Safety • Setup • Adjustments • Operation • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty
A O A AL
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21" Rotary Mower- Model Series 260
iMPORTANT
READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION
Warning: Thisunit is equippedwithaninternalcombustionengineandshouldnot beusedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brush-
coveredor grass-coveredlandunlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwitha sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any).
If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorderby the operator.In theStateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw
(Section4442of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode).Otherstatesmayhavesimilarlaws.Federallawsapplyonfederallands.A sparkarrester
for the muffleris availablethroughyour nearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO.Box361131Cleveland,
Ohio44136-0019.
For USCustomers: MTDLLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-0019 772C0797
PRINTEDIN U.S.A. For CanadianCustomers:MTD Products Ltd.,P.O.Box 1386,KITCHENER,ONTARION2G4J1 10/15/2005
This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new equipment, it will help you assemble,
prepare and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Table of
Slope Gauge ....................................................... 3
Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4
Set-Up & Adjustments ........................................ 6
Operation ............................................................. 8
Contents
Maintenance & Off-Season Storage ................ 10
Trouble Shooting .............................................. 12
Warranty ............................................................ 13
illustrated Parts Lists ....................................... 14
Finding and Recording IVlodel Number
BEFOREYOU STARTASSEMBLING
YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locatethe model plate on the equipmentand copy the
the model number andthe serial number to the sample model
plate provided to the right. You can locatethe model plate by
standing at the operatingposition and looking down at the rear
of the deck.
Model Number Serial Number
Num6ro de module Num6ro de s_rie
XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXX
__ MTD LLC
CLEVELAND, OH 44136
MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED
KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1
USA-www.mtdproducts.com 1-800-800-7310
CAN-www.mtdcanada.com 1-800-668-1238
Customer Support
Please do NOTretum the unit to the retailer from which it was purchased,
without first contacting Customer Support.
Ifyou havedifficulty assembling this product or haveany questionsregarding the controls, operationor maintenanceof this unit,
please call a Customer Support Representative.
For US Customers: 1-330-220-4MTD (4683)or 1-800-800-7310
For Canadian Customers: 1-800-668-1238
Pleasehaveyour unit's model number and serial number ready when you call. See previoussection to locate this information.
Youwill be asked to enterthe serial number inorderto processyour call.
The engine manufactureris responsiblefor all enigne-relatedissueswith regardsto performance, power-rating,specifications,
warranty and service. Please referto the engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual, packed separately with your unit,
for more information.
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WARNING
This symbolpoints
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
notfollowed,could
endangerthe personal
i safetyand/or property
I ofyourselfand others.
Readandfollowall
instructionsin this
manualbeforeat-
temptingto operate
i this machine.Failure
I to complywith these
instructionsmay result
i in personalinjury.When
you see this symbol.
HEED iTS WARNING!
i Your Responsibility
i Restrictthe use
i ofthis powermachine
to personswho read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
, in this manual
I and on the machine.
WARNING:EngineExhaust,someof itsconstituents,andcertainvehiclecomponentscontainor
emitchemicalsknownto Stateof Californiato causecancerand birthdefectsor otherreproduc-
tiveharm.
DANGER:Thismachinewasbuiltto beoperatedaccordingto the rulesfor safeoperationinthismanual.As with
anytypeof powerequipment,carelessnessor erroron the partof the operatorcan resultinseriousinjury.This
machineis capableof amputatinghandsandfeetandthrowingobjects.Failureto observethe followingsafety
instructionscould resultin seriousinjuryor death.
General Operation
1. Readthis operator'smanual carefullyinits entiretybefore
attemptingto assemblethis machine.Read,understand,
andfollowall instructionsonthe machineandin the
manual(s) beforeoperation.Be completelyfamiliar with
thecontrolsandthe properuseofthis machinebefore
operatingit. Keepthis manualin a safeplaceforfuture
and regularreferenceand for orderingreplacementparts.
2. Thismachineis a precisionpieceof powerequipment,
nota plaything.Therefore,exerciseextremecautionat all
times.Yourunithas beendesignedto performonejob: to
mowgrass. Do notuseit for anyotherpurpose.
3. Neverallow childrenunder 14yearsold to operatethis
machine.Children 14yearsold and overshould readand
understandthe instructionsinthis manualandshould
betrainedand supervisedby a parent.Onlyresponsible
individualswho arefamiliar withthese rulesof safe
operationshould be allowedto usethis machine.
4. Thoroughlyinspectthe areawherethe equipmentisto
beused. Removeall stones,sticks,wire,bones,toys and
otherforeignobjectswhichcouldbetripped overor picked
upandthrownby the blade.Thrownobjectscancause
seriouspersonalinjury.Planyourmowingpatternto avoid
dischargeof materialtowardroads,sidewalks,bystanders
andthe like.Also, avoiddischargingmaterialagainsta
wall orobstructionwhich maycausedischargedmaterial
to ricochetbacktowardtheoperator.
5. Tohelpavoidbladecontact ora thrownobjectinjury,
stay inthe operatorzonebehindthe handlesand keep
children,bystanders,helpersand petsat least75 feet
fromthe mowerwhileit isin operation.Stop machineif
anyoneentersthe area.
6. Alwayswearsafetyglassesor safetygogglesduring
operationand whileperforminganadjustmentor repair
to protectyour eyes.Thrownobjectswhich ricochetcan
causeseriousinjuryto the eyes.
7. Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoesand close-fitting
slacksandshirts. Shirtsand pantsthatcoverthe arms
and legsand steel-toedshoesare recommended.Never
operatethis machinein barefeet,sandals,slipperyor light
weight(e.g.canvas)shoes.
8. Do notputhands orfeet nearrotatingparts or underthe
cuttingdeck.Contactwiththe blade can amputatehands
andfeet.
9. A missingor damageddischargecovercancause blade
contactor thrownobject injuries.
10.Manyinjuriesoccuras a resultof the mowerbeing pulled
overthefoot duringa fall causedby slippingor tripping.
Do notholdonto the mowerifyouare falling;releasethe
handleimmediately.
11.Neverpullthe mowerbacktowardyou whileyou are
walking.If you must backthe mowerawayfroma wallor
obstructionfirstlook downand behindto avoidtripping
andthen followthese steps:
a. Stepbackfromthe mowertofullyextendyourarms.
b. Be sureyouare wellbalancedwithsure footing.
c. Pullthe mowerbackslowly,no morethan halfway
towardyou.
d. Repeatthesestepsas needed.
12.Do notoperatethe mowerwhileunderthe influenceof
alcoholordrugs.
13.Do notengagetheself-propelledmechanismon unitsso
equippedwhilestartingengine.
14.The bladecontrolhandleis a safetydevice.Neverattempt
to bypassitsoperation.Doingso makesthe safetydevice
inoperativeandmayresult in personalinjurythrough
contactwiththe rotatingblade.The bladecontrolhandle
mustoperateeasily in bothdirectionsandautomatically
returnto the disengagedpositionwhenreleased.
15.Neveroperatethe mowerinwet grass.Alwaysbesure of
yourfooting. A slipand fall cancauseseriouspersonal
injury.If youfeelyou arelosing yourfooting,releasethe
bladecontrolhandle immediatelyand the bladewillstop
rotatingwithinthreeseconds.
16.Mowonlyin daylightor in goodartificial light.Walk,never
run. Stopthe bladewhencrossinggraveldrives,walksor
roads.
17.If theequipmentshouldstartto vibrateabnormally,stopthe
engineand check immediatelyfor the cause.Vibrationis
generallya warningof trouble.
18.Shutthe engineoff andwait untilthe bladecomesto
a completestopbeforeremovingthe grass catcheror
uncloggingthe chute.The cutting bladecontinuesto rotate
fora few secondsafterthe engineis shutoff. Neverplace
anypart ofthe bodyin the bladeareauntilyou aresure the
blade hasstoppedrotating.
19.Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrailshield,discharge
cover,grasscatcher,bladecontrolhandleor othersafety
protectivedevicesin placeandworking. Neveroperate
mowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.Failureto doso, can
result inpersonalinjury.
20.Mufflerandenginebecomehotand cancausea burn.Do
nottouch.
21.Only use partsand accessoriesmadefor this machineby
the manufacturer.Failureto do socan resultin personal
injury.
22.If situationsoccurwhich are notcoveredin this manual,use
careand good judgment. Call customerassistancefor the
nameof yournearestservicingdealer.
Slope Operation
Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto slip andfall accidentswhich
canresult insevereinjury.Operationon slopesrequiresextra
caution.Ifyoufeel uneasyona slope,do notmow it. Foryour
safety,usethe slopegaugeincludedas partof this manualto
measureslopesbeforeoperatingthis unit on a slopedor hilly
area.If the slopeis greaterthan 15degrees,donot mowit.
4
Do:
1. Mowacrossthe faceof slopes; neverup anddown.
Exerciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon
slopes.
2. Watchfor holes,ruts,rocks, hiddenobjects,or bumpswhich
can causeyouto slipor trip. Tallgrass canhideobstacles.
3. Alwaysbesure of yourfooting.A slip andfall cancause
serious personalinjury.If youfeel youare losingyour
balance,releasethe bladecontrolhandleimmediately,and
the bladewill stoprotatingwithin 3 seconds.
Do Not:
I. Donot mowneardrop-offs,ditchesorembankments,you
could loseyour footingorbalance.
2. Donot mowslopesgreaterthan 15degreesasshownon
the slopegauge.
3. Donot mowon wetgrass. Unstablefootingcouldcause
slipping.
Children
Tragicaccidentscanoccur ifthe operatoris not alertto the
presenceof children.Childrenare often attractedto the mower
and the mowingactivity.Theydo notunderstandthe dangers.
Neverassumethat childrenwillremainwhereyou lastsaw
them.
1. Keepchildrenout ofthe mowingareaand underthewatch-
ful careof a responsibleadult otherthan the operator.
2. Be alert andturn moweroff if a child entersthe area.
3. Beforeand while movingbackwards,look behindand down
for small children.
4. Useextremecare whenapproachingblind corners,
doorways,shrubs,trees,or otherobjectsthat mayobscure
your visionof a childwho mayrun intothe mower.
5. Keepchildrenawayfrom hotor runningengines.They can
suffer burnsfroma hotmuffler.
6. Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsold to operatea power
mower.Children14years old andover shouldreadand
understandthe operationinstructionsand safetyrules in
this manualandshould betrainedand supervisedby a
parent.
Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoidpersonalinjury orpropertydamage useextreme
care inhandlinggasoline.Gasolineis extremelyflammable
and thevaporsare explosive.Seriouspersonalinjurycan
occur whengasolineisspilled onyourselforyour clothes
which canignite.
2. Wash yourskin andchangeclothesimmediately.
3. Useonly anapprovedgasolinecontainer.
4. Neverfill containersinsidea vehicleoron a truckor trailer
bedwitha plasticliner.Alwaysplacecontainerson the
groundawayfromyourvehicle beforefilling.
