Snapper Lawn Mower R204513E User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

20” STEEL DECK

WALK MOWERS

SERIES 13

MODEL

R204513E

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

MODEL DESIGNATION

CUTTING WIDTH

ENGINE OPTIONS

SERIES DESIGNATION

ENGINE HORSE POWER

R – Recycling Model

20 – 20” Cutting Width

13 - Series Designation

E – Electric Start Model

45 – 4.5 HP (Engine Horse Power)

Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Walk Behind, read this manual carefully and pay

particular attention to the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3. Remember that all power

equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance

with the operating instructions and common sense.

SNAPPER INC.

MANUAL No. 7-2036 .(REV. 1, 5/17/99)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATION

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

6. Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Tall grass can

hide obstacles.

4. Keep all bolts, especially blade bolts, nuts and

screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins

are in proper position.

7. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or

embankments. Operator could lose footing or

balance.

8. DO NOT mow on wet grass Always be sure of

your footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and

walk; never run. Slipping could cause injury.

STOP blade and engine whenever you leave the

operating position behind the handle for any

reason, including clearing grass, emptying

5. Service engine and make adjustments only

when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug

wire from spark plug and secure wire away from

spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

6. DO NOT change engine governor speed

settings or overspeed engine.

7. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear

or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and

exposure to moving parts. Replace with new

bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace

slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.

8. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the

blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use

CAUTION when handling them.

9. NEVER test for spark by grounding spark plug

next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite

gas exiting engine.

10. Have machine serviced by an authorized

SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have

the dealer install any new safety devices.

11. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts

to assure that original standards are

maintained.

grass

bag

and

making

wheel height

adjustments, repairs, or inspections.

9. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make

certain blade and all moving parts have

STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug

wire away from plug to prevent accidental

starting.

10. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to

complete STOP before removing grass bag

and/or clearing grass.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

1. Never store machine or fuel container inside

where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or

pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace,

clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow

engine to cool before storing machine in an

enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of

children in

building.

well ventilated, unoccupied

2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or

excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine

overheating.

3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an

approved container outdoors and away from

open flame.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS................................................2-3

TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................ 4

DEALER SET-UP AND CHECKLIST.....................................................5-6

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION.............................................................. 8

SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.......................................9-12

Pre-start Checklist...................................................................................................... 9

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blades ................................................................. 9-11

Adjusting Handle Height.......................................................................................... 11

Adjusting Cutting Height ......................................................................................... 12

Recycling Operation................................................................................................. 12

Recycling Cover Installation/Removal ................................................................... 12

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS................................13-14

Changing Engine Oil................................................................................................ 13

Checking Mower Blade............................................................................................ 13

Annually (End of Each Season) .............................................................................. 14

Engine................................................................................................................... 14

Air Filter................................................................................................................ 14

Engine Oil............................................................................................................. 14

Storage Procedure ................................................................................................... 14

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR......................................... 15

Mower Blade Repair/Replacement.......................................................................... 15

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 16

SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 17

Maintenance/Replacement Parts ............................................................................ 17

WARRANTY............................................................................................ 18

PRIMARY MANTENANCE .................................................................19-22

DEALER SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS for SNAPPER

20” STEEL DECK WALK BEHIND MOWERS

This SNAPPER Walk Behind Mower uses a handle engine control bail system to kill the engine for the SAFETY

of the operator. These mowers are designed for quick set-up. The checklist on Page 6 should be filled out by

the dealer as the items are checked off and/or performed and the Consumer/Operator Product Registration card

filled out and sent to the Customer Service department at SNAPPER when completed. CAUTION: Cutting blades

are extremely sharp. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working with blades. Be careful to avoid

cutting yourself on sharp edges of blade.

PUSH MODELS

LOWER HANDLE

STEP 1: Remove machine from shipping carton. Machine

LOOSEN TWO

is shipped in carton with handles folded Remove and

discard cardboard from between all handles. Raise upper

handle until it is in line and seats into lower brackets.

Securely tighten handle T-Knobs on both sides. See

Figure 1.

