Troy Bilt Lawn Mower 429 User Guide

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty  
OPERATOR’S MANUAL  
21-inch Rotary Mower — Model 429  
IMPORTANT  
READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION  
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-  
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).  
If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. 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 muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland,  
Ohio 44136-0019.  
PRINTED IN U.S.A  
Troy-Bilt LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019  
FORM NO. 769-02338  
01/18/2006  
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Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. Do not operate  
your lawn mower on such slopes.  
1
Slope  
Gauge  
WARNING  
Do not mow on inclines  
with a slope in excess  
of 15 degrees (a rise  
of approximately  
2-1/2 feet every 10  
feet). A riding mower  
could overturn and  
cause serious injury.  
If operating a walk-  
behind mower on such  
a slope, it is extremely  
difficult to maintain your  
footing and you could  
slip, resulting in serious  
injury.  
Operate RIDING  
mowers up and down  
slopes, never across  
the face of slopes.  
Operate  
WALK-BEHIND  
mowers across the  
face of slopes, never  
up and down slopes.  
3
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WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-  
nents contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and  
birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
2
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this  
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can  
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.  
Safe  
Operation Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.  
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during opera-  
Children  
tion and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect  
your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious  
injury to the eyes.  
Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not alert to presence  
of children. Children are often attracted to mower and mowing  
activity.They do not understand the dangers. Never assume  
that children will remain where you last saw them.  
Practices  
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting  
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms and  
legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never operate  
this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light weight  
(e.g. canvas) shoes.  
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under cutting  
deck. Contact with blade can amputate hands and feet.  
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade  
contact or thrown object injuries.  
10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled  
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.  
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the  
handle immediately.  
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are  
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or  
obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and  
then follow these steps:  
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful  
care of a responsible adult other than the operator.  
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.  
3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down  
for small children.  
4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,  
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure  
your vision of a child who may run into the mower.  
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines.They can  
suffer burns from a hot muffler.  
6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power  
mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and  
understand operation instructions and safety rules in this  
manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.  
WARNING  
This symbol points  
out important safety  
instructions which, if  
not followed, could  
endanger the personal  
safety and/or property  
of yourself and others.  
Read and follow all  
instructions in this man-  
ual before attempting to  
operate this machine.  
Failure to comply with  
these instructions may  
result in personal injury.  
When you see this  
symbol.  
General Operation  
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety before  
attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand,  
and follow all instructions on the machine and in the  
manual(s) before operation. Be completely familiar with  
the controls and the proper use of this machine before  
operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future  
and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.  
a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.  
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.  
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way  
toward you.  
d. Repeat these steps as needed.  
12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of  
alcohol or drugs.  
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so  
equipped while starting engine.  
2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,  
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all  
times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to  
mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.  
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this  
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and  
understand the instructions in this manual and should  
be trained and supervised by a parent. Only responsible  
individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe  
operation should be allowed to use this machine.  
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to  
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and  
other foreign objects which could be tripped over or picked  
up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause  
serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid  
discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders  
and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a  
wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material  
to ricochet back toward the operator.  
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,  
stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children,  
bystanders, helpers, and pets at least 75 feet from mower  
while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters  
area.  
14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt  
to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device  
inoperative and may result in personal injury through  
contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle  
must operate easily in both directions and automatically  
return to the disengaged position when released.  
15. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of  
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal  
injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the  
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop  
rotating within three seconds.  
16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.  
17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.  
18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the  
engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is  
generally a warning of trouble.  
HEED ITS WARNING  
Your  
Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a  
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclog-  
ging the chute.  
in this manual  
and on the machine.  
4
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The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after 7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources  
the engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body in  
the blade area until you are sure the blade has stopped  
rotating.  
of ignition.  
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will  
accumulate in the area.  
20. Never operate mower without proper trailshield, discharge  
cover, grass catcher, blade control handle, or other safety  
protective devices in place and working. Never operate  
mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can  
result in personal injury.  
21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do  
not touch.  
22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by  
manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.  
23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,  
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for  
assistance. Telephone 1-866-840-6483 for the name of your  
nearest dealer.  
9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or  
running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before  
refueling.  
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch  
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.  
2
Safe  
Operation  
Practices  
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.  
