Form No.
21in Mulching/Rear Bagging Lawn
Mower
Model No.
Model No.
Model No.
Model No.
Model No.
Model No.
Operator's Manual
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Introduction
This
Read this information carefully to learn how to operate and maintain your product properly and to avoid injury and product damage. You are responsible for operating the product properly and safely.
You may contact
Whenever you need service, genuine
Figure 1
1.Model and serial number plate
Model No.
Serial No.
This manual identifies potential hazards and has safety messages identified by the safety alert symbol (Figure 2), which signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or death if you do not follow the recommended precautions.
Figure 2
1.Safety alert symbol
This manual uses 2 words to highlight information. Important calls attention to special mechanical information and Note emphasizes general information worthy of special attention.
WARNING
CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning
This product contains a chemical or chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Important: This engine is not equipped with a spark arrester muffler. It is a violation of California Public Resource Code Section 4442 to use or operate the engine on any
This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
The enclosed Engine Owner's Manual is supplied for information regarding the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Emission Control Regulation of emission systems, maintenance, and warranty. Replacements may be ordered through the engine manufacturer.
Net Torque
The gross or net torque of this engine was laboratory rated by the engine manufacturer in accordance with the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1940. As configured to meet safety, emission, and operating requirements, the actual engine torque on this class of mower will be significantly lower.
Read and understand the contents of this manual before you start the engine.
The safety alert symbol (Figure 2) is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death. Improperly using or maintaining this mower could result in injury or death. To reduce this potential, comply with the following safety instructions.
The following instructions have been adapted from the ANSI/OPEI standard
This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and of throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
General Operation
???Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting.
???Do not put hands or feet near or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
???Allow only responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate this machine.
???Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire, toys, etc., which could be thrown by the blade. Stay behind the handle when the engine is running.
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???Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
???Do not operate machine barefooted or while wearing sandals. Always wear substantial footwear.
???Do not pull machine backward unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while moving backward.
???Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.
???Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, rear guard, or other safety protective devices in place and working.
???Never leave a running machine unattended.
???Stop the engine and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
???Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
???Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
???Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing; walk; never run.
???Disengage the drive system, if so equipped, before starting the engine.
???If the machine should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check for the cause immediately. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
???Always wear eye protection when operating the machine.
???Lightning can cause severe injury or death. If you see lightning or hear thunder in the area, do not operate the machine; seek shelter.
???See the manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Use only accessories approved by the manufacturer.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to
???Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
???Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could cause a
???Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes. Poor footing could cause a
???Do not mow near
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
???Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
???Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
???Never allow children to operate the machine.
???Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your view of a child.
Service
Safe Handling of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
???Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.
???Use only an approved gasoline container.
???Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
???Never refuel the machine indoors.
???Never store the machine or fuel container where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light, such as on a water heater or on other appliances.
???Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
???Remove
???Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle
???If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.
???Never overfill fuel tank. Replace the gas cap and tighten it securely.
WARNING
Exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless, deadly poison that can kill you.
Do not run the engine indoors or in an enclosed area.
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General Service
???Never operate the machine in a closed area.
???Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
???Never remove or tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Never do anything to interfere with the intended function of a safety device or to reduce the protection provided by a safety device.
???Keep the machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any
???If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair the machine, if necessary, before starting it.
???Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running. Disconnect the
???Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently, and replace them with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.
???Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
???Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine.
???Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
???To best protect your investment and maintain optimal performance of your
Hauling
???Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.
???Use
???Tie the machine down securely using straps, chains, cable, or ropes. Both the front and the rear straps should be directed down and outward from the machine.
Safety and Instructional Decals
Important: Safety and instruction decals are located near areas of potential danger. Replace damaged decals.
Manufacturer's Mark
1. Indicates that the blade is identified as a part from the original machine manufacturer.
1.
2.Read the Operator's Manual.
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1.
2.Thrown object
3.Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower
4.Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower
5.Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower
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Setup
Important: Remove and discard the protective plastic sheet that covers the engine.