NUTS

RAISE

HANDLE

BAR

T-KNOBS

LOWER

BRACKETS

FIGURE 2

HANDLE

FIGURE 1

IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or

spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air

filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all.

If contamination does occur the air filter will have to be

replaced.

ROPE GUIDE

STARTER

ROPE

STEP 2: Tip mower back against the upper handle to gain

access to cutting blade. Remove foam shipping block

from cutting blade. This must be removed before starting

the engine.

T-HANDLE

STEP 3: Handle height is adjustable for different height of

operators. Loosen the two nuts on the inside of each of

the lower handles. See Figure 2. Move the handle up or

down to the desired height. Retighten all nuts securely

after adjustment.

FIGURE 3

STEP 4: Pull blade control against upper handle, pull rope

start handle and loop into rope guide. See Figure 3.

STEP 5: Set-up is now complete for push models

Proceed to checklist found on page 6 of this instruction

to prepare mower for use.

DEALER CHECKLIST for SNAPPER

20” STEEL DECK WALK BEHIND MOWERS

The following must be achieved upon the purchase of the mower. It is very important that

the Dealer performs and accomplishes the set-up and the operational tests as listed below.

SET-UP (Details on Page 5 of this Instruction)

_____ FOAM SHIPPING BLOCK removed from cutting blade.

_____ UPPER HANDLE & LOWER HANDLE secured in place and hardware tightened securely.

_____ SIDE CHUTE, RECYCLING COVER or GRASS BAG installed on mower.

_____ BLADE retaining bolt(s) checked and tighten securely.

LUBRICATION

_____ ENGINE OIL added to bring level up to full mark on 4-cycle engines (Refer to Engine Manual).

OPERATIONAL TEST

_____ ENGINE started, engine control settings checked and adjusted as needed.

CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) COMPLIANCE TEST

_____ BLADE CONTROL stops engine when released.

DEALER’S RECORDS & FINAL CHECK

_____ PERSONALLY HANDED Operator’s Manual & Mower Safety Booklet to purchaser.

_____ INSTRUCTED purchaser to read and follow instructions in Operator’s Manual.

_____ DEMONSTRATED proper starting procedure and operation of mower to purchaser.

_____ INSTRUCTED purchaser how to service air cleaner, maintain oil level (4-cycle).

_____ ASSISTED purchaser in completing Product Registration Card.

CONSUMER/OPERATOR PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD

Purchase Date ___________________ Model _______________________ Serial No.________________________

Retailers Name ___________________________________ Signature _____________________________________

Address _____________________________________ City ____________________ State _______ Zip _______

MOWER WILL BE USED COMMERCIALLY? _______ YES _____ NO

Purchaser’s Name _________________________________ Signature ____________________________________

Address ____________________________________ City _____________________ State _______ Zip _______

IMPORTANT: This form is to be retained by the Dealer for future reference regarding Warranty, proof of

purchase, traceability for product recall or service, etc. Complete the Product Registration Card and Mail to

Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, P.O. BOX 1379, McDonough, Georgia, 30253.

NOTE: This page is left blank so dealer can remove page 5 for future reference

regarding Warranty, proof of purchase, traceability for product recall or

service, etc.

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

BLADE

CONTROL

SWITCH

BOX

ROPE START

T-HANDLE

BLADE

CONTROL

CABLE

T-KNOB

UPPER

HANDLE

FUEL FILLER CAP

T-KNOB

ENGINE

LOWER

BRACKET

OIL FILL CAP

& DIPSTICK

RECYCLING

COVER

MOWER

DECK

COVER

KNOBS

FIGURE 1.1

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

This manual has been prepared for the operators of

the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. Its

purpose, aside from recommending operating and

routine service requirements, is to promote safety

through the use of accepted operating practices.

Read, Understand and Follow the “IMPORTANT

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3 of this

manual and all safety messages on the mower and

attachments before operating the mower.

The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows

the essential parts of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND

MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of

the mower become thoroughly familiar with the

controls, parts and operation of the mower before

operating. Specific details involving the engine are

found in the separate engine owner’s manual. Study

these manuals before operating and keep both

handy for future reference.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST

2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower

Make the following checks and perform the service

required before each start-up.