12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.  
Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting  
engine.  
13. Never store the machine or fuel container near an open  
flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space  
heater, furnace, clothes dryer, or other gas appliances.  
14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,  
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and  
remove any fuel soaked debris.  
Slope Operation  
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which  
can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra  
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your  
safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to  
measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly  
area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.  
15. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.  
General Service:  
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.  
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and  
deadly gas.  
WARNING  
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the  
blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the  
spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent  
unintended starting.  
3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent  
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade for  
damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with the  
original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only, listed  
in this manual.Use of parts which do not meet the original  
equipment specifications may lead to improper performance  
and compromise safety!”  
4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut.Wrap the blade or wear  
gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.  
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equip-  
ment is in safe working condition.  
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper opera-  
tion regularly.  
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, discon-  
nect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.  
Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the  
damage before starting and operating the mower.  
Do:  
This symbol points  
out important safety  
instructions which, if  
not followed, could  
endanger the personal  
safety and/or property  
of yourself and others.  
Read and follow all  
instructions in this man-  
ual before attempting to  
operate this machine.  
Failure to comply with  
these instructions may  
result in personal injury.  
When you see this  
symbol.  
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.  
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on  
slopes.  
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps which  
can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide obstacles.  
3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause  
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your  
balance, release the blade control handle immediately, and  
the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.  
Do Not:  
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, where  
you could lose your footing or balance.  
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on  
the slope gauge.  
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause  
slipping.  
Service  
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment  
while the engine is running.  
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:  
HEED ITS WARNING  
9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail  
shield are subject to wear and damage which could expose  
moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety  
protection, frequently check components and replace im-  
mediately with original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.)  
parts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do  
not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to  
improper performance and compromise safety!”  
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the  
engine.The governor controls the maximum safe operating  
speed of the engine.  
11. Maintain or replace safety labels, as necessary.  
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper  
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.  
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme  
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable  
and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can  
occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes  
which can ignite.  
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.  
3. Use only an approved gasoline container.  
4. 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.  
5. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer  
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel  
such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather  
than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.  
Your  
Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
6. 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 lock-open device.  
in this manual  
and on the machine.  
5
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IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or  
oil in the engine. Fill up gasoline and oil as instructed  
in the accompanying engine manual BEFORE operat-  
ing your mower.  
3
1. Remove any packing material which may be between  
upper and lower handles.  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
a. Pull up and back on upper handle as shown in  
Figure 3-1. Make certain the lower handle is seated  
securely into the handle mounting brackets. Do not  
crimp cable while lifting the handle up.  
b. Tighten star knobs securing upper handle to lower  
handle, Figure 3-1. Make sure that each carriage  
bolt is seated properly in the handle.  
2. Locate the hairpin clip on the weld pin on each side  
lower handle.  
a. Remove hairpin clip from this hole. Using a pair  
of pliers, insert hairpin clip into the hole on pin  
closest to the bracket, Figure 3-2. Repeat on other  
side.  
Figure 3-1: Unfold handle and tighten hardware.  
 
b. Insert a carriage bolt from the hardware pack into  
the upper hole on the handle mounting bracket,  
Figure 3-2. Secure with one plastic wing nut, also  
included in the hardware pack. Repeat on other  
side.  
Stand behind the mower  
as if you were going to  
operate it. Your right  
hand corresponds to the  
right side of the mower;  
your left hand corre-  
sponds to the left side of  
the mower.  
���  
3. The rope guide is attached to the right side of the  
upper handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures the  
rope guide, Figure 3-3.  
a. Hold blade control handle against upper handle.  
b. Pull starter rope out of the engine. Release blade  
control handle.  
c. Slip starter rope into rope guide.  
d. Tighten wing nut.  
4. Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the  
lower handle. Pull cable tie tight and trim excess,  
Figure 3-4.  
Figure 3-2: Secure lower handle to mounting brackets.  
Each end of the lower  
handle must be placed at  
the same position on the  
mounting brackets.  
IMPORTANT: This unit is  
shipped without gasoline  
or oil in the engine. Fill  
up gasoline and oil as  
instructed in the accom-  
panying engine manual  
BEFORE operating your  
mower.  
Figure 3-3: Pull recoil starter through rope guide and tighten.  
