White Outdoor Lawn Mower 83M User Guide

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty  
OPERATOR’S MANUAL  
21-inch Self-Propelled Rotary Mower — Model 83M  
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.  
FORM NO. 769-02017A  
PRINTED IN U.S.A  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019  
01/26/2006  
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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 trail shield, 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 White Outdoor  
dealer or call (800) 949-4483 for the name of your nearest  
servicing 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 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 manufacturer’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  
operation 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, 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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1. Remove grass catcher and any packing material  
which may be between upper and lower handles.  
a. Remove hand knobs from handle mounting  
brackets and 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.  
A
3
Setup and  
Adjustment  
b. Tighten hand knobs to secure upper handle to  
lower handle. Make sure that each carriage bolt is  
seated properly in the handle.  
2. Replace and tighten hand knobs removed earlier to  
secure lower handle to handle brackets, Figure 3-2.  
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.  
B
Handle Mounting Bracket  
Stand behind the  
a. Hold the blade control against upper handle.  
mower as if you were  
going to operate it. Your  
right hand corresponds  
to the right side of the  
mower; your left hand  
corresponds to the left  
side of the mower.  
b. Pull starter rope out of the engine. Release the  
blade control.  
Figure 3-1: Lift handle and tighten hardware.  
c. Slip starter rope into rope guide.  
d. Tighten wing nut.  
4. Attach cables to the lower handle with the cable ties  
already on the lower handle. Insert pegs on cable ties  
into the holes on lower handle. Pull cable ties tight and  
cut off the excess.  
5. Before attaching the grass catcher, the mulching  
baffle must be removed, Figure 3-5.  
To assemble the grass  
catcher (if needed),  
place bag over frame  
with the black plastic  
side at the bottom. Slip  
plastic channel over  
hooks on frame. All  
channels except for  
center top of bag attach  
from the outside. The  
center of bag attaches  
from the inside.  
a. Lift rear discharge door.  
b. Remove mulching baffle.  
6. Follow steps below to install the grass catcher, Figure  
3-4.  
a. Lift rear discharge door.  
b. Place grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go  
of discharge door so that it rests on the grass  
catcher.  
Figure 3-2: Secure handle to handle mounting brackets.  
A
IMPORTANT  
DO NOT crimp the  
cables when lifting the  
handle up.  
A
B
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.  
B
D
C
Figure 3-3: Pull recoil starter through rope guide and tighten.  
Figure 3-4: Lift discharge door and place grass catcher on rod.  
6
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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.  
7. Follow steps below to install the mulching baffle:  
3
a. Lift the rear discharge door and lift the grass catcher up and off of the pivot rod, if installed.  
b. Insert the mulching baffle as shown in Figure 3-5 and release the rear discharge door.  
8. To convert to side discharge, make sure grass catcher is off of the unit and rear discharge door is closed.  
a. On the side of the mower, lift the mulching plug.  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
b. Slide two hooks on side discharge chute under hinge pin on mulching plug assembly, Figure 3-6. Lower side  
mulching plug. Do not remove side mulching plug at any time even when you are not mulching.  
A
A
CUTTING HEIGHT  
For rough or uneven  
lawns, move the height  
adjustment lever to a  
higher position. This will  
help prevent scalping of  
the grass.  
B
B
Figure 3-5:The mulching baffle  
Figure 3-6: Installing the side discharge chute.  
DRIVE CONTROL  
For some people the  
drive control may not  
be in a comfortable  
position. You can adjust  
the handle by tightening  
the adjustment wheel.  
Adjustments  
Cutting Height  
The cutting height adjustment lever is located above the rear left wheel, Figure 3-7.  
a. Pull the lever out and away from the mower.  
b. Move the lever forward or back for desired cutting height.  
c. Release lever towards mower deck.  
Drive Control  
The adjustment wheel is located in the drive control handle housing and is used to tighten or loosen the drive belt.  
You will need to adjust the drive control if the mower does not propel itself with the drive control engaged or if the  
mower’s wheels hesitate with the drive control engaged. If either of these conditions occur, rotate the adjustment  
wheel clockwise to tighten the cable or counterclockwise to loosen the cable, Figure 3-8.  
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.  
B
C
A
Figure 3-8:The adjustment wheel on the drive control.  
Figure 3-7:The cutting height adjustment lever.  
7
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KnowYour Lawn Mower  
Drive Control  
Blade Control  
4
Drive  
Control  
Lever  
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Choke Knob  
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever  
Recoil Starter  
Grass Bag  
WARNING  
Gasoline Fill  
The blade control is a  
safety device. Never  
attempt to bypass its  
operations.  
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.  
Extinguish cigarettes,  
cigars, pipes, and other  
sources of ignition.  
Oil Fill  
Figure 4-1:The major components on the lawn mower.  
Now that you have set up your lawn mower for  
operation, read this section to become acquainted  
with its controls and features. This knowledge will  
allow you to use your new equipment to its fullest  
potential.  
Recoil Starter  
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper  
handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil  
starter rope to start the unit.  
Choke Knob  
Pull the choke knob to activate the choke on the  
engine. Use of the choke may not be necessary if the  
engine is warm or the air temperature is high.  
Blade Control  
The blade control is attached to the upper handle.  
Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle  
to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and  
blade.  
Keep hands and feet  
away from the cutting  
deck. Refer to warning  
label on the unit.  
Gas and Oil Fill-Up  
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary, Figure 4-1.  
Refer to the Engine Operation section for more  
information.  
WARNING: This blade control is a safety  
device. Do not bypass its operations.  
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the  
Engine Operation section. See Figure 4-1 for location  
of gas fill.  
Drive Control Lever  
The drive control is located on the upper handle.  
Squeeze the drive control lever to engage the drive  
system. Release it to disengage the drive system.  
To slow down when approaching an obstacle, mak-  
ing a turn, or stopping, release the lever.  
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 Lever  
The cutting height adjustment lever is located  
above the left rear wheel. To adjust the cutting  
height, refer to the Adjustment Section.  
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  
2
glasses while operating the mower or while perform-  
ing any adjustments or repairs on it.  
