TROUBLESHOOTING (continued) See appropriate section in manual unless directed to an authorized Service Center. PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height. not fi lling 2. Lift on blade worn off. 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 1. Raise cutting height. height is too low. 2. Rear of lawn mower 2. Raise rear of lawn mower housing or cutting blade housing one (1) setting dragging in grass. higher. 3. Grass catcher too full. 3. Empty grass catcher. 4. Handle height position not 4. Adjust handle height to suit. right for you.

Loss of drive 1. Belt wear. 1. Check/replace drive belt. or slowing of 2. Belt off of pulley. 2. Check/reinstall drive belt. drive speed 3. Drive cable worn or broken. 3. Replace drive cable. 4. “Loose” drive control system. 4. Adjust drive control.

SELF-PROPELLED ROTARY LAWN MOWER

WARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal com bustion engine and should not be used on or near any un im proved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffl er is available through your nearest authorized service center.

193733 Rev. 9 09.16.10 BY Printed in U.S.A. TABLE OF CONTENTS TROUBLESHOOTING Safety Rules ...... 2-3 Maintenance...... 22-26 Storage...... 33-34 See appropriate section in manual unless directed to an authorized Assembly...... 5-8 Service and Troubleshooting...... 35-36 Service Center. Operation...... 9-21 Adjustments...... 27-32 PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION SAFETY RULES Does not start 1. Dirty air fi lter. 1. Clean/replace air fi lter. 2. Out of fuel. 2. Fill fuel tank. IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing ob- 3. Stale fuel. 3. Drain fuel tank and refi ll tank jects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. with fresh, clean gasoline. 4. Water in fuel. 4. Drain fuel tank and refi ll tank Look for this symbol to point out im por - • Do not pull mower backwards unless with fresh, clean gasoline. tant safety precautions. It means absolutely nec essary. Always look down 5. Spark plug wire is 5. Connect wire to plug. CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! and behind before and while moving disconnected. YOUR SAFE TY IS INVOLVED. backwards. 6. Bad spark plug. 6. Replace spark plug. WARNING: In order to prevent ac ciden tal • Never direct discharged material toward 7. Loose blade or broken 7. Tighten blade bolt or starting when setting up, trans porting, ad- anyone. Avoid discharging material against blade adapter. replace blade adapter. justing or making repairs, always dis connect a wall or obstruction. Material may richo- 8. Control bar in released 8. Depress control bar to spark plug wire and place wire where it can not chet back toward the operator. Stop the position. handle. come in contact with plug. blade when crossing gravel surfaces. 9. Control bar defective. 9. Replace control bar. WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its • Do not operate the mower without 10.Fuel valve lever (if so 10.Turn fuel valve lever constituents, and certain vehicle com po- proper guards, plates, grass catcher or equipped) in OFF position. to the ON position. nents contain or emit chem icals known to other safety protective devices in place. 11. Weak battery (if equipped). 11. Charge battery. the State of Cal ifor nia to cause can cer and • See manufacturer’s instructions for 12.Disconnected battery 12.Connect battery to engine. birth defects or oth er re produc tive harm. proper operation and installation of connector (if equipped). WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and accessories. Only use accessories ap- 13.Blown fuse (if equipped). 13.Replace fuse. related accessories contain lead and lead proved by the manufacturer. compounds, chemicals known to the State • Stop the blade(s) when crossing grav el Loss of power 1. Rear of lawn mower 1. Raise cutting height. of Cal ifor nia to cause can cer and birth drives, walks, or roads. housing or cutting blade defects or oth er re produc tive harm. Wash • Stop the engine (motor) whenever you dragging in heavy grass. hands after handling. leave the equip ment, before clean ing the 2. Cutting too much grass. 2. Raise cutting height. CAUTION: Muffl er and mower or unclogging the chute. 3. Dirty air fi lter. 3. Clean/replace air fi lter. other engine parts become • Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until 4. Buildup of grass, leaves, 4. Clean underside of mower extremely hot during the blade comes to complete stop before and trash under mower. housing. operation and remain hot removing grass catcher. 5. Too much oil in engine. 5. Check oil level. after engine has stopped. • Mow only in daylight / good artifi cial light. 6. Walking speed too fast. 6. Cut at slower walking speed. To avoid severe burns on • Do not operate the machine while under contact, stay away from these areas. the infl uence of alcohol or drugs. Poor cut Ð 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten • Never operate machine in wet grass. uneven blade bolt. I. GENERAL OPERATION Always be sure of your footing: keep a 2. Wheel heights uneven. 2. Set all wheels at same • Read, understand, and follow all fi rm hold on the handle; walk, never run. height. instruc tions on the machine and in the • Disengage the self-propelled mech- 3. Buildup of grass, leaves 3. Clean underside of manual(s) before starting. Be thor oughly anism or drive clutch on mowers so and trash under mower. mower housing. familiar with the controls and the proper equipped before starting the engine. use of the machine before starting. • If the equipment should start to vi brate Excessive 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten • Do not put hands or feet near or under abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and vibration blade bolt. rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis- check immediately for the cause. Vibra- 2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a qualifi ed service charge opening at all times. tion is generally a warning of trouble. center. • Only allow responsible individuals, who • Always wear safety goggles or safe ty glass- are familiar with the in structions, to oper- es with side shields when op erat ing mower. Starter rope 1. Engine fl ywheel brake is on 1. Depress control bar to ate the machine. II. SLOPE OPERATION hard to pull when control bar is released. upper handle before • Clear the area of objects such as rocks, Slopes are a major factor related to slip & pulling starter rope. toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which fall accidents which can result in severe in- 2. Bent engine crankshaft. 2. Contact a qualifi ed service could be picked up and thrown by blade. jury. All slopes require extra caution. If you center. • Be sure the area is clear of other people feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. 3. Blade adapter broken. 3. Replace blade adapter. before mowing. Stop ma chine if anyone DO: 4. Blade dragging in grass. 4. Move lawn mower to cut enters the area. grass or to hard surface. • Do not operate the mower when bare- • Mow across the face of slopes: nev er foot or wearing open sandals. Always up and down. Exercise extreme caution wear substantial foot wear. 2 when changing direction on slopes. 35 • Remove obstacles (rocks, tree limbs, etc.) away from your vehicle before fi lling. STORAGE • Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall • Remove gas-powered equipment from the “QUICK-RELEASE” HANDLES Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of grass can hide obstacles. truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equip- You can fold your lawn mower han dle for an engine while in storage. DO NOT: ment with a portable container, rather than storage. • Drain the fuel tank. • Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or from a gasoline dispenser nozzle. 