Husqvarna Lawn Mower 532 43 13 45 User Manual

7021RC  
Operator's Manual / 96143005700 / 2009-12  
532 43 13-45 12.08.09 BY  
Printed in U.S.A.  
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Never refuel the machine indoors.  
wire away from plug to prevent accidental starting.  
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachement  
bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.  
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper  
operation regularly.  
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris  
build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to  
cool before storing.  
Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.  
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.  
Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjustmentswhile  
the engine (motor) is running.  
Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam-  
age, and deterioration, which could expose moving  
parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check  
components and replace with manufacturer’s recom-  
mended parts, when necessary.  
Mower blade is sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or  
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing it.  
Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingoroverspeed  
the engine.  
Never store the machine or fuel container where there  
is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water  
heater or on other appliances.  
Neverllcontainersinsideavehicle,onatruckortrailer  
bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on  
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.  
Removegas-poweredequipmentfromthetruckortrailer  
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then  
refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather  
than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.  
Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank  
orcontaineropeningatalltimesuntilfuelingiscomplete.  
Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.  
If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi-  
ately.  
Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten  
securely.  
V. GENERAL SERVICE  
Never run a machine inside a closed area.  
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine  
(motor) running. Disconnect spark plug wire, and keep  
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as  
necessary.  
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.  
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest authorized service center.  
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new lawn  
mower. Ithasbeendesigned,engineeredandmanufactured  
togiveyouthebestpossibledependabilityandperformance.  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Gasoline Capacity  
and Type:  
1.0 Quarts  
(Unleaded Regular Only)  
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily  
remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service  
center/department. We have competent, well-trained  
technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this  
lawn mower.  
Oil Type (API SG–SL):  
SAE 30 (above 0°C / 32°F)  
SAE 10W-30 (below 0°C / 32°F)  
Oil Capacity:  
Spark Plug:  
18.5 Ounces  
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will  
enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower  
properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.  
NGK BPR6ES (Gap: .030")  
Valve Clearance:  
( 0.04 mm)  
Intake: 0.015 mm  
Exhaust: 0.020 mm  
SERIAL  
Blade Bolt Torque:  
35-40 ft. lbs.  
NUMBER: _________________________________  
DATE OF PURCHASE: _______________________  
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES  
THEMODELANDSERIALNUMBERSWILLBEFOUND  
ON ADECALATTACHEDTOTHEREAROFTHELAWN  
MOWER HOUSING.  
Read and observe the safety rules.  
Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for  
and using your lawn mower.  
YOUSHOULDRECORDBOTHSERIALNUMBERAND  
DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE  
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.  
FollowtheinstructionsunderMaintenanceandStor-  
age” sections of this owner’s manual.  
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
SAFETY RULES .........................................................2-3  
MAINTENANCE......................................................10-12  
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................13-14  
STORAGE...............................................................15-16  
TROUBLESHOOTING................................................. 17  
WARRANTY................................................................. 18  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS....................................... 3  
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES................................. 3  
ASSEMBLY.................................................................... 4  
OPERATION ...............................................................5-9  
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 10  
3
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ASSEMBLY  
Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower.  
IMPORTANT: THIS LAWN MOWER IS SHIPPED WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE IN THE ENGINE.  
Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping  
purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts  
bag. To ensure safe and proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened  
securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.  
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON  
1. Remove loose parts included with mower.  
2. Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel  
down flat.  
HANDLE PIN  
SQUEEZE  
3. Removeallpackingmaterialsexceptpaddingbetween  
upper and lower handle and padding holding operator  
presence control bar to upper handle.  
HANDLE  
BRACKET  
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thor-  
ougly for additional loose parts.  
HOW TO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER  
TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Figs. 1 and 2)  
IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLE CAREFULLY SO AS  
NOT TO PINCH OR DAMAGE CONTROL CABLES.  
1. Raise lower handle section to operating position and  
squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle towards  
each other until the pin in handle can be inserted into  
one of the three height adjustment holes.  
2. Remove protective padding, raise upper handle sec-  
tion into place on lower handle and tighten both handle  
knobs.  
FIG. 2  
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER  
(See Fig. 3)  
3. Remove any packing material from around control bar.  
1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with rigid part  
of bag on the bottom. Make sure the frame handle is  
outside of the bag top.  
Your handles may be adjusted for your mowing comfort.  
RefertoADJUSTHANDLEintheServiceandAdjustments  
section of this manual.  
2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.  
OPERATOR  
PRESENCE  
CONTROL  
BAR  
MOWING  
POSITION  
NOTE: Ifvinylbindingsaretoostiff,holdtheminwarmwater  
for a few minutes. If bag gets wet, let it dry before using.  
