and should, therefore, be                and lift front wheels off ground while
Read the maintenance section of your                and trash.                                    checked frequently for replacement. Any           turning lawn mower.
engine manual.                                   • Clean engine often to keep trash from          replacement catcher should be checked
                                                    accumulating. A clogged engine runs           to ensure compliance with original
LUBRICATION                                         hotter and shortens engine life.              manufacturer's specifications.
Change the oil after the first two hours of      • Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
                                                    of all gasoline, oil, etc.                       CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower
operation and every 25 hours thereafter or                                                        without the rear door, approved grass
at least once a year if the lawn mower is        We do not recommend using a garden
                                                 hose to clean your lawn mower unless the         catcher or clipping deflector in place.
not used for 25 hours in one year. Refer to                                                       Never attempt to operate mower with the                           Drive
engine manual.                                   electrical system, muffler, air filter, and
                                                                                                  rear door removed or propped open.                                control
                                                 carburetor are covered to keep water out.
                                                 Water in engine can shorten engine life.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
(SEE ENGINE MANUAL)                                                                                                                                      TO ENGAGE DRIVE CONTROL
                                                 WATER WASHOUT FEATURE
• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.
                                                 Your lawn mower is equipped with a fitting
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
                                                 that allows quick and easy cleaning of
• Catch oil in a suitable container.
                                                 the underside of the housing. To use this
• For engines without dipstick, remove
                                                 feature, proceed as follows:
  bottom oil drain plug.
                                                 1. Move lawn mower to an area of cut                                                                               Operator
• For engines with oil fill cap/dipstick,                                                                                                                           presence
                                                    grass or another hard surface.
  remove bottom drain plug or remove en-                                                                                                                            control bar
                                                 NOTE: Water, grass and other debris will
  gine oil cap and turn mower on its side.
                                                 drain from beneath the mower housing
• After oil has drained completely, replace
                                                 during the washout process.                                                                            DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED
  oil drain plug and tighten securely.
                                                 2. Remove grass catcher and discharge
• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
                                                    chute assembly from lawn mower.
  not overfill.
                                               18                                                                                                11
“DUAL BAIL” DRIVE CONTROL                                                                      LAWN MOWER                                      • The recommended tightening torque is
• To start forward motion, lift drive control                                                  Always observe safety rules when per-              35-40 ft. lbs.
  bar up to handle.                                                                            forming any maintenance.                        IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.
• To stop forward motion, release drive                                                                                                        If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
  control bar.                                                                                 TIRES                                           approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
                                                                                                                                               section of this manual.
                                                                                               • Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
                                                                 Drive Operator                  control chemicals which can harm rub-         MODELS WITH BLADE ADAPTER
                                                                control presence                 ber.
                                                               lever(s) control bar                                                            Blade adapter      Key             Crankshaft
                                                                                               • Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp                                              keyway
                                                       TO ENGAGE DRIVE CONTROL                   objects and other hazards that may
                      Operator                                                                   cause tire damage.                            Lockwasher
                      presence
                      control bar                                                                                                                    Blade
                                                                                               BLADE CARE
                                                                                               For best results, mower blade must be
        DRIVE CONTROL ENGAGED                                                                  kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged
                                                                                               blade.
                                                                                                  CAUTION: Use only a replacement              Blade
                                                                   Adjustment                                                                  bolt Hardened
                                                                   turnbuckle                  blade approved by the manufacturer of
                                                                                                                                                     washer      Trailing edge    Crankshaft
                                                       DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED                your mower. Using a blade not approved
                                                                                               by the manufacturer of your mower is
                                                                                               hazardous, could damage your mower and          MODELS WITH BLADE ADAPTER/PULLEY
                                                 “AUTOWALK” ADJUSTMENT                         void your warranty.
                                                 Over time, the drive control system may                                                       Blade adapter      Key             Crankshaft
      DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED                                                                 TO REMOVE BLADE                                                                       keyway
                                                 become “loose”, resulting in decreased
                                                 speed. There is a turnbuckle on the           1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
                                                                                                                                               Lockwasher
                                                 underside of the drive control housing to        plug and place wire where it cannot
                                                 increase tension on the drive cable. Pro-        come in contact with plug.                         Blade
“AUTOWALK” DRIVE CONTROL
                                                 ceed as follows:                              2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
• Self-propelling is controlled by holding                                                        sure air filter and carburetor are up.