1. Loosen the two (2) handle levers on • Start the engine and let it run until the embankments. The operator could lose • Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim sides of the upper handle and allow fuel lines and car bure tor are empty. footing or balance. of the fuel tank or container opening at handle to fold down to the rear. • Never use engine or carburetor cleaner • Do not trim excessively steep slopes. all times until fueling is complete. Do not 2. Move height adjustment lever forward products in the fuel tank or permanent • Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot- use a nozzle lock-open device. to raise mower to highest position. damage may occur. ing could cause slipping. • If fuel is spilled on clothing, change 3. Loosen handle bolts (on both sides), • Use fresh fuel next season. III. CHILDREN clothing immediately. then pivot entire handle as sembly NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable al- Tragic accidents can occur if the op era tor is • Never overfi ll fuel tank. Replace gas cap forward and allow it to rest on mower. ternative in min imiz ing the formation of fuel not alert to the presence of children. Children and tighten securely. • When setting up your handle from the gum deposits during stor age. Add stabilizer are often attracted to the ma chine and the storage position, the lower han dle will to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container. mowing activity. Never assume that children V. GENERAL SERVICE automatically lock into the mow ing Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer will remain where you last saw them. • Never run machine inside a closed area. position. container. Run engine at least 10 min utes • Keep children out of the trimming area • Never make adjustments or repairs with IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer and under the watchful care of an other the engine (motor) running. Dis connect the storage or transportation, be sure to fold to reach the car bure tor. Do not drain the gas respon si ble adult. spark plug wire, and keep the wire away the handle as shown or you may damage tank and car bure tor if using fuel stabilizer. • Be alert and turn machine off if chil dren from the plug to prevent ac ci dental starting. the control cables. enter the area. • Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade Operator MOWING ENGINE OIL • Before and while walking back wards, attachment bolts, tight and keep equip- presence POSITION Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace look behind and down for small chil dren. ment in good condition. control bar with clean oil. (See “ENGINE” in the Main- • Never allow children to operate the mower. • Never tamper with safety devices. Check tenance section of this manual). • Use extra care when approaching blind their proper operation reg ular ly. corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects • Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other CYLINDER that may obscure vision. debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing. • Remove spark plug. IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE • Stop and inspect the equipment if you • Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through Use extreme care in handling gasoline. strike an object. Repair, if nec essary, FOLD spark plug hole into cylinder. Gasoline is extremely fl ammable and the before restarting. FORWARD Upper • Pull starter handle slowly to dis tribute oil. vapors are explosive. • Never attempt to make wheel height FOR handle • Replace with new spark plug. • Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes STORAGE adjustments while the engine is running. and other sources of ignition. • Grass catcher components are sub ject to Handle BATTERY (IF EQUIPPED) • Use only an approved container. wear, damage, and de teri o ra tion, which lever Disconnect the battery from the engine • Never remove gas cap or add fuel with could expose moving parts or allow objects connector and charge battery 48 hours. the engine running. Allow engine to cool to be thrown. Frequently check com ponents Lower before refueling. handle and replace with man ufac tur er’s recom- • Never refuel the machine indoors. OTHER mended parts, when necessary. Handle • Never store the machine or fuel contain- • Mower blades are sharp and can cut. bolt • Do not store gasoline from one sea son er where there is an open fl ame, spark Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and to another. or pilot light such as a water heater or on Height use extra caution when ser vicing them. • Replace your gasoline can if your can other appliances. • Do not change the engine governor set- adjuster starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your • Never fi ll containers inside a vehicle, on lever ting or overspeed the engine. gasoline will cause problems. a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. • Maintain or replace safety and instruc- • If possible, store your unit indoors and LEVER Always place containers on the ground tion labels, as necessary. FORWARD cover it to protect it from dust and dirt. • Cover your unit with a suitable pro tective CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new Lawn Mower. It has been designed, en gi- TO RAISE neered and manu factured to give you the best pos sible de pendabil ity and per formance. MOWER cover that does not retain mois ture. Do not use plastic. Plas tic cannot breathe, Should you experience any prob lems you can not easily remedy, please contact your ENGINE which allows con densa tion to form and nearest authorized service center. They have com petent, well trained tech nicians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit. FUEL SYS TEM will cause your unit to rust. IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while • Read the SAFETY RULES and this Operator's Manual in its entirety before you at- IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum tempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower to insure proper operation and to deposits from forming in essential fuel system engine and exhaust areas are still warm. prevent injury to yourself and others. Save this manual for future reference. parts such as carburetor, fuel fi lter, fuel hose, CAUTION: Never store the lawn mow er • Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those or tank during storage. Alcohol blended fuels with gaso line in the tank in side a build ing parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) where fumes may reach an open fl ame of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. can attract moisture which leads to separa- or spark. Allow the engine to cool before Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness. tion and formation of acids during storage. storing in any en closure. • All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have 34 been placed in the parts bag. 3 FRONT TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER STORAGE FROM CARTON • Remove all loose parts from carton. Immediately prepare your lawn mower for Operator MOWING • Remove lawn mower hous ing with care. storage at the end of the season or if the presence POSITION unit will not be used for 30 days or more. control bar Avoid touch ing blade under hous ing. LEFT RIGHT CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower Always wear gloves or other protection HAND HAND with gaso line in the tank inside a build ing when working under or lifting mower. SIDE SIDE where fumes may reach an open fl ame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before FOLD THINGS TO KNOW BE FORE YOU storing in any enclosure. FORWARD Upper ASSEMBLE OR OPERATE YOUR FOR handle LAWN MOW ER LAWN MOWER STORAGE BACK or REAR When lawn mower is to be stored for a pe- (Op erat ing Position) riod of time, clean it thor oughly, remove all Do I have a side or rear discharge lawn Handle mower? dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, knob dry area. Look for the grass discharge opening on What kind of engine is on my lawn your mower. If the opening is on the right • Clean entire lawn mower (See “CLEAN- mower? ING” in the Maintenance section of this side of the mower housing, it is a side Lower handle When learning how to operate your new manual). discharge mower. If the opening is at the lawn mower, you will need to know what back of the mower housing, it is a rear dis- • Lubricate as shown in the Main tenance kind of engine powers the mower. A decal section of this manual. 2 POSITION / “ADJUSTABLE” HAN DLES charge mower. Only rear discharge lawn on the engine will indicate the man u- When setting you handles up from the mowers have a grass catcher in cluded • Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and factur er and type or brand name of the pins are securely fas tened. Inspect storage position, the lower handle will with the mower. Approved grass catch- engine. auto mat i cal ly lock into mow ing position. ers for side discharge mow ers may be moving parts for damage, breakage and BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES wear. Replace if necessary. purchased from your nearest au thorized 3 POSITION HANDLES dealer. • Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand lightly before painting. When setting up your handle from the stor- age position, the lower han dle will require Do I have a mulching lawn mower? manually locking into the mowing position. Look for the grass discharge opening on HANDLE your mower. Raise the discharge guard Your handle may be folded for storage as 3 POSITION “EZ” (rear door on rear discharge mowers). If shown. the opening is closed off by a plate, then • Squeeze the bottom ends of lower Knob Bolt your lawn mower is mulcher ready. To handle towards each other until handle convert to a discharging mower, see the clears the handle brackets and swing Operation section of this manual. handles forward over mower. Handle • Loosen upper handle mounting hard- adjust ment What is the right and left side of the ware enough to allow upper handle to be bracket lawn mower? OTHER ENGINES folded back. When right hand (RH) or left hand (LH) is IMPORTANT: When folding handles for mentioned in this man ual, it means when you are in the operating po sition (standing storage or transportation, be sure to fold behind the handle). handles as shown or you may damage the control cables.