5. Removegas-poweredequipmentfromthe truck ortrailer
and refuelit onthe ground.If this is notpossible,then refuel
suchequipmentona trailer witha portablecontainer,rather
than froma gasolinedispensernozzle.
6. Keepthe nozzlein contactwiththe rimof thefuel tank or
containeropeningat alltimesuntil fuelingis complete.Do
notuse a nozzlelock-opendevice.
7. Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars,pipesand othersourcesof
ignition.
8. Neverfuel machineindoorsbecauseflammablevapors
willaccumulateinthe area.
9. Neverremovegascap oradd fuelwhilethe engineis
hotor running. Allowengineto cool at least two minutes
beforerefueling.
10.Neveroverfill fueltank. Filltankto nomorethan Y2inch
belowbottomof filler neckto providefor fuelexpansion.
11.Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
12.If gasolineis spilled,wipe itoff theengineand equipment.
Moveunitto anotherarea.Wait5 minutesbeforestarting
theengine.
13.Neverstorethe machineorfuel containernearan open
flame,sparkor pilotlight as ona water heater,space
heater,furnace,clothesdryeror othergas appliances.
14.Toreducefire hazard,keepmowerfree ofgrass, leaves,
orother debrisbuild-up.Clean upoil orfuel spillageand
removeanyfuel soakeddebris.
15.Allowa mowerto cool at least5 minutesbeforestoring.
General Service:
1. Neverrunan engineindoorsor in a poorlyventilatedarea.
Engineexhaustcontainscarbon monoxide,anodorless
anddeadlygas.
2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertainthe
bladeand allmoving partshavestopped.Disconnectthe
sparkplugwire and groundagainstthe engineto prevent
unintendedstarting.
3. Checkthe bladeand enginemountingboltsat frequent
intervalsfor propertightness.Also,visuallyinspectblade
for damage(e.g.,bent,cracked,worn)Replacebladewith
theoriginal equipmentmanufacture's(O.E.M.)bladeonly,
listed inthis manual."Useof parts whichdo notmeetthe
originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto improper
performanceand compromisesafety!"
4. Mowerbladesare sharpandcan cut.Wrapthe bladeor
weargloves,and useextra cautionwhenservicingthem.
5. Keepall nuts,bolts,and screwstightto besurethe
equipmentis insafeworkingcondition.
6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheir proper
operationregularly.
7. Afterstrikinga foreignobject,stopthe engine,discon-
nectthe sparkplugwire and groundagainstthe engine.
Thoroughlyinspectthe mowerfor anydamage.Repairthe
damagebeforestartingand operatingthe mower.
8. Neverattemptto makea wheelor cuttingheightadjust-
mentwhilethe engineis running.
9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail
shieldaresubjectto wear anddamagewhichcould
exposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto bethrown.For
safetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponentsand re-
placeimmediatelywithoriginal equipmentmanufacturer's
(O.E.M.)partsonly,listedin this manual."Useof parts
whichdo notmeetthe originalequipmentspecifications
mayleadto improperperformanceand compromise
safety!"
10.Do notchangethe enginegovernorsettingor overspeed
theengine.The governorcontrolsthemaximumsafe
operatingspeed of theengine.
11.Maintainor replacesafetylabels,as necessary.
12.Observeproperdisposallawsandregulations.Improper
disposaloffluids and materialscan harmthe environment.
5
Practices
WARNING
Thissymbolpoints
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
notfollowed,could
endangerthe personal
safetyand/orproperty
of yourselfandothers.
Readandfollowall
instructionsinthis
manualbeforeat-
tempting to operate
this machine.Failure
to complywith these
instructionsmayresult
in personalinjury.When
you see this symbol.
HEED ITS WARNING!
Your Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read,
understand
andfollow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
andon the machine.
set.pand
Your mower is shipped
with the handle inthe
higher height position.
NOTE: Each end of
the lowerhandle must
be placed inthe same
relative position.
iMPORTANT
This unit is shipped
WITHOUT GASOLINE
or OiL. After assem-
bly, service engine
with gasolineand
oil as instructedin
the separate engine
manual packedwith
your unit.
!
Figure 1
Figure 2
_ ARNING: Disconnect and
ground the spark plug wire as
instructedin the separate engine
manual.
1. Thechutedeflectoronyour mowermaybe heldinan
uprightpositionbya blockfor shippingpurposesonly.
Thisshippingblockmustbe removedanddiscarded
beforethe moweris putinto operation.SeeFigure1.
a. Pullthechutedeflectorup towardsengine.
b. Removetheblockandcarefullylowerthe chuteinto
operatingposition,keepingfingersout of the way.
2. Performthe followingsequencefor handlesetup:
a. Pullupand backon theupperhandleto raisethe
handlefrompositionA intothe operatingposition
B. SeeFigure2.
b. Makesurethe carriageboltis seatedproperlyin
the handle.Tightenwingnuts(starknobs)securing
upperhandleto the lowerhandle.
NOTE: Onsomemodelswingnutshavebeenreplaced
withstarknobs.Figuresshowwingnutsonly.
3. If satisfiedwith heightof handle,tightenwingnuts(star
knobs)atthe endsof the lowerhandleshownin Figure
3. Forconvenienceof operating,you mayadjustthe
handleheightas follows:
a. Removethewing nuts(starknobs)shownin Figure
3 andremovethe lowerhandle.