2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter

and covers to make sure all are in place and securely

tightened.

outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure

cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine

Owners Manual for specifications.

2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and

engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass,

oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and cooling

fins clear at all times.

2.1.2. Check blade control to insure it works freely.

See Figure 2.1.

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE

(Recoil Start)

1. Move engine speed control (Located on the side of

the engine) to the “FAST” rabbit position.

2. Push primer button three times to start a cold

engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start

warm engine. See Figure 2.3.

BLADE CONTROL

SHOWN IN “OFF”

POSITION

IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing

the blade control.

TURTLE

RABBIT

FIGURE 2.1

2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.

2.1.4. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring

level up to the full mark. Refer to Engine Owner’s

Manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.2.

PRIMER

BUTTON

MOVE TO FAST

(RABBIT) POSITION

DIPSTICK

PUSH BUTTON

THREE TIMES

ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL

FIGURE 2.3

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until

engine runs smooth.

MAXIMUM OIL

LEVEL

MINIMUM

OIL LEVEL

FIGURE 2.2

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE

WARNING

(120 Volt Electric Start)

To avoid electrical shock or injury, make sure power

cord is away from cutting blade before attempting to

start engine.

WARNING

The 120 volt electric start models are supplied with

a 10 foot three-wire power cord. The plug is

designed to operate on 120 volt AC household

current. It must be properly grounded at ALL times

to avoid the possibility of electric shock, which may

cause injury to the operator. Follow ALL

instructions carefully as set forth below. Determine

that your house wiring system is a three-wire

grounded system. Ask a licensed electrician if you

are not sure. If your house wiring system is not a

three-wire grounded system, DO NOT use this

electric start mower under any condition. If your

system is grounded and a three-hole receptacle is

NOT available, one should be installed by a licensed

electrician.

TURTLE

RABBIT

MOVE TO FAST

(RABBIT) POSITION

ENGINE

SPEED

CONTROL

IMPORTANT: If using a power cord other than the one

supplied with machine, then use a power cord that is heavy

enough to carry the correct amount of current to the mower.

See chart, (OPTIONAL POWER CORDS) for correct size to

use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere

rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge cord.

FIGURE 2.4

OPTIONAL POWER CORDS

MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD SETS

PUSH BUTTON

TO START

ENGINE

120 Volt

Total Length of Cord in Feet

SWITCH

BOX

Rating - Amps

25 ft.

50 ft.

100 ft. 150 ft.

Than

Not More

Than

American Wire Gauge

Not Recommended

1. Move engine speed control (Located on the side

of the engine) to the “FAST” rabbit position. See

Figure 2.4.

PULL BLADE

CONTROL BACK

AGAINST HANDLE

ELECTRIC

POWER CORD

NOTE: DO NOT use primer when using the electric starter.

DO NOT use primer to restart a warm engine.

FIGURE 2.5

IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing

the blade control.

(Starting procedure is continued on next page)

2. Connect power cord to the handle mounted

switch box. See Figure 2.5.

3. Plug opposite end of power cord into a three

hole grounded 120 Volt, AC receptacle.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE

WARNING

Before attempting any adjustments to the cutting height,

STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the

spark plug and secure wire away from plug. DO NOT make

any adjustments with engine or blade running. Be

extremely careful when performing adjustments around

engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe

burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or

working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely

sharp and can cause severe injury.

(120 Volt Electric Start)

4. Stand in operator’s position. Move blade control

against handle and hold in place. See Figure 2.5.

WARNING

To avoid electrical shock or injury, make sure power

cord is away from cutting blade before attempting to

start engine.

2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as

follows:

5. Depress starter button on switch box until engine

starts. See Figure 2.5. NOTE: If after 5 seconds of

cranking the engine and it does not start, release the

starter button. Attempt starting again after waiting for

approximately 20 seconds.

6. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until

engine runs smooth. If engine fails to start, check the

power cord. Be sure it is inserted securely into the AC

receptacle and into the switch box.

1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as

shown in Figure 2.7.