FRAME  
HANDLE  
LIFT  
UP  
LIFT  
UP  
UPPER  
HANDLE  
HANDLE  
KNOB  
FRAME  
OPENING  
VINYL  
BINDINGS  
FIG. 3  
LOWER  
HANDLE  
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS  
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a  
mulcher. To convert mower to bagging or discharging,  
see “TO CONVERT MOWER” in the Operation section of  
this manual.  
FIG. 1  
4
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OPERATION  
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER  
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER.  
Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments.  
Save this manual for future reference.  
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand  
their meaning.  
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR  
HANDLE KNOB  
DRIVE  
CONTROL  
LEVERS  
DRIVE COVER  
GASOLINE FILLER CAP  
STARTER  
HANDLE  
SINGLE POINT HEIGHT  
ADJUSTER HANDLE  
GRASS  
CATCHER  
FUEL VALVE LEVER  
AIR FILTER  
ENGINE OIL CAP  
WITH DIPSTICK  
MULCHER  
DOOR  
MUFFLER  
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped  
SPARK PLUG  
HOUSING  
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.  
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS  
Our rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute  
and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. WARNING: The blade turns when the engine is running.  
STARTER HANDLE – used for starting the engine.  
OPERATORPRESENCECONTROLBARmust beheld  
down to the handle to start the engine. Release to stop  
the engine.  
SINGLE POINT HEIGHT ADJUSTER – used to adjust  
cutting height of lawn mower.  
DRIVE CONTROL LEVERS – used to engage power-  
propelled forward motion lawn mower.  
MULCHER DOOR – allows conversion to discharge or  
bagging operation.  
5
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OPERATION  
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in  
severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower or per-  
forming any adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask  
over spectacles.  
3. Operate mower to test drive speed. Readjust as re-  
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER  
quired.  
ENGINE SPEED  
4. If condition fails to improve after the above steps (for-  
ward speed remains the same), your drive belt is worn  
and should be replaced.  
The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum per-  
formance. Speed is not adjustable.  
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL  
CAUTION: Federal regulations require  
anenginecontroltobeinstalledonthis  
lawnmowerinordertominimizetherisk  
of blade contact injury. Do not under  
any circumstances attempt to defeat  
thefunctionoftheoperatorcontrol.The  
bladeturnswhentheengineisrunning.  
ADJUSTMENT TURNBUCKLE  
Yourlawnmowerisequippedwithanoperatorpresence  
controlbarwhichrequirestheoperatortobepositioned  
behindthemowerhandletostartandoperatethemower.  
FIG. 5  
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 6)  
Both rear wheels are adjusted by a single lever on the left  
DRIVE CONTROL (See Fig. 4)  
rear wheel.  
Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator  
presence control bar down to the handle and pulling  
either drive control lever rearward to the handle. The  
further toward the handle a lever is pulled, the faster  
the unit will travel.  
Pulladjusterlevertowardwheel.Toraisemower,move  
leverforwardtodesiredposition.Tolowermower,move  
the lever toward the rear.  
NOTE: There are seven (7) height adjustment positions  
for the rear wheels.  
Forwardmotionwillstopwheneithertheoperatorpres-  
encecontrolbaroradrivecontrolleverarereleased.To  
stopforwardmotionwithoutstoppingengine, releasea  
drivecontrolleveronly. Holdoperatorpresencecontrol  
bar down against handle to continue mowing without  
self-propelling.  
Both front wheels are adjusted as follows:  
1. Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and reassemble in  
desired adjustment hole.  
2. Reinstall wheel components in the same order as they  
were before removal. Tighten securely.  
NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will  
not roll backwards, push the mower forward slightly to  
disengage drive wheels.  
NOTE: There are seven (7) height adjustment holes for  
the front wheels. Be sure both front wheels are in the  
same hole.  
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR  
IMPORTANT: Be sure to adjust both front and rear wheels  
to the same height.  
LEVER BACKWARD  
TO LOWER REAR  
OF MOWER  
HEIGHT ADJUSTER LEVER  
LEVER FORWARD  
TO RAISE REAR  
OF MOWER  
DRIVE  
CONTROL  
LEVERS  
TO ENGAGE  
DRIVE CONTROL  
DRIVE CONTROL  
DISENGAGED  
FIG. 4  
DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT (See Fig. 5)  
Over time, the drive control system may become “loose”,  
resulting in decreased speed. There is a turnbuckle on  
the drive control housing to increase tension on the drive  
cable. Proceed as follows:  
LOCKBAR  
(“LOCKED”  
POSITION)  
O-RING  
BOLT  
SPACER  
LOCKBAR  
1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug wire from plug.  