  the operator presence control bar down         • Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug
                                                   wire from spark plug.                       3. Use a wood block between blade and
  to the handle and pulling the drive con-                                                        mower housing to prevent blade from
  trol lever(s) rearward to the handle. The      • Turn nut on underside of drive control to
                                                   increase drive speed.                          turning when removing blade bolt.            Blade Hardened
  farther toward the handle the lever(s)                                                       NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves            bolt  washer                             Belt
  are pulled, the faster the unit will travel.   • Operate mower to test drive speed.                                                                  Trailing edge     Crankshaft retainer
                                                   Readjust as required.                       and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Forward motion will stop when either                                                         4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
  the operator presence control bar or a         • If condition fails to improve after the
                                                   above steps (forward speed remains             clockwise.                                   TO SHARPEN BLADE
  drive control lever are released. To stop                                                    5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
                                                   the same), your drive belt is worn and                                                      NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
  forward motion without stopping engine,                                                         ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
                                                   should be replaced.                                                                         blade - but if you do, be sure the blade
  release the drive control lever(s) only.                                                        washer).                                     is balanced. An unbalanced blade will
  Hold operator presence control bar                                                           NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and              cause eventual damage to lawn mower or
  down against handle to continue mowing                                                       check the key inside hub of blade adapter.      engine.
  without self-propelling.                                                                     The key must be in good condition to work       • The blade can be sharpened with a file
NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the                                                 properly. Replace adapter if damaged.              or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
mower will not roll backwards, push the mower                                                                                                     to sharpen while on the mower.
forward slightly to disengage drive wheels.                                                    TO REPLACE BLADE
                                                                                               1. Position the blade adapter on the en-        • To check blade balance, drive a nail into
FRONT WHEEL DRIVE MODELS ONLY:                                                                                                                    a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
                                                                                                  gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter
• To keep drive control engaged when                                                              and crankshaft keyway are aligned.              the straight nail exposed. Place center
                                                                           Adjustment
  turning corners, push down on the                                        turnbuckle          2. Position blade on the blade adapter             hole of blade over the head of the nail.
  handle to lift the front wheels off the                                                         aligning the two (2) holes in the blade         If blade is balanced, it should remain in
  ground while turning lawn mower.                                                                with the raised lugs on the adapter.            a horizontal position. If either end of the
                                                                                               3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op-         blade moves downward, sharpen the
                                                                                                  posite sharp edge) is up toward the             heavy end until the blade is balanced.
                                                                                                  engine.
                                                                                               4. Install the blade bolt with the lock      DRIVE COVER
                                                                                                  washer and hardened washer into           Clean under the drive cover at least twice
                                                                                                  blade adapter and crankshaft.             a season. Scrape underside of cover with
                                                                                               5. Use block of wood between blade and       a putty knife or similar tool to remove any
                                                                                                  lawn mower housing and tighten the        buildup of trash or grass.
                                                12                                                blade bolt, turning clockwise.          17
“VARI-SPEED” DRIVE CONTROL                       • Rotate thumbscrew counter-clockwise to
                                          MAINTENANCE                                                                   • Self-propelling is controlled by hold-           tighten the drive cable.
                                                                                                                          ing the operator presence control bar          • Operate mower to test drive speed.
                                          BEFORE      AFTER      EVERY        EVERY         EVERY
                                                                                                        BEFORE            down to the handle and pulling the drive       • If condition fails to improve after the
                                           EACH       EACH         10        25 HOURS        100                                                                           above steps (forward speed remains
                                            USE        USE       HOURS      OR SEASON       HOURS      STORAGE            control bar up to the handle. The closer
                                                                                                                          to the handle the bar is pulled, the faster      the same), your drive belt is worn and
    Check for Loose Fasteners                                                                                                                                              should be replaced.
                                                                                                                          the unit will travel.
    Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *                                                                                                                                      NOTE: If mower begins to "creep" forward,
                                                                                                                        • Forward motion will stop when either the
    Check Tires                                                                                                                                                          the drive cable is too tight. Rotate thumb-
                                                                                                                          operator presence control bar or drive
    Check Drive Wheels ***                                                                                                                                               screw clockwise to loosen drive cable.
                                                                                                                          control bar are released. To stop forward
    Clean Lawn Mower ****
                                                                                                                          motion without stopping engine, release
    Clean under Drive Cover ***
                                                                                                                          the drive control bar only. Hold operator
    Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***                                                                                        presence control bar down against
    Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade                                                                                       handle to continue mowing without self-
    Lubrication                                                                                                           propelling.
    Clean and Recharge Battery **                                                                                       NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the                   Thumb-
    Check Engine Oil level                                                                                              mower will not roll backwards, push the mower                    screw
    Change Engine Oil                                                                                                   forward slightly to disengage drive wheels.