2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the

desired position is achieved.

3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to

maintain desired position.

LOWER HANDLE

2.3 STOPPING

Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade

control. See Figure 2.6.

LOOSEN TWO

NUTS

BLADE CONTROL

SHOWN IN “OFF”

POSITION

FIGURE 2.6

FIGURE 2.7

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed setting.

WARNING

4. Proceed mowing slowly. If grass is very dense, lower

each rear wheel latch one notch lower than the front

wheel latches to improve recycling performance.

Before attempting any adjustments to the cutting height,

STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the

spark plug and secure wire away from plug. DO NOT make

any adjustments with engine or blade running. Be

extremely careful when performing adjustments around

engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe

burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or

working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely

sharp and can cause severe injury.

2.7 RECYCLING COVER

(REMOVAL/INSTALLATION)

1. REMOVAL: The recycling cover is secured in

place with two knobs. To remove the cover, unscrew

the two knobs and lift off the cover. See Figure 2.9.

2. INSTALLATION: When reinstalling the cover,

the deck sidewall should fit between the tab and

outside of cover. Tighten knobs securely. See

Figure 2.10.

2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1. FRONT WHEELS: Reposition the front axle by

raising the front wheels off the ground, then pull in the

spring loaded bushings until they clear the brackets.

Move bushings to the desired height of cut position

and release the bushings. See Figure 2.8.

SILHOUETTE

OF CUTTING

DECK

2. REAR WHEELS: Reposition the rear axle by

raising the rear wheels off the ground, then pull in

the spring loaded bushings until they clear the

brackets. Move bushings to the desired height of

cut position and release the bushings. Position the

rear bushings in to the same notches corresponding

with notches for the front wheels to maintain the

level of the deck. See Figure 2.8.

NOTE: There are four cutting height adjustment notches

on each wheel. The top notch is the lowest cutting height

and the lowest notch is the highest.

REMOVE BOTH KNOBS

BY TURNING

COUNTER-CLOCKWISE

RECYCLING

COVER

LOWEST

POSITION

AXLE

BUSHING

FIGURE 2.9

FRONT

WHEEL

CARRIAGE BOLT & NUT

(USED WITH SIDE

DISCHARGE CHUTE

ONLY!)

TURN KNOBS

CLOCKWISE

WHEN

REINSTALLING

DECK SIDE

WALL

HIGHEST

POSITION

FIGURE 2.8

2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION

NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum

of 1/3 of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when

grass is dry.

RECYCLING

COVER

TAB (SHOWS VIEW FROM

UNDERNEATH RECYCLING COVER)

1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch

4).

FIGURE 2.10

2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” (Rabbit)

position.

Section 3 - MAINTENANCE

3.1 INTRODUCTION

5. Lower the mower down and place the piece of

wood under left rear wheel. Reach under mower

and remove drain plug and allow oil to drain out

completely in pan. Some oil may spill onto hands,

immediately wipe hands clean with cloth rags.

6. Tilt mower back up and replace drain plug.

Tighten securely but do not over tighten.

To retain the quality of the mower, use genuine

SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact a local

SNAPPER dealer for parts and service assistance.

For the correct part or information for a particular

mower, always mention model and serial number.

3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS

3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL

7. Fill engine with oil as specified in Engine

Owner’s Manual. Thereafter, change oil after each

25 hours of use.

WARNING

IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or

spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air

filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all.

If contamination does occur the air filter will have to be

replaced.

Before attempting any adjustments or repairs, STOP

the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the

spark plug and secure wire away from plug. Wear

heavy leather gloves when handling or working

around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp

and can cause severe injury. Engine oil is extremely

hot and can cause severe burns. Allow engine oil to

cool before draining to prevent injury.

3.2.2 CHECK MOWER BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away

from plug.

2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels for access to

the blade cap screw. Do not tilt mower with spark

plug or carburetor down. See Figure 3.2.

3. Check torque of blade retaining cap screw.

Recommended torque should be 30 to 40 ft. lbs.

See Figure 3.2.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away

from plug. The items needed to perform oil change

are: cloth rags, (1) 3/8” drive ratchet with a short

extension and (1) shallow pan.