(“FREEWHEEL”  
POSITION)  
WING NUT  
WASHER  
2. Rotate turnbuckle on drive control to increase drive  
speed.  
FIG. 6  
6
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OPERATION  
CASTER WHEEL OPERATION  
5. Lift the round door of the discharge chute and place  
the grass catcher into place on the discharge chute.  
The front wheels can be “locked” into position or set to  
“freewheelforbettermaneuverability. Placingthelockbars  
in the outer holes of the adjustment brackets “locks” the  
front wheels. Likewise, placing the lockbars in the inner  
holes of the adjustment brackets allows the front wheels  
to spin freely (“freewheel”).  
NOTE: Be sure the grass catcher is securely locked in  
place and the round door of the discharge chute rests on  
the grass catcher as shown.  
Mower is now ready for rear bagging operation.  
Toconverttomulchingoperation,removegrasscatcher  
and discharge chute. Secure mulcher door to mower  
housing with knob.  
Lift lockbar until the frontmost end clears the adjust-  
ment bracket, then pivot lockbar to desired position.  
IMPORTANT: Front wheels must be “locked” into position  
when operating on a slope. Mow across the face of slopes:  
never up and down.  
Toconverttosidedischargingoperation,removegrass  
catcher and discharge chute. Install side discharge  
deflector and secure it to lawn mower housing with  
knob.  
TO CONVERT MOWER (See Figs. 7 thru 9)  
Yourlawnmowerwasshippedreadytobeusedasamulcher.  
To convert to rear bagging or side discharging:  
REAR HANDLE  
CROSSBAR  
REAR BAGGING  
GRASS  
CATCHER  
1. Remove knob securing mulcher door to lawn mower  
housing.  
MULCHER  
DOOR  
KNOB  
THREADED  
STUD  
ROUND  
DOOR  
SIDE  
DISCHARGE  
DEFLECTOR  
KNOB  
DISCHARGE  
CHUTE  
FIG. 7  
THREADED  
STUD  
2. Open mulcher door and insert tabs of discharge chute  
into hinge bracket opening and position rear of chute  
over threaded stud.  
DISCHARGE  
CHUTE TABS  
MULCHER DOOR  
FIG. 9  
SIDE DISCHARGING  
1. Grass catcher and discharge chute must be re-  
moved.  
2. Open mulcher door and install front of side discharge  
deflector beneath it as shown.  
3. Secure rear of side discharge deflector to lawn mower  
housing with knob.  
MULCHER  
HINGE BRACKET  
DOOR  
Mower is now ready for side discharging operation.  
FIG. 8  
To convert to mulching operation, side discharge de-  
flector must be removed and mulcher door secured to  
mower housing with knob.  
3. Secure rear of discharge chute to lawn mower housing  
with knob.  
To convert to rear bagging operation, side discharge  
deflector must be removed; discharge chute and grass  
catcherinstalledanddischargechutesecuredtomower  
housing with knob.  
4. Place rear handle of grass catcher on the crossbar of  
the lawn mower's lower handle as shown.  
7
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OPERATION  
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER  
1. Open round door of discharge chute to move starter  
WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
rope out and away from grass catcher.  
FOR MULCHING -  
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.  
2. Mulcher door closed.  
2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from lawn mower  
using both front and rear handles.  
3. Empty clippings from grass catcher using both rear  
handle and strap. The weight of the grass will open  
the door.  
FOR REAR BAGGING -  
1. Rear mulcher plug removed.  
2. Grass catcher installed.  
3. Mulcher door closed.  
4. Snap door shut over frame before installing grass  
catcher on mower.  
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause  
unnecessary wear.  
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -  
1. Rear mulcher plug installed.  
2. Discharge deflector installed.  
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE  
CAUTION: Donotrunyourlawnmower  
ADD OIL (See Fig. 12)  
withoutmulcherplugorapprovedgrass  
catcherinplace. Neverattempttooper-  
ate the lawn mower with the rear door  
removed or propped open.  
Yourlawnmowerisshippedwithoutoilintheengine.Fortype  
and grade of oil to use, see “ENGINE” in the Maintenance  
section of this manual.  
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with  
oil,oritwillsmokeheavilyfromthemuf-  
fler on startup.  
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER  
(See Figs. 10 and 11)  
FRONT HANDLE  
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.  