4
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Starting Engine  
1
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the  
operator is standing near the lawn mower  
while starting engine or operating mower.  
4
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. Pull out the choke knob located on the left side of the  
upper handle, Figure 4-2.  
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,  
stop the engine. Remove wire from the  
spark plug, thoroughly inspect mower  
Note: Use of the choke may not be necessary if the  
engine is warm or the air temperature is high.  
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze and hold the  
blade control against upper handle, Figure 4-2.  
WARNING  
for any damage, and repair damage before restart-  
ing and operating. Extensive vibration of mower  
during operation is an indication of damage. The  
unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.  
1. Once the engine is running, squeeze the drive  
control to propel mower. For best results, do not cut  
wet grass and never cut off more than one-third of  
the total length of the grass.  
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.  
3. Pull the recoil starter lightly until resistance is felt,  
then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent  
kickback, and start the engine. Repeat if necessary,  
Figure 4-2.  
Important: Do not allow the recoil starter to snap  
back against the rope guide.  
4. When engine warms up, push in the choke knob,  
Figure 4-2.  
Using as Mulcher  
For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher from the  
mower and install the mulch baffle, see Setup section.  
For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. New  
or thick grass may require a narrower cut. Adjust  
ground speed according to condition of lawn.  
Stopping Engine  
1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.  
• 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.  
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and  
ground against the engine.  
Be sure no one other  
than the operator is  
standing near the  
WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop  
completely before performing any work  
on the mower or to remove the grass  
catcher.  
Using Grass Catcher  
lawn mower while  
You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while  
you are operating the mower.  
starting engine or oper-  
ating mower. Never  
run engine indoors or  
in enclosed, poorly  
ventilated areas. En-  
gine 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. Attach grass catcher following instructions in Setup  
section. Grass clippings will automatically collect in  
bag as you run mower. Operate mower till grass bag  
is full.  
UsingYour Lawn Mower  
WARNING: Never operate your mower  
without either the rear door or the entire  
grass catcher assembly firmly secured.  
2. Stop engine completely by releasing the blade  
control. Make sure that the unit has come to a  
complete stop.  
3. Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away  
from the mower to remove the bag. Dispose of the  
grass clippings and reinstall the bag when complete.  
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.  
9
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Lubrication  
1. Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least  
once a season with light oil. The blade control must  
operate freely in both directions, Figure 5-1.  
5
2. 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 axle and inner surface  
of the wheel with light oil, Figure 5-1.  
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
3. Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on the rear  
discharge door periodically with light oil to prevent  
rust, Figure 5-1.  
4. The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the  
factory and does not require lubrication.  
5. Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrica-  
tion schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.  
Figure 5-1: Lubrication areas on the mower.  
Deck Care  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn  
mower or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.  
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the  
side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.  
A
WARNING  
Always stop engine,  
disconnect spark plug,  
and ground against  
engine before cleaning,  
lubricating or doing any  
kind of maintenance on  
your machine.  
WARNING: Never tip the mower more  
than 90 degrees in any directions 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.  
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.  
B
Engine Care  
Figure 5-2: Replacing the rear flap.  
IMPORTANT: We do  
NOTE: Refer to the engine operation and mainte-  
nance sections in this manual for instructions.  
not recommend the use  
of pressure washers or  
a garden hose to clean  
your unit. These may  
cause damage to electric  
components, spindles,  
pulleys, bearings, or the  
engine. The use of water  
will result in shortened life  
and reduce serviceability.  
General Recommendations  
Always observe safety rules when performing  
any maintenance.  
1. Maintain oil level.  
2. Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal  
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely  
dusty conditions.  
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.  
3. Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.  
4. 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.  
Changing of engine-governed speed will void  
engine warranty.  
All adjustments should be checked at least once  
each season.  
Replacing Rear Flap  
1. Lift up rear door.  
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these  
are tight.  
2. Bend (bow) the rear flap inward on each side to  
release tabs from the holes in the handle mounting  
brackets, Figure 5-2.  
WARNING: Always stop engine,  
disconnect spark plug, and ground  
against engine before servicing the  
unit.  
3. Replace with new flap by bending the rear flap and  
sliding into place.  
10  
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Blade Care  
WARNING: When removing cutting  
blade for sharpening or replacement,  
protect your hands with a pair of heavy  
gloves or use a heavy rag to hold blade.  
5
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  
2. Remove bolt, blade bell support, blade, and blade  
adapter from the engine crankshaft, Figure 5-3.  
NOTE: When removing the blade, blade adapter, etc., be  
careful not to remove or lose parts above it associated  
with the engine pulley.  
3. 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 blade, follow  
original angle of grind. Grind cutting edges equally to  
keep blade balanced.  
Figure 5-3: Remove bolt, bell support, blade, and adapter to  
gain access to the blade.  
4. Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.  
Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to  
check. Remove metal from the heavy side until it  
balances evenly.  
WARNING  
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.  
When removing  
the cutting blade  
for sharpening or  
replacement or  
5. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface  
of the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the blade  
adapter onto the engine crankshaft. 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  
blade is aligned and seated on blade adapter flanges.  
when sliding the belt  
around it, protect  
your hands with a  
pair of heavy gloves  
or use a heavy rag to  
hold the blade.  
Figure 5-4: Loosen the screw that holds deck baffle onto deck.  
6. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches  
on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.  
Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450  
in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.  
An unbalanced blade  
will cause excessive  
vibration when rotat-  
ing at high speeds. It  
may cause damage  
to mower, and could  
break causing per-  
sonal injury.  
To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically  
check the blade bolt for correct torque.  
Belt Care  
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against  
the engine.  
2. Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plastic beneath  
the cap to prevent gasoline leakage.  
3. Tip mower on its side (air cleaner side of engine up).  
4. Remove blade, adapter, and related hardware as  
instructed under “Blade Care” above.  
5. Loosen self-tapping screw that secures deck baffle to  
the deck, Figure 5-4.  
Figure 5-5: Remove belt from transmission and engine pulley.  
11  
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Off-Season Storage  
6. a. Working from the rear of the mower, carefully  
remove belt from transmission pulley.  