.
b. Positioneach handlebracketstudintothe top hole
in thelowerhandle.SeeFigure3 inset.
c. Tightenthewing nuts(starknobs).
Insertpostoncable tiesinto holesprovidedon the
lowerhandle.Pullcabletie tightandtrimexcess.See
Figure4.
Figure 3 Figure 4
6
5. RopeguideSetupas follows,see Figure5:
a. Holdthe bladecontrolagainstthe upperhandle.
PositionA.
b. Slowlypullstarterropeout of engine.PositionB.
c. Slipstarterropeintothe ropeguide. PositionC.
d. Tightenropeguidewingnut. PositionD.
,
Eachwheelhasa heightadjustmentleverto change
the cuttingheightof the mower.Tochangethe height
of cut, squeezeadjusterlevertowardthe wheel,
movingupor downto selectedheight.SeeFigure6.
7, If yourmoweris equippedwithan optionalmulching
Figure 5
NOTE: All wheels must
be in the same height
of cut.
When cutting in heavy
or moist grass, the rear
of the lawnmowermay
be raised higher to
allow beter discharge
of the grass.
Figure 6
baffle,installit as shownin Figure7.
a. Lift upandholdthe side-dischargechutedeflector
andinsertbottomlip of the mulchingbaffleinside
the chuteopening.
b. Pushthe hooksonthe top of the baffleuntilthey
snapoverthe hingeon the dischargechute.
Releasethe chutedeflector.
NOTE: Whenyou wishto mowinsteadof mulch,
simplyraisethe chutedeflector,graspthe handleonthe
mulchingbaffleandlift upwardto removethe baffle. It is
not necessaryto removethe mulchingblade.
Figure 7
7
Your Lawn
Mower
i
i
WARNING
Read, understand,
and follow all instruc-
tions and warnings
on the machineand
inthis manual before
operating.
This blade control
mechanism is a
safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operations.
Useextreme care
when handling
gasoline.Gasoline is
trernely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive.Never fuel
the machine indoors
or while the engine
is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes and
other so urcesof
ignition.
Know Your Lawn Mower
Blade Control Handle
Drive Control Handle
Recoil Starter
/
Mulching Baffle
Height Adjustment
Levers
Chute Deflector
Figure 8
Blade Control Handle
The bladecontrolhandleislocatedon the upperhandle
of the mower.SeeFigure8. The bladecontrolhandle
mustbedepressedinorderto operatethe unit.Release
the bladecontrolhandleto stopthe engineand blade.
Drive Control Handle
Thedrivecontrolhandleislocatedonthe upperhandle.
Squeezethe drivecontrolhandleagainstthe upper
handleto engagedrivesystem.Releasethe control
handleto disengagethedrive systeminorderto stop,
slowdown,or backup.
Recoil Starter
The recoilstarteris attachedto the rightupperhandle.
Standbehindthe unitand pullthe recoilstarterropeto
startthe unit.
Mulching Baffle
The mulchingbaffleis usedto recirculategrassclip-
pingsbackto the lawn.Attachit as instructedonpage7
of thismanual.
Cutting Height Adjustment Levers
Oneadjustmentleveris locatedoneachwheelandis
usedto adjustthe cuttingheight.All fourlevershaveto
beat the samerelativepositionto ensureuniformcut.
Before Starting
1. Servicethe enginewithgasolineandoil as instructed
in theseparateenginemanual.
2. Attachsparkplugwireto sparkplug. If unitis
equippedwitha rubberbootovertheend of the spark
plugwire,makecertainthe metalloopon theend of
the sparkplugwire(insidethe rubberboot)is fastened
securelyoverthe metaltip on the sparkplug.
3. Beforeeach use,checkfor properdriveclutchopera-
tion by performingthe followingbeforestartingthe
engine:
a. Withthe drivecontrolreleased,pushmower
forward.Itshouldmovefreely.Pullmowerback-
ward.Itshouldmovewithonlya smallamountof
resistance.
If it doesnot the clutchmaynot bereleasing
completely.Do notstart theengineuntilcorrections
havebeenmade.Checkthe controlcablefor
severebend,kinksandbinding.Alsocheckfor
grassbuild-uparoundthe belt.
8
f
Figure 9
To Start Engine
1. If yourunit isequippedwitha primer,primeengineas
instructedinthe separateenginemanualpackedwith
yourunit.
2.
2. Standingbehindthe unit,depressthebladecontrol
handleandholditagainstthe upperhandleas shown
inFigure9. 3.
3. Graspthe starterhandleas shownand pullslowly
until resistanceis felt,then pullrapidlyto startengine 4.
andavoidkickback.Returnitslowlyto the ropeguide.
To Stop Engine 5.
1. Releasethe bladecontrolhandleto stopthe engine
andblade. 6.
__k WARNING: The blade continues
to rotate for a few seconds after
the engine isshut off.
2. Disconnectandgroundthe sparkplugwireas
instructedin the separateenginemanualto prevent
accidentalstartingwhileequipmentisunattended.
Using Your Lawn Mower
Besurethe lawnis clearof stones,sticks,wire,or other
objectswhichcoulddamagethe lawnmoweror the
engine.Suchobjectscould beaccidentlythrownbythe
mowerin anydirectionandcauseseriouspersonalinjury
to the operatorandothers.
WARNING: if you strike a foreign
object, stop the engine. Remove
wire from the spark plug, thor-
oughly inspectthe mower for any
damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating
the mower. Extensive vibration
of the mower during operation is
an indication of damage. The unit
should be promptly inspected
and repaired.