2. Remove oil fill cap / dipstick from oil fill spout.  
OPEN  
3. Engine holds 18.5 ounces of oil. Pour oil slowly. Do  
not overfill. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle. Use  
gauge on oil fill cap/dipstick for checking level. Insert  
dipstick into the tube and rest the oil fill cap on the  
tube. DO NOT thread the cap into the tube when tak-  
ing reading.  
4. Insert and tighten oil fill cap / dipstick.  
IMPORTANT:  
Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill  
to full line on dipstick.  
ROUND DOOR  
STARTER ROPE  
Changetheoilafterevery25hoursofoperationoreach  
season. You may need to change the oil more often  
under dusty, dirty conditions. See “TO CHANGE EN-  
GINE OIL” in the Maintenance section of this manual.  
FIG. 10  
OIL FILL CAP/  
DIPSTICK  
GASOLINE  
FILLER CAP  
REAR  
HANDLE  
STRAP  
FRONT  
HANDLE  
UPPER LOWER  
MARK  
MARK  
FIG. 12  
FIG. 11  
8
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OPERATION  
ADD GASOLINE (See Fig. 12)  
MOWING TIPS  
Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not over-  
CAUTION:Donotusede-thatcherblade  
fill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with  
a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.  
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30  
days to assure fuel freshness.  
attachments on your mower. Such at-  
tachments are hazardous, will damage  
yourmowerandcouldvoidyourwarranty.  
Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it  
may be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce  
pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine  
and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It may also be  
necessarytoreducegroundspeed and/orrunthelawn  
mower over the area a second time.  
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or  
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline  
near an open flame.  
Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol  
or using ethanol or methanol) can at-  
tractmoisturewhichleadstoseparation  
and formation of acids during storage.  
Acidic gas can damage the fuel sys-  
tem of an engine while in storage. To  
avoidengineproblems,thefuelsystem  
should be emptied before storage of  
30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank,  
start the engine and let it run until the  
fuellinesandcarburetorareempty. Use  
fresh fuel next season. See Storage  
Instructionsforadditionalinformation.  
Neveruseengineorcarburetorcleaner  
products in the fuel tank or permanent  
damage may occur.  
For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut  
by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.  
For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions,  
the engine speed should be set in the fast position.  
Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with  
dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less  
grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with  
water and let dry before using.  
Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of  
grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow  
and extend engine life.  
MULCHING MOWING TIPS  
IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER  
HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH. SEE  
“CLEANING”INTHEMAINTENANCESECTIONOFTHISMANUAL.  
TO STOP ENGINE  
To stop engine, release operator presence control bar.  
Wait until blade and all moving parts have stopped and  
turn fuel valve to OFF position if you do not intend to  
restart the engine soon.  
The special mulching blade will recut the grass clip-  
pings many times and reduce them in size so that as  
they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass  
and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biode-  
grade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always  
mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this  
will provide the best recutting action of the blades.  
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 13)  
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the engine, a small  
amount of smoke may be present during the initial use of  
the product and should be considered normal.  
1. Be sure fuel valve is in the ON position.  
2. Move choke lever to ON ( ) position.  
Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends  
to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action.  
The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon.  
At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area  
will not be exposed to direct sunlight.  
3. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle  
andpullstarterhandlequickly.Donotallowstarterrope  
to snap back.  
For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height  
so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third  
of the grass blades (See Fig. 14). If the lawn is over-  
grown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to  
reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading  
the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For  
extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut by  
overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.  
NOTE: The choke lever automatically begins moving to  
the OFF position when operator presence control bar is  
held down to handle.  
CHOKE LEVER  
OFF  
MAX 1/3  
ON  
)
(
OFF  
ON  
FIG. 14  
Certaintypesofgrassandgrassconditionsmayrequire  
that an area be mulched a second time to completely  
hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow  
across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.  
FUEL VALVE LEVER  
Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow  
northtosouthoneweektheneasttowestthenextweek.  
This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.  
9
FIG. 13  
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MAINTENANCE  
BEFORE AFTER EVERY  
EVERY  
EVERY  
100  
BEFORE  
STORAGE  
EACH  
USE  
EACH  
USE  
10  
25 HOURS  
HOURS OR SEASON HOURS  
Check for Loose Fasteners  
Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *  
Check Tires  
Check Drive Wheels ***  
Clean Lawn Mower ****  
Clean under Drive Cover ***  
Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***  
Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade  
Lubrication  
Clean and Recharge Battery **  
Check Engine Oil level  
Change Engine Oil  
Clean Air Filter  
Inspect Muffler  
Replace Spark Plug  
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge  
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer  
(if so equipped)  
1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.  
2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions.  
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.  
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.  
*
Electric-Start mowers  
Power-Propelled mowers  
Use a scraper  
to clean under deck  
**  
***  
****  
5 - And after each 5 hours of use.  