The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn  
mower for storage.  
b. Once belt is off transmission pulley, push down on  
deck baffle to access engine pulley and slide belt  
off this pulley and out from under the deck, Figure  
5.5.  
Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in  
the lubrication instructions.  
5
We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer  
or garden hose to clean your unit.  
7. Replace with new belt, working it between the deck  
and baffle, first around the transmission pulley and  
then the engine pulley.  
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to  
prevent rusting.  
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to  
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.  
NOTE: Make certain that belt is seated correctly and  
that it is riding smoothly on the engine pulley and is not  
pinched between the lower and upper pulley halves.  
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.  
8. Tighten self-tapping screw securing deck baffle  
loosened earlier.  
9. Replace blade, blade adapter, and associated  
hardware. Follow instructions in Blade Care section  
for proper assembly.  
NOTE: When replacing  
the belt, check that the  
newly installed belt is  
seated correctly and is  
riding smoothly on the  
engine pulley.  
10.Tip mower back onto its wheels and remove piece of  
plastic from under gas cap (if applicable).  
12  
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NOTES  
13  
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Remedy  
Problem  
Cause  
Engine fails to start  
1. Blade control disengaged.  
2. Spark plug boot disconnected.  
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.  
4. CHOKE not activated.  
1. Engage blade control.  
6
2. Connect boot to spark plug.  
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
4. Choke engine as instructed in  
“Operating Your Lawn Mower”.  
Trouble  
Shooting  
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.  
6. Clean fuel line.  
5. Faulty spark plug.  
6. Blocked fuel line.  
7. Engine flooded.  
7. Wait a few minutes to restart.  
1. Connect and tighten spark plug  
boot.  
1. Spark plug boot loose.  
Engine runs erratic  
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean,  
fresh gasoline.  
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.  
3. Clear vent.  
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.  
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.  
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with  
fresh fuel.  
For repairs beyond  
the minor adjust-  
ments listed here,  
contact an authorized  
service dealer.  
5. Refer to engine maintenance  
section.  
5. Dirty air cleaner.  
6. Unit running with CHOKE applied.  
6. Push CHOKE knob in.  
Engine overheats  
1. Engine oil level low.  
2. Air flow restricted.  
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.  
2. Remove blower housing  
and clean.  
1. Spark plug gap too close.  
1. Adjust gap to .030”.  
Occasional skips  
(hesitates) at  
high speed  
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap  
too wide.  
1. Reset gap to .030” or replace  
spark plug.  
Idles poorly  
2. Dirty air cleaner.  
2. Refer to engine maintenance  
section.  
Excessive  
Vibration  
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.  
1. Tighten blade and adapter.  
Balance blade.  
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. Excessively high grass.  
2. Mow once at a high cutting height,  
then mow again at desired height  
or make a narrower cutting path.  
3. Dull blade.  
3. Sharpen or replace blade.  
1. Dull blade.  
1. Sharpen or replace blade.  
Uneven cut  
1. Belt not installed properly.  
1. Check belt for proper pulley  
installation and movement.  
Mower will not  
self propel  
2. Stop engine, disconnect spark plug  
boot and clean out debris.  
2. Debris clogging drive operation.  
3. Damaged or worn belt.  
3. Inspect and replace belt.  
14  
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Safety Labels Found OnYour Lawn Mower  
�  
�� �  
��  
��  
7
Safety  
Labels  
WARNING  
 
����  
�  
���  
 
�  
���  
���  
�����  
�  
DO NOT remove safety  
(or any) labels from  
mower for any reason.  
�����  
�����  
Read and follow Operating Instructions before running  
engine.  
Gasoline is flammable. Allow engine to cool at least  
2 minutes before refueling.  
Engines emit carbon monoxide. DO NOT run in enclosed  
area.  
15  
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WARNING: Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Fire or  
explosion can cause severe burns or death. If gasoline is spilled on yourself or your  
clothes, wash your skin and change clothes immediately.  
8
When operating equipment, do not tip engine or  
Gasoline and its vapors are  
extremely flammable and  
explosive. Fire or explosion can  
cause severe burns or death. If  
gasoline is spilled on yourself  
or your clothes, wash your skin  
and change clothes immediately.  
equipment at angle which causes gasoline to spill.  
Engine  
Safe  
Do not choke carburetor to stop engine.  
When transporting equipment, transport with fuel tank  
EMPTY.  
When storing gasoline or equipment with fuel in tank,  
Operation  
Practices  
store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or  
other appliances that have pilot light or other ignition  
source because they can ignite gasoline vapors.  
When adding fuel, turn engine OFF and let engine  
cool at least 2 minutes before removing gas cap.  
Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well ventilated area.  
Use only an approved gasoline container.  
Starting engine creates spark-  
ing. Sparking can ignite nearby  
flammable gases. Explosion and  
fire could result.  
Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or  
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place contain-  
ers on the ground away from your vehicle before  
filling.  
• If there is a natural or LP gas leakage in area, do not  
start engine.  
WARNING  
• If possible, 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.  
Do not use pressurized starting fluids because vapors  
are flammable.  
Gasoline and its vapors  
are extremely flammable  
and explosive. Fire or ex-  
plosion can cause severe  
burns or death. If gasoline  
is spilled on yourself or  
your clothes, wash your  
skin and change clothes  
immediately.  
Engines give off carbon mon-  
oxide, an odorless, colorless,  
poisonous gas. Breathing carbon  
monoxide can cause nausea,  
fainting, or death.  
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.  
Do not overfill fuel tank. Fill tank to approximately  
2 cm below lowest portion of neck to allow for fuel  
expansion.  
Start and run engine outdoors.  
Keep gasoline away from sparks, open flames, pilot  
lights, heat, and other ignition sources.  
Do not start or run engine in enclosed area, even if  
doors or windows are open.  
Starting engine creates  
sparking. Sparking can  
ignite nearby flammable  
gases. Explosion and fire  
could result.  
Never fuel equipment indoors because flammable  
vapors will accumulate in the area.  
Unintentional sparking can result  
in fire or electric shock. Unin-  
tentional start-up can result in  
entanglement, traumatic amputa-  
tion, or laceration.  
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other  
sources of ignition.  
Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for  
cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.  