    Clean Air Filter
                                                                                                                        FRONT WHEEL DRIVE MODELS ONLY:
    Inspect Muffler
    Replace Spark Plug
                                                                                                                        • To keep drive control engaged when
    Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
                                                                                                                          turning corners, push down on the
                                                                                                                          handle to lift the front wheels off the        VARI-SPEED “BLOCK” ADJUSTMENT
    Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer
                                                                                                                          ground while turning lawn mower.               Over time, the drive control system may
   * (if so equipped)          1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.                                                    become “loose”, resulting in decreased
                               2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
  ** Electric-Start mowers     3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
                                                                                                                                                                         speed. There are holes in the drive control
 *** Power-Propelled mowers    4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.                                                                                                     housing to increase tension on the drive
**** Use   a scraper
     to clean under deck       5 - And after each 5 hours of use.                                                                                                        cable. Proceed as follows:
                                                                                                                                                                         • Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS                                                LUBRICATION CHART                                                 Operator
                                                                                                                                                                           wire from spark plug.
The warranty on this lawn mower does not                                                                                                 presence                        • Loosen nut, move drive control hous-
cover items that have been subjected to op-                                                                                              control bar                       ing down handle to the next hole and
erator abuse or negligence. To receive full                                                             ➀ Wheel                                                            retighten nut.
                                                                                                      adjuster (on                                                       • Operate mower to test drive speed.
value from the warranty, operator must main-
tain mower as instructed in this manual.                                                              each wheel)              TO ENGAGE DRIVE CONTROL                   • If condition fails to improve after the
Some adjustments will need to be made                                                                                                                                      above steps (forward speed remains
periodically to properly maintain your unit.                                                        ➁ Engine oil                                                           the same), your drive belt is worn and
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-                                                                                                                                 should be replaced.
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.                                                                  ➀ Side dis-                                                                          Operator presence control bar
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,                                                            charge mower
   clean or replace air filter element, and                                                      guard hinge rod                            Drive
   check blade for wear. A new spark plug                                                                                                   control bar
   and clean/new air filter element assures                                                                                                                                    DRIVE
   proper air-fuel mixture and helps your                                                            ➀ Rear dis-                                                               CONTROL
                                                                                                                                                                                                     Drive
                                                                                                                                                                                                     control bar
   engine run better and last longer.                                                               charge mower              DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED
                                                                                                                                                                               ENGAGED
• Follow the Maintenance Schedule in this                                                                rear door
                                                                                                                                                                                                         DRIVE
   manual.                                                                                              hinge rod
                                                                                                                        VARI-SPEED “THUMBSCREW”                                                       CONTROL
                                                                                                                        ADJUSTMENT                                                                 DISENGAGED
BEFORE EACH USE                                            ➀ Handle bracket mounting pins
                                                                                                                        Over time, the drive control system may
• Check engine oil level.                                                                                               become “loose”, resulting in decreased
• Check for loose fasteners.                                                                                            speed. There is a thumbscrew on the                                   TO ADJUST,
                                                          ➀ Spray lubricant                                             underside of the drive control housing to                           MOVE DOWN
LUBRICATION                                               ➁ See “ENGINE” in Maintenance section.                        increase tension on the drive cable. Pro-                          TO NEXT HOLE
Keep unit well lubricated                                                                                               ceed as follows:
(See “LUBRICATION CHART”).                attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life                              • Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug
                                          of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel                                   wire from spark plug.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic   they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will   powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
                                        16                                                                                                                           13
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE                             MODELS WITH RECOIL STARTER                    MOWING TIPS                                      FOR MULCHING MOWERS ONLY
Read the engine manual packed with your            • Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow       CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher              - MULCHING MOWING TIPS
mower.                                               starter rope to snap back.                  blade attachments on your mower. Such            IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL                                                                             attachments are hazardous, will damage           mower housing free of built-up grass and
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in                                                        your mower and could void your warranty.         trash. See "CLEANING" in the Mainte-
the engine.                                                                                      • For most cutting conditions and better         nance section of this manual.