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS  
LUBRICATION CHART  
The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that  
have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To  
receivefullvaluefromthewarranty,operatormustmaintain  
mower as instructed in this manual. Some adjustments  
will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your  
unit. At least once a season, check to see if you should  
make any of the adjustments described in the Service and  
Adjustments section of this manual.  
ENGINE OIL  
MULCHER  
At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or  
replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A  
new spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure  
proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better  
and last longer.  
DOOR  
HINGE PIN  
Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.  
BEFORE EACH USE  
1. Check engine oil level.  
2. Check for loose fasteners.  
REAR DOOR HINGE  
LUBRICATION  
Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”).  
IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE PLASTIC WHEEL  
BEARINGS. VISCOUS LUBRICANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST  
AND DIRT THAT WILL SHORTEN THE LIFE OF THE SELF-  
LUBRICATING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEEL THEY MUST BE  
LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POWDERED GRAPHITE  
HANDLE BRACKET MOUNTING PINS  
SPRAY LUBRICANT  
TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY.  
SEE “ENGINE” IN MAINTENANCE SECTION  
10  
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MAINTENANCE  
Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An  
LAWN MOWER  
unbalanced blade will cause eventual damage to lawn  
mower or engine.  
Always observe safety rules when performing any main-  
tenance.  
The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grind-  
ing wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the  
mower.  
TIRES  
Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chem-  
icals which can harm rubber.  
To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or  
wall. Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed.  
Place center hole of blade over the head of the nail.  
If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal  
position. If either end of the blade moves downward,  
sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.  
Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and  
other hazards that may cause tire damage.  
DRIVE WHEELS  
Checkreardrivewheelseachtimeyoumowtobesurethey  
move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash,  
grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the drive wheel and dust  
cover area and must be cleaned out to free drive wheels.  
TRAILING EDGE  
BLADE ADAPTER  
If necessary to clean drive wheels, check both rear wheels.  
BLADE CARE (See Fig. 15)  
Forbestresults,mowerblademustbekeptsharp. Replace  
a bent or damaged blade.  
CAUTION: Use only a replacement  
blade approved by the manufacturer of  
yourmower.Usingabladenotapproved  
by the manufacturer of your mower is  
hazardous, could damage your mower  
and void your warranty.  
LOCK-  
WASHER  
TO REMOVE BLADE  
HARDENED  
WASHER  
BLADE  
BOLT  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place  
wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.  
BLADE  
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and  
carburetor are up.  
FIG. 15  
GRASS CATCHER  
3. Use a wood block between blade and mower housing  
to prevent blade from turning when removing blade  
bolt.  
The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must  
be dry when used.  
Check your grass catcher often for damage or dete-  
rioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher  
needs replacing, replace only with approved replace-  
ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts section of this  
manual. Give the lawn mower model number when  
ordering.  
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade  
with heavy cloth.  
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-clockwise.  
5. Remove blade and attaching hardware (bolt, lock  
washer and hardened washer).  
TO REPLACE BLADE  
GEAR CASE  
1. Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two  
(2) holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the  
adapter.  
To keep your drive system working properly, the gear  
case and area around the drive should be kept clean  
and free of trash build-up. Clean under the drive cover  
twice a season.  
2. Besurethetrailingedgeofblade(oppositesharpedge)  
is up toward the engine.  
The gear case is filled with lubricant to the proper level  
at the factory. The only time the lubricant needs atten-  
tion is if service has been performed on the gear case.  
3. Installthebladeboltwiththelockwasherandhardened  
washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.  
4. Useblockofwoodbetweenbladeandlawnmowerhous-  
ing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.  
If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starplex Pre-  
mium 1 Grease, Part No. 750369. Do not substitute.  
The recommended tightening torque is 35–40 ft. lbs.  
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs  
replacing, replace only with approved bolt shown in the  
Repair Parts section of this manual.  
ENGINE  
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission con-  
trol devices and systems, which are being done at the  
customers expense, may be performed by any non-road  
engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs  
mustbeperformedbyanauthorizedenginemanufacturer's  
service outlet.  
TO SHARPEN BLADE  
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but if  
you do, be sure the blade is balanced.  
11  
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MAINTENANCE  
7. Continue adding small amounts of oil and rechecking  
LUBRICATION  
thedipstickuntilitreadsfull. DONOToverfill,orengine  
will smoke on startup.  
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service  
classification SG–SL. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade  
according to your expected operating temperature.  
8. Alwaysbesureretightendipstickbeforestartingengine.  
9. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.  