Unintentional sparking  
can result in fire or elec-  
tric shock. Unintentional  
start-up can result in  
entanglement, traumatic  
amputation, or laceration.  
When starting engine, make sure spark plug, muffler,  
fuel cap and air cleaner are in place.  
Before performing adjustments or repairs, disconnect  
spark plug wire and keep it away from spark plug.  
Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.  
• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting  
engine.  
When testing for spark, use approved spark plug  
tester.  
Do not check for spark with spark plug removed.  
16  
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Tie up long hair and remove jewelry.  
Running engine produces heat.  
Engine parts, especially muffler,  
become extremely hot. Severe  
thermal burns can occur on  
contact. Combustible debris,  
such as leaves, grass, brush, etc.,  
can catch fire.  
Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, dangling draw-  
strings or items that could become caught.  
8
Rapid retraction of starter cord  
(kickback) will pull hand and  
arm toward engine faster than  
you can let go. Broken bones,  
fractures, bruises or sprains  
could result.  
Engine  
Safe  
Allow muffler, engine cylinder, and fins to cool before  
touching.  
Keep children away from hot or running engines. They  
can suffer burns from a hot muffler.  
Operation  
Practices  
When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resis-  
tance is felt, then pull rapidly.  
Remove accumulated combustibles from muffler and  
cylinder area.  
Remove all external equipment/engine loads before  
starting engine.  
Direct coupled equipment components such as, but  
not limited to blades, impellers, pulleys, sprockets,  
etc., must be securely attached.  
Rotating engine parts can  
contact or entangle hands, feet,  
hair, clothing, or accessories.  
Traumatic amputation or severe  
laceration can result.  
Safety Label Location  
This label warns you of potential hazards that can  
cause serious injury. Read it carefully. Refer to Figure  
8-1 for explanation of symbols. If the label comes off or  
becomes hard to read, contact the dealer for replace-  
ment.  
WARNING  
Operate equipment with guards in place.  
Running engine produces  
heat. Engine parts, es-  
pecially muffler, become  
extremely hot. Severe  
thermal burns can occur  
on contact. Combustible  
debris, such as leaves,  
grass, brush, etc., can  
catch fire.  
Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.  
PB  
Rotating engine parts  
can contact or entangle  
hands, feet, hair, clothing,  
or accessories. Traumatic  
amputation or severe  
laceration can result.  
International Symbols and Meanings  
Rapid retraction of starter  
cord (kickback) will pull  
hand and arm toward  
engine faster than you  
can let go. Broken bones,  
fractures, bruises or  
 
�  
���  
�  
�  
sprains could result.  
 
�  
�  
�  
�  
�  
Figure 8-1: International symbols and meanings.  
17  
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KnowYour Engine  
Fuel Cap  
9
Air Cleaner  
Operating  
Your  
Starter  
Grip  
Engine  
Oil Fill Cap  
Oil Drain  
Spark Plug  
Muffler  
Figure 9-1:The major components of the engine.  
IMPORTANT: This engine  
is shipped without gaso-  
line or oil in the engine.  
Running the engine with  
insufficient oil can cause  
serious engine damage  
and void the engine  
Read this section before starting your lawn mower engine. Compare the illustration in Figure 9-1 with your lawn mower  
engine to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments.  
Pre-Operation Check  
Oil Recommendations  
10w  
warranty.  
20w  
IMPORTANT: This engine is shipped without gaso-  
line or oil in the engine. Running the engine with  
insufficient oil can cause serious engine damage  
and void the engine warranty.  
1
20  
IMPORTANT: Using non-  
detergent oil or 2-stroke  
engine oil could shorten  
the engine’s service life.  
30  
Before starting engine, fill with oil. Do not over-fill. Oil  
capacity is about 20 oz.  
40  
Use a 4-stroke, or an equivalent high detergent,  
premium quality motor oil certified to meet or exceed  
U.S. automobile manufacturer’s requirements for service  
classification SG, SF. Motor oils classified SG, SF will  
show this designation on the container.  
20w40, 20w50  
Be sure to check the  
engine on a level surface  
with the engine stopped.  
15w40, 15w50  
2
10w40  
10w30  
SAE 10W-30 is recommended for general, all tem-  
perature use. If single viscosity oil is used, select the  
appropriate viscosity for the average temperature in your  
area from the chart to the right.  
(ºC)  
(ºF)  
-30º -20º -10º 0º  
-20º 0º 20º 40º 60º 80º 100º  
Ambient Temperature  
10º 20º 30º 40º  
1. Single Viscosity  
2. Multi Viscosity  
IMPORTANT: Using non detergent oil or 2-stroke  
engine oil could shorten the engine’s service life.  
18  
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Check Oil Level  
IMPORTANT: Be sure to check the engine on a level  
surface with the engine stopped.  
1. Remove the oil filler cap and wipe the dipstick clean,  
Figure 9-2.  
9
2. Insert the dipstick into the oil filler neck, but do not  
screw it in.  
Oil Fill Cap/  
Dipstick  
Operating  
Your  
3. If the level is low, slowly add oil to the upper limit on  
the dipstick, see Figure 9-2 inset.  
Upper Level  
4. Tighten dipstick firmly before starting engine.  
Engine  
IMPORTANT: Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may  
cause smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling, or  
oil saturation of air cleaner.  
Fuel Recommendations  
Use automotive gasoline (Unleaded or low leaded to  
minimize combustion chamber deposits). Never use an  
oil/gasoline mixture or dirty gasoline. Avoid getting dirt,  
dust, or water in the fuel tank.  
Figure 9-2: Checking the oil level.  
WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flam-  
mable and is explosive under certain  
conditions.  
WARNING  
2
Always keep hands and  
feet clear of equipment  
moving parts. Do not use  
a pressurized starting  
fluid. Vapors are flam-  
mable.  
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine  
stopped. Do not smoke or allow flames or sparks  
in the area where the engine is refueled or where  
gasoline is stored.  
1
Do not overfill the fuel tank (there should be no fuel  
in the filler neck). After refueling, make sure the tank  
cap is closed properly and securely.  
4
Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling. Spilled  
fuel or fuel vapor may ignite. If any fuel is spilled,  
make sure the area is dry before starting the engine.  