¨ SQUEEZE TO FOLD 3 POSITION “QUICK” Lower handle Handle pin SQUEEZE

Handle adjust ment bracket

4 33 SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ASSEMBLY 22PLUS REAR WHEEL DRIVE MODELS: ENGINE CAUTION: Do not operate this lawn • Insert handle bolt through handle and 1. Remove screws securing rear baffl e. CARBURETOR bracket and secure with knob. 2. Turn lawn mower on its side with air mower without the discharge guard or an The carburetor has been preset at the fac- entire approved grass catcher in place. • Repeat for opposite side of handle. fi lter and car bure tor down. tory and ad justment should not be neces- 3. Remove rear baffl e from mower. These guards are for your protection and Handle sary. However, minor ad justment may be are required by the American National bracket 4. Remove blade bolt, lockwasher, hard- required to compensate for differences in ened washer and blade. Standards Institute and Consumer Prod- fuel, temperature, altitude or load. ucts Safety Com mission. 5. Remove debris shield. • The air fi lter must be assembled to the Knob 6. Remove gearcase belt keeper. carbu re tor when running engine. CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire 7. Remove drive belt. from spark plug and place wire where it • Best carburetor adjustment is obtained Bolt when fuel tank is 1/4 full. cannot come in contact with plug. • In order for the engine to run, the opera- HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOW ER tor presence control bar must be held in the operating position. There fore, UNFOLD HANDLE Gearcase IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so belt keeper and assistant will be required to hold the control bar in the operating position as not to pinch or damage con trol cables. Rear Belt when making fi nal adjustment to the baffl e retainer carbu re tor. 2 POSITION / “ADJUSTABLE” HANDLES See the ADJUSTMENT section of your • Raise handles until lower handle section engine manual for further instructions. locks into place in operating position. Gearcase “QUICK RELEASE” HANDLES 3 POSITION “QUICK” HANDLES pulley ENGINE SPEED • Move height adjustment lever forward to • Raise lower handle section to operating The engine speed has been factory set. raise mower to highest position. position and squeeze the bottom ends Do not attempt to increase engine speed • Tighten handle bolts (on both sides). of lower handle towards each other until the pin in handle can be inserted as it may result in personal injury. If you Operator MOWING believe the engine is running too fast presence POSITION into one of the three height adjustment Blade or too slow, take your lawn mower to an control bar holes. adapter authorized engine service center for repair and adjustment. LIFT Handle pin UP SQUEEZE Debris shield THROTTLE CONTROL If it becomes necessary to adjust or re- Handle place the throttle control, see the ADJUST- adjust ment Hardened washer MENT section of your engine man ual. LIFT bracket UP Upper Blade Blade handle bolt Handle Lockwasher lever TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT Lower 1. Place new drive belt on gearcase pul- handle ley. ALL HANDLES NOTE: Always use factory approved belt Handle • Raise upper handle section into place on to assure proper fi t and long life. bolt lower han dle, remove protective padding 2. Reinstall gearcase belt keeper. Be 18" and tighten both handle knobs. sure the new drive belt is inside the Height adjuster HI-VAC • Remove handle padding holding opera- tabs of the gearcase belt keeper. lever ONLY tor pres ence control bar to upper handle. 3. Position the blade adapter on the en- • Your lawn mower handle can be ad- gine crank shaft. Be sure key in adapter LEVER justed for your mowing comfort. Refer to and crankshaft keyway are aligned; FORWARD “ADJUST HANDLE” in the Service and and that the drive belt is inside the tabs TO RAISE Adjustments section of this manual. of the belt retainer. MOWER NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear 4. Place rear baffl e in mower housing. 5. Reinstall debris shield. 3 POSITION “EZ” HANDLES wheels on your lawn mower may not be 6. Reinstall blade. • Raise lower handle section to operating adjusted to the same position as the front 7. Return mower to upright po sition. position and align hole in handle with wheels. Before operating mower adjust all 8. Reinstall rear baffl e screws. 32 one of three height positioning holes. 5 wheels to the same cutting height. ASSEMBLY SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

INSTALL REAR WHEELS “FABRIC TOP” GRASS CATCHERS 6. Remove screw securing debris shield. 21" (53cm) HI-VAC MODELS: Note that the debris shield has a tab (“HIGH WHEEL” MOWERS ONLY) TO ASSEMBLE AND ATTACH GRASS Belt retainer Tab Some high wheel models require wash ers CATCH ER which fi ts into a gap in the housing. which will be pro vided in a parts bag. If • Put grass catcher frame into grass bag Crankshaft Tab Belt keepers provided, install washers on the axle fi rst with rigid part of bag on the bottom. Housing as shown. • Slip vinyl bindings over frame. hole Blade • Install one (1) rear wheel on the axle of NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold adapter Drive rear wheel adjuster. them in warm water for a few minutes. If belt • Install 3/8-16 locknut and tighten se- bag gets wet, let it dry before using. curely. • Lift the rear door on the mower housing. • Repeat procedure for other rear wheel. Hardened • For HINGE BRACKET mounted catcher, washer place the grass catch er frame onto the Axle formed tabs on the rear door hinge O-Ring bracket. Debris Rear door Debris Blade Slot shield shield bolt 2. Route the other end of the new drive Hinge bracket belt through hole in housing. Screw Trailing edge Lock-washer 3. Reattach debris shield to housing with Washer Grass 7. Use a wood block between blade and screw previously removed. Be sure tab catcher mower hous ing to prevent blade from of debris shield is in gap of housing. frame turning when re moving blade bolt. 4. Position blade on the blade adapter Flanged Wheel NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves aligning the two (2) holes in the blade locknut assembly and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth. with the raised lugs on the adapter. 8. Remove blade bolt. 5. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op- 9. Remove blade, attaching hardware posite sharp edge) is up toward the ASSEM BLE GRASS CATCHER (bolt, lock wash er, hardened wash er), engine as shown. (REAR DISCHARGE MOWERS ONLY) blade adapter and debris shield as one 6. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into IMPORTANT: If your model lawn mower assembly. Formed tabs 10.Remove drive belt from blade adapter blade adapter and crankshaft. is mulcher ready, the mulcher plate or plug and debris shield; discard old belt. 7. Use block of wood between blade and must be removed before using mower as lawn mower housing and tighten the a bagger. To convert mower to bagging or TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT blade bolt, turning clockwise. discharging, see the Operation section in 1. Place new drive belt in the belt retainer • The recommended tightening torque is this manual. • For HANDLE BRACKET mounted of the debris shield. Be sure to route 35-40 ft. lbs. Look at the different grass catcher illustra- catcher, place frame side hooks into belt between belt keepers and through IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat tions that follow. Determine which type slots in handle brackets. slot as shown. treated. of grass catcher you have and follow the 8. Return mower to upright position. appropriate instructions. Handle bracket hooks Rear Grass 18" (45cm) HI-VAC MODELS: 9. Install new drive belt into idler arm as- door catcher sembly, then around the drive pulley. Frame handle Drive Debris handle belt shield Be sure belt is inside of belt keepers. 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. Belt 10.Reattach drive cable and return spring retainers to the idler arm assembly, then reattach drive cable to anchor. Catcher frame side hook 11. Reattach drive cover with screws previ- ously removed. 12.Connect spark plug wire to spark plug. Vinyl Frame bindings opening

6 31 SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ASSEMBLY

MODELS WITH GEARCASE-MOUNTED • Route the other end of the new drive belt • For DOOR PIVOT PIN mounted catcher, SPARK PLUG BOOT BELT KEEPER: through hole in housing. place the grass catcher frame hooks On some models a spark plug boot is • Remove drive cover. • Return mower to upright po sition. onto the door pivot pins. • Install new belt on gearcase pulley. packed loose in the parts bag. If your • Remove spring and belt keeper. model has the boot, install on spark plug • Remove belt from gearcase pulley. • Reinstall belt keeper and spring. Pivot pins Rear Grass • Reinstall drive cover. door catcher wire and reconnect spark plug wire to NOTE: Always use factory approved belt handle spark plug. to assure proper fi t and long life. Spark plug • Turn lawn mower on its side with air fi lter and car bure tor down. • Reinstall blade and blade adapter.

HI-VAC MODELS: 1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot Catcher frame hook come in contact with plug. 2. Remove screws retaining drive cover • For DOOR SLOT mounted catcher, and remove drive cover from lawn place the grass catcher frame hooks into Gearcase pulley Drive mower housing. Boot cover the slots of the rear door. 3. Remove drive cable from anchor, then NOTE: The grass catcher is secured to the detach it and return spring from idler lawn mower housing when the rear door is Spring arm assembly. lowered onto the grass catcher frame. 18" (45cm) HI-VAC MODELS: Belt Rear door slots Drive cable anchor Return spring keeper Grass Drive belt catcher Belt handle