Figure 3-4: Secure cable to handle using cable ties.  
6
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5. Follow steps below to assemble the grass catcher  
(if needed). Make certain bag is turned right side  
out before assembling (warning label will be on the  
outside).  
3
a. Place bag over frame so that its black plastic side  
is at the bottom.  
A
b. Slip plastic channel of grass bag over hooks on the  
frame, Figure 3-5. All the plastic channels except  
center top of bag attach from outside of bag.  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
c. Attach center top of bag from inside of bag.  
6. Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:  
a. Lift rear discharge door.  
C
B
b. Place grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go  
of discharge door so that it rests on the grass  
catcher, Figure 3-6.  
To remove grass catcher, lift rear discharge door on the  
mower. Lift grass catcher up and out, off of the pivot  
rod. Release rear discharge door to allow it to close rear  
opening of mower.  
Figure 3-5: Assemble the grass catcher (if needed).  
WARNING  
WARNING: Never operate mower unless the  
hooks on the grass catcher are firmly seated  
on the pivot rod and the rear discharge door rests  
firmly against top of the grass catcher.  
Never operate mower  
unless the hooks on the  
grass catcher are firmly  
seated on the pivot rod  
and the rear discharge  
door rests firmly against  
top of the grass catcher.  
Adjustments  
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel  
provides cutting height adjustment.  
1. Depress lever towards wheel.  
2. Move it to any one of the positions for desired cutting  
height, Figure 3-7. Make sure that each wheel is  
positioned at the same height.  
3. Release lever towards mower deck.  
Figure 3-6: Attach the grass catcher.  
Figure 3-7: Use adjustment levers at each wheel to change the  
cutting height.  
7
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KnowYour Lawn Mower  
Blade Control  
4
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Recoil Starter  
Cutting Height Adjustment  
Levers (one at each wheel)  
WARNING  
The blade control  
mechanism is a safety  
device. Never attempt to  
bypass its operations.  
Use extreme care when  
handling gasoline.  
Figure 4-1:The main components on the mower.  
Gasoline is extremely  
flammable and the vapors  
are explosive. Never fuel  
the machine indoors or  
while the engine is hot  
or running. Extinguish  
cigarettes, cigars, pipes  
and other sources of  
ignition.  
Now that you have setup your lawn mower, its important to become acquainted with its controls and features.  
Blade Control  
Gas and Oil Fill-Up  
The blade control is attached to the upper handle  
of the mower. Depress and squeeze it against the  
upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop  
engine and blade.  
Refer to Engine Manual for engine details.  
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine  
manual for this.  
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the  
engine manual.  
WARNING: This blade control mechanism is  
a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its  
operations.  
Keep hands and feet  
away from the chute area  
on cutting deck. Refer to  
warning label on the unit.  
WARNING: Use extreme care when handling  
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable  
and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine  
indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extin-  
guish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of  
ignition.  
Cutting Height Adjustment Levers  
One adjustment lever is located at each wheel and  
is used to adjust the cutting height. All four levers  
must be moved to the same position to ensure a  
uniform cut.  
Recoil Starter  
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper  
handle. Stand behind the unit, depress blade con-  
trol, and pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.  
8
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WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower  
can result in foreign objects being thrown  
into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely.  
Always wear safety glasses while operating the  
mower, or while performing any adjustments or  
repairs on it.  
4
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Starting Engine  
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the  
operator is standing near the lawn mower  
while starting engine or operating mower. Never  
run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated  
areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an  
odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and  
loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine  
and lawn mower.  
3
Figure 4-2: Starting the mower.  
1. Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds  
between each push, Figure 4-2. In temperature  
around 55° F or below, prime five times. Do not prime  
to restart a warm engine.  
For best results, do not cut wet grass.  
For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-  
third of the total length of the grass.  
WARNING  
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade control  
against upper handle, Figure 4-2.  
Using as Mulcher  
The operation of any  
lawn mower can result  
in foreign objects being  
thrown into the eyes,  
which can damage your  
eyes severely. Always  
wear safety glasses  
while operating the  
mower, or while perform-  
ing any adjustments or  
repairs on it.  
For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher from the  
mower. The rear discharge door should be closed.  
For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass.  
3. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp recoil  
starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continu-  
ous, full arm stroke, Figure 4-2. Keeping a firm grip on  
the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat  
until engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each time  
slowly.  
New or thick grass may require a narrower cut.  
Adjust ground speed according to condition of lawn.  
• If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of  
four inches, mulching is not recommended. Use the  
grass catcher to bag clippings instead.  
WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop com-  
pletely before performing any work on the  
mower or to remove the grass catcher.  
Using Grass Catcher  
Stopping the Engine  
You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while  
you are operating the mower.  
Be sure no one other  
than the operator is  
standing near the lawn  
mower while starting  
engine or operating  
mower. Never run engine  
indoors or in enclosed,  
poorly ventilated areas.  
Engine exhaust contains  
carbon monoxide, an  
odorless and deadly gas.  
Keep hands, feet, hair  
and loose clothing away  
from any moving parts  
on engine and lawn  
mower.  
1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.  
1. Attach grass catcher following instructions in Setup  
section. Grass clippings will automatically collect in  
the bag as you run the mower. Operate the mower till  
the grass bag is full.  
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and  
ground against the engine.  
UsingYour Lawn Mower  
2. Stop engine completely by releasing the blade  
control handle. Make sure that the unit has come to  
a complete stop.  
WARNING: Never operate your mower  
without either the rear door or the entire  
grass catcher assembly firmly secured.  
3. Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away  
from the mower to dispose of the grass clippings.  
Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other  
objects which could damage lawn mower or engine.  
Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower  
in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the  
operator and others.  
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop  
the engine. Remove wire from the spark plug,  
thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair  
damage before restarting and operating. Extensive  
vibration of mower during operation is an indication  
of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected  
and repaired.  
9
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Deck Care  
WARNING: Never tip the mower more than  
90º in any direction and do not leave the  
mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain  
into the upper part of the engine causing a starting  
problem.  
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to  
prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn  
mower, or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.  
5
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the  
side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.  
3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a  
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.  
4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If  
you had put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make  
sure to remove it now.  
Figure 5-1: Areas to lubricate on the mower.  
General  
Engine Care  
A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good  
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the  
accompanying engine manual for a detailed list and  
instructions.  
Recommendations  
WARNING  
Always observe safety rules when performing  
any type of maintenance.  
Always stop engine,  
disconnect spark plug,  
and ground against  
engine before performing  
and type of maintenance  
on the mower.  
Maintain oil level as instructed in engine manual.  
The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover  
items that have been subjected to operator abuse  
or negligence. To receive full value from warranty,  
operator must maintain the lawn mower as  
instructed here.  
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal  
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely  
dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and  
flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should  
be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the  
engine manual.  
Changing of engine-governed speed will void  
engine warranty.  
Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.  
Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start  
of each mowing season. Check engine manual for  
correct plug type and gap specifications.  
All adjustments should be checked at least once  
each season.  
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these  
are tight.  
Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the  
cooling system (blower housing area) clean to permit  
proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt and  
combustible debris from muffler area.  
WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect  
spark plug, and ground against engine  
before cleaning, lubricating, or performing any type  
of maintenance.  
Lubrication  
Do not use a pressure  
washer or garden hose  
to clean your unit. These  
may cause damage to  
electric components,  
spindles, pulleys, bear-  
ings, or the engine. The  
use of water will result in  
shortened life and reduce  
serviceability.  
Lubricate pivot points on the blade control handle at  
least once a season with light oil. The blade control  
must operate freely in both directions, Figure 5-1.  
Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with  
light oil (or motor oil). If wheels are removed for any  
reason, lubricate surface of the pivot arm and inner  
surface of the wheel with light oil, Figure 5-1.  
Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on the  
rear discharge door periodically with light oil to  
prevent rust, Figure 5-1.  
Follow the accompanying engine manual for engine  
lubrication schedule and instructions.  
10  
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Blade Care  
WARNING: When removing the cutting blade  
for sharpening or replacement, protect your  
hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag  
to hold the blade.  
5
Blade  
Blade  
Adapter  
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,  
especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when  
necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Turn  
mower on its side making sure that the air filter and  
the carburetor are up.  
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Bell Blade  
Support  
Hex Bolt  
Figure 5-2: Remove blade and hardware.  
