MTD Lawn Mower 020 User Manual

Operator’s Manual  
20” Rotary Lawn Mower  
Models 020  
021  
022  
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.  
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 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.  
MTD LLC P.O. Box 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722, U.S.A.  
770-10419A.FM  
(9/2002)  
PRINTED IN U.S.A.  
FORM NO.  
 
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES  
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 manual  
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal  
injury. When you see this symbolHEED ITS WARNING.  
WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California  
to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
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. Failure to observe the following safety  
instructions could result in serious injury or death.  
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade  
General Operation  
contact or thrown object injuries.  
1. Read this operators manual carefully in its entirety  
10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled  
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,  
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.  
understand, and follow all instructions on the machine  
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the  
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely  
familiar with the controls and the proper use of this  
handle immediately.  
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are  
machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe  
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or  
place for future and regular reference and for ordering  
obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping  
replacement parts.  
2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,  
and then follow these steps:  
a. Step back from the mower to fully extend your  
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all  
arms.  
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  
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.  
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way  
toward you.  
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and  
d. Repeat these steps as needed.  
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in  
5. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of  
this manual and should be trained and supervised by a  
alcohol or drugs.  
parent. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with  
6. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so  
these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use  
this machine.  
equipped while starting engine.  
7. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never  
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to  
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the  
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and  
safety device inoperative and may result in personal  
other foreign objects which could be tripped over or  
injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade  
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can  
control handle must operate easily in both directions and  
cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern  
automatically return to the disengaged position when  
to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,  
released.  
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material  
8. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of  
against a wall or obstruction which may cause  
discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.  
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal  
injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the  
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,  
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop  
keep children, bystanders and helpers at least 75 feet  
from the mower while it is in operation. Stop mower if  
anyone enters the area.  
rotating within three seconds.  
9. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light. Walk, never  
run.  
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during  
10. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or  
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to  
roads.  
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can  
cause serious injury to the eyes.  
11. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop  
the engine and check immediately for the cause.  
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting  
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.  
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms  
12. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a  
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never  
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or  
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or  
light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.  
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to  
rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.  
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the  
Never place any part of the body in the blade area until  
cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands  
and feet.  
you are sure the blade has stopped rotating.  
13. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,  
3
 
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.  
14. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do  
not touch.  
15. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by  
the manufacturer. Failure to do so, can result in personal  
injury.  
16. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,  
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for  
assistance. Telephone 1-800-800-7310 for the name of  
your nearest dealer.  
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 the operation instructions and  
safety rules in this manual and should be trained and  
supervised by a parent.  
Service  
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:  
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. When practical, 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.  
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.  
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources  
of ignition.  
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors  
will accumulate in the area.  
9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot  
or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes  
before refueling.  
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.  
Do:  
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.  
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch  
below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel  
expansion.  
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 the engine.  
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause  
slipping.  
13. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where  
there is 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.  
Children  
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the  
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the  
mower and the mowing activity. They do not understand the  
dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you  
last saw them.  
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the  
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.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
4
 
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 manufactures (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  
equipment is in safe working condition.  
adjustment while the engine is running.  
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 immediately with original equipment  
manufacturers (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.  
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper  
operation regularly.  
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect  
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.  
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height  
11. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as  
necessary.  
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper  
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the  
environment.  
Your Responsibility  
Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in  
this manual and on the machine.  
5
 
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE  
Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate the lawn mower safely.  
6
 
SECTION 3: HARDWARE PACK  
Group 2  
Group 5  
Group 4  
Group 6  
Group 1  
Group 3  
SECTION 4: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
NOTE: This operator’s manual covers various models  
of mowers. Follow only those instructions which pertain  
to your unit.  
Bolt  
Spark Plug  
Wire  
Tools Required  
A set of adjustable wrenches or individual wrenches of  
the following sizes:7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 3/4.  
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the mower  
is observed from the operating position.  
Spark Plug  
WARNING: The chute deflector is attached  
to the pull start rope with a plastic strap for  
shipping reasons. Cut the plastic strap and  
attach the chute deflector as instructed on  
page 9 prior to operating the unit.  
Figure 1  
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil  
in the engine. Do not start the engine before filling up  
gasoline and oil.  
IMPORTANT: Before starting to assemble the unit,  
identify the items of the hardware pack according to the  
groups in Section 3 on this page. These same groups  
are referred to in the subsequent assembly instructions.  
CAUTION: When removing the chute  
deflector from the pull start rope, be careful not  
to damge the pull start rope.  
Disconnect Spark Plug Wire  
Attaching Lower Handle  
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug wire  
and ground it against the engine to prevent  
unintended starting.  
Lift the rear of the deck and place it on a block  
securely.  
Place the lower handle (pointed end will face down)  
over the deck and align the holes on the deck with  
the corresponding holes on the handle.  
NOTE: On engines with a rubber boot, attach rubber  
boot to a bolt on the engine to ground  
7
 