2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels for access to

the oil drain plug located underneath the mower

deck. Do not tilt mower with spark plug or

carburetor down. See Figure 3.1.

4. Check blade for sharpness, wear and damage. See

Section on Blade Wear Limits.

MAKE SURE THAT

BLADE HUB IS

SEATED

BLADE

HUB

BETWEEN

FLANGES

FLANGE

BLADE

CONE WASHER

(Widest Part Up)

REMOVE OIL

PLUG

CAPSCREW TORQUE

30-40 FT. LBS.

FIGURE 3.2

FIGURE 3.1

3. Place shallow pan underneath the approximate

center of the oil drain plug.

4. Loosen with ratchet and short extension, but do

not remove oil drain plug. Loosen plug until you can

turn it with your fingers.

Section 3 - MAINTENANCE

3.3 ANNUALLY (END OF EACH SEASON)

Perform all maintenance as described in the maintenance

schedule.

3.3.1. Engine

Service engine according to engine owner’s manual.

3.3.2. Air Filter

Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.

3.3.3. Engine Oil

Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.

3.4 STORAGE PROCEDURE

Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for directions

regarding engine storage preparations. Prepare the

mower for “end of season” storage as follows:

1. Drain fuel from fuel tank and let engine run until

all fuel is out of the carburetor.

2. Disconnect and remove the spark plug wire

away from spark plug before any other

preparations are made!

3. Tape all openings closed to prevent spraying

water into exhaust or air intakes during washing.

4. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels and thoroughly

clean the underside of the deck. Do not tilt mower

with spark plug or carburetor down. Scrape away

any accumulation of grass with a putty knife and or

wire brush.

5. Lubricate all exposed metal with a light coating

of oil to prevent corrosion.

6. Loosen handle knobs. Carefully fold the handles

forward, “flexing” the control cables to prevent cable

damage.

7. Store the mower in a shed or other dry area,

protected from weather.

Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR

WARNING

MAKE SURE THAT

BLADE HUB IS

SEATED

BETWEEN

FLANGES

Before attempting any adjustments or repairs, STOP

the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the

spark plug and secure wire away from plug. Be

extremely careful when performing adjustments around

engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe

burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or

working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely

sharp and can cause severe injury.

BLADE

HUB

FLANGE

4.1 MOWER BLADE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT

4.1.1. STANDARD BLADE WEAR LIMIT

1. Inspect blade frequently for signs of excessive wear

or damage. See Figure 4.1.

BLADE

CONE WASHER

(Widest Part Up)

NEW BLADE

CAPSCREW

FIGURE 4.2

WEAR LIMIT

(NOTCH STARTS)

NOTE: DO NOT

SHARPEN BEYOND

ORIGINAL

CUTTING EDGE.

DANGEROUS CONDITION !

DO NOT USE ON MOWER !

REPLACE WITH NEW BLADE.

22-28º

BLADE TIP

FIGURE 4.1

WARNING

END VIEW

OF BLADE

Never use a cutting blade that shows signs of

excessive wear or damage. Refer to Section on

MOWER BLADE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT for proper

blade inspection and service procedures.

ORIGINAL CUTTING EDGE

4.1.2. BLADE SHARPENING

1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away

from plug.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or

spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air

filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all. If

contamination does occur the air filter will have to be

replaced.

FIGURE 4.3

5. Check blade for balance. If necessary, correct

balance by grinding heavy end of blade.

6. Reinstall blade. Refer to Figure 3.2. Check torque

of blade retaining cap screw. Recommended torque

should be 30 to 40 ft. lbs.

2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels.

3. Remove blade. See Figure 4.2.

4. Sharpen blade on a grinding wheel at an angle of 22

to 28 degrees. DO NOT sharpen blade beyond the

original cutting edge. See Figure 4.3.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM

PROBABLE CAUSE

CORRECTIVE ACTION

1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel.

2. Push primer three times.

3. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug.