• Be sure mower is level and area around                                                            bagging performance, the engine speed         • The special mulching blade will recut the
   oil fill is clean.                                                                               should be set in the FAST position.              grass clippings many times and reduce
• Remove engine oil filler plug (oil fill cap/                                                   • Under certain conditions, such as when            them in size so that as they fall onto the
   dipstick on models so equipped).                                  Operator                       mowing very tall grass, raise the mower          lawn they will disperse into the grass
                                                                     presence                                                                        and not be noticed. Also, the mulched
• Slowly add oil. For type and grade of                              control bar
                                                                                                    height on the first cut to reduce pushing
   oil to use, see “ENGINE” in the Mainte-                                                          effort, to avoid overheating the engine,         grass will biodegrade quickly to provide
   nance section of this manual.                                                                    and to avoid leaving clumps of grass             nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with
• Fill to the top of slot in filler hole (to                                                        clippings. Make the second cut to the            your highest engine (blade) speed as
   “FULL” line on dipstick on models so                                                             desired height.                                  this will provide the best recutting action
   equipped). Do not overfill.                                                                   • For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the           of the blades.
                                                    Recoil                                                                                        • Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
• Replace plug (oil fill cap/dipstick on            starter
                                                                                                    width of cut.
   models so equipped) and tighten.                                                              • For side discharge lawn mowers, cut in            Wet grass tends to form clumps and
                                                    handle
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil                                                          a counterclockwise direction, starting at        interferes with the mulching action. The
   as needed.                                                                                       the outside of the area to be cut, in order      best time to mow your lawn is the early
• To change oil, see Maintenance section           MODELS WITH ELECTRIC STARTER                     to spread grass clippings more evenly            afternoon. At this time the grass has
   of this manual.                                 • Push the engine start button (or turn the      and to put less load on the engine. To           dried, yet the newly cut area will not be
FILL GASOLINE TANK                                    key on models so equipped).                   keep clippings off of walkways, flower           exposed to direct sunlight.
                                                   IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more              beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock-   • For best results, adjust the lawn mower
• Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean,                                                                                                              cutting height so that the lawn mower
   unleaded gasoline. DO NOT USE PRE-              than five continous seconds each time you        wise direction.
                                                   try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds between    • When using a rear discharge lawn                  cuts off only the top one-third of the
   MIUM GASOLINE. BE CAREFUL NOT                                                                                                                     grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it
   TO OVERFILL TANK.                               each attempt.                                    mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps
                                                   ALL MODELS                                       of cut grass may not enter the grass             will be necessary to raise the height of
WARNING: Alcohol blended fuels (called                                                                                                               cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can          • For engines equipped with choke, slowly        catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing
                                                      move engine speed control lever to            speed) and/or run the lawn mower over            from overloading the engine and leaving
attract moisture which leads to separation                                                                                                           clumps of mulched grass. For extremely
                                                      FAST after engine starts.                     the area a second time.
and formation of acids during storage. Acidic                                                    • If a trail of grass clipping is left on the       heavy grass, reduce your width of cut
gas can damage the fuel system of an engine                                                         right side of a rear discharge lawn mow-         by overlapping previously cut path and
while in storage. To avoid engine problems,        TO STOP ENGINE                                   er, mow in a clockwise direction with a          mow slowly.
the fuel system should be emptied before           • To STOP engine, release operator pres-         small overlap to collect the clippings on
storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the fuel          ence control bar.                             the next pass.
tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel   NOTE: For engines with a primer, it may                                                                                          MAX 1/3
lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh          be necessary to repeat priming steps
fuel next season. See Storage Instructions         in cooler weather. In warmer weather,
for additional information. Never use engine       overpriming may cause flooding and
or carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or     engine will not start. If you do flood
permanent damage may occur.                        engine, wait a few minutes before
                                                   attempting to start and DO NOT repeat
                                                   priming steps.                                                                                 • Certain types of grass and grass
TO START ENGINE
                                                                                                                                                    conditions may require that an area be
  CAUTION: The mower blade rotates
                                                                                                                                                    mulched a second time to completely
whenever the engine is running.                                                                                                                     hide the clippings. When doing a second
• Move engine speed control to FAST                                                                                                                 cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the
  position (or to CHOKE/START position                                                           • Pores in cloth grass catchers can                first cut path.
  on models equipped with choke feature).                                                          become filled with dirt and dust with use      • Change your cutting pattern from week
• If your mower has a primer, to start a                                                           and the catcher will collect less grass.         to week. Mow north to south one week
  cold engine, push primer as many times                                                           To prevent this, regularly hose catcher          then change to east to west the next
  as instructed in the engine manual                                                               off with water and let dry before use.           week. This will help prevent matting and
  packed with your mower. Use a firm                                                                                                                graining of the lawn.
  push. This step is not usually necessary
  when starting an engine which has
  already run for a few minutes.
• Hold operator presence control bar
  down against handle.
                                           14                                                                                                  15
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