Unfolding the Handle
WARNING
Folding or unfolding the handle improperly can damage the cables, causing an unsafe operating condition.
???Do not damage the cables when folding or unfolding the handle.
???If a cable is damaged, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
1.Remove the handle knobs from the machine housing (Figure 3).
Important: Route the cables to the outside of the handle as you install the handle.
Installing the
Rope in the Rope Guide
Important: To start the engine safely and easily whenever you use the machine, install the
Hold the
Figure 4
Filling the Engine with Oil
Important: Your machine does not come with oil in the engine. Before starting the engine, fill the engine with oil.
1.Move the machine to a level surface.
2.Remove the dipstick (Figure 5) and pour about 3/4 of the crankcase capacity of oil into the
Note: Max. fill: 0.65 L (22 oz), type:
Figure 3
1.Handle knob (2)
2.Move the handle to the operating position (Figure 3).
3.Install the handle knobs and tighten them firmly by hand.
Figure 5
Engine for
3.Wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth.
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Charging the Battery
Refer to Charging the Battery
Figure 6
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Operation
Attachments/Accessories
A selection of
Filling the Fuel Tank
DANGER
Gasoline is extremely flammable and explosive. A fire or explosion from gasoline can burn you and others.
???To prevent a static charge from igniting the gasoline, place the container and/or machine directly on the ground before filling, not in a vehicle or on an object.
???Fill the tank outdoors when the engine is cold. Wipe up spills.
???Do not handle gasoline when smoking or around an open flame or sparks.
???Store gasoline in an approved fuel container, out of the reach of children.
???For best results, use only clean, fresh (less than 30 days old), unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher ((R+M)/2 rating method).
???Oxygenated fuel with up to 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE by volume is acceptable.
???Ethanol: Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) by volume is acceptable. Ethanol and MTBE are not the same.
Gasoline with 15% ethanol (E15) by volume is not approved for use. Never use gasoline that contains more than 10% ethanol by volume, such as E15 (contains 15% ethanol), E20 (contains 20% ethanol), or E85 (contains up to 85% ethanol). Using unapproved gasoline may cause performance problems and/or engine damage which may not be covered under warranty.
???Do not use gasoline containing methanol.
???Do not store fuel either in the fuel tank or in fuel containers over the winter unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
???Do not add oil to gasoline.
Important: To reduce starting problems, add fuel stabilizer to the fuel all season, mixing it with gasoline less than 30 days old.
Figure 7
Checking the
Service Interval: Before each use or daily
Max. fill: 0.65 L (22 oz), type:
1.Move the machine to a level surface.
2.Remove the dipstick (Figure 8).
Figure 8
Engine for
3.Wipe off the dipstick end with a clean cloth.
4.Insert the dipstick into the
5.Remove the dipstick and read the oil level; refer to Figure 8.
???If the oil level is low, add a small amount of oil slowly to the
???If the oil level is high, drain the excess oil until the oil level on the dipstick is correct. To drain the excess oil, refer to Changing the Engine Oil (page 13).
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Important: If the oil level in the crankcase is too low or too high and you run the engine, you may damage the engine.
6.Install the dipstick securely.
Adjusting the Cutting Height
WARNING
Adjusting the cutting height may bring you into contact with the moving blade, causing serious injury.
???Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
???Do not put your fingers under the housing when adjusting the cutting height.
CAUTION
If the engine has been running, the muffler will be hot and can severely burn you. Keep away from the hot muffler.
Adjusting the Cutting Height
Adjust the cutting height as desired. Set the front wheels and the rear wheels to the same height.
Note: To raise or lower the machine, move the
Note: To raise or lower the machine, move the
Figure 10
Important: The cutting height settings are 32 mm
Starting the Engine
1.Hold the
Figure 11
1.
2. Turn the ignition key
Important: The cutting height settings are 32 mm
Adjusting the Cutting Height
Adjust the cutting height as desired. Set the front wheels and the rear wheels to the same height.