• Turn lawn mower on its side. See Catcher frame hook engine manual for proper direction of Drive Housing hole pulley turning over the engine. Idler arm • Remove blade and blade adapter. Belt keeper PIVOT assembly ALL GRASS CATCHERS • Remove belt from blade adapter. CAUTION: Under normal usage, the • Position the blade adapter on the engine 21" (53cm) HI-VAC MODELS: catcher material is subject to de teri o ra tion crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and and wear and should, therefore, be crankshaft keyway are aligned; and that Drive cable Housing checked frequently for replacement. Any anchor hole the drive belt is inside the tabs of the replacement catcher should be checked to belt retainer. ensure compliance with original man ufac - Blade adapter Key Crankshaft turer's speci fi cations. keyway CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower Lockwasher without the discharge guard (rear door), Idler arm approved grass catcher, clipping de fl ector Drive Drive Return assembly Blade or mulcher plate in place. Never attempt pulley belt spring PIVOT to operate mower with the dis charge guard (rear door) removed or propped open. 4. Pivot idler arm assembly to slacken drive belt, then remove drive belt from Blade drive pulley, belt keepers and idler arm. bolt Hardened Belt 5. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make washer Trailing edge retainer sure air fi lter and carburetor are up. 30 7 ASSEMBLY SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS MODELS WITH GEARCASE-MOUNTED • Remove drive cable from anchor, then HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY SWITCH TO PREPARE BATTERY BELT KEEPER: detach it and return spring (if equipped) (ELECTRIC START MODELS ONLY) Engine Harness • Remove drive cover and belt keeper. from idler arm assembly. NOTE: Your battery must be charged connector connector • Remove belt from gearcase pulley. • Remove idler arm assembly from hous- before you can start your lawn mower. (male) (female) • Turn lawn mower on its side. See ing by removing hex nut; then remove • Open battery box (if equipped). engine manual for proper direction of drive belt from drive pulley, belt keepers • Disconnect engine connector (male) turning over the engine. and idler arm assembly. (if equipped) from battery con nector • Remove blade and blade adapter. Drive pulley Drive cable anchor (female). • Remove belt from pulley of blade • Connect battery charger con nector adapter. Housing holes (male) to harness con nector (fe male). • Install new belt by reversing above • Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C. steps. outlet. Battery NOTE: Always use factory approved belt Drive belt • Leave battery charger connected for 24 charger to assure fi t and long life. hours before starting your engine for the Charger fi rst time. connector (male) • Reconnect engine connector (male) (if Drive Belt Return Idler arm equipped) to battery con nector (female). keepers Hex nut spring assembly • After charging, connect engine con nector cover (male) (if equipped) to bat tery connector 22PLUS FRONT WHEEL DRIVE • Turn lawn mower on its side. See engine (female). manual for proper direction of turning Connect your battery charger to charge Engine battery Battery over the engine. battery after each use. connector (male) charger • Use a wood block between blade and IMPORTANT: The engine will not recharge Gearcase pulley mower hous ing to prevent blade from your battery. turning when re moving blade bolt. At the end of the mowing season the NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves battery should be charged for 48 hours to and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth. protect the battery during winter storage. Belt • Remove blade bolt. CAUTION: Always dis connect the keeper Belt • Remove blade, attaching hardware (bolt, engine connector from the battery con- lock wash er, hardened wash er) and nector to prevent ac ciden tal starting when Charger connector blade adapter. transport ing or stor ing your lawn mower (male) • Remove drive belt from engine pulley; after the season. Blade adapter Key Crankshaft discard old belt. Battery connector (female) keyway • Install new belt by reversing above Lockwasher steps. NOTE: Always use factory approved belt Blade to assure fi t and long life. DECK-MOUNTED BATTERY 22PLUS REAR WHEEL DRIVE • The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. lbs. Battery charger Battery Battery charger IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat box Harness treated. connector Blade Charger bolt Hardened Belt connector (female) Blade adapter Key Crankshaft Harness washer Trailing edge retainer keyway connector (male) (female) Lockwasher

Charger REAR WHEEL DRIVE MODELS: Blade connector MODELS WITH IDLER ASSEMBLY: (male) • Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug. Blade Hardened • Remove screws retaining drive cover bolt washer Belt Engine connector (male) Battery (not shown); and remove drive cover Trailing edge Crankshaft retainer box from lawn mower housing.

8 29 SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS OPERATION

3 POSITION “QUICK” HANDLES TO REMOVE / REPLACE DRIVE BELT The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into The handle on your lawn mower has three FRONT WHEEL DRIVE MODELS: the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety (3) height positions - adjust to height that “STANDARD” OR “DUAL BAIL” MODELS: glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any suits you. adjust ments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide • Squeeze the bottom ends of lower • Remove drive cover. Remove belt from vision safety mask worn over spectacles. handle towards each other until the pin gearcase pulley by pushing down on in handle can be inserted into one of the pulley and rolling belt off it. HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT three height adjustment holes. • Turn lawn mower on its side. See ENGINE SPEED CONTROL ALL MODELS: engine manual for proper direction of MODELS WITH REMOTE THROTTLE Adjust cutting height to suit your re quire- High Handle pin turning over the engine. ments. Me dium position is best for most Handle • Remove blade. Engine speed is con trolled by the throttle Medium adjustment control located on the upper handle. lawns. Raise wheels for low cut and lower • Remove belt from engine pulley on wheels for high cut. bracket crankshaft. • Move lever forward to FAST engine NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear • Install new belt by reversing above steps. speed for start ing and better bagging. SQUEEZE wheels on your lawn mower may not be NOTE: Always use factory approved belt • Move lever backward for SLOW engine adjusted to the same position as the front Low to assure fi t and long life. speed. • Some models have engines equipped wheels. Before operating mower adjust all PUSH wheels to the same cutting height. DOWN with a choke feature. Move the lever all the way forward to the CHOKE position “MANUAL” ADJUSTMENT when starting a cold engine. • Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and NOTE: Be sure engine START/STOP reassemble in desired adjustment hole. switch (if equipped) is in the ON po sition. • Reinstall wheel components in the same Belt order as they were before removal. Drive Tighten securely. cover SLOW • Make sure all wheels are at same height. Pulley FAST Flat washer “AUTO WALK” or “VARI-SPEED” MODELS: • Remove drive cover and belt keeper. CHOKE Wheel • Remove belt from gearcase pulley by push- (START) “QUICK RELEASE” HANDLES ing down on pulley and rolling belt off it. The upper handle may be adjusted to • Turn lawn mower on its side. See Bolt three (3) different height positions. engine manual for proper direction of 1. Loosen both handle levers enough to turning over the engine. 3/8-16 allow the upper handle to pivot to the • Remove blade and debris shield. Spacer Locknut desired adjustment position. • Remove belt from engine pulley on 2. Tighten both handle levers securely. crankshaft. • Install new belt by reversing above Remote steps. throttle “QUICK” ADJUSTMENT control NOTE: Always use factory approved belt • To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster to assure fi t and long life. lever to ward wheel. Move wheel up or Drive MODELS WITH FIXED SPEED ENGINES down to suit your re quirements. Be sure cover Engine speed was set at the factory for all wheels are in the same setting. optimum per formance. Engine speed is NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when not adjustable. plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9- position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs. LEVER BACKWARD Plate tab LEVERS Belt TO LOWER MOWER DOWN keeper PUSH TO ADJUST DOWN HANDLE

Handle Belt levers LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever 28 9 OPERATION SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