3
Avoid repeated or prolonged contact with skin or  
breathing of vapor.  
Figure 9-3: Starting the mower. (Your mower may differ from  
that shown)  
IMPORTANT: Do not  
allow the starter grip to  
snap back against the  
engine. Return it gently  
to prevent damage to the  
starter.  
Check Fuel Level  
1. Clean around fuel fill before removing cap to fuel.  
2. Fill tank to approximately 1-inch below lowest portion  
of neck to allow for fuel expansion. Be careful not to  
overfill.  
2. Standing behind the mower, depress the blade control  
handle and hold it against the upper handle.  
3. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt,  
then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent  
kickback, and start engine. Repeat if necessary,  
Figure 9-3.  
IMPORTANT: Before refueling, allow engine to cool  
2 minutes.  
Starting The Engine  
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the starter grip to snap  
back against the rope guide. Return it gently to  
prevent damage to the starter.  
WARNING: Always keep hands and  
feet clear of equipment moving parts.  
Do not use a pressurized starting fluid.  
Vapors are flammable.  
4. When engine warms up, push in the choke knob,  
Figure 9-3.  
Stopping The Engine  
1. Pull out the choke knob located on the left side of  
the upper handle, Figure 9-3. Use of the choke may  
not be necessary if the engine is warm or the air  
temperature is high.  
1. Release the blade control handle.  
19  
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WARNING: Shut off the engine before  
performing any maintenance. To  
Periodic inspection and adjustment of the engine is  
essential if high level performance is to be maintained.  
prevent accidental start-up, disconnect Regular maintenance will also ensure a long service life.  
the spark plug boot.  
The required service intervals and the kind of mainte-  
nance to be performed are described in the table below.  
Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur  
first. More frequent service is required when operating in  
adverse conditions.  
10  
IMPORTANT: If engine must be tipped to transport  
equipment or to inspect or remove grass, keep spark  
plug side of engine up. Transporting or tipping engine  
spark plug down may cause smoking, hard starting,  
spark plug fouling, or oil saturation of air cleaner.  
Maintaining  
Your  
Maintenance Schedule  
Engine  
First 5 hours  
Each use or  
every 5 hours  
Every season Every season  
or 25 hours or 50 hours  
Every season  
or 100 hours  
Service Dates  
Tasks  
Check Engine  
Oil  
Change Engine  
Oil  
Check Air  
Cleaner  
Service Air  
Cleaner  
WARNING  
Check Spark  
Plug  
Shut off the engine  
before performing any  
maintenance. To prevent  
accidental start-up,  
disconnect the spark plug  
boot.  
Service Spark  
Plug  
Clean Finger  
Guard  
Clean Around  
Muffler  
Before tipping engine or  
equipment to drain oil,  
drain fuel from tank by  
running engine until fuel  
tank is empty.  
Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.  
†† If operating under heavy load or high ambient temperature.  
Oil Change  
Oil Fill Cap  
IMPORTANT: Be sure to check engine on a level surface  
with the engine stopped. Drain the oil while the engine is  
still warm to assure rapid and complete draining.  
1. Remove oil fill cap and drain oil by either removing  
drain plug or turning mower on its side (air cleaner side  
up) and allowing oil to drain into a suitable container,  
Figure 10-1.  
WARNING: Before tipping engine or  
equipment to drain oil, drain fuel from  
tank by running engine until fuel tank is  
empty.  
IMPORTANT: Be sure to  
check engine on a level  
surface with the engine  
stopped. Drain the oil  
while the engine is still  
warm to assure rapid and  
complete draining.  
Drain  
Level  
Plug  
2. Reinstall the drain plug (if removed), and tighten it  
securely.  
Figure 10-1: Changing the oil.  
3. Refill with the recommended oil (see Operation  
section) and check the oil level, Figure 10-1.  
Oil Service  
Check oil level regularly.  
4. Reinstall the oil fill cap securely.  
Be sure correct oil level is maintained. Check every  
5 hours or daily before starting engine. See oil  
checking procedure in the Operation section.  
20  
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IMPORTANT: Used motor oil may cause skin cancer  
if repeatedly left in contact with the skin for prolonged  
periods. Although this is unlikely unless you handle used  
oil on a daily basis, it is still advisable to thoroughly wash  
your hands with soap and water as soon as possible  
after handling used oil.  
 
10  
Maintaining  
Your  
NOTE: Please dispose of used motor oil in a manner that  
is compatible with the environment. We suggest you take  
it in a sealed container to your local service station for  
reclamation. Do not throw it in the trash or pour it on the  
ground.  
Engine  
Air Cleaner Service  
�  
A dirty air cleaner will restrict air flow to the carburetor.  
To prevent carburetor malfunction, service the air cleaner  
regularly. Service more frequently when operating the  
engine in extremely dusty areas.  
Figure 10-2: Servicing the air cleaner.  
 
WARNING: Never use gasoline or low  
flash point solvents for cleaning the  
air cleaner element. A fire or explosion  
could result.  
WARNING  
Never use gasoline or low  
flash point solvents for  
cleaning the air cleaner  
element. A fire or explo-  
sion could result.  
IMPORTANT: Never run the engine without the air  
cleaner. Rapid engine wear will result.  
1. Remove the wing bolt and the air cleaner cover.  
Remove the elements and separate them, Figure  
10-2. Carefully check both elements for holes or tears  
and replace if damaged.  
DO NOT check for spark  
with spark plug removed.  
DO NOT crank engine  
2. Foam element: Wash the element in a solution of  
household detergent and warm water, then rinse  
thoroughly, or wash in nonflammable or high flash  
point solvent. Allow the element to dry thoroughly.  
Soak the element in clean engine oil and squeeze out  
the excess oil. The engine will smoke during initial  
start-up if too much oil is left in the foam.  
��  
Figure 10-3:The spark plug and boot.  
with spark plug removed.  
Spark Plug Service  
If the engine has been  
running, the muffler will  
be very hot. Be careful  
not to touch the muffler.  
WARNING: DO NOT check for spark  
with spark plug removed. DO NOT crank  
engine with spark plug removed.  