Figure 13
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Note: If the machine does not start after several attempts, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
Using the
To operate the
Figure 14
1.
To disengage the
Note: The maximum
Stopping the Engine
Service Interval: Before each use or daily
To stop the engine, release the
Note: Remove the ignition key when you leave the machine
Important: When you release the
Figure 15
Mulching the Clippings
Your machine comes from the factory ready to mulch the grass and leaf clippings back into the lawn.
If the grass bag is on the machine, remove it before mulching the clippings. Refer to Removing the Grass Bag (page 11).
Bagging the Clippings
Use the grass bag when you want to collect grass and leaf clippings from the lawn.
WARNING
A worn grass bag could allow small stones and other similar debris to be thrown at you or in the direction of bystanders, resulting in serious personal injury or death to you or to bystanders.
Check the grass bag frequently. If it is damaged, install a new
WARNING
The blade is sharp; contacting the blade can result in serious personal injury.
Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.
Installing the Grass Bag
1.Lift up the rear deflector (Figure 16).
2.Insert the rod ends of the grass bag into the notches in the handle brackets (Figure 16).
3.Allow the rear deflector to rest on the bag.
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Removing the Grass Bag
1.Lift up the rear deflector (Figure 16).
2.Lift the
3.Close the rear deflector.
Operating Tips
General Mowing Tips
???Clear the area of sticks, stones, wire, branches, and other debris that the blade could hit.
???Avoid striking solid objects with the blade. Never deliberately mow over any object.
???If the machine strikes an object or starts to vibrate, immediately stop the engine, disconnect the wire from the spark plug, and examine the machine for damage.
???For best performance, install a new blade before the cutting season begins.
???Replace the blade when necessary with a
Cutting Grass
???Cut only about a third of the grass blade at a time. Do not cut below the 44 mm
???When cutting grass over 15 cm (6 inches) tall, mow at the highest cutting height setting and walk slower; then mow again at a lower setting for the best lawn appearance. If the grass is too long, the machine may plug and cause the engine to stall.
???Mow only dry grass or leaves. Wet grass and leaves tend to clump on the yard and can cause the machine to plug or the engine to stall.
WARNING
Wet grass or leaves can cause serious injury if you slip and contact the blade. Mow only in dry conditions.
???Alternate the mowing direction. This helps disperse the clippings over the lawn for even fertilization.
???If the finished lawn appearance is unsatisfactory, try one or more of the following:
???Replace the blade or have it sharpened.
???Walk at a slower pace while mowing.
???Raise the cutting height on your machine.
???Cut the grass more frequently.
???Overlap cutting swaths instead of cutting a full swath with each pass.
???Set the cutting height on the front wheels one notch lower than the rear wheels. For example, set the front wheels at 57 mm
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Maintenance
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)
Important: Refer to your Engine Operator's Manual for additional maintenance procedures.
Preparing for Maintenance
1.Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2.Disconnect the
Important: Before tipping the machine to change the oil or replace the blade, allow the fuel tank to run dry through normal usage. If you must tip the machine prior to running out of fuel, use a hand fuel pump to remove the fuel. Always tip the machine onto its side with the dipstick down.
WARNING
Tipping the machine may cause the fuel to leak. Gasoline is flammable, explosive and can cause personal injury.
Run the engine dry or remove the gasoline with a hand pump; never siphon.
Figure 17
1.
3.After performing the maintenance procedure(s), connect the
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Servicing the Air Cleaner
Service Interval: Every 25 hours/Yearly (whichever comes
Every 100 hours/Yearly (whichever comes
1.Perform the
2.Press the button on the
Figure 18
3.Remove the old paper element.
4.Install the new paper element in the
5.Install the
Note: Ensure that the
Changing the Engine Oil
Service Interval: After the first 5 hours
Yearly
Run the engine a few minutes before changing the oil to warm it. Warm oil flows better and carries more contaminants.