Toengagethe drive,squeezethedrive controlhandle
towardsthe upperhandle.Releasethe drivecontrol
to slowdownwhennegotiatinganobstacle,makinga
turn,or stopping.
Forbestresultsandeffectivemulching,do notcut wet
grass.
Newgrass,thickgrass,orwet grassmayrequirea
narrowercut.
Fora healthierlawn,nevercutoff morethan one-third
of the totallengthof the grass.
Yourlawnshouldbecut inthe fall as longas there
isgrowth.
Ifthe grasshasbeenallowedto growin excessof 4
inches,mulchingis not recommended.Mowusing
the sidedischargeto reducethegrassheightto 3-1/4
inchesor lessbeforemulching.
General Recommendations
1. Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhenperforming
any maintenance.
2. The warrantyonthis lawnmowerdoes notcover
itemsthathavebeensubjectedto operatorabuse
or negligence.To receivefull valuefromwarranty,
operatormust maintainthe lawnmoweras
instructedhere.
3. Changingof engine-governedspeedwill void
enginewarranty.
4. All adjustmentsshouldbe checkedat leastonceeach
season.
5. Periodicallycheckallfastenersandmakesurethese
aretight.
9
Operating
WARNING
The operation of any
lawn mower can result
inforeign objects
being thrown into
the eyes, which can
damage your eyes
severely. Always wear
safety glasses while
operating the mower,
or while performing
any adjustments or
repairs on it.
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the lawn
mower while starting
engine or operating
mower. Never run
engine indoorsor
in enclosed, poorly
ventilated areas. En-
gine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly
gas. Keep hands, feet,
hair and loose clothing
away from any moving
parts on engine and
lawn mower.
:wARN!NG
Always stop engine,
disconnectspark
plug,andground
againstenginebefore
cleaning,lubricating
or doing any kindof
maintenanceonyour
machine!
if unit is tipped for
easieraccessto
bladeorbeltltip
mowerasspecified
inseparateengine
manual,if itdoesnot
specifyturnmower
on its side making
sure that the air filter
and the carburetor
cutting grassin
sandy soil Condition
causes abrasive wear
to the bladei
Lubricate
thesepoints
before
reasembly.
Figure 10
Lubrication
1. Lubricatethe pivotpointsonthe bladecontrolhandle
at leastoncea seasonwithlightoil. The blade
controlmustoperatefreelyin bothdirections.See
Figure10.
2. If yourmoweris equippedwith ballbearingwheels,
lubricateat leastonce a seasonwitha light oil, all
othertypes requireno lubrication.However,if the
wheelsareremovedfor any reason,lubricatethe
surfaceof the axle bolt andthe innersurfaceof the
wheelwithlightautomotiveoil.
3. Lubricatethe torsionspringandpivotpointperiodi-
callywithlightoil to preventrust.SeeFigure10.
4. Followthe accompanyingenginemanualfor lubrica-
tion scheduleandinstruction.
.
2.
Engine
Referto the separateenginemanualfor engine
maintenanceinstructions.
.
Maintainengineoil as instructedin the separate
enginemanualpackedwithyourunit. Readand
followinstructionscarefully.
Undernormalconditionsserviceaircleaneras in-
structedinthe separateengine manualpackedwith
yourunit. Cleaneveryfewhoursunderextremely
dustyconditions. Poorengineperformanceand
floodingusuallyindicatesthatthe aircleanershould
be serviced.
4. The sparkplugshouldbecleanedandthe gap
resetonce a season. Sparkplugreplacementis
recommendedatthestartof eachmowingseason;
checkenginemanualfor correctplugtypeandgap
specifications.
NOTE:Thissparkignitionsystemmeetsall require-
mentsof the CanadianInterference-CausingEquipment
Regulations.
.
Cleantheengineregularlywithaclothor brush.
Keepthe coolingsystem(blowerhousingarea)clean
to permitproperair circulationwhichis essentialto
engineperformanceandlife.Becertainto removeall
grass,dirt andcombustibledebrisfrommufflerarea.
Deck
Theundersideof the mowerdeckshouldbecleanedafter
eachuseto preventa buildupof grassclippings,leaves,
dirt orother matter.If thisdebrisis allowedto accumulate,
it will inviterustandcorrosion,and maypreventproper
mulching.
Thedeckmaybecleanedbytiltingthe mowerandscrap-
ingcleanwitha suitabletool (makecertainthe sparkplug
wireis disconnected).
Blade Care
Periodicallyinspectthe bladeadapterforcracks,especial-
ly if you strikea foreignobject.Replacewhennecessary.
Followthe stepsbelowfor bladeservice:
1. Removethebolt andthe bladebellsupportwhich
holdthe bladeandthe bladeadapterto the engine
crankshaft.SeeFigure11.
2. Removebladeandadapterfromthe crankshaft.
3. Theblademayberesharpenedby removingit and
eithergrindingorfilingthe cuttingedgekeepingas
closeto theoriginalbevelas possible.Donot attempt
to sharpenthe bladewhile it is still onthe mower.
4. it is extremely important thateachcuttingedge
receivesanequalamountof grindingto preventan
unbalancedblade.
NOTE:improperbladebalancewill resultin excessive
vibrationcausingeventualdamageto theengineand
mower. Besureto carefullybalancebladeafter sharpen-
ing. Possibledamageresultingfrombladeunbalance
conditionis notthe responsibilityof the manufacturer.
NOTE:Alwaysremovebladefromthe adapterfor testing
balance.
