Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty

Operator’s Manual

Push Mower — Model Series A00, A10, A20, B00, B10, & B20

WARNING
READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.

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

Printed In USA Form No. 769-07338

(October 5, 2011)
 To The Owner 1
Thank You
Thank you for purchasing a Lawn Mower manufactured by MTD. the right to change product specifications, designs and
It was carefully engineered to provide excellent performance equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.
when properly operated and maintained. If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,
Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment. phone your local authorized MTD service dealer or contact us
It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and directly. MTD’s Customer Support telephone numbers, website
maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other address and mailing address can be found on this page. We want
persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the to ensure your complete satisfaction at all times.
recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
result in personal injury or property damage. machine are observed from the operating position
All information in this manual is relative to the most recent The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related
product information available at the time of printing. Review issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications,
this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s
its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your
Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various machine, for more information.
models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated
in this manual may not be applicable to all models. We reserve

Table of Contents
Safe Operation Practices......................................... 3 Service......................................................................16
Assembly & Set-Up................................................... 9 Troubleshooting......................................................17
Controls & Features.................................................13 Replacement Parts & Accessories..........................18
Operation.................................................................14 Warranty................................................................. 20
Maintenance & Adjustment..................................15 Spanish.....................................................................21

Record Product Information Model Number

Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please
locate the model plate on the equipment and record the
information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the
model plate by standing at the operator’s position and looking
down at the rear of the deck. This information will be necessary, Serial Number
should you seek technical support via our web site, Customer
Support Department, or with a local authorized service dealer.

Customer Support
Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting the Customer Support Department.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
◊ Visit us on the web at www.mtdproducts..com

See How-to Maintenance and Parts Installation Videos at www.mtdparts.com/KnowledgeCenter

◊ Call a Customer Support Representative at (800) 800-7310 or (330) 220-4683
◊ Write to MTD LLC • P.O. Box 361131 • Cleveland, OH • 44136-0019

2
 Important Safe Operation Practices 2
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,
could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow
all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply
with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the
operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands,
toes and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could
result in serious injury or death.

General Operation 6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be

used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and other
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety before foreign objects, which could be tripped over or picked up
attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand, and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause serious
and follow all instructions on the machine and in the personal injury.
manual(s) before operation. Keep this manual in a safe
7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also,
replacement parts.
avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction,
2. Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use which may cause discharged material to ricochet back
of this machine before operating it. toward the operator.
3. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment, 8. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children,
times. This machine has been designed to perform one job: bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from mower
to mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose. while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters area.
4. Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this 9. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand operation and while performing an adjustment or repair
the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
and on the machine and should be trained and supervised cause serious injury to the eyes.
by an adult.
10. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
5. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
rules of safe operation should be allowed to use this and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
machine. operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light-
weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with blade can amputate fingers,
hands, toes and feet.

3
 12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade 27. When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance
contact or thrown object injuries. is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord
13. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled (kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping. you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the could result.
handle immediately. 28. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,
14. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are use care and good judgement. Contact Customer Support
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or for assistance or the name of the nearest service dealer.
obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping Slope Operation
and then follow these steps:
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which
a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms. can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing. caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to
toward you. measure slopes before operating this machine on a sloped or
hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
15. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
Do:
alcohol or drugs. 1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
16. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on machines
so equipped while starting engine. 2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps
which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide
17. The blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to
obstacles.
bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device
inoperative and may result in personal injury through 3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
contact with the rotating blade. The blade control must serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your
operate easily in both directions and automatically return balance, release the blade control handle immediately and
to the disengaged position when released. the blade will stop rotating within three (3) seconds.
18. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of Do Not:
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal
injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the 1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop could lose your footing or balance.
rotating within three seconds. 2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
19. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never the slope gauge.
run. 3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause
20. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads. slipping.

21. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop Children

the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration
is generally a warning of trouble. Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower
22. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to and the mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers.
a complete stop before removing the grass catcher or Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the blade control is released. 1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful
Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
are sure the blade has stopped rotating. 2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
23. Never operate mower without proper trail shield, 3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control or other safety down for small children.
protective devices in place and working. Never operate 4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
result in personal injury. your vision of a child who may run into the mower.
24. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do 5. Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can
not touch. suffer burns from a hot muffler.
25. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height 6. Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this
adjustment while the engine is running. machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand
the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
26. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an
the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal adult.
injury.