3. Paper element: Tap the element lightly several times  
on a hard surface to remove excess dirt, or blow  
compressed air through the filter from the inside out.  
Never try to brush the dirt off; brushing will force  
dirt into the fibers. Replace the paper element if it is  
excessively dirty.  
To ensure proper engine operation, the spark plug must  
be properly gapped and free of deposits.  
1. Remove the spark plug boot and use a spark plug  
wrench to remove the plug, Figure 10-3.  
Air Cleaner Kit Part Number: 951-10298  
WARNING: If the engine has been  
running, the muffler will be very hot. Be  
careful not to touch the muffler.  
2. Visually inspect the spark plug. Discard the spark plug  
if there is apparent wear, or if the insulator is cracked  
or chipped. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush if it  
is to be reused.  
21  
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Storage  
Engines stored over 30 days need to be drained of fuel  
to prevent deterioration and gum from forming in fuel  
system or on essential carburetor parts. If the gasoline in  
your engine deteriorates during storage, you may need to  
have the carburetor, and other fuel system components,  
serviced or replaced.  
�  
10  
Maintaining  
Your  
1. Remove all fuel from tank by running engine until it  
stops from lack of fuel.  
2. Change oil. See Oil Change section.  
Engine  
3. Remove spark plug and pour about 1/2 an ounce of  
engine oil into cylinder. Replace spark plug and crank  
slowly to distribute oil.  
�  
4. Clean grass and debris from around engine, under  
finger guard, and under, around and behind muffler.  
Touch up any damaged paint, and coat other areas  
that may rust with a light film of oil.  
Figure 10-4: Measure the plug gap with a feeler gauge.  
3. Measure the plug gap with a feeler gauge. Correct as  
necessary by bending side electrode, Figure 10-4.  
The gap should be set to 0.030 in.  
5. Store in a clean, dry and well ventilated area away from  
any appliance that operates with a flame or pilot light,  
such as a furnace, water heater, or clothes dryer. Also  
avoid any area with a spark producing electric motor,  
or where power tools are operated.  
4. Check that the spark plug washer is in good condi-  
tion and thread the spark plug in by hand to prevent  
cross-threading.  
WARNING  
5. After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a spark  
plug wrench to compress the washer.  
6. If possible, also avoid storage areas with high humidity,  
because that promotes rust and corrosion.  
Accumulation of debris  
around muffler could  
cause a fire. Inspect and  
clean before every use.  
7. Keep the engine level in storage. Tilting can cause fuel  
or oil leakage.  
NOTE: When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2  
turn after the spark plug seats to compress the washer.  
When reinstalling a used spark plug, tighten 1/8-1/4 turn  
after the spark plug seats to compress the washer.  
Removing From Storage  
1. Check your engine as described in the Pre-Operation  
Check section of this manual.  
IMPORTANT: The spark plug must be securely tight-  
ened. An improperly tightened spark plug can become  
very hot and may damage the engine.  
2. If the fuel was drained during storage preparation, fill  
the tank with fresh gasoline. If you keep a container  
of gasoline for refueling, make certain it contains only  
fresh fuel. Gasoline oxidizes and deteriorates over  
time, causing hard starting.  
Spark Plug Part Number: 951-10292  
IMPORTANT: Do not  
Clean Engine  
3. If the cylinder was coated with oil during storage  
preparation, the engine will smoke briefly at startup.  
This is normal.  
spray engine with water  
to clean because water  
could contaminate fuel.  
Using a garden hose  
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at  
least half an hour before cleaning. Periodically remove  
grass and dirt build-up from engine. Clean finger guard  
and around muffler. Clean with a brush or compressed  
air.  
or pressure washing  
equipment can also force  
water into the air cleaner  
or muffler opening. Water  
in the air cleaner will soak  
the paper element, and  
water that passes through  
the element or muffler  
can enter the cylinder,  
causing damage.  
IMPORTANT: Do not spray engine with water to clean  
because water could contaminate fuel. Using a garden  
hose or pressure washing equipment can also force  
water into the air cleaner or muffler opening. Water in  
the air cleaner will soak the paper element, and water  
that passes through the element or muffler can enter the  
cylinder, causing damage.  
WARNING: Accumulation of debris  
around muffler could cause a fire.  
Inspect and clean before every use.  
22  
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NOTES  
23  
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1
Shown for reference  
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21  
22  
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5
Shown for  
reference  
26  
10  
6
7
27  
20  
19  
9
18  
29  
17  
16  
15  
8
14  
11  
12  
13  
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1
2
3
4
5
6
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8
9
754-04093 V-Belt  
732-04338 Spring Lever  
720-0230  
717-04184A Spur Gear, 14T - LH  
710-0599 TT Screw, 1/4-20 x 0.50  
Foam Grip  
11  
750-04305A Spacer  
Parts List  
749-04267 Cross Bracket  
687-02204 Front Bracket Assembly  
731-05470 Clip Spacer  
10 741-04136B Split Hex Flange Bearing  
11 734-04014B Front Wheel  
12 712-04065 Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16  
13 634-04207C Rear Wheel  
14 710-04531 Screw, 1/4-20 x .39  
15 717-04192A Spur Gear, 14T - RH  
To order replacement  
parts, call  
16 736-3084  
Flat Washer  
1-800-800-7310  
or visit  
17 782-7551A Wheel Dust Cover  
18 748-04073C Transmission Bearing Support  
19 750-04317 Clip Spacer  
20 716-0198  
21 687-02199 Rear Bracket Assembly  
22 732-0320 Extension Spring  
23 756-04151A Pulley, 3.36 OD  
Retaining Ring .875  
24 736-0105  
25 712-0411  
Bell Washer, .375 x .870 x .063  
Hex Lock Nut, 5/16-24  
IMPORTANT: For a  
26 687-02205 Handle Bracket Assembly LH  
27 715-0221 Dowel Pin  
proper working machine,  
use Factory Approved  
Parts.V-BELTS are  
specially designed to  
engage and disengage  
safely. A substitute  
28 618-04378 Transmission Assembly  
29 687-02206 Handle Bracket Assembly RH  
(non-OEM) V-Belt can  
be dangerous by not  
disengaging completely.  