4. Replace with new spark plug.

Engine Will Not Start

Using Recoil Starter

1. Fuel tank empty.

2. Engine needs priming.

3. Spark plug wire disconnected.

4. Spark plug faulty.

Engine Will Not Start

Using Electric Starter

1. Fuel tank empty.

2. Engine needs priming.

1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel.

2. Push primer three times.

3. Power cord not plugged into switch box or AC outlet. 3. Plug in power cord to switch box & AC outlet.

4. Power cord damaged or severed.

5. Spark plug wire disconnected.

4. Use new power cord of proper amperage.

5. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug.

Engine Stalls or Stops

After Running

1. Blade control is released or is not being held

securely against handle.

1. Blade control should be held securely against

handle at all times during operation of

mower.

2. Fuel tank empty.

2. Fill with fuel to proper level.

3. Clean free of all debris.

4. Service spark plug.

5. Drain and clean fuel system.

1. Clean or replace filters.

3. Engine air pre-cleaner and or air cleaner dirty.

4. Spark plug defective or gap set improperly.

5. Water, debris or stale fuel in fuel system.

1. Engine air pre-cleaner or air cleaner dirty

2. Spark plug faulty.

Engine Loses Power

Excessive Vibration

2. Service spark plug.

3. Water, debris or stale fuel in fuel system.

1. Damaged, out of balance or bent mower blade.

2. Loose blade components.

3. Loose or missing air lift (if equipped).

1. Cutting height too low or high.

2. Engine speed too slow.

3. Forward ground speed too fast.

4. Terraced cut, side to side.

5. Excessive deck pitch, front to rear.

6. Cutting blade dull or damaged.

1. Engine speed too slow.

3. Drain and clean fuel system.

1. Service mower blade.

2. Service and tighten loose parts.

3. Replace air lifts. Tighten to proper torque.

1. Adjust cutting height.

2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” position.

3. Move ground speed control to a slower speed.

4. Adjust height of cut with height adjust bushings.

5. Adjust height of cut with height adjust bushings.

6. Sharpen cutting edges or replace blade.

1. Move engine speed control to “FAST” position.

2. Mow when grass is dry.

Cutting Grass

Improperly

Poor Grass Discharge

2. Grass is wet.

3. Excessively worn or damaged blade.

4. Build up of grass clippings and debris under deck.

5. Improper blade installed on deck.

6. Blade installed improperly on deck.

1. Leaking engine case.

3. Service mower blade.

4. Clean deck.

5. Install proper SNAPPER blade.

6. Install blade properly.

1. Contact authorized SNAPPER dealer.

2. Check and tighten drain plug.

3. Make sure dipstick or oil filler cap is securely in

place.

Oil Leaking

SERVICE SCHEDULE

ITEM

SERVICE PERFORMED

REF.

Page 9

EACH

USE

HRS

100

HRS

EACH

SEASON

Check Oil Level

Engine Oil

Initial Oil Change

Periodic Oil Change

Page 9

Page 13

Clean Sponge Element

Clean or Replace

Replace

Engine Manual

& Page 14.

Engine Manual.

Air Pre-Cleaner

Air Cleaner

X**

Engine Manual.

Engine Manual

Spark Plug

Clean Shroud & Fins

Engine Cooling

System

X**

Check For Wear, Damage Page 15

& Replacement

Mower Blade

Clean Debris

Accumulation

Page 14

Mower Deck

* Change oil every 25 hours when operating under heavy load or high temperatures.

**Clean more often under dusty conditions or when air debris is present

4.2.

MAINTENANCE/REPLACEMENT PARTS

MAINTENANCE PARTS

Blade Control Cable

3-5493

Cutter Blade (Mulching)

Parts Manual for 20” Steel Deck Walk Behind Mower Series 13

1-7167

06058

3 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

For three (3) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential, non-commercial use, SNAPPER, through

any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge (except for taxes where applicable), any part or parts found

upon examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.

For ninety (90) days from purchase date for the original purchaser's commercial, rental, or other non-residential use,

SNAPPER, through any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge, any part or parts found upon

examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.

All transportation costs incurred by the purchaser in submitting material to an authorized SNAPPER dealer for

replacement under this warranty must be paid by the purchaser.