2. Remove the bolt and the bell blade support which  
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine  
crankshaft, Figure 5-2.  
3. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.  
4. The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grind-  
ing wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade while  
it is still on the mower. When sharpening the blade,  
follow the original angle of grind and grind each cut-  
ting edge equally to keep the blade balanced. Balance  
the blade on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal  
from the heavy side until it balances evenly.  
WARNING  
When removing the cut-  
ting blade for sharpening  
or replacement, protect  
your hands with a pair  
of heavy gloves or use  
a heavy rag to hold the  
blade.  
WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause  
excessive vibration when rotating at high  
speeds. It may cause damage to mower, and could  
break causing personal injury.  
5. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and slide the blade  
adapter onto the engine crankshaft.  
6. Place the blade on the adapter such that the side  
of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number)  
faces the ground when the mower is in the operating  
position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and  
seated on the blade adapter flanges.  
An unbalanced blade  
will cause excessive  
vibration when rotating  
at high speeds. It may  
cause damage to mower,  
and could break causing  
personal injury.  
Figure 5-3: Cut wire rod to remove the rear flap.  
7. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches  
on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.  
Off-Season Storage  
The following steps should be taken to prepare your  
lawn mower for storage.  
8. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450  
in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.  
Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described  
in the lubrication instructions.  
To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically  
check the blade bolt for correct torque.  
We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer  
or garden hose to clean your unit.  
Replacing Rear Flap  
Refer to engine manual for correct engine  
storage instructions.  
1. To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire rod  
which secures it to the deck, Figure 5-3.  
Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to  
prevent rusting.  
2. Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending the  
ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.  
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next  
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.  
When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly  
ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken  
to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone,  
coat the equipment, especially cables and all moving  
parts of your lawn mower before storage.  
11  
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Remedy  
Cause  
Problem  
1. Blade control disengaged.  
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.  
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.  
4. Engine not choked.  
1. Engage blade control.  
Engine fails to start  
6
2. Connect wire to spark plug.  
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
4. Choke engine as instructed in the  
“Operating Your Lawn Mower” section.  
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.  
6. Clean fuel line.  
Trouble  
Shooting  
5. Faulty spark plug.  
6. Blocked fuel line.  
7. Engine flooded.  
7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do  
not prime.  
1. Spark plug wire loose.  
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.  
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.  
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean,  
fresh gasoline.  
Engine runs erratic  
Engine overheats  
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.  
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.  
5. Dirty air cleaner.  
3. Clear vent.  
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.  
5. Refer to engine manual.  
6. Refer to engine manual.  
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
1. Engine oil level low.  
2. Air flow restricted.  
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.  
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.  
2. Remove blower housing and clean.  
3. Refer to engine manual.  
For repairs beyond  
the minor adjustments  
listed here, contact  
an authorized service  
dealer.  
1. Spark plug gap too close.  
2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment  
improperly set.  
1. Adjust gap to .030-inch.  
2. Refer to engine manual.  
Occasional skips  
(hesitates) at high speed  
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.  
1. Reset gap to .030-inch or replace  
spark plug.  
Idles poorly  
2. Refer to engine manual.  
3. Refer to engine manual.  
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.  
3. Dirty air cleaner.  
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.  
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance  
blade.  
Excessive Vibration  
2. See an authorized service dealer.  
2. Bent cutting blade.  
1. Wet grass.  
1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait  
until later to cut.  
Mower will not mulch grass  
2. Mow once at a high cutting height,  
then mow again at desired height or  
make a narrower cutting path.  
3. Sharpen or replace blade.  
2. Excessively high grass.  
3. Dull blade.  
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.  
2. Dull blade.  
1. Place all four wheels in same  
height position.  