"QUICK-PIN" ADJUSTMENT “DUAL POINT” ADJUSTMENT CAUTION: Before performing any ser- Mowing Mowing • To change cutting height, pull up on Both front wheels are adjusted by a single vice or adjustments: position position adjuster lever, move wheel up or down lever on the left front wheel. Likewise, • Release operator presence control bar. to suit your re quirements and release both rear wheels are adjusted by a single • Make sure the blade and all moving adjuster lever. Be sure all wheels are in lever on the left rear wheel. parts have com pletely stopped. the same setting. • Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To • Disconnect spark plug wire from spark NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned raise mower, move lever forward to plug and place wire where it can not Hairpin Handle when lever inserts into hole in plate. desired position. To lower mow er, move come in contact with plug. cotter bracket LEVER BACKWARD the lever toward the rear. Mounting TO LOWER MOWER Be sure to adjust both front and rear pin wheels to the same height. LAWN MOWER LOW POSITION HIGH POSITION TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT Lever Height adjuster lever See “TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT” in LEVER BACKWARD the Operation sec tion of this manual. TO LOWER MOWER Plate REAR DEFLECTOR The rear defl ector, attached between the rear wheels of your mower, is provided to mini mize the possibility that objects will be thrown out of the rear of the mower into the operator's mowing position. If the defl ector becomes dam aged, it should be TURN LOWER replaced. HANDLE OVER TO ADJUST HEIGHT LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER DISCHARGE GUARD (IF EQUIPPED) The discharge guard, attached to the side discharge opening of your lawn mower, is 3 POSITION “EZ” HANDLES provided to prevent the possibility of injury LEVER The handle on your lawn mower has three FORWARD result ing from objects being thrown out of (3) height positions - adjust to height that TO RAISE MOWER the dis charge opening into the operator suits you. mowing position. If the dis charge guard • Remove knob and carriage bolt on one “SINGLE POINT” ADJUSTMENT becomes dam aged, it should be replaced. side of the lower handle. • Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To • While holding handle assembly, remove raise mower, move lever forward to TO ADJUST HANDLE knob and car riage bolt from opposite desired position. To lower mow er, move side, align hole in handle with desired the lever toward the rear. “2 POSITION” HANDLES hole in handle bracket and reassemble The handle can be mounted in a high or bolt and knob and tighten securely. Height low po sition. The mounting holes in the adjuster lever • Align opposite side of handle with same bottom of lower handle are off center for positioning hole and secure with bolt and raising or lowering the handle. knob. • Remove upper handle and all parts at- High tached to lower handle. Med. Bolt • Remove hairpin cotters from lower Low handle bracket mount ing pin. • Squeeze lower handle in to remove it LEVER from mounting pins. BACKWARD Handle TO LOWER • Turn lower handle over to raise or lower adjustment MOWER handle. bracket • Squeeze lower handle in and position holes onto mount ing pins on handle bracket. • Reassemble hairpin cotters onto pins. Knob LEVER • Reassemble upper handle and all parts FORWARD removed from lower handle. TO RAISE MOWER 10 27 MAINTENANCE OPERATION WATER WASHOUT FEATURE CAUTION: Do not remove hose from “THREE POINT” ADJUSTMENT TO CONVERT MOWER: (IF EQUIPPED) fi tting while engine is running. Water in (18" (45cm) HI-VAC MODELS ONLY) Most mowers are shipped ready to be Your lawn mower may be equipped with a engine can result in shortened engine life. Both rear wheels are adjusted by a single used as a mulcher. fi tting that allows quick and easy cleaning 8. Start engine (as described in the Op- lever on the left rear wheel. “REAR DISCHARGE ONLY” MOWERS of the underside of the housing. To use eration section of this manual) and let • Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To Some models have a seperate mulcher this feature, proceed as follows: engine run for a full minute to remove raise mower, move lever forward to plug, other models have the mulcher plug 1. Move lawn mower to an area of cut excess water from mower. desired position. To lower mow er, move built into the rear door. To convert to bag- grass or another hard surface. the lever toward the rear. ging or discharging, the plate or plug (if NOTE: There are seven (7) height adjust- NOTE: Water, grass and other debris will Hose so equipped) must be removed from the drain from beneath the mower housing ment positions for the rear wheels. discharge opening of the lawn mower. during the washout process. Both front wheels are adjusted as follows: • Open rear door and remove mulcher 2. Remove grass catcher and discharge 1. Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and plate or plug (if so equipped). Store chute assembly from lawn mower. reassemble in desired ad justment hole. mulcher plate or plug in a safe place. 3. Close mulcher door (if equipped). 2. Reinstall wheel components in the • You can now install grass catcher or 4. Connect a garden hose to the fi tting same order as they were before re- optional clipping defl ector accessory. where shown. moval. Tighten securely. • To return to mulching operation, install IMPORTANT: Be sure the garden hose is NOTE: There are seven (7) height adjust- mulcher plate or plug into discharge not routed under the lawn mower housing ment holes for the front wheels. Be sure opening of mower. or entangled in the wheels. both front wheels are in the same hole. CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower IMPORTANT: Be sure to adjust both front 5. Turn on water supply and check for without mulcher plate/plug in place or ap- and rear wheels to the same height. leaks at the fi tting. Fitting proved clipping defl ector or grass catch er If no leaks are present, start engine (as LEVER BACKWARD Height adjuster lever in place. Never attempt to op erate the described in the Operation section of this TO LOWER REAR lawn mower with the rear door removed or manual) and let engine run until the under- GRASS CATCHER (IF EQUIPPED) OF MOWER LEVER FORWARD propped open. side of the lawn mower is clean. Grass catcher may be hosed with water TO RAISE REAR OF MOWER MULCHER WARNING: Do not engage the drive but must be dry when used. "PLATE" system during the washout process. CAUTION: Under nor mal usage, the Bolt 6. Shut off the engine. catcher material is subject to de teri o ra tion 7. Shut off water supply and remove hose and wear and should therefore be checked from fi tting. to ensure compliance with origi nal manufacturer specifi cations. Lockbar (“locked” Slots position) Washer Mulcher Spacer Lockbar plate tabs (“freewheel” Wing nut O-Ring position) MULCHER CASTER WHEEL OPERATION "PLUG" (“THREE POINT” ADJUSTMENT ONLY) The front wheels can be “locked” into position or set to “freewheel” for better maneuverability. Placing the lockbars in the outer holes of the adjustment brackets Mulcher “locks” the front wheels. Likewise, placing plug the lockbars in the inner holes of the ad- justment brackets allows the front wheels MULCHER PLUG BUILT INTO REAR DOOR to spin freely (“freewheel”). • Lift lockbar until the frontmost end clears the adjustment bracket, then pivot lock- bar 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.

26 11 OPERATION MAINTENANCE “SIDE DISCHARGE ONLY” MOWERS MULCHER PLUG TYPE “B” GEAR CASE IN-LINE FUEL FILTER MULCHER PLATE To convert to bagging or dis charging: • To keep your drive system working (KOHLER ENGINES ONLY) To convert to bagging or discharging, • Lift discharge guard and remove properly, the gear case and area around The fuel fi lter should be replaced once mulcher plate must be removed from un- mulcher plug. the drive should be kept clean and free each season. If fuel fi lter becomes derside of lawn mower. • Mower can now be used for side dis- of trash build-up. Clean under the drive clogged, ob structing fuel fl ow to car bure tor, • Remove the four (4) screws and lock nuts charg ing or op tional grass catcher can cover twice a season. replace ment is re quired. securing the mulcher plate to the mower. be attached. • The gear case is fi lled with lubricant to 1. With engine cool, remove fi lter and plug • Store mulcher plate and hardware in a • To return to mulching operation, simply the proper level at the factory. The only fuel line sec tions. safe place. reinstall mulcher plug as shown, making time the lubricant needs attention is if 2. Place new fuel fi lter in position in fuel • Mower can now be used for side sure tab is seated properly. service has been performed on the gear line with arrow pointing towards carbu- discharging or op tional grass catcher CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower case. retor. accessory can be attached. without discharge guard, approved grass 3. Be sure there are no fuel line leaks and • To return to mulching operation, simply catcher or mulcher plug in place. ENGINE clamps are properly positioned. reinstall mulcher plate and tighten hard- 4. Immediately wipe up any spilled gaso- Read the maintenance section of your ware securely. line. Screw and engine manual. lock nut MUFFLER LUBRICATION Inspect and replace corroded muffl er as it Lift Change the oil after the fi rst two hours of could create a fi re hazard and/or damage. discharge operation and every 25 hours there after or guard at least once a year if the lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in one year. Refer to SPARK PLUG Mulcher engine manual. Replace spark plug at the beginning of plate each mowing season or after every 100 TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL hours of operation, whichever occurs fi rst. (SEE ENGINE MANUAL) Set spark plug gap according to engine manual specifi cations. • Be sure lawn mower is on level surface. • Oil will drain more freely when warm. Install Tab MULCHER PLUG TYPE “A” mulcher plug • Catch oil in a suitable container. CLEANING To convert to mulching operation, mulcher • For engines without dipstick, re move IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep plug must be installed into discharge open- bottom oil drain plug. mower housing free of grass build-up and ing of mower. • For engines with oil fi ll cap/dipstick, trash. Clean the underside of your mower • Open discharge guard. remove bottom drain plug or remove en- after each use. gine oil cap and turn mower on its side. • Insert tab of mulch plug into housing • Clean the underside of your lawn mower • After oil has drained completely, re place opening. by scraping to remove buildup of grass oil drain plug and tighten se curely. • Align hooks of mulch plug over hinge and trash. • Refi ll engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do rod of discharge guard. Push mulch plug • Clean engine often to keep trash from not overfi ll. down until mulch plug is seat ed in hous- accumulating. A clogged engine runs • Fill to top of slot inside of fi ller hole or ing opening. hotter and shortens engine life. to “FULL” line on dipstick on models so CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower MOWER IS • Keep fi nished surfaces and wheels free equipped. Keep oil at proper level. without discharge guard, ap proved grass NOW READY of all gasoline, oil, etc. catcher or mulcher plug in place. FOR MULCHING We do not recommend using a garden OPERATION AIR FILTER Hinge rod hose to clean your lawn mower unless the Your engine will not run properly and may electrical system, muffl er, air fi lter, and Discharge be damaged by using a dirty air fi lter. carburetor are covered to keep water out. guard Clean the element after every 25 hours Water in engine can shorten engine life. of operation or every season. Replace the air fi lter every 100 hours of operation CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER or every season, whichever occurs fi rst. Clean under the drive cover at least twice Service air cleaner more often under dusty a season. Scrape underside of cover with conditions. See the maintenance section a putty knife or similar tool to remove any Housing of your engine manual. opening buildup of trash or grass.