4 Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices

Service 3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade
Safe Handling Of Gasoline: for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with
the original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only,
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable original equipment specifications may lead to improper
and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can performance and compromise safety!”
occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes,
which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes 4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or
immediately. wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
2. Use only an approved gasoline container. 5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
3. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer
bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the 6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
ground away from your vehicle before filling. operation regularly.
4. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or 7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.
then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the
container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle. damage before starting and operating the mower.
5. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or 8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do adjustment while the engine is running.
not use a nozzle lock-open device. 9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail shield
6. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources are subject to wear and damage which could expose
of ignition. moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety
protection, frequently check components and replace
7. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will immediately with original equipment manufacturer’s
accumulate in the area. (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts
8. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or which do not meet the original equipment specifications
running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before may lead to improper performance and compromise
refueling. safety!”
9. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than 1 inch 10. Do not change the engine’s governor setting or over-speed
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion. the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
10. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely. operating speed of the engine.

11. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment. 11. Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks
Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes before or leaks. Replace if necessary.
starting engine. 12. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
12. Never store the machine or fuel container near an open 13. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space necessary.
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances. 14. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
13. To reduce fire hazard, keep machine free of grass, leaves, disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and 15. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission
remove any fuel soaked debris. (CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
14. Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing. this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,
or 140 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful
General Service: Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
and deadly gas. Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the
blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the
Do not modify engine
spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any
unintended starting. way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway
engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper
with factory setting of engine governor.

Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices 5

 Notice Regarding Emissions Spark Arrestor
Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal WARNING: This machine is equipped with an
EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) internal combustion engine and should not be used
are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush
may include the following emission control systems: Engine covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s
Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor
Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped. meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrestor 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 arrestor for the muffler is available through your
nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service
department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

6 Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices

Safety Symbols
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

Symbol Description

READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)

Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES

To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover
or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.

DANGER — BYSTANDERS
Do not mow when children or others are around.

DANGER — HAND/ FOOT CUT

Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.

DANGER — THROWN DEBRIS

Remove objects that can be thrown by the blade in any direction. Wear safety glasses.

DANGER — SLOPES
Use extra caution on slopes. Do not mow slopes greater than 15°.

WARNING—GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE
Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.

WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE

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

WARNING— HOT SURFACE

Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine
and muffler to cool before touching.

WARNING: Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and
follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices 7

8
Slope Gauge

15° Slope

15° Slope

Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices

(OK) (TOO STEEP)

Figure 1 Figure 2

15° d
ashed
line
USE THIS SLOPE GAUGE TO DETERMINE
IF A SLOPE IS TOO STEEP FOR SAFE OPERATION!
To check the slope, proceed as follows:
1. Remove this page and fold along the dashed line.
2. Locate a vertical object on or behind the slope (e.g. a pole, building, fence, tree, etc.)
3. Align either side of the slope gauge with the object (See Figure 1 and Figure 2 ).
4. Adjust gauge up or down until the left corner touches the slope (See Figure 1 and Figure 2).
5. If there is a gap below the gauge, the slope is too steep for safe operation (See Figure 2 above).

WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to tip-over and roll-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death.
Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15 degrees. All slopes require extra caution.
Always mow across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.
 Assembly & Set-Up 3
Contents of Carton
• One Lawn Mower • One Grass Catcher† • One Bottle of Oil
• One Lawn Mower Operator’s Manual • One Engine Operator’s Manual • One Side Discharge Chute†
† If Equipped

NOTE: Please be aware that this Operator’s Manual covers both b. While stabilizing mower so it doesn’t move, pivot
the low and high wheel models of this mower. While this manual upper handle up as shown in Fig. 3-2. Do not crimp
illustrates the low wheel model, the instructions and features cable while lifting the handle up.
are equally applicable to the high wheel model as well, unless
otherwise noted.

Assembly
NOTE: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine.
Fill up with gasoline and oil as instructed in the accompanying
engine manual BEFORE operating your mower.
B
Handle
1. Remove any packing material which may be between
upper and lower handles.
a. Remove wing nuts and carriage bolts from handle as
shown in Fig. 3-1. Do not loosen or remove adjacent
hex head screws.