OIL FILL CAP /  
DIPSTICK  
NOTE: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve  
starting in cold weather, and you should check your engine  
oil level frequently to avoid possible engine damage from  
running low on oil.  
UPPER  
MARK  
Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at least  
once a year if the lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in  
one year.  
LOWER  
MARK  
Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine  
and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Tighten oil  
plug securely each time you check the oil level.  
FIG. 17  
AIR FILTER  
Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged  
by using a dirty air filter. Replace the air filter every 100  
hours of operation or every season, whichever occurs first.  
Serviceaircleanermoreoftenunderdustyconditions. See  
the maintenance section of your engine manual.  
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Figs. 16 & 17)  
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, empty fuel  
tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place  
wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.  
MUFFLER  
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a  
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.  
fire hazard and/or damage.  
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown and drain oil into  
a suitable container. Rock lawn mower back and forth  
to remove any oil trapped inside of engine.  
SPARK PLUG  
Replacesparkplugatthebeginningofeachmowingseason  
or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs  
first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in the  
“PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.  
CLEANING  
IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER  
HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH. CLEAN  
THE UNDERSIDE OF YOUR MOWER AFTER EACH USE.  
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire  
fromsparkplugandplacewirewhereit  
cannot come in contact with plug.  
Clean the underside of your lawn mower by scraping  
to remove build-up of grass and trash.  
CONTAINER  
Clean engine often to keep trash from accumulating. A  
clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.  
FIG. 16  
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from mower or side of engine.  
Keepnishedsurfaces/wheelsfreeofgasoline,oil,etc.  
5. Fill engine with oil. The engine oil capacity is 18.5 oz.  
If oil is not completely drained from engine, you may  
not need the entire container of a 20 oz. bottle of oil.  
Slowly pour 3/4 of the oil from the container down the  
oil fill spout into the engine.  
We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean  
lawn mower unless the electrical system, muffler, air  
filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out.  
Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.  
6. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle. Use guage on oil  
fill cap/dipstick for checking level. Insert dipstick into  
the tube and rest the oil fill cap on the tube. DO NOT  
thread the cap into the tube when taking reading.  
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER  
Cleanunderdrivecoveratleasttwiceaseason.Scrapeun-  
dersideofcoverwithputtyknifeorsimilartooltoremoveany  
build-up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
3. Remove drive cable from anchor, then detach it and  
CAUTION: TOAVOID SERIOUS INJURY,  
BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE  
OR ADJUSTMENTS:  
1. Release control bar and stop en-  
gine.  
return spring from idler arm assembly (See Fig. 19).  
DRIVE CABLE HOUSING  
ANCHOR HOLE  
2. Make sure the blade and all moving  
parts have completely stopped.  
3. Disconnect spark plug wire from  
spark plug and place where it can-  
not come in contact with plug.  
DRIVE  
DRIVE RETURN  
SPRING  
IDLER ARM  
ASSEMBLY  
LAWN MOWER  
PULLEY BELT  
PIVOT  
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT  
FIG. 19  
See “TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT” in the Operation  
section of this manual.  
4. Pivot idler arm assembly to slacken drive belt, then  
remove drive belt from drive pulley, belt keepers and  
idler arm.  
REAR DEFLECTOR  
The rear deflector, attached between the rear wheels of  
your mower, is provided to minimize the possibility that  
objects will be thrown out of the rear of the mower into  
the operator's mowing position. If the deflector becomes  
damaged, it should be replaced.  
5. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and  
carburetor are up.  
6. Remove screw securing debris shield. Note that the  
debris shield has a tab which fits into a gap in the  
housing (See Fig. 20).  
TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT (See Figs. 18–21)  
CRANKSHAFT  
HOUSING  
HOLE  
TAB  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place  
wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.  
2. Removescrewsretainingdrivecoverandremovedrive  
cover from lawn mower housing (See Fig. 18).  
SCREWS  
BLADE  
ADAPTER  
HARDENED  
WASHER  
DEBRIS  
SHIELD  
BLADE  
BOLT  
SCREW TRAILING  
EDGE  
LOCK-  
WASHER  
FIG. 20  
7. Use a wood block between blade and mower housing  
to prevent blade from turning when removing blade  
bolt.  
DRIVE  
COVER  
LAWN  
MOWER  
HOUSING  
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade  
with heavy cloth.  
8. Remove blade bolt.  
9. Remove blade, attaching hardware (bolt, lock washer,  
hardened washer), blade adapter and debris shield as  
one assembly.  
10. Removedrivebeltfrombladeadapteranddebrisshield;  
discard old belt.  