5. Thebladecan betestedfor balanceby balancingit
ona roundshaftscrewdriver.Removemetalfromthe
heavyside untilit balancesevenly.
6 Beforereassemblingthe bladeandthe bladeadapter
to the unit,lubricatethe enginecrankshaftandthe
innersurfaceof the bladeadapterwithlightoil.
7. Installthe bladeadapteron the crankshaftwiththe
"star"awayfromtheengine.SeeFigure11.Place
the bladewiththe side marked"bottom"(orwithpart
number)facingawayfromthe adapter.Alignthe blade
bellsupportoverthe bladewiththetabsin the holesof
the bladeandinsertthe hexbolt.
8. Tightenthe hexbolt to thetorquelistedbelow:
Blade Mounting Torque
CenterBolt450 in. lb. rain.,600 in.lb,max.
Toinsuresafeoperationof your unit,ALLnutsand bolts
mustbecheckedperiodicallyfor correcttightness.
10
/
J
Figure 11
,J
Drive Belt RemovalAnd Replacement
1. Drainthe fueltankor placea pieceof plasticbeneath
the capto preventgasolineleakage.
2. Toget easieraccessto the belt,just securelyplace
the moweron raisedblocks.
3. Removethe transmissioncoverbyslidingoff the two
plasticrivetswitha screwdriveroneach sideof cover.
SeeFigure12.
4. Removethe belttensionspringfromthe frontheight
adjustmentplateto releasethe tensiononthe belt.
5. Pushthe transmissionupa littleandslide thebelt
offthe transmissionpulley.Liftthe mowerto access
the beltfromthe undersideof the mower.Slidethe
beltoff the enginepulleyandaroundthe blade.See
Figure13.
6. Replacewiththe new belt,workingaroundthe blade.
Makesurethe belt is firmlyseatedonthe engine
pulleywhilepullingfromtheother sideandslidingit
aroundthe transmissionpulley.
7. Putthe mowerdownwithallfour wheelsfirmlyplaced
onone level.Tightenthe screw,loosenedearlier,to
securethe belttensionspringto the transmission,
andreassemblethe frontdrive cover.
Figure 12
Figure 13
Off-Season Storage
The followingstepsshouldbetakento prepareyour lawn
mowerfor storage.
1. Cleanandlubricatemowerthoroughlyas describedin
the lubricationinstructions.
2. Wedo not recommendthe useof a pressurewasher
or gardenhoseto cleanyour unit.
3. Referto enginemanualfor correctengine
storageinstructions.
4. Coatmower'scuttingbladewithchassisgreaseto
preventrusting.
5. Storemowerin adry,cleanarea. Do notstorenextto
corrosivematerials,suchas fertilizer.
NOTE:Whenstoringany typeof powerequipmentin
a poorlyventilatedor metalstorageshed,careshould
betakento rust-proofthe equipment.Usinga light oilor
silicone,coatthe equipment,especiallycablesandall
movingpartsof yourlawn mowerbeforestorage.
WA=.I.G
When removing the
cutting blade or belt,
protect your hands
With a pair of heavy
gloves or use a heavy
rag to hold the blade,
An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive
vibration when rotat'
at highspeeds:It
may cause damage
to mower, and could
break causing per,
sonal injuryl
We do not recommend
the Used pressure
washers or garden
hose tOCleanyour
unit These maycause
damage toe ectrical
components,spindles;
pulleys,bearings;or
the engi!e:The use
of water will result in
Shortened life and
reduceSerViceabilityl
11
Shooting
For repairs beyond
the minor adjust-
ments listed here;
contactanautho;ized
service dealer.
i i/_II!IIIIi iil iiii!iiii !iii! i_i!
i_i i i ii i i i
Problem Cause Remedy
Enginefails to start i BladeControlhandledisengaged. !. Engagebladecontrolhandlel
2. Spark plugwire disconnected, connect wireto SpaA plugl
3 Fueltank emptyor stalefuei. & Filltank Withcleanlfresh gasolinel
Enginenotprimed 4. Referto enginemanual
&FaUitY sparkp ugl clean adjustgaP oi replacel
Bockedfue ne 61 ceaniue iinel
7. Engine f!ooding_
1. Sparkplugwire loose.
2. Blockedfuel lineor stalefuel.
3. Gascap vent plugged.
4. Wateror dirt infuel system.
5. Dirty aircleaner.
6. Carburetorout ofadjustment.
Engineruns erratic
7: Waitafew minutesto restart, butdonot prime.
1. Connectandtighten spark
plugwire.
2. Cleanfuel line;fill tankwithclean,fresh
gasoline.
3. Clearvent.
4. Drainfuel tankand carburetor.Refillwithfresh
fuel.
5. Refertoenginemanual.
6. Refertoenginemanual.
Engineoverheats 1. Engineoil level low. 1. Fillcrankcasewithproperoil.
2. Drty airfilter 2. Refertothe enginemanualpackedwithyour
unit.
I 3. Air flow restricted. I 3. Removeblowerhousingandclean.
4. Carburetornotadjustedproperly. 4. Refertoenginemanual.
Occasionalskip(hesitates) 1. Sparkpluggaptoo close. 1. Adjustgapto .030".Referto enginemanual.
at highspeed 2. Carburetoridle mixtureadjustment 2. Refertoenginemanual.
improperlyset.
!
1. Spark pug fouled faulty or gaptoo 1 Resetgapto .030"or replacesparkplug.
wide. Referto enginemanual.