1.Perform the
2.Tip the machine onto its side, with the dipstick down, to drain the used oil out through the
Figure 19
3.Remove the dipstick.
4.After draining the used oil, return the machine to the normal operating position.
5.Pour about 3/4 of the crankcase capacity of oil into the
Note: Max. fill: 0.59 L (22 oz), type:
6.Wipe off the dipstick end with a clean cloth.
7.Insert the dipstick into the
8.Remove the dipstick and read the oil level on the dipstick (Figure 20).
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Figure 20
Engine for
???If the oil level is low, add a small amount of oil slowly to the
???If the oil level is high, drain the excess oil until the oil level on the dipstick is correct.
Important: If the oil level in the crankcase is too low or too high and you run the engine, you may damage the engine.
9.Install the dipstick securely.
10.Recycle the used oil properly.
Charging the Battery
Service Interval: Every 25 hours
WARNING
CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Charge the battery for 24 hours initially, then monthly (every 25 starts) or as needed. Always use the charger in a sheltered area and charge the battery at room temperature (70?? or 22??
C)whenever possible.
1.Connect the charger to the wire harness located below the ignition key (Figure 21).
Figure 21
2.Plug the charger into a wall outlet.
Note: When the battery no longer holds a charge, recycle or dispose of the
Note: Your battery charger may have a
???A red light indicates that the charger is charging the battery.
???A green light indicates that the charger is fully charged or the charger is disconnected from the battery.
???A flashing light that alternates between red and green indicates that the battery is nearly fully charged. This state lasts only a few minutes until the battery is fully charged.
Replacing the Fuse
Your machine comes with a fuse that protects the electric starter. If the battery does not charge or the engine does not run with the electric starter, the fuse may be blown. Replace it with a
Important: You cannot start the machine with the electric starter or charge the battery unless you install the fuse.
1.Unclip the battery cover and remove it (Figure 22).
2.Insert the fuse into the fuse holder (Figure 23).
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Figure 23
3.Install the battery cover.
Replacing the Blade
Service Interval: Yearly
Important: You will need a torque wrench to install the blade properly. If you do not have a torque wrench or are uncomfortable performing this procedure, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
Examine the blade whenever you run out of gasoline. If the blade is damaged or cracked, replace it immediately. If the blade edge is dull or nicked, have it sharpened or replace it.
WARNING
The blade is sharp; contacting the blade can result in serious personal injury.
???Disconnect the wire from the spark plug.
???Wear gloves when servicing the blade.
1.Disconnect the
2.Tip the machine onto its side, with the air filter up.
3.Use a block of wood to hold the blade steady.
4.Remove the blade (turn the blade bolt counterclockwise), saving all the mounting hardware.
5.Install the new blade (turn the blade bolt clockwise) and all mounting hardware (Figure 24).
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Figure 24
Important: Position the curved ends of the blade to point toward the machine housing.
6.Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade bolt to 82
Important: A bolt torqued to 82
Adjusting the
Whenever you install a new
1.Loosen the
Figure 25
3.Cable jacket
2.Hold the
3.Pull down the cable jacket (toward the machine) until there is no slack in the cable (Figure 25).
4.Tighten the nut on the cable support.
5.Release the
Note: The cable must be loose with the
Cleaning the Underside of the
Machine
Service Interval: After each use
WARNING
The machine may dislodge material from under the machine housing.
???Wear eye protection.
???Stay in the operating position (behind the handle).
???Do not allow bystanders in the area.
1.With the engine running on a flat paved surface, spray a stream of water in front of the right rear wheel (Figure 26).
The water will splash into the path of the blade, cleaning out the clippings.
Figure 26
2.When no more clippings come out, stop the water and move the machine to a dry area.
3.Run the engine for a few minutes to dry the housing to prevent it from rusting.
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Storage
Store the machine in a cool, clean, dry place.
Preparing the Machine for Storage
WARNING
Gasoline vapors can explode.
???Do not store gasoline more than 30 days.
???Do not store the machine in an enclosure near an open flame.