Hooks

Mulcher plug Tab 12 25 MAINTENANCE OPERATION BLADES WITH ROUND HOLE: 18" (45cm) HI-VAC MODELS ONLY: “MULTI-CUT” MOWERS • To check blade balance, drive a nail into 1. Remove hubcaps (if equipped) and Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be SIDE DISCHARGING a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of locknuts. used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging • Mulcher plate or plug (if equipped) must the straight nail ex posed. Place center 2. Remove wheels from wheel ad juster or discharging: be installed into rear discharge open ing hole of blade over the head of the nail. axles. REAR BAGGING of mower. Rear door must be closed. If blade is balanced, it should remain in 3. Remove any trash or grass cut tings • Open rear door and remove mulcher • Open mulcher door and install dis charge a horizontal position. If either end of the from inside the dust cover, pinion gear plate or plug (if equipped). Store defl ector under door as shown. blade moves downward, sharpen the and drive wheel gear teeth. mulcher plate or plug in a safe place. • Mower is now ready for discharging heavy end until the blade is balanced. 4. If you remove the pinion gears, wipe • You can now install grass catcher. operation. BLADES WITH “STAR” HOLE: clean with dry cloth. Re assem ble • To convert to mulching or discharging • To convert to mulching or bagging • To check blade balance, you will need dry. Do not lubricate. Do not use oil or operation, install mulcher plate or plug (if operation, dis charge defl ector must be a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone grease. equipped) into rear discharge opening of removed and mulcher door must be balancer. (When using a cone bal ancer, IMPORTANT: The pinion gears (on both mower, mak ing sure all tabs are seated closed and locked. follow the in structions supplied with sides of the mower) are the same, how- properly. Close rear door. balanc er.) ever, they must be installed cor rectly. If NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing installed incor rect ly, the drive system will blade. The lobes of the center hole may not work. Rear door appear to be centered, but are not. 5. There are arrows embossed on both Grass bag • Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion sides of the pinion gear. With the ar- bracket Grass of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt row at the top of the pinion, the arrow catcher or pin parallel with the ground. If blade must point towards the front of the handle Unlock is bal anced, it should remain in a hori- mower. If the arrow points to the rear latch (if zontal po sition. If either end of the blade of the mower, turn the pinion around, equipped) moves downward, sharpen the heavy then assemble it to the mower. end until the blade is balanced. 6. Place wheels back on adjuster ax les. Open mulcher door 7. Replace locknuts and hubcaps. Grass Full bag catcher indicator Discharge frame window (if defl ector Center FRONT hook equipped) “star” hole OF MOWER “REAR DOOR PROP” (IF EQUIPPED) 5/8" bolt or pin CORRECT IN CORRECT (22PLUS MODELS ONLY) Blade NOTE: Rear door will remain open until E-ring operator presence control bar is held down Washer to the handle. CAUTION: Do NOT force rear door to close. Serious damage to your mower DRIVE WHEELS could result. Check drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel Pawls Pinion area and must be cleaned to free drive gear wheels. Washer Dust If necessary to clean the drive wheels, cover check both drive wheels. Locknut • If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely, contact your nearest autho- • If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not rized service center. turn freely, contact your nearest autho- rized service center.

24 13 OPERATION MAINTENANCE

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER 18" (45cm) HI-VAC MODELS: LAWN MOWER Crank- WHEN CONVERTING YOUR Your lawn mower was shipped ready to shaft “MULTI-CUT” LAWN MOWER: Always observe safety rules when per- be used as a mulcher. To convert to rear forming any main tenance. keyway FOR MULCHING - bagging or side discharging: Key • Rear mulcher plate or plug (if equipped) REAR BAGGING TIRES installed and rear door closed. 1. Remove knob securing mulcher door Belt • Mulcher door closed. • Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect retainer to lawn mower housing. control chemi cals which can harm rub- FOR REAR BAGGING - 2. Open mulcher door and position dis- ber. • Rear mulcher plate or plug (if equipped) charge chute over both threaded studs. • Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp Trailing edge removed. 3. Secure discharge chute to lawn mower objects and other hazards that may • Grass catcher installed. housing with both knobs. cause tire damage. Blade adapter • Mulcher door closed. 4. Place the grass catcher on the rear door as shown. Hardened FOR SIDE DISCHARGING - NOTE: Be sure the grass catcher is se- BLADE CARE Debris shield washer • Rear mulcher plate or plug (if equipped) curely locked in place. For best results, blade must be kept sharp. (if equipped) installed and rear door closed. • Mower is now ready for rear bagging Replace a bent or dam aged blade. Lockwasher • Discharge defl ector installed. operation. CAUTION: Use only a replacement Blade Blade bolt CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower blade approved by the manufacturer of without rear mulcher plate or plug in place Grass catcher your mower. Using a blade not approved TO REPLACE BLADE or approved grass catcher in place. Never by the manufacturer of your mower is 1. Position the blade adapter on the en- attempt to op erate the lawn mow er with hazardous, could damage your mower and gine crank shaft. Be sure key in adapter the rear door re moved or propped open. void your warranty. and crankshaft keyway are aligned; TO REMOVE BLADE and that the drive belt is inside the tabs of the belt retainer (if equipped). 1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark 2. Position blade on the blade adapter TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (REAR Rear door plug and place wire where it cannot DISCHARGE AND MULTI-CUT MODELS) aligning the two (2) holes in the blade come in contact with plug. with the raised lugs on the adapter. • Simply open rear door and lift grass 2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make 3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op- catcher up and away from mower. sure air fi lter and carburetor are up. Knobs posite sharp edge) is up toward the NOTE: Do not drag the bag when 3. Use a wood block between blade and engine. emptying. It will cause unnecessary wear. mower hous ing to prevent blade from 4. Install the blade bolt with the lock Dis- turning when re moving blade bolt. CAUTION: Under nor mal usage, the charge washer and hardened washer into Mulcher NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves catcher material is subject to de teri o ra tion chute door blade adapter and crankshaft. and wear and should, therefore, be and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth. 5. Use block of wood between blade and 4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- checked frequently for replacement. Any lawn mower housing and tighten the clockwise. replacement catcher should be checked blade bolt, turning clockwise. 5. Remove blade and attaching hard- • The recommended tightening torque is to ensure compliance with original ware (bolt, lock wash er and hardened manu fac tur er's speci fi cations. 35-40 ft. lbs. washer). IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower 6. Remove debris shield (if equipped). without the rear door, ap proved grass If bolt needs replacing, replace only with Threaded stud NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts catcher or clip ping de fl ector in place. check the key inside hub of blade adapter. section of this manual. Never at tempt to op erate mower with the SIDE DISCHARGING The key must be in good condition to work rear door removed or propped open. 1. Discharge chute must be removed. properly. Replace adapter if damaged. TO SHARPEN BLADE Grass 2. Open mulcher door and install side dis- NOTE: We do not recommend sharp ening catcher charge defl ector beneath it as shown. blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced. An un balanced blade will frame Knob Threaded stud handle cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine. Mulcher • The blade can be sharp ened with a fi le door or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