Figure 3-2

Figure 3-1

9
 2. Remove the T-bolts from the handle brackets as shown in
Fig. 3-3.

Figure 3-5
4. The rope guide is attached to the right side of the upper
Figure 3-3 handle. Loosen the wing knob which secures the rope
guide. See Fig. 3-6.
3. Follow the steps below to complete handle assembly:
a. Hold blade control against upper handle.
a. Pull upward on the handle until holes in lower
handle (shown in Fig. 3-3 deck cutaway) line up with b. Slowly pull starter rope handle from engine and slip
holes in handle bracket. See Fig. 3-4. starter rope into the rope guide. See Fig. 3-6.

D
A B

B
B

Figure 3-4 Figure 3-6

NOTE: When pulling upward on handle, make sure to not c. Tighten rope guide wing knob.
pull handle all the way out. d. Use cable tie(s) to secure cable(s) to lower handle.
b. Insert the T-bolts removed earlier through the
handle brackets and lower handle and tighten
Grass Catcher (If Equipped)
securely to secure the handle in place. See Fig. 3-4. 1. Follow steps below to assemble the grass catcher (if
needed). Make certain bag is turned right side out before
c. Reattach wing nuts and carriage bolts removed
assembling (warning label will be on the outside).
earlier into lower holes of handle as shown in Fig.
3-5. a. Place bag over frame so that its black plastic side is
at the bottom.

10 Section 3 — Assembly & Set-Up

 b. Slip plastic channel of grass bag over hooks on the Side Discharge Chute (If Equipped)
frame. See Fig. 3-7.
Your mower may be shipped as a mulcher. To convert to side
discharge, make sure grass catcher (if equipped) is off of the unit
and rear discharge door (if equipped) is closed.
B
1. On the side of the mower, lift the side mulching plug. See
Figure 3-9.

Side Mulching
Plug

Figure 3-7
2. Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:
a. Lift rear discharge door.
b. Place grass catcher into the slots in the handle
Figure 3-9
brackets as shown in Fig. 3-8. Let go of discharge
door so that it rests on the grass catcher. 2. Slide two hooks of side discharge chute under hinge pin on
mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug. Do not
remove side mulching plug at any time, even when you are
not mulching.

Figure 3-8
To remove grass catcher, lift rear discharge door on the mower.
Lift grass catcher up and of the slots in the handle brackets.
Release rear discharge door to allow it to close rear opening of
mower.

Section 3 — Assembly & Set-Up 11

 Adjustments Handle Pitch (If Equipped)
For convenience of operation, you may be able to adjust the
Cutting Height pitch of the handle as follows:
There is a cutting height adjustment lever located above the 1. Remove wing nuts and carriage bolts from handle. See Fig.
front and rear right wheel. 3-11.
1. Pull the height adjustment lever towards wheel.
2. Move lever to desired position for a change in cutting
height. See Fig. 3-10 and Fig. 3-10A.

Lower 2

1
Higher
3

Higher

1 Lower
3 Figure 3-11
Low Wheel

2. Position the handle in one of the three positions that is

Figure 3-10
most comfortable. See Fig. 3-11 inset.
3. Secure into position with wing nuts and carriage bolts
removed earlier.

Higher
2 Set-Up
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
Refer to the separate engine owner’s manual for additional
1 engine information.
Lower
3 1. Add oil provided before starting unit for the first time out
of the box.
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the
2 separate engine owner’s manual.
Higher WARNING: Use extreme care when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
1 vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine
Lower
indoors or while the engine is hot or running.
High Wheel 3 Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.

Figure 3-10A

NOTE: For mowers with low wheels, the height adjustment

levers move in the opposite direction to adjust; for those
with high wheels, the levers move in the same direction.
3. Release lever towards deck.
IMPORTANT: Both the front and rear wheels must be
placed in the same relative position. For rough or uneven
lawns, move the height adjustment levers to a higher
position. This will stop scalping of grass.