???Allow the engine to cool before storing it.
1.On the last refueling of the year, add fuel stabilizer to the fuel as directed by the engine manufacturer.
2.Run the machine until the engine stops from running out of fuel.
3.Prime the engine and start it again.
4.Allow the engine to run until it stops. When you can no longer start the engine, it is sufficiently dry.
5.Disconnect the wire from the spark plug.
6.Remove the spark plug, add 30 ml (1 oz) of oil through the spark plug hole, and pull the starter rope slowly several times to distribute oil throughout the cylinder to prevent cylinder corrosion during the
7.Install the spark plug and tighten it with a torque wrench to 20
8.Tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws.
9.Charge the battery for 24 hours, then unplug the battery charger an store the machine in an unheated area. If you must store the machine in a heated area, you must charge the battery every 90 days
Folding the Handle
WARNING
Folding or unfolding the handle improperly can damage the cables, causing an unsafe operating condition.
???Do not damage the cables when folding or unfolding the handle.
???If a cable is damaged, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
1.Loosen the handle knobs until you can move the handle freely (Figure 27).
Figure 27
1.Handle knob (2)
2.Move the handle forward as shown in Figure 27.
Removing the Machine from Storage
1.Remove the spark plug and spin the engine rapidly by pulling the
2.Install the spark plug and tighten it with a torque wrench to 20
3.Charge the battery for 24 hours
4.Connect the wire to the spark plug.
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Notes:
18
Notes:
19
This warranty covers the cost of parts and labor, but you must pay transportation costs.
The following time periods apply from the date of purchase:
Limited Warranty for Commercial Use*
The True Start Commitment does not apply when the product is used commercially*.
Instructions for Obtaining Warranty Service
If you think that your
1.Contact any Authorized
2.Bring the product and your proof of purchase (sales receipt) to the Service Dealer. The dealer will diagnose the problem and determine if it is covered under warranty.
3.If for any reason you are dissatisfied with the Service Dealer???s analysis or with the assistance provided, contact us at:
Customer Care Department
8111 Lyndale Avenue South
Bloomington, MN
Toll free at
Toll free at
Owner Responsibilities
You must maintain your
There is no other express warranty except for special emission system coverage and engine warranty coverage on some products. This express warranty does not cover the following:
???Cost of regular maintenance service or parts, such as filters, fuel, lubricants, oil changes, spark plugs, air filters blade sharpening or worn blades, cable/linkage adjustments, or brake and clutch adjustments
???Components failing due to normal wear
???Any product or part which has been altered or misused or neglected and requires replacement or repair due to accidents or lack of proper maintenance
???Pickup and delivery charges
???Repairs or attempted repairs by anyone other than an Authorized
???Repairs necessary due to failure to follow recommended fuel procedure (consult Operator's Manual for more details)
???Removing contaminants from the fuel system is not covered
???Use of old fuel (more than one month old) or fuel which contains more than 10% ethanol or more that 15% MTBE
???Failure to drain the fuel system prior to any period of
???Repairs or adjustments to correct starting difficulties due to the following:
???Failure to follow proper maintenance procedures or recommended fuel procedure
???Rotary mower blade striking an object
???Special operational conditions where starting may require more than two pulls:
???First time starts after extended period of
???Cool temperature starts such as those found in early spring and late autumn
???Improper starting procedures - if you are having difficulty starting your unit, please check the Operator's Manual to ensure that you are using the correct starting procedures. This can save an unnecessary visit to an Authorized
General Conditions
All repairs covered by these warranties must be performed by an Authorized
Some states do not allow exclusions of incidental or consequential damages, so the above exclusions 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.
Countries Other than the United States or Canada
Customers who have purchased
Australian Consumer Law: Australian customers will find details relating to the Australian Consumer Law either inside the box or at your local
*Residential purposes means use of the product on the same lot as your home. Use at more than one location, or institutional or rental use, is considered commercial use and the commercial use warranty would apply.