25  
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5
4
3
2
6
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42  
41  
39  
40  
37  
36  
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38  
8
31  
9
33  
32  
10  
31  
34  
11  
35  
30  
10  
12  
29  
26  
26  
25  
47  
10  
13  
14  
15  
27  
28  
28  
45  
43  
23  
24  
16  
22  
21  
44  
46  
17  
48  
20  
19  
18  
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1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
746-04265 Drive Control Cable  
735-04059 Rubber Grommet  
753-05096A Drive Control Assembly  
25 710-0260A Carriage Bolt, 5/16-18 x .62  
26 712-04063 Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18  
27 731-05462 Trail shield  
11  
747-1161A  
Blade Control  
28 731-05157  
Mulch Plug  
731-04859 Bail Cover  
29 731-05017A Rear Door  
Parts List  
746-04300 ERS Control Cable  
749-04037 Lower Handle  
30 710-1241  
Screw, 1/4-15 x 1.00  
31 720-04072 Star Knob  
32 732-04264 Torsion Spring, RH  
725-0157  
Cable Tie  
732-04265 Torsion Spring, LH  
33 711-04374  
Door Pivot Rod  
10 710-0599  
11 787-01341  
TT Screw, 1/4-20 x .500  
21-inch Deck  
34 647-04051 Grass Catcher Frame  
35 664-04052 Grass Catcher  
12 710-0654A TT Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.00  
13 787-01346 Deck Baffle  
36 710-1174  
37 720-0279  
38 710-1205  
Carriage Bolt, 5/16-18 x 2.00  
Wing Nut  
To order replacement  
parts, call  
14 756-04157B Upper Engine Pulley  
15 756-04156B Lower Engine Pulley  
Eye Bolt  
39 749-04206 Upper Handle  
1-800-800-7310  
or visit  
16 736-0514  
Flat Washer, .885 x 1.850 x .060  
40 710-0606  
Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.50  
17 748-0376C Blade Adapter  
41 746-04296 Choke Control Cable  
42 712-04064 Flange Lock Nut, 1/4-20  
18 710-1044  
Screw, 3/8-24 x 1.50  
19 736-0524B Blade Bell Support  
43 732-1014  
44 17032A  
45 747-0710  
Torsion Spring  
20 742-0741  
21 736-0513  
22 750-1071  
23 710-0653  
21-inch Mulching Blade  
Spring Washer, .890 x 1.70 x .048  
Sleeve Spacer  
Chute Deflector Adapter  
Hinge Pin  
46 987-02055 Mulch Plug Assembly  
TT Screw, 1/4-20 x .375  
47 736-0270  
48 731-04177  
Bell Washer, .265 x .75 x .062  
Side Discharge Chute  
24 731-05463 Deck Baffle  
27  
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Engine 1P70  
 
 
 
 
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��  
 
�  
 
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�  
�  
�  
�  
��  
�  
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28  
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1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
7.  
951-10368  
951-10369  
951-10335  
951-10334  
951-10333  
951-10332  
951-10329  
951-10321  
951-10319  
Fuel Tank  
Flywheel Shroud  
11  
Rubber Fuel Tank Mounting Washer  
Oil Filler Tube Assembly  
Dipstick Assembly  
Illustrated  
Parts List  
Cylinder Head Complete  
Short Block Assembly  
Stop Switch and Brake Assembly  
Recoil Spring and Pulley Assembly  
Push Rod Kit  
8.  
9.  
10. 951-10344  
11. 951-10345  
12. 951-10370  
13. 951-10366  
14. 951-10310  
15. 951-10307  
16. 951-10306  
17. 951-10342  
18. 951-10364  
19. 951-10358  
20. 951-10300  
21. 951-10299  
22. 951-10298  
23. 951-10297  
24. 951-10386  
25. 951-10295  
26. 951-10294  
27. 951-10387  
28. 951-10292  
Valve Kit  
Oil Drain Plug and Washer Assembly  
Ignition Coil  
Carburetor Assembly  
Flywheel Key  
Air Cleaner Housing Assembly Complete  
Muffler Stud Assembly  
Fuel Line Kit – Inc. hoses, clamps & filter  
Fuel Filter  
Fuel Cap Assembly  
Recoil Starter Assembly  
Air Cleaner Kit  
Air Cleaner Thumb Screw  
Muffler Guard  
Muffler  
Muffler Gasket /Heat Shield  
Governor Return Spring  
Spark Plug  
952Z1P70FU  
951-10326  
951-10323  
951-10318  
951-10343  
951-10351  
Engine – Complete  
Carburetor Kit – Major  
Carburetor Kit – Minor  
Gasket Kit – Complete  
Gasket Kit – External  
Spark Arrestor  
NOTE: Illustrated parts without a numeric call-out are not servicable components.  
29  
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MTD LLC (MTD), the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the United States Environment  
Protection Agency (U. S. EPA)  
Emission Control System Warranty Statement  
(Owner’s Defect Warranty Rights and Obligations)  
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM COVERAGE IS APPLICABLE TO CERTIFIED ENGINES PURCHASED IN CALIFORNIA IN 2005 AND THERE-  
AFTER, WHICH ARE USED IN CALIFORNIA, AND TO CERTIFIED MODEL YEAR 2005 AND LATER ENGINES WHICH ARE PURCHASED AND  
USED ELSEWHERE IN THE UNITED STATES.  
California and elsewhere in the United States Emission Control Defects Warranty Coverage  
The California Air Resources Board (CARB), U. S. EPA and MTD are pleased to explain the emissions control system warranty on your model year  
2005 and later small off-road engine. In California, new small off-road engines must be designed, built and equipped to meet the States anti-smog  
standards. Elsewhere in the United States, new non-road, spark-ignition engines certified for model 2005 and later, must meet similar standards set  
forth by the U. S. EPA. MTD must warranty the emission control system on your engine for the period of time listed below, provided there has been  
no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your small off-road engine.  
Your emission control system may include parts such as the carburetor, fuel-injection system, the ignition system, and catalytic converter, fuel  
tanks, fuel lines, fuel caps, valves, canisters, filters, vapor hoses, clamps, connectors, and other associated emission-related components.  