12 Section 3 — Assembly & Set-Up

 Controls and Features 4
Blade Control

Recoil Starter

Grass Catcher†

Cutting Height
Adjustment
Lever

Side Discharge Cutting Height

Chute† Adjustment
Lever

Mulch Plug†
† If Equipped

Figure 4-1

Blade Control Mulch Plug (If Equipped)

The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. The mulch plug is used for mulching purposes. Instead of
Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to operate the collecting the grass clippings in a grass catcher or using the
unit. Release it to stop engine and blade. side discharge chute, some mower models have the option
of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is called
WARNING: This blade control is a safety device.
mulching.
Never attempt to bypass its operations.
Side Discharge Chute (If Equipped)
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever Your mower may be shipped as a mulcher. To discharge the
grass clippings to the side instead, follow the instructions in the
One adjustment lever is located on the right rear wheel and one “Assembly & Set-Up” section to attach the side discharge chute.
is located on the right front wheel. Both levers have to be at the
same relative position to ensure a uniform cut. To adjust the WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from the
cutting height, refer to the “Assembly & Set-Up” Section. chute area on cutting deck. Refer to warning label
on the unit.
Grass Catcher (If Equipped)
The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag
Recoil Starter
the grass clippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle. Stand
full, remove it up through the handles using the strap provided behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.
and empty it before any further mowing.

13
 Operation 5
Starting & Stopping Engine Using Grass Catcher (If Equipped)
Refer to the Engine Operator’s manual packed with your lawn You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while you are
mower for instructions on starting and stopping the engine. operating the mower.
1. Attach grass catcher following instructions in the
Using Your Lawn Mower “Assembly & Set-Up” section. Grass clippings will
Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects automatically collect in bag as you run mower. Operate
which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could mower till grass bag is full.
be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause 2. Stop engine completely by releasing the blade control.
serious personal injury to the operator and others. Make sure that the unit has come to a complete stop.
WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can 3. Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away from
result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, the mower to remove the bag. Dispose of the grass
which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear clippings and reinstall the bag when complete.
safety glasses while operating the mower, or while
performing any adjustments or repairs on it. WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the
engine. Remove wire from the spark plug,
Using as Mulcher (If Equipped) thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and
repair damage before restarting and operating.
For mulching grass, remove the side discharge chute (if Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an
equipped) or the grass catcher (if equipped) and allow the rear indication of damage. The unit should be promptly
discharge door (if equipped) to close the rear opening of mower. inspected and repaired.
For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. If the grass has
been allowed to grow in excess of four inches, mulching is not
recommended. Use the grass catcher to bag clippings instead.

14
 Maintenance & Adjustments 6
Maintenance
General Recommendations
• Always observe safety rules when performing any
maintenance.
• The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that
have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain
the lawn mower as instructed here.
• Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine
warranty.
• All adjustments should be checked at least once each
season.
• Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are
tight.

WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect spark

plug, and ground against engine before performing
any type of maintenance on your machine.
Figure 6-1
Lubrication
1. Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a
season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely Engine Care
in both directions. See Fig. 6-1.
A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good
2. Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrication performance by the mower is given below. Follow the
schedule and instruction for engine lubrication. accompanying engine manual for a detailed list and instructions.
Deck Care • Maintain oil level as instructed in engine manual.
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent • Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions.
build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow steps below Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions.
for this job. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicates
that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn
cleaner, refer to the engine manual.
mower or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.
• Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season. Spark
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side
plug replacement is recommended at the start of each
with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.
mowing season. Check engine manual for correct plug
WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90º in type and gap specifications.
any direction and do not leave the mower tipped for
• Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the
any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part
top of the engine clean to permit proper air circulation.
of the engine causing a starting problem.
Remove all grass, dirt, and combustible debris from muffler
3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable area.
tool.
4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you had
put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to remove it
now.

15
 Service 7
Blade Care 4. Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.
Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check.
WARNING: When removing the cutting blade for Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of
a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the grind. Grind each cutting edge equally to keep the blade
blade. balanced.
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause
strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It
below for blade service. may cause damage to mower and could break
1. Disconnect spark plug boot from spark plug. Turn mower causing personal injury.
on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor 5. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface
are facing up. of the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the blade
2. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the adapter (and wave washer, if applicable) onto the engine
blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter such that the
Fig. 7-1. side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number)
faces the ground when the mower is in the operating
position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and seated on
the blade adapter flanges. See Fig. 7-1 inset.
6. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches on the
blade bell support with small holes in blade.
7. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. lbs.
min., 600 in. lbs. max.
To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the
blade bolt for correct torque.
Blade
Off-Season Storage
Blade
The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower
Adapter
for storage.
• Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the
lubrication instructions.
• Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent
Blade Bell rusting.
Support Bolt
• Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
Figure 7-1
• Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your
unit.
3. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft. See Fig.
7-1. • Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly
ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to
rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the
equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn
mower before storage.