Install the hex screws, shoulder screws and flange  
nuts from group 4 of the hardware pack. Using two  
1/2wrenches, tighten securely. See Figure 2.  
Route the cable under the lower handle.  
On the opposite end of the cable housing is a snap  
fitting. The shaft inside the snap fitting fits in the  
second hole on the upper handle. Press the snap  
fitting in place as shown in Figure 4. Make sure that  
the blade control handle is on top of the upper  
handle.  
Lower Handle  
Attaching Blade Control Handle  
Shoulder Screw  
Hex Screw  
NOTE: If the blade control handle got displaced either  
during shipping and handling or during assembly of  
other two handles, reassemble it now. If the blade  
control handle is firmly secured in place, you may  
proceed to the next assembly.  
Figure 2  
Attaching Upper Handle  
WARNING: The blade control handle is a  
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its  
operations.  
Place the upper handle in position over the lower  
handle keeping the blade control handle facing up.  
Secure the upper handle to the lower handle using  
the carriage bolts, lock washers and hex nuts from  
group 2 of the hardware pack. Make sure that the  
carriage bolt heads go on the outside of the handle.  
See Figure 3.  
To reattach the blade control handle to the upper  
handle, first identify the proper holes in the upper  
handle. This can be done by placing the blade  
control handle flat against the upper handle. The  
ends of the blade control handle will approximate  
the hole positions.  
Insert the curved end of the blade control handle  
into the right hole. See Figure 5.  
Squeeze the handle in, and insert the straight end  
of the blade control handle into the left hole of the  
upper handle.  
Lock  
Washer  
Hex Nut  
Carriage Bolt  
Squeeze the blade control handle against the  
upper handle to check for proper assembly.  
Figure 3  
NOTE: The hole in the blade control handle must be on  
the left side and the control handle must touch the  
upper handle when squeezed.  
Attaching Brake Cable  
NOTE: The brake cable is attached to the engine from  
the factory. You will have to attach the free end of the  
cable to the upper handle.  
Blade Control  
Handle  
Insert one end of  
control handle here  
Snap Fitting  
Brake  
Cable  
Figure 5  
Attaching Z Fitting  
Hold the cable end near the left side of the upper  
handle and hook the Zend of the brake cable into  
the blade control handle from the inside to the  
outside. See Figure 6.  
Figure 4  
8
 
Block the mower securely.  
Using hardware from group 1 of the hardware pack,  
place axle bolt through the wheel with the hub side  
of the wheel facing the deck. See Figure 8.  
Place the small bell washer on the axle bolt with the  
crown side towards the wheel. See Figure 8.  
Secure the wheel to the deck with the large bell  
washer and the nut.  
Repeat on other sides.  
Remove blocks and put the mower on ground.  
Z Fitting  
Attaching Chute Deflector  
Figure 6  
Align the holes on the chute deflector with the  
corresponding holes on the deck.  
Securing Brake Cable  
Using group 5 from hardware pack, place carriage  
bolts from underside of the deck and up through the  
chute deflector. See Figure 9.  
WARNING: The cable must be routed  
properly to avoid contact with all sharp edges  
and hot surfaces. Such contacts damage the  
cable and render the controls inoperative.  
Secure each bolt with a washer and lock nut.  
Lock Nut  
Washer  
Chute  
Deflector  
Secure the cable to the lower left handle near the  
base of the unit with a cable tie from group 3 of the  
hardware pack. Trim off extra length of the cable  
tie. See Figure 7.  
Lower Handle  
Carriage Bolt  
Figure 9  
Cable Tie  
Figure 7  
Attaching Starter Rope  
Loosely attach the rope guide (from group 6 of the  
hardware pack) to the upper handle and thread the  
lock nut (also in group 6) only a few turns. Do not  
tighten. Make sure that the rope guide is to the  
outside of the upper handle. See Figure 10.  
The starter rope is attached to the engine. With the  
spark plug wire disconnected and grounded,  
depress the blade control handle and pull the rope  
out of the engine.  
Attaching Wheels  
NOTE: The holes provide three cutting heights for your  
mower. Use the same hole location for all four wheels  
when assembling. For example, if wheels are to be  
assembled in the lowest cutting position, use the  
highest hole on the deck.  
Slip the starter rope through the gap between the  
rope guide and the handle. Tighten hex lock nut.  
Hex  
Nut  
Large  
Washer  
Deck  
Axle Bolt  
Wheel  
Small  
Washer  
Starter  
Rope  
Hex  
Rope  
Lock  
Guide  
Nut  
Figure 8  
Figure 10  
9
 