2. Sharpen or replace blade.  
Uneven cut  
12  
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Safety Labels Found OnYour Lawn Mower  
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Labels  
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(or any) labels from  
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14  
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1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
731-04204 Blade Control Handle Cover  
24 732-0404  
25 720-0426  
Spring Lever  
747-1161A  
746-1130  
726-0240  
Blade Control Handle  
Control Cable - 40”  
Cable Tie  
Height Adjustment Knob  
26 687-02070A Pivot Arm Assembly - LH  
687-02071A Pivot Arm Assembly - RH  
27 732-02078 Spring Lever  
8
664-04011 Grass Bag Assembly  
747-04080  
732-0700  
Grass Bag Frame  
Trailshield Wire  
28 710-1652  
29 714-0104  
30 787-01291  
787-01292  
TT Screw 1/4-20 x .625  
Hairpin Clip  
Parts List  
731-04998 Trailshield  
747-04035 Rear Door Pivot Rod  
Rear Handle Bracket - LH  
Rear Handle Bracket - RH  
Carriage Bolt, 1/4-20  
10 731-04134A Rear Discharge Door  
11 687-02068 Handle Bracket Assy - RH  
687-02069 Handle Bracket Assy - LH  
31 710-0703  
32 710-04371 HL Screw 1/4-15 x 1.00  
33 732-04089A Torsion Spring - LH  
732-04090A Torsion Spring - RH  
34 750-04162 Spacer  
12 787-01276  
21-inch Deck  
13 687-02074A Height. Adj. Assy. Front - RH  
687-02075A Height Adj. Assy. Front - LH  
14 782-5002B Front Baffle  
35 731-04150C Rear Baffle  
36 712-0397  
Wing Nut  
To order replacement  
parts, call  
15 748-0377C Blade Adapter  
37 749-0928A Lower Handle  
16 742-0741  
Blade  
38 710-1174  
Carriage Bolt, 5/16-18 x 2  
1-800-648-6776  
or visit  
17 736-0524B Bell Blade Support  
39 720-04072 Star Knob  
18 710-1257  
HH Cap Screw, 3/8-24 x 2.50  
40 720-0279  
41 710-1205  
Handle Knob  
Eye Bolt  
19 712-04065 Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16  
20 787-01290  
Height Adjustment Plate  
42 749-1092A Upper Handle  
21 687-02076A Pivot Arm Assembly - LH  
687-02077A Pivot Arm Assembly - RH  
43 710-1256  
HL Screw #8-18 x 1.25  
44 751B699869 Engine Shroud  
45 710-0654A TT Screw 3/8-16 x 1  
22 734-04014B Wheel, 8 x 2.125 Gray Idle S-Wave  
23 738-0507B Shoulder Screw .500 x .434  
15  
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MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by Troy-Bilt LLC with respect  
e.  
Troy-Bilt does not extend any warranty for products sold or  
to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its posses-  
sions and territories.  
exported outside of the United States, its possessions and  
territories, except those sold through Troy-Bilt’s authorized  
channels of export distribution.  
Replacement parts that are not genuine Troy-Bilt parts.  
Transportation charges and service calls.  
Troy-Bilt” warrants this product against defects in material and workman-  
ship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date of original  
purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any part  
found to be defective in materials or workmanship. This limited warranty  
shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained in  
accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the product, and  
f.  
g.  
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchant-  
ability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the applicable  
period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identi-  
has not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, fied. No other express warranty, whether written or oral, except as  
improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage  
because of other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the  
installation or use of any part, accessory or attachment not approved by  
Troy-Bilt for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your  
warranty as to any resulting damage.  
mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer or  
retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind Troy-Bilt. During the  
period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement  
of the product as set forth above.  
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and  
exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Troy-Bilt shall not be liable  
for incidental or consequential loss or damage including, without  
limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care  
Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in material and  
workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of purchase.  
Normal wear parts include, but are not limited to items such as: batteries,  
belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow services or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted  
thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.  
product.  
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH  
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service  
dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages,  
or contact Troy-Bilt LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-  
0019, or call 1-866-840-6483 or 1-330-558-7220, or log on to our  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or  
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty  
lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.  
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of the  
purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of safety features of the  
product shall void this warranty. You assume the risk and liability for  
loss, damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others and their  
property arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product.  
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:  
a.  
The engine or component parts thereof. These items may  
carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable  
manufacturer’s warranty for terms and conditions.  
Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one  
year warranty.  
Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade  
sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments,  
deck adjustments, and normal deterioration of the exterior finish  
due to use or exposure.  
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original  
purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a gift.  
b.  
c.  
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited war-  
ranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights  
which vary from state to state.  
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain  
warranty coverage.  
d.  
Service completed by someone other than an authorized service  
dealer.  
TROYBILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1(866) 840-6483, 1-330-558-7220  
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