16
 Troubleshooting 8
Problem Cause Remedy
Engine Fails to start 1. Blade control disengaged. 1. Engage blade control.
2. Spark plug boot disconnected. 2. Connect wire to spark boot.
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel. 3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Engine not primed (if equipped with primer). 4. Prime engine as instructed in the Operation
section.
5. Faulty spark plug. 5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Blocked fuel line. 6. Clean fuel line.
7. Engine flooded. 7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not
prime.
8. Fuel valve (if equipped) closed. 8. Open fuel valve. See engine manual.
9. Engine not choked (if equipped with choke). 9. Choke engine. See engine manual.
Engine runs erratic 1. Spark plug boot loose. 1. Connect and tighten spark plug boot.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel. 2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline.
3. Vent in gas cap plugged. 3. Clear vent.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system. 4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Dirty air cleaner. 5. Refer to engine manual.
6. Unit running with CHOKE (if equipped) 6. Push CHOKE knob in.
applied.
Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low. 1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Air flow restricted. 2. Clean area around and on top of engine.

Occasional skips 1. Spark plug gap too close. 1. Adjust gap to .030”.
(hesitates) at
high speed
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty, or gap too wide. 1. Reset gap to .030” or replace spark plug.
2. Dirty air cleaner. 2. Refer to engine manual.
Excessive Vibration 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. 1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.
2. Bent cutting blade. 2. See an authorized service dealer.
Mower will not 1. Wet grass. 1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until
mulch grass † later to cut.
2. Excessively high grass. 2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then
mow again at desired height or make a
narrower cutting path.
3. Dull blade. 3. Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly. 1. Place front and rear wheels in same height
position.
2. Dull blade. 2. Sharpen or replace blade.

† If Equipped

17
 Replacement Parts & Accessories 9
Component Part Number and Description
BS-796112S Spark Plug (Briggs & Stratton Model
10T802-0547-B2, 10L802-0547-F2,
10T502-0457-B1, 10L502-0457-F2,
10T602-4457-B1)
759-3336 Spark Plug (Briggs & Stratton Model
09P702-0001-B1, 09P702-0003-F1,
09P702-0004-F)
759-3338 Spark Plug (All other Briggs & Stratton)
951-10292 Spark Plug (MTD)
98079-55846 Spark Plug (NGK BPR6ES) (Honda)
KH-14-132-03-S Spark Plug (Kohler)
BS-298090S† Fuel Filter (Briggs & Stratton)
951-10358A Fuel Filter (MTD)
16952-ZA8-800 Fuel Filter (Honda)
KH-14-050-14-S Fuel Filter (Kohler)
BS-491588S Air Filter Cartridge (Briggs & Stratton
Model 122T02-0377-B2, 122L02-
0774-F1)
BS-797301 Air Filter Cartridge (Briggs & Stratton
Model 126T02-0675-B2, 126L02-
4675-F-2)
BS-493537S† Pre-Cleaner

Briggs & Stratton Model 10T802-0778-B1, 10L802-

0775-F1, 10T802-0547-B2, 10L802-0547-F2, 10T502-
0457-B1, 10L502-0457-F2, 10T602-4457-B1:
490-200-0011 Air Filter Cartridge

951-10298 Air Cleaner Kit (MTD)

951-10732 Air Cleaner Kit (MTD)
17211-ZL8-023 Air Cleaner Element (Honda)
KH-14-083-01-S Air Filter Cartridge (Kohler)

BS-796577 Fuel Cap (B&S Model 122T02-0377-B2,

126T02-0675-B2)
BS-794793 Fuel Cap (B&S Model 122L02-0774-F1,
126L02-4675-F2)
† If Equipped

Phone (800) 800-7310 or (330) 220-4683 to order replacement parts or a complete Parts Manual (have your full model number and
serial number ready). Parts Manual downloads are also available free of charge at www.mtdproducts.com