FIG. 18  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT  
TO ADJUST HANDLE (See Fig. 22)  
1. Place new drive belt in the belt retainer of the debris  
shield. Be sure to route belt between belt keepers and  
through slot as shown (See Fig. 21).  
The handle on your lawn mower has three (3) height posi-  
tions - adjust to height that suits you.  
Squeezethebottomendsoflowerhandletowardseach  
other until the pin in handle can be inserted into one  
of the three height adjustment holes.  
BELT RETAINER  
TAB  
BELT  
KEEPERS  
HANDLE PIN  
SQUEEZE  
DRIVE  
BELT  
HIGH  
HANDLE  
BRACKET  
MED.  
LOW  
DEBRIS  
SHIELD  
SLOT  
FIG. 21  
2. Route the other end of the new drive belt through hole  
in housing.  
3. Reattach debris shield to housing with screw previ-  
ously removed. Be sure tab of debris shield is in gap  
of housing.  
FIG. 22  
4. Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two  
(2) holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the  
adapter.  
ENGINE  
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission con-  
trol devices and systems, which are being done at the  
customers expense, may be performed by any non-road  
engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs  
mustbeperformedbyanauthorizedenginemanufacturer's  
service outlet.  
5. Besurethetrailingedgeofblade(oppositesharpedge)  
is up toward the engine as shown (See Fig. 20).  
6. Installthebladeboltwiththelockwasherandhardened  
washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.  
7. Useblockofwoodbetweenbladeandlawnmowerhous-  
ing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.  
The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. lbs.  
ENGINE SPEED  
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs  
replacing, replace only with approved bolt shown in the  
Repair Parts section of this manual.  
Your engine speed has been factory set. Do not attempt to  
increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If  
you believe that the engine is running too fast or too slow,  
take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for  
repair and adjustment.  
8. Return mower to upright position.  
9. Install new drive belt into idler arm assembly, then  
around the drive pulley. Be sure belt is inside of belt  
keepers (See Fig. 19).  
CARBURETOR  
NOTE: Pulling on the drive belt (to install it on the drive  
pulley) will cause the other end of the belt to free itself from  
the debris shield retainer and come into contact with the  
pulley end of the blade adapter.  
Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your engine does not  
operate properly due to suspected carburetor problems,  
take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for  
repair and/or adjustment.  
IMPORTANT:NEVERTAMPERWITHTHEENGINEGOVERNOR,  
WHICH IS FACTORY SET FOR PROPER ENGINE SPEED.  
OVERSPEEDING THE ENGINE ABOVE THE FACTORY HIGH  
SPEED SETTING CAN BE DANGEROUS. IF YOU THINK THE  
ENGINE-GOVERNED HIGH SPEED NEEDS ADJUSTING,  
CONTACTYOURNEARESTAUTHORIZEDSERVICECENTER,  
WHICH HAS PROPER EQUIPMENT AND EXPERIENCE TO  
MAKE ANY NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS.  
10. Reattach drive cable and return spring to the idler arm  
assembly, then reattach drive cable to anchor.  
11. Reattach drive cover with screws previously removed  
(See Fig. 18).  
12. Connect spark plug wire to spark plug.  
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STORAGE  
Immediately prepare your mower for storage at the end  
of the season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or  
more.  
HANDLE PIN  
LAWN MOWER  
When lawn mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean  
it thoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in  
a clean, dry area.  
SQUEEZE  
1. Clean entire lawn mower (See “CLEANING” in the  
Maintenance section of this manual).  
HANDLE  
BRACKET  
2. Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this  
manual.  
3. Besurethatallnuts,bolts,screws,andpinsaresecurely  
fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage  
and wear. Replace if necessary.  
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand  
lightly before painting.  
HANDLE (See Figs. 23 and 24)  
You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage.  
1. Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on sides of the upper  
handle and allow handle to fold down to the rear.  
2. Squeeze the bottom ends of lower handle toward each  
other until pins in handle clear the brackets and pivot  
entire handle assembly forward and allow it to rest on  
mower.  
FIG. 24  
When settingupyourhandlefromthestorageposition,  
the lower handle will require manually locking into the  
mowing position.  
ENGINE  
FUEL SYSTEM  
IMPORTANT: WHEN FOLDING THE HANDLE FOR STORAGE  
OR TRANSPORTATION, BE SURE TO FOLD THE HANDLEAS  
SHOWN OR YOU MAY DAMAGE THE CONTROL CABLES.  
IMPORTANT: ITISIMPORTANTTOPREVENTGUMDEPOSITS  
FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS  
SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR  
TANK DURING STORAGE. ALCOHOL BLENDED FUELS  
(CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR METHANOL)  
CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH LEADS TO SEPARATION  
ANDFORMATIONOFACIDSDURINGSTORAGE. ACIDICGAS  
CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN  
STORAGE.  