2. Carburetorimproperlyadjusted. 2. Referto enginemanual.
3. Dirtyair cleaner. _3. Referto enginemanual.
Excessivevibration 1. CuttingBlade looseor unbalanced. 1. Tightenbladeand adapter.Balanceblade
2. Bent cuttingblade. 2. Replaceblade.
Mowerw notmuch 1 Wetgrass 1. Do notmowwhengrass iswet
grass waituntil latertocut.
2. Excessivehighgrass. 2. Mowonceat a high cuttingheight,then mow
againat desiredheight ormakea narrower
I I cuttng path.
" 3. Dullblade. 3. Sharpenorreplace blade.
Unevencut 1. Wheelsnot positionedcorrectly. 1. Raceall four wheelsin same heightposition.
2. Dullblade. 2. Sharpenor replaceblade.
WheelswII notpropel 1. Belt not installedproperly. 1. Checkingbeltfor properpulleyinstallationand
I ' movement
2. Debriscloggingdriveoperation. 2. Cleanout debris.
MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR
The limitedwarrantysetforthbelowis givenby MTD LLCwith respectto new merchandisepurchasedandusedin the UnitedStatesand/or its territories
and possessions,and by MTDProductsLimitedwithrespectto new merchandisepurchasedandusedin Canadaand/or itsterritoriesandpossessions
(eitherentity respectively,"MTD").
MTDwarrantsthis product(excludingitsnormalwearpartsas describedbelow)againstdefectsinmaterialandworkmanshipfor a periodof two(2)
yearscommencingonthe dateof originalpurchaseandwill,at its option,repairor replace,free of charge,anypart foundto bedefectivein materials
or workmanship.Thislimitedwarrantyshallonly applyif this producthas beenoperatedandmaintainedinaccordancewiththe Operator'sManual
furnishedwiththe product,andhas notbeensubjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse,neglect,accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,
theft,fire,water,or damagebecauseof other perilornaturaldisaster.Damageresultingfromtheinstallationor useof any part,accessoryor attachment
not approvedby MTDfor usewiththe product(s)coveredbythis manualwill voidyourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.
Normalwearpartsarewarrantedto befree fromdefectsin materialandworkmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30) daysfromthe dateof purchase.Normal
wear partsinclude,but arenot limitedto itemssuchas:batteries,belts,blades,bladeadapters,grassbags,riderdeckwheels,seats,snowthrowerskid
shoes,frictionwheels,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberandtires.
HOWTO OBTAINSERVICE:Warrantyserviceis available,WITHPROOFOF PURCHASE,throughyour localauthorizedservicedealer.To locatethe
dealerinyourarea;
In the U.S.A.: CheckyourYellowPages,orcontactMTDLLCat RO.Box361131,Cleveland,Ohio44136-0019,orcall 1-800-800-7310or
1-330-220-4683or logon to ourWebsiteat www.mtdproducts.com.
In Canada: ContactMTDProductsLimited,Kitchener,ON N2G4J1,orcall 1-800-668-1238or logon to ourWebsiteat www.mtdcanada.com.
Thislimitedwarrantydoes not providecoverageinthe followingcases:
a. The engineorcomponentpartsthereof.Theseitemsmaycarrya separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer'swarrantyfor
termsandconditions.
b. Logsplitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateone-yearwarranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuchas lubricants,filters,bladesharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deckadjustments,and
normaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinishdue to useor exposure.
d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthan anauthorizedservicedealer.
e. MTDdoes notextendany warrantyfor productssoldor exportedoutsideof the UnitedStatesand/or Canada,andtheir respectivepossessionsand
territories,exceptthosesoldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof exportdistribution.
f. Replacementpartsthatarenot genuineMTDparts.
g. Transportationchargesand servicecalls.
h. If Productsare usedcommercially.(MTD mayseparatelyoffer LimitedCommercialWarrantiesoncertainselectproducts.Askyourdealeror retailer
for detailsor contactMTDServicefor more information.)
No impliedwarranty, includingany impliedwarrantyof merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose,applies after the applicable period
of expresswritten warranty above as to the partsas identified.No other expresswarranty,whetherwritten or oral, exceptas mentioned
above, givenby any personor entity,includinga dealer or retailer, withrespect to any product,shallbind MTD.Duringthe period of the
warranty, the exclusive remedyisrepairor replacementof the productas setforth above.
Theprovisions as setforth inthis warrantyprovidethe soleand exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTDshall not be liablefor incidental
or consequential lossor damage including,without limitation,expensesincurredfor substituteor replacementlawn care servicesor for
rentalexpensesto temporarily replacea warranted product.
Somejurisdictionsdo notallowthe exclusionorlimitationof incidentalorconsequentialdamages,or limitationson howlongan impliedwarrantylasts,
so the aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynot applyto you.
In noeventshall recoveryof any kind begreaterthan theamountof the purchaseprice of the productsold.Alterationof safetyfeatures of the
productshall void this warranty. Youassumethe riskandliabilityfor loss,damage,or injuryto youandyour propertyand/orto othersandtheir
propertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto use theproduct.
Thislimitedwarrantyshall notextendto anyoneotherthanthe originalpurchaseror to the personfor whomitwaspurchasedas a gift.
NOWLOCAL LAWSRELATETO THIS WARRANTY:Thislimitedwarrantygivesyou specificlegalrights,andyoumayalso haveother rightsthatvary
in differentjurisdictions.
iMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof Purchaseto obtainwarrantycoverage.