18
 Component Part Number and Description
BS-497929S Fuel Tank Cap (Briggs & Stratton Model
10T802-0778-B1, 10T802-0547-B2,
10T502-0457-B1, 10T602-4457-B1)
BS-795472 Fuel Tank Cap (Briggs & Stratton Model
10L802-0775-F1, 10L802-0547-F2,
10L502-0457-F2,)

951-10300 Fuel Cap Assembly (MTD)

17620-Z0J-800 Fuel Tank Cap (Honda)
KH-14-227-15-S Fuel Tank Cap (Kohler)

734-04063A Wheel (Front - 7”, Star Diamond)

734-04562 Wheel (Front - 7” x 1.8”, Bar)
634-04642 Wheel (Front - 7” x 2”, SL:Z)
634-04346‡ Wheel (Front - 7”, Idle: Mag: Cog)
634-04607‡ Wheel (Front - 7” x 2”, SL:S)

634-04625 Wheel (Rear - 11” x 1.75”)

734-04585 Wheel (Rear - 8”, Star Diamond)
734-04563 Wheel (Rear - 8” x 1.8”, Bar)
634-04347‡ Wheel (Rear - 8”, Idle: Mag: Cog)
634-04630‡ Wheel (Rear - 11” x 2”, SL:Z)
634-04626‡ Wheel (Rear - 11” x 2”, SL:S)

942-0741A Mulching Blade

942-04380 Xtreme Mulching Blade

764-04077A† Grass Bag (Black)

764-04082A† Grass Bag (Black)
964-04116† Grass Bag (Yardman)

731-07486† Discharge Chute

731-07131† Discharge Chute

490-850-0005 Blade Removal Tool

Accessories 490-850-0008 Oil Siphon

† If Equipped
‡ Not Shown

Phone (800) 800-7310 or (330) 220-4683 to order replacement parts or a complete Parts Manual (have your full model number and
serial number ready). Parts Manual downloads are also available free of charge at www.mtdproducts.com

Section 9 — Replacement Parts & Accessories 19

 MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR

The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments,
and/or its territories and possessions, and by MTD Products Limited deck adjustments, and normal deterioration of the exterior finish
with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in Canada and/ due to use or exposure.
or its territories and possessions (either entity respectively, “MTD”). d. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service
“MTD” warrants this product (excluding its Normal Wear Parts and dealer.
Attachments as described below) against defects in material and e. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date outside of the United States and/or Canada, and their respective
of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of possessions and territories, except those sold through MTD’s
charge, any part found to be defective in materials or workmanship. authorized channels of export distribution.
This limited warranty shall only apply if this product has been
operated and maintained in accordance with the Operator’s Manual f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.
furnished with the product, and has not been subject to misuse, g. Transportation charges and service calls.
abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,
h. MTD does not warrant this product for commercial use.
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of other
peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the installation or use No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
of any part, accessory or attachment not approved by MTD for use merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, applies after
with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as the applicable period of express written warranty above as to the
to any resulting damage. parts as identified. No other express warranty, whether written or
oral, except as mentioned above, given by any person or entity,
Normal Wear Parts are warranted to be free from defects in material
including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product, shall
and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of
bind MTD. During the period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy
purchase. Normal wear parts include, but are not limited to items
is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above.
such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade adapters, tines, grass bags,
wheels, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, friction The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and
wheels, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires. exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD shall not be liable
for incidental or consequential loss or damage including, without
Attachments — MTD warrants attachments for this product against
limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn
defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year,
care services or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a
commencing on the date of the attachment’s original purchase or
warranted product.
lease. Attachments include, but are not limited to items such as:
grass collectors and mulch kits. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH
warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service dealer.
to you.
To locate the dealer in your area:
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of
In the U.S.A.
the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of safety features of
Check your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131, the product shall void this warranty. You assume the risk and liability
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220- for loss, damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others
4683 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.com. and their property arising out of the misuse or inability to use the
In Canada product.
Contact MTD Products Limited, Kitchener, ON N2G 4J1, or call 1-800- This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the
668-1238 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdcanada.com. original purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a
gift.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following
cases: HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items may carry a rights which vary from state to state.
separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable manufac-
turer’s warranty for terms and conditions. IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to
obtain warranty coverage.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one-
year warranty.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-4683
MTD Canada Limited - KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1; Phone 1-800-668-1238
GDOC-100015 REV. B