Where a warrantable condition exists, MTD will repair your small off-road engine at no cost to your including diagnosis, parts and labor.  
MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY COVERAGE:  
This emissions control system is warranted for two years. If any emission-related part on your engine is defective, the part will be repaired or  
replaced by MTD.  
OWNER’S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:  
As the small off-road engine owner, you are responsible for the performance of the required maintenance listed in your Owner’s Manual. MTD  
recommends that you retain all your receipts covering maintenances on your small off-road engine, but MTD can not deny warranty solely for the  
lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance to all scheduled maintenance.  
As the small off-road engine owner, you should however be aware that MTD may deny your warranty coverage if your small off-road engine or part  
has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance or unapproved modifications.  
You are responsible for presenting your small off-road engine to an Authorized MTD Service Dealer as soon as a problem exists. The warranted  
repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.  
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact a MTD Service Representative at 1-800-800-7310  
and address is MTD LLC, P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland OH, 44136-0019.  
DEFECTS WARRANTY REQUIREMENTS FOR 1995 AND LATER SMALL OFF-ROAD ENGINES:  
This section applies to 1995 and later small off-road engines. The warranty period begins on the date the engine or equipment is delivered to an  
ultimate purchaser.  
(a) General Emissions Warranty Coverage  
MTD must warrant to the ultimate purchaser and each subsequent purchaser that the engine is:  
(1) Designed, built, and equipped so as to conform with all applicable regulations adopted by the Air Resources Board pursuant to its authority in  
Chapters 1 and 2,Part 5, Division 26 of the Health and Safety Code; and  
(2) Free from defects in materials and workmanship that cause the failure of a warranted part to be identical in all material respects to the part as  
described in the engine manufacturer’s application for certification for a period of two years.  
(b) The warranty on emissions-related parts will be interpreted as follows:  
(1) Any warranted part that is not scheduled for replacement as required maintenance in the written instructions required by Subsection (c)  
must be warranted for the warranty period defined in Subsection (a)(2). If any such part fails during the period of warranty coverage, it must be  
repaired or replaced by MTD according to Subsection (4) below. Any such part repaired or replaced under the warranty must be warranted for  
the remaining warranty period.  
(2) Any warranted part that is scheduled only for regular inspection in the written instructions required by Subsection (c) must be warranted for  
the warranty period defined in Subsection (a)(2). A statement in such written instructions to the effect of “repair or replace as necessary” will  
not reduce the period of warranty coverage. Any such part repaired or replaced under warranty must be warranted for the remaining warranty  
period.  
(3) Any warranted part that which is scheduled for replacement as required maintenance in the written instructions required by Subsection (c)  
must be warranted for the period of time prior to the first scheduled replacement point for that part. If the part fails prior to the first scheduled  
replacement, the part must be repaired or replaced by MTD according to Subsection (4) below. Any such part repaired or replaced under  
warranty must be warranted for the remainder of the period prior to the first scheduled replacement point for the part.  
EPA-2  
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(4) Repair or replacement of any warranted part under the warranty provisions of this article must be performed at no charge to the owner at a  
warranty station.  
(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsection (4) above, warranty services or repairs must be provided at all MTD distribution centers that  
are franchised to service the subject engines.  
(6) The owner must not be charged for diagnostic labor that leads to the determination that a warranted part is in fact defective, provided that  
such diagnostic work is performed at a warranty station.  
(7) The engine manufacturer is liable for damages to other engine components proximately caused by a failure under warranty of any warranted  
part.  
(8) Throughout the engine’s warranty period defined in Subsection (a)(2), MTD will maintain a supply of warranted parts sufficient to meet the  
expected demand for such parts.  
(9) Any replacement part may be used in the performance of any warranty maintenance or repairs and must be provided without charge to the  
owner. Such use will not reduce the warranty obligations of MTD.  
(10) Add-on or modified parts that are not exempted by the Air Resources Board may not be used. The use of any non-exempted add-on or  
modified parts shall be grounds for disallowing a warranty claim made in accordance with this article. The engine manufacturer shall not be  
liable under this article to warrant failures of warranted parts caused by the use of non-exempted add-on or modified part.  
(c) MTD will include a copy of the following emission warranty parts list with each new engine, using those portions of the list applicable to the  
engine.  
(1) Fuel Metering System  
Cold start enrichment system (soft choke)  
Carburetor and internal parts  
Fuel Pump  
(2) Air Induction System  
Air cleaner  
• Intake manifold  
(3) Ignition System  
Spark plug(s)  
Magneto Ignition System  
(4) Exhaust System  
(5) Miscellaneous Items Used in Above System  
Vacuum, temperature , position, time sensitive valves and switches  
Connectors and assemblies  
EPA-2  
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MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC (“MTD”) with  
dealer.  
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its d.  
possessions and territories.  
MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or  
exported outside of the United States, its possessions and  
territories, except those sold through MTD’s authorized  
channels of export distribution.  
Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.  
Transportation charges and service calls.  
MTD” warrants the engine on this product for a period of three (3) years  
and all other aspects of the product for a period of two (2) years against  
defects in material and workmanship excluding normal wear parts as  
e.  
f.  
defined below. This warranty commences on the date of original purchase  
and MTD will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any part found No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchant-  
to be defective in materials or workmanship. This limited warranty shall ability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the applicable  
only apply if this product has been operated and maintained in accordance period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identi-  
with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the product, and has not been  
subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, 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 MTD for use  
with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as to  
any resulting damage.  
fied. No other express warranty, whether written or oral, except as  
mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer  
or retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind MTD. 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. MTD shall not be liable  
for incidental or consequential loss or damage including, without  
limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care  
services or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted  
product.  
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 belts,  
blades, blade adapters, grass bags, wheels, engine oil, air filters, and  
spark plugs.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or  
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty  
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH  
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service dealer. To lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.  
locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD  
LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-949-  
4483 or log on to our Web site at www.whiteoutdoor.com.  
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  
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:  
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.  
a.  
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.  
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.  
c.  
Service completed by someone other than an authorized service  
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain  
warranty coverage.  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-949-4483  
11_12 Z WARRANTY WOP V1  
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