MOWING  
OPERATOR  
POSITION  
PRESENCE  
CONTROL  
BAR  
FOLD  
FORWARD  
FOR  
STORAGE  
Empty the fuel tank by starting the engine and letting  
it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.  
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the  
fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.  
Use fresh fuel next season.  
UPPER  
HANDLE  
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in mini-  
mizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during storage.  
Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.  
Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer container.  
Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer to  
allow the stabilizer to reach the carburetor. Do not empty  
the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.  
HANDLE  
KNOB  
ENGINE OIL  
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean en-  
gine oil. (See “ENGINE” in the Maintenance section of  
this manual).  
LOWER  
HANDLE  
FIG. 23  
15  
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STORAGE  
If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to give  
CYLINDER  
1. Remove spark plug.  
2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole  
into cylinder.  
3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times to distribute oil.  
4. Replace with new spark plug.  
protection from dust and dirt.  
Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that  
does not retain moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic  
cannotbreathe,whichallowscondensationtoformand  
will cause your unit to rust.  
IMPORTANT: NEVER COVER MOWER WHILE ENGINE AND  
EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.  
OTHER  
CAUTION: Neverstorethelawnmower  
with gasoline in the tank inside a build-  
ing where fumes may reach an open  
flameorspark. Allowtheenginetocool  
before storing in any enclosure.  
Do not store gasoline from one season to another.  
Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.  
Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.  
16  
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TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS  
PROBLEM  
CAUSE  
CORRECTION  
Does not start  
1. Dirty air filter.  
2. Out of fuel.  
3. Stale fuel.  
1. Clean/replace air filter.  
2. Fill fuel tank.  
3. Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh,  
clean gasoline.  
4. Water in fuel.  
4. Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh,  
clean gasoline.  
5. Spark plug wire is disconnected.  
6. Bad spark plug.  
5. Connect wire to plug.  
6. Replace spark plug.  
7. Loose blade or broken blade adapter.  
8. Control bar in released position.  
9. Control bar defective.  
7. Tighten blade bolt or replace blade adapter.  
8. Depress control bar to handle.  
9. Replace control bar.  
10. Fuel valve lever (if equipped) in OFF position. 10. Turn fuel valve lever to the ON position.  
11. Weak battery (if equipped). 11. Charge battery.  
12. Disconnected battery connector (if equipped). 12. Connect battery to engine.  
Loss of power  
1. Rear of lawn mower housing or cutting  
blade dragging in heavy grass.  
2. Cutting too much grass.  
3. Dirty air filter.  
1. Raise cutting height.  
2. Raise cutting height.  
3. Clean/replace air filter.  
4. Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under  
mower.  
4. Clean underside of mower housing.  
5. Too much oil in engine.  
6. Walking speed too fast.  
5. Check oil level.  
6. Cut at slower walking speed.  
Poor cut –  
uneven  
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.  
2. Wheel heights uneven.  
3. Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under  
mower.  
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.  
2. Set all wheels at same height.  
3. Clean underside of mower housing.  
Excessive  
vibration  
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.  
2. Bent engine crankshaft.  
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.  
2. Contact a qualified service center.  
Starter rope  
hard to pull  
1. Engine flywheel brake is on when control  
bar is released.  
1. Depress control bar to upper handle before  
pulling starter rope.  
2. Bent engine crankshaft.  
3. Blade adapter broken.  
4. Blade dragging in grass.  
2. Contact a qualified service center.  
3. Replace blade adapter.  
4. Move lawn mower to cut grass or other  
hard surface before starting.  
Grass catcher  
not filling  
1. Cutting height too low.  
2. Lift on blade worn off.  
1. Raise cutting height.  
2. Replace blade.  
(if so equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air.  
3. Clean grass catcher.  
Hard to push  
1. Grass is too high or wheel height is too low.  
1. Raise cutting height.  
2. Rear of lawn mower housing or cutting  
blade dragging in heavy grass.  
2. Raise rear of lawn mower housing one (1)  
setting higher.  
3. Grass catcher too full.  
3. Empty grass catcher.  
4. Handle height position not right for you.  
4. Adjust handle height to suit.  
Loss of drive  
(or slowing of  
drive speed)  
1. Belt wear.  
2. Belt off of pulley.  
3. Drive cable worn or broken.  
4. “Loose” drive control system.  
1. Check/replace drive belt.  
2. Check/reinstall drive belt.  
3. Put belt on pulleys / replace belts if broken.  
4. Adjust drive control.  
17  
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