Bag handle (if equipped) 14 Side discharge defl ector 23 MAINTENANCE OPERATION

BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY 3. Secure rear of side discharge defl ector 21" (53cm) HI-VAC MODELS: EACH EACH 10 25 HOURS 100 BEFORE to lawn mower housing with knob. STORAGE Your lawn mower was shipped ready to USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS • Mower is now ready for side discharging be used as a mulcher. To convert to rear Check for Loose Fasteners operation. bagging or side discharging: Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher * SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN REAR BAGGING Check Tires CONVERTING YOUR 18" HI-VAC: 1. Remove knob securing mulcher door to Check Drive Wheels *** lawn mower housing. Clean Lawn Mower **** FOR MULCHING - Rear handle Clean under Drive Cover *** 1. Grass catcher, discharge chute and Check Drive Belt / Pulleys *** side discharge defl ector removed. Crossbar Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade 2. Mulcher door secured to mower hous- ing with knob. Lubrication Grass Clean and Recharge Battery ** FOR REAR BAGGING - catcher Check Engine Oil level 1. Side discharge defl ector removed. Change Engine Oil 2. Grass catcher and discharge chute Clean Air Filter installed with discharge chute secured Inspect Muffler to lawn mower housing with knob. Replace Spark Plug FOR SIDE DISCHARGING - Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer 1. Grass catcher and discharge chute removed. Round * (if so equipped) 1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures. 2. Side discharge defl ector installed and door ** Electric-Start mowers 2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions. secured to mower housing with knob. *** Power-Propelled mowers 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. **** Use a scraper 4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season. CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower Knob to clean under deck 5 - And after each 5 hours of use. without mulcher door closed; side dis- Discharge chute charge defl ector installed, or discharge GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS LUBRICATION CHART chute and ap proved grass catcher in Threaded The warranty on this lawn mower does not place. Never at tempt to op erate the lawn stud cover items that have been subjected to op- ➀ Wheel mower with mulcher door re moved or erator abuse or negligence. To receive full propped open. value from the war ranty, operator must main- adjuster (on tain mower as instructed in this manual. each wheel) TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER 1. Remove grass catcher with clippings Some adjustments will need to be made Mulcher door periodically to properly maintain your unit. ➁ Engine oil from lawn mower using both front and All adjustments in the Service and Adjust- center of handle as shown. ments section of this manual should be 2. Empty clippings from grass catcher. checked at least once each season. ➀ Side dis- 3. Reinstall grass catcher on rear door. • Once a year, replace the spark plug, NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty- charge mower 2. Open mulcher door and insert tabs clean or replace air fi lter element, and ing; it will cause unnecessary wear. guard hinge rod of discharge chute into hinge bracket check blade for wear. A new spark plug opening and position rear of chute over and clean/new air fi lter element assures Handle threaded stud. proper air-fuel mixture and helps your ➀ Rear dis- engine run better and last longer. charge mower Discharge chute tabs • Follow the Maintenance Sched ule in this rear door manual. hinge rod ➀ BEFORE EACH USE Handle bracket mounting pins • Check engine oil level. • Check for loose fasteners. ➀ Spray lubricant ➁ See “ENGINE” in Maintenance section. LUBRICATION Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”). attract dust and dirt that will short en the life of the self-lu bricat ing bearings. If you feel Hinge bracket Mulcher door IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic they must be lu bricated, use only a dry, wheel bearings. Viscous lu bricants will powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly. 22 15 OPERATION OPERATION 3. Secure rear of discharge chute to lawn SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER MOWING TIPS FOR MULCHING MOWERS ONLY mower housing with knob. WHEN CONVERTING YOUR 21" HI-VAC: CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher - MULCHING MOWING TIPS 4. Place rear handle of grass catcher on FOR MULCHING - blade attachments on your mower. Such IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep the crossbar of the lawn mower's lower 1. Grass catcher, discharge chute and attachments are hazardous, will damage mower housing free of built-up grass and handle as shown. side discharge defl ector removed. your mower and could void your warranty. trash. See "CLEANING" in the Mainte- 5. Lift the round door of the discharge 2. Mulcher door secured to mower hous- nance section of this manual. chute and place the grass catcher into • For most cutting conditions and bet ter ing with knob. bagging per formance, the engine speed • The special mulching blade will recut the place on the discharge chute. FOR REAR BAGGING - grass clip pings many times and reduce NOTE: Be sure the grass catcher is se- should be set in the FAST po sition. 1. Side discharge defl ector removed. • Under certain conditions, such as when them in size so that as they fall onto the curely locked in place and the round door 2. Grass catcher and discharge chute lawn they will disperse into the grass of the discharge chute rests on the grass mowing very tall grass, raise the mower installed with discharge chute secured height on the fi rst cut to reduce pushing and not be noticed. Also, the mulched catcher as shown. to lawn mower housing with knob. grass will bio degrade quickly to provide • Mower is now ready for rear bagging effort, to avoid over heating the engine, 3. Round door of discharge chute resting and to avoid leaving clumps of grass nutri ents for the lawn. Always mulch with operation. on top of grass catcher. your highest engine (blade) speed as • To convert to mulching operation, clippings. Make the second cut to the FOR SIDE DISCHARGING - desired height. this will provide the best recutting action remove grass catch er and discharge 1. Grass catcher and discharge chute of the blades. chute. Secure mulcher door to mower • For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the removed. width of cut. • Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. housing with knob. 2. Side discharge defl ector installed and Wet grass tends to form clumps and • To convert to side dis charging operation, • For side discharge lawn mowers, cut in secured to mower housing with knob. a coun terclock wise direc tion, starting at inter feres with the mulch ing action. The remove grass catch er and discharge CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower best time to mow your lawn is the early chute. Install side discharge defl ector the outside of the area to be cut, in order without mulcher door closed; side dis- to spread grass clip pings more evenly afternoon. At this time the grass has and secure it to lawn mower housing charge defl ector installed, or discharge dried, yet the newly cut area will not be with knob. and to put less load on the engine. To chute and ap proved grass catcher in keep clip pings off of walkways, fl ower exposed to direct sunlight. SIDE DISCHARGING place. Never at tempt to op erate the lawn beds, etc., make the fi rst cuts in a clock- • For best results, adjust the lawn mower 1. Grass catcher and discharge chute mower with mulcher door or round door wise direction. cutting height so that the lawn mower must be removed. removed or propped open. • When using a rear discharge lawn cuts off only the top one-third of the 2. Open mulcher door and install front of TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it side dis charge defl ector beneath it as 1. Open round door of discharge chute to of cut grass may not enter the grass will be necessary to raise the height of shown. move starter rope out and away from catcher. Reduce ground speed (push ing cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep 3. Secure rear of side discharge defl ector grass catcher. speed) and/or run the lawn mower over from over loading the engine and leaving to lawn mower housing with knob. the area a second time. clumps of mulched grass. For ex tremely Front heavy grass, reduce your width of cut • Mower is now ready for side discharging handle • If a trail of grass clipping is left on the operation. right side of a rear discharge lawn mow- by overlapping previously cut path and • To convert to mulching operation, side OPEN er, mow in a clockwise direction with a mow slowly. discharge defl ector must be removed small overlap to collect the clippings on and mulcher door secured to mower the next pass. housing with knob. MAX 1/3 • To convert to rear bagging opera- tion, side discharge defl ector must be removed; discharge chute and grass catcher installed and discharge chute secured to mower housing with knob.