MTD LLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHiO44136-0019;Phone: 1-600-600-7310,1-330-220-4683
MTD Products Ltd., P.O. BOX1386,KITCHENER,ON N2G4J1; Phone: 1-800-668-1238
13
\
\\\\\
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\
14
REF
NO,
N° DE
REF
I
PART
NO.
N° DE
PIECE
747-1214
747-1161A
746-1114
746-04274
749-1092A
710-1205
720-0279
732-1026
687-02139
710-1174
736-0451
720-0284
749-04037
725-0157
17098
731-04019
710-0599
682-3064
736-0741
712-04065
682-3065
887-02046
710-0654A
754-04100
782-0585A
728-0199
750-04407
716-0198
618-04375
750-04406A
731-0073
748-04016A
742-0742A
736-0524B
710-1044
782-0584
741-0710
710-0216
720-0426
748-0455
731-04643
715-0221
717-1762
717-1761
732-04049
634-0190
747-0710
732-1014
731-1034B
736-0270
17032A
741-0751
687-02051
687-02140
687-02141
887-02094
738-1173
716-0865
734-1987
731-04045
748-0390
731-1035B
720-04072
DESCRIPTION
Drive Control Handle
Blade Control Handle
Blade Control Cable 50.56" Lg.
Drive Control Cable
Upper Handle
Rope Guide Bolt
Knob - ERS Guide 1/4-20
Spring Lever
Pivot Arm Assembly
Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0
Saddle Washer .320 ID x .93 OD x .06
Wing Nut
Lower Handle
Cable Tie
Hinge Clip
Trail Shield
Hex Wash S-Tapp Scr 1/4-20 x .50
Handle Bracket Ass'y RH
Cupped Washer .760 ID x 1.25 OD x .041
Flanged Lock Nut 3/8-16
Handle Bracket Ass'y LH
Deck Ass'y
Hex Wash HD Tap Scr 3/8-16 x .88
V-Belt
Forward Height Adjustment plate - LH
Plastic Rivet
Sleeve Spacer .550 ID x 2.22 OD
Retainer Ring
Transmission Assembly Complete
Sleeve Spacer .550 ID x 8.51 OD
Transmission Cover
Blade Adapter
Mulching Blade 22"
Bell Blade Support
Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.5" Lg. (Grade 8)
Forward Height Adjustment plate - RH
Sleeve Brg..502 x .627 x 1.0
Hex Cap Screw 3/8-16 x .75
Knob
Bearing Support
Dust Wheel Cover
Pin
Spur Gear 14T RH
Spur Gear 14T LH
Ext. Spring .47 OD x 2.50
Wheel Ass'y Comp. 8 x 1.8 Spoke Bar
Hinge Pin
Torsion Spring
',Side Discharge Assembly
Cupped Washer .25 ID x .88 OD X .062
Chute Adapter
Height Adjuster Bearing
Lever Ass'y
Spring Lever Assembly (LH)
Spring Lever Assembly (RH)
Pivot Arm Assembly
Shoulder Screw 3/8-16
Snap Ring
Wheel Ass'y Comp. 8 x 1.8
Snap Mulching Plug
Bearing Spacer
Chute Deflector
Knob - Star 5/16-18
DESCRIPTION
Poignee de commande d'embrayage de I'entrafnment
Poignee de commande de la lame
C&ble de commande de la lame 50,56 po de Ig.
C&ble de commande d'embrayage de I'entrainement
Guidon superieur
Boulon de guidage de cordon
Bouton - 1/4-20
Levier de ressort
Bras de pivot
Boulon ordinaire 5/16-18 x 2.0
Rondelle selle 0,320 DI x 0,93 DE x 0,06
€:crou & oreilles
Guidon inf@ieur
Attache c&ble
Attache
Abattant de protection arriere
Vis autotaraudeuse & rondelle hex. 1/4-20 x 0,50
Support-droite
Rondelle creuse 0,760 x 1,25 x 0,041
Ecrou de blocage 3/8-16
Support de montage du guidon CG
Plateau de coupe
Vis autotaraudee 3/8-16 x 0,88
Courroie trapezoidale
Plaque de reglage avant - CG
Rivet en plastique
Entretoise 0,550 DI x 2,22 DE
Bague
Transmission
Entretoise 0,550 DI x 8,51 DE
Couvercle de la transmission
Adaptateur de la lame
Lame dechiqueteuse 22 po
Support
Vis & t_te hex. 3/8-24 x 1,50 po de Ig (Qual. 8)
Plaque de reglage avant - CD
Roulement 0,502 x 0,627 x 1,0
Vis & chapeau & six pans de 3/8-16 x 0,75
Bouton
Support
Couvercle
Goupille
Engrenage 14 dents droite
Engrenage 14 dents gauche
Ressort d'extension 0,47 x 2,50
Ensemble de roue complet 8 x 1,80
Axe fixe
Ressort de torsion
Deflecteur lat@ale
Rondelle creuse 0,25 DI x 0,88 DE x 0,062
Adaptateur de la deflecteur
Roulement
Levier
Levier de ressort (CG)
Levier de ressort (CD)
Bras de pivot
Vis & epaulement 3/8-16
Joint
Ensemble de roue complet 8 x 1,80
Deflecteur de dechiquetage
Entretoise
Deflecteur
Bouton - etoile 5/16-18
12A-263
10.25.05
d6tach es
For parts and/or
accessories refer to
customersupport on
page 2.
Adressez-vous au
,_Serviceapr_s-vente_,
&la page 2 pour ce qui
concerneles pi_ces
et/ou accessoires.
15