This warranty does not apply to engines and their components, and batteries, as these items are warranted separately.

This warranty does not apply to parts that have been damaged by accident, alteration, abuse, improper lubrication,

normal wear, or other cause beyond the control of SNAPPER. This warranty does not cover any machine or component

part that has been altered or modified changing safety, performance, or durability.

Batteries have a one (1) year prorated warranty period with free replacement if required during the first ninety (90) days

from the original purchase date. SNAPPER will not be responsible for any installation cost incurred. The battery warranty

only covers original equipment batteries and does not cover damage to the battery or machine caused by neglect or

abuse, destruction by fire, explosion, freezing, overcharging, improper maintenance, or use of improper electrolyte.

There is no other express warranty.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY

Implied warranties, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to three

(3) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential or other non-commercial use, and ninety

(90) days from purchase for the original purchaser's commercial, rental or other non-residential use, and to the

extent permitted by law, any and all implied warranties are excluded. This is the exclusive remedy. Liabilities for

consequential damages, under any and all warranties are excluded.

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, or do not allow the exclusion or

limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

WARNING: THE USE OF REPLACEMENT PARTS OTHER THAN GENUINE SNAPPER PARTS MAY IMPAIR THE

SAFETY OF SNAPPER PRODUCTS AND WILL VOID ANY LIABILITY AND WARRANTY BY SNAPPER

ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF SUCH PARTS.

IMPORTANT: Please fill out the attached SNAPPER Product Registration Card immediately and mail to:

Snapper’s Product Registration Center, P.O. Box 1379, McDonough, Georgia 30253

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

An illustration of how

dirt can damage your

engine

how

reasonable maintenance

can protect it!

Snapper uses the

best

engines

available

and

components

their products in

order to provide

long, satisfactory

service. However,

proper

essential

care

prolonging engine

life. Dirt is your

engine’s

enemy

number 1!

The engine on your Snapper

product spends its entire life

operating close to the ground at

high speed creating

storm of dust and dirt!

virtual

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

Knowing the dirt will

quickly ruin an engine,

manufacturers equip their

engine with extremely

efficient air cleaners to

filter out the harmful dirt.

The engine must gulp

about 12,000 gallons

of air for every gallon

of fuel used. Because

environment, the air

available to your

its

working

Snapper engine is

heavily saturated with

airborne dirt particles.

Damage caused by a poorly serviced air

cleaner is not covered under the engine

warranties. So, save yourself unnecessary

expenses and undue aggravation by keeping

the air cleaner properly serviced at the

intervals specified in the engine owner’s

manual.

As the dirt particles are stopped, they build up

and begin to clog the outside of the air filter.

This reduces the amount of air available to the

engine and causes an over-rich fuel mixture

which results in the following adverse effects:

It doesn’t take long to service an air cleaner.

Follow the specific instructions in the engine

owner’s manual for the type filter used.

Prevent dirt from falling into the carburetor

intake when servicing your air cleaner. Make

sure components are installed in correct

sequence after servicing to prevent unfiltered

air from entering the engine. Some servicing

hints on several common types are:

An improperly serviced, dirt

clogged air cleaner will:

1. Increase fuel

consumption.

2. Cause power loss.

3. Result in hard

starting.

4. Create smoke from

unburned fuel.

5. Produce carbon

build-up internally.

6. Foul spark plug

electrodes.

7. Score cylinder walls.

8. Burn valves.

9. Wear out the engine

pre-maturely.

10. COST YOU MONEY!

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

Air is also needed to keep

your engine cool. Dirt, dust &

debris build up restricts and

clogs cooling air intake

screens and fins. Clean

screens and fins at frequent

intervals. The engine blower

housing and shrouds should

be removed at least once

each season or more often

under dry, dusty conditions

for a thorough cleaning of

fins.

Failure to keep external surfaces

Generally, wash foam-type filters in

a dishwashing detergent and water

solution. Rinse and wring dry, then

saturate with oil and squeeze out

excess. Failure to re-oil this type

filter will ruin the engine.

clean not only presents fire

hazards, but causes overheating

and resulting engine damages

such as:

1. Distorted valve

guides.