Mulcher door Knob • Certain types of grass and grass Threaded Round Starter condi tions may re quire that an area be door rope stud mulched a second time to com pletely 2. Remove grass catcher with clippings hide the clip pings. When doing a sec ond from lawn mower using both front and cut, mow across (per pendic u lar) to the rear handles. • Pores in cloth grass catchers can fi rst cut path. 3. Empty clippings from grass catcher become fi lled with dirt and dust with use • Change your cutting pattern from week using rear handle. The weight of the and the catcher will collect less grass. to week. Mow north to south one week grass will open the door. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher then change to east to west the next 4. Snap door shut over frame before off with water and let dry before use. week. This will help prevent matting and Side graining of the lawn. discharge installing grass catcher on mower. defl ector NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty- ing; it will cause unnecessary wear. 16 21 OPERATION OPERATION BEFORE STARTING EN GINE • If your mower has a primer, to start a OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL DRIVE CONTROL Read the engine manual packed with your cold engine, push primer as many times BAR (ALL MODELS) “STANDARD” DRIVE CONTROL mower. as in structed in the engine manual Your lawn mower is equipped with an op- • Self-propelling is controlled by holding FILL ENGINE WITH OIL packed with your mower. Use a fi rm era tor presence control bar which re quires the operator presence control bar down push. This step is not usually nec essary Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the operator to be po sitioned behind the to the handle and pushing the drive when start ing an engine which has lawn mower handle in order to start and control lever forward until it clicks; then the engine. already run for a few minutes. • Be sure mower is level and area around operate the lawn mower. releasing the lever. • Hold operator presence control bar CAUTION: Federal reg ula tions require • Forward motion will stop when the op- oil fi ll is clean. down against han dle. an en gine control to be in stalled on this erator presence control bar is released. • Remove engine oil fi ller plug (oil fi ll cap/ MODELS WITH RECOIL START ER dipstick on models so equipped). lawn mower in order to min imize the risk To stop forward motion without stopping • Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow engine, release the operator presence • Slowly add oil. For type and grade of starter rope to snap back. of blade contact injury. Do not un der oil to use, see “ENGINE” in the Mainte- any cir cumstanc es attempt to de feat the control bar slightly until the drive control nance section of this manual. function of the operator con trol. The blade disengages. Hold operator presence • Fill to the top of slot in fi ller hole (to turns when the engine is running. control bar down against handle to con- “FULL” line on dipstick on models so tinue mowing without self-propelling. equipped). Do not overfi ll. • To keep drive control engaged when • Replace plug (oil fi ll cap/dipstick on turning corners, push down on handle models so equipped) and tighten. and lift front wheels off ground while turning lawn mower. • Check oil level before each use. Add oil Operator as needed. presence • To change oil, see Maintenance section control bar of this manual. FILL GASOLINE TANK • Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, unleaded gaso line. DO NOT USE PRE- Recoil MIUM GASOLINE. BE CARE FUL NOT Drive starter TO OVERFILL TANK. control handle WARNING: Al cohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or metha nol) can attract moisture which leads to sepa ration MODELS WITH ELECTRIC START ER TO ENGAGE DRIVE CONTROL • Push the engine start button (or turn the and for mation of acids during storage. Acidic key on models so equipped). gas can damage the fuel system of an en gine IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more while in stor age. To avoid engine prob lems, than fi ve continous seconds each time you the fuel system should be emptied before try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds between storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the fuel each attempt. Operator tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel presence lines and car bure tor are empty. Use fresh ALL MODELS • For engines equipped with choke, slowly control bar fuel next season. See Stor age In structions move engine speed control lever to for ad dition al infor ma tion. Never use en gine FAST after engine starts. DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED or car bure tor cleaner products in fuel tank or perma nent damage may occur. TO STOP ENGINE • To stop engine, release operator pres- TO START ENGINE ence control bar and/or place engine CAUTION: The mow er blade rotates START/STOP switch (if equipped) in the whenever the engine is running. OFF po sition. NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the NOTE: For engines with a primer, it may engine, a small amount of smoke may be be nec essary to repeat priming steps present during the initial use of the product in cooler weather. In warmer weath er, and should be considered normal. overpriming may cause fl ooding and • Place engine START/STOP switch (if engine will not start. If you do fl ood equipped) in the ON po sition. engine, wait a few minutes before • Move engine speed control to FAST attempting to start and DO NOT repeat position (or to CHOKE/START position priming steps. on models equipped with choke feature). 20 17 OPERATION OPERATION “DUAL BAIL” DRIVE CONTROL “AUTOWALK” DRIVE CONTROL “VARI-SPEED” DRIVE CONTROL • To start forward motion, lift drive control • Self-propelling is controlled by hold ing Over time, the drive control system may • Self-propelling is controlled by hold- bar up to handle. the operator presence control bar down become “loose”, resulting in decreased ing the operator presence control bar • To stop forward motion, release drive to the handle and pulling the drive con- speed. There is a turnbuckle on the down to the handle and pulling the drive control bar. trol lever(s) rearward to the handle. The under side of the drive control housing to control bar up to the handle. The closer farther toward the handle the lever(s) increase tension on the drive cable. Pro- to the handle the bar is pulled, the faster are pulled, the faster the unit will travel. ceed as follows: the unit will travel. • Forward motion will stop when either • Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug • Forward motion will stop when either the the operator presence control bar or a wire from spark plug. operator presence control bar or drive drive control lever are released. To stop • Turn nut on underside of drive control to control bar are released. To stop forward Operator forward motion without stop ping engine, increase drive speed. motion without stop ping engine, re lease presence release the drive control lever(s) only. • Operate mower to test drive speed. the drive control bar only. Hold op era tor control bar Hold op era tor presence control bar Readjust as required. presence control bar down against down against handle to con tinue mowing • If condition fails to improve after the handle to con tinue mowing without self- without self-propelling. above steps (forward speed remains propelling. DRIVE CONTROL ENGAGED NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the the same), your drive belt is worn and NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will not roll backwards, push the mower should be re placed. mower will not roll backwards, push the mower forward slightly to disengage drive wheels. forward slightly to disengage drive wheels. FRONT WHEEL DRIVE MODELS ONLY: • To keep drive control engaged when turning corners, push down on the handle to lift the front wheels off the ground while turning lawn mower. DRIVE CONTROL DIS ENGAGED Operator presence control bar Drive Operator Adjustment control presence turnbuckle lever(s) control bar TO ENGAGE DRIVE CONTROL DRIVE Drive CONTROL control bar ENGAGED DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED

Adjustment TO ADJUST, turnbuckle MOVE DOWN DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED TO NEXT HOLE

FRONT WHEEL DRIVE MODELS ONLY: Over time, the drive control system may • To keep drive control engaged when become “loose”, resulting in decreased turning corners, push down on the speed. There are holes in the drive control handle to lift the front wheels off the housing to increase tension on the drive ground while turning lawn mower. cable. Pro ceed as follows: • Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. • Loosen nut, move drive control hous- ing down handle to the next hole and retighten nut. • Operate mower to test drive speed. • If condition fails to improve after the above steps (forward speed remains the same), your drive belt is worn and should be re placed.

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