2. Sticking Valves.

3. Scuffed, scored

cylinder walls.

4. Over-speeding.

5. Loss of power.

6. Complete failure

of engine.

Clean paper elements by tapping

lightly. Blowing with air will rupture

paper elements.

Use a flashlight to detect clogged

or torn paper elements – replace if

damaged in any way.

Dirt

can

also

introduced into an engine

in dirty fuel from

contaminated container.

Always use clean fresh

fuel

container

from

clean

guard

against dirt, sludge and

water contamination.

Be aware that fuel

An engine must also have proper lubrication. All

engines use some oil. On 4-cycle engine,

CHECK OIL LEVEL BEFORE EACH START-UP.

Wipe area clean around the oil check plug or

dipstick opening to keep dirt from falling into

the engine when checking the oil. Always check

with the machine on a level surface. On engines

with dipstick, keep the level up to, but not over,

the FULL mark. When adding oil, allow time for

all of the oil to flow down the fill tube to prevent

a false full reading when the level could actually

be low and result in engine damage.

breaks

down

storage and forms

gummy compounds

which

will

block

carburetor passages.

Never use fuel more

than

months old.

Drain tank then run

the engine out of fuel

before storing during

the off-season.

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

On 2-cycle engines, lubrication must be

On 4-cycle engines with an oil

level plug, don’t be fooled onto

thinking the engine has

sufficient lubricating oil if you

can see “some” oil in the

opening – the level should

always be brought up to the

point of overflowing at the

top of the fill hole.

provided by an exact mixture of gasoline

and 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil. A 2-cycle

engine that is mistakenly run on straight

gasoline will be ruined in less than 5

minutes! If you keep straight gasoline in

addition to pre-mixed 2-cycle engine fuel,

be sure the containers are clearly marked

to avoid mix-up.

Snapper 2-cycle engines require a 32 to 1

mixture of gasoline and BIA certified TC-W

oil such as Snapper’s 2-cycle engine oil.

Many of the 2-cycle engine oils on the

market today make fantastic claims, but for

the best performance and long engine life,

always use Snapper 2-cycle oil. Pre-mix the

fuel and always shake the container before

filling the tank.

Change oil at regular intervals using a high

quality oil such as Snapper’s small engine

formulated 4-cycle engine oil. Refer to the

engine owner’s manual for oil details.

1. Engine Oil

To full level (4-cycle).

Properly mixed with gas

(2- cycle).

Read and follow all

safety instructions in

safety booklets and

manuals.

2. Air Cleaner

3. Fuel Tank

Clean and properly serviced.

Full fresh clean gasoline.

Fuel valve open.

Cap vent open.

Inline filter clean.

4. Choke

5. Primer (on

some engines)

Operating properly.

Used properly.

Keep in mind that dirt is your engine’s

enemy #1 both internally and externally!

Internally, dirt will quickly ruin an engine

and externally it will cause overheating and

resulting internal damages. Damage caused

by improper lubrication, poor air cleaner

service or overheating due to dirt cannot be

covered under warranty.

6. Safety Interlock In proper position.

Switches

All wires properly connected.

7. Switch & Blade Switch On.

Control

Blade control properly

positioned on walk mower.

Wire connected.

8. Spark Plug

Good connection.

9. Throttle Control Start Position.

It only takes a few moments to service the engine

(and equipment) on a routine basis but the rewards

will be a quick starting, responsive engine that will

provide long satisfactory service with minimum

maintenance cost. The pre-start checklist in the next

column and instructions in your Snapper Operator’s

Manual are designated to help you keep your Snapper

in top operating condition with minimum effort!

10. Blade

Properly installed and

torqued.

Sharpened.

Good condition.

Not clogged.

11. Muffler

Grass & leaves cleaned away.

SERVICE NOTES

______________________________________________________________________________

SERVICE NOTES

______________________________________________________________________________

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

20” STEEL DECK

WALK BEHIND MOWERS

SERIES 13

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State

of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING:

SNAPPER INC.

MANUAL No. 7-2036 .(REV. 1, 5/17/99)

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