Know Your Lawn Mower  
Compare the illustration in Figure 11 Figure 11with your  
lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of  
various controls and adjustments.  
Blade Control  
Handle  
Throttle Control  
The mower engine is equipped with a constant speed  
throttle, which is set at full throttle for best performance.  
Recoil  
Starter  
Engine  
Blade Control Handle  
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle  
of the mower.The blade control handle must be  
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the  
blade control handle to stop the engine and the blade.  
Spark Plug  
Chute  
Deflector  
WARNING: This control mechanism is a  
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its  
operations.  
Figure 11  
Recoil Starter  
The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle and  
is used to start the engine.  
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control  
handle and hold it against the upper handle. See  
Figure 12.  
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away  
from the chute area on cutting deck. The  
blade will be rotating whenever the engine is  
running.  
NOTE: For best results, raise the cutting position until  
you can determine which height is best for your lawn.  
Refer to instructions for height adjustment on page 11.  
Gas and Oil Fill-Up  
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as  
instructed in the separate engine manual packed with  
your mower. Follow instructions carefully.  
Figure 12  
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors,  
with engine running or until the engine has  
been allowed to cool for at least two minutes  
after running.  
Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until  
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope  
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope  
rewind slowly. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous,  
full arm stroke. Keep a firm grip on starter handle.  
Return it slowly to the rope guide.  
Before Starting  
Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is  
equipped with a rubber boot over the spark plug  
wire, ensure that the metal cap on the end of the  
spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot) is fastened  
securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.  
To Stop Engine and Blade  
Release blade control handle to stop engine and  
blade. Keep away from the moving blade.  
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate  
for a few seconds after engine is shut off.  
To Start Engine and Engage Blade  
If engine is equipped with a primer, prime engine as  
instructed in the separate engine manual packed  
with your unit.  
Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it  
against the engine to prevent accidental starting  
while equipment is unattended.  
10  
 
For a healthy lawn, never cut more than one-third of  
the total length of the grass at any one cutting.  
This mower is designed to operate at full throttle.  
Using Your Lawn Mower  
WARNING: Never operate your unit without  
either the rear deflector or entire grass catcher  
assembly in place.  
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,  
stop the engine. Remove wire from spark  
plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for any  
damage, and repair the damage before  
restarting and operating the mower. Extensive  
vibration of the mower during operation is an  
indication of damage. The unit should be  
promptly inspected and repaired.  
Make sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire,  
or other objects which could damage lawn mower  
and/or cause personal injury.  
For best results, do not cut wet grass. New grass or  
thick grass requires a narrower cut. Blade speed  
and cutting height should be adjusted to the  
condition of the lawn.  
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS  
WARNING: Do not at any time make any  
adjustment to lawn mower without first  
stopping engine and disconnecting spark plug  
wire.  
Throttle Control  
Your lawn mower engine is equipped with a fixed  
throttle control that does not need adjustment.  
Carburetor  
Cutting Height  
You can adjust the cutting height of the mower  
according to your convenience.  
WARNING: If any adjustments are made  
to the engine while the engine is running (e.g.  
carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts. Be  
careful of heated surfaces and muffler.  
Remove the axle bolts and related hardware from  
the wheels.  
Reattach the wheels with axle bolts at another hole.  
Remember to attach all wheels at the same relative  
position to ensure even cut. Refer to instructions for  
attaching the wheels in the assembly section of this  
manual. For higher cutting height, use lower hole  
on the deck and for lower cutting height, use the  
upper hole.  
Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to  
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,  
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refer to the  
separate engine manual packed with your mower.  
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to run  
rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and attached to  
the carburetor before adjusting carburetor.  
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER  
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and  
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the  
spark plug wire is disconnected).  
Deck Care  
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure  
washers or garden hose to clean your unit.These may  
cause damage to electric components spindles,  
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will  
shorten life of the mower and reduce its serviceability.  
Lubrication  
(Refer to Lubrication Chart in Figure 13.)  
Always stop engine and disconnect spark  
plug wire before cleaning, lubricating or  
doing any kind of work on lawn mower.  
The underside of the mower deck should be  
cleaned after each use to prevent build-up of grass  
clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris  
is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust and  
corrosion, and may cause an uneven discharge of  
grass clippings at the next cutting.  
Blade Control  
Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control  
handle and the brake cable at least once a season  
with light oil. The blade control must operate freely  
in both directions.  
11  
 
Wheels  
To balance blade  
The wheels require no lubrication. However, if the  
When sharpening the blade, follow original angle of  
grind as a guide. It is extremely important to grind  
off all edges equally to keep the blade balanced.  
wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the  
surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the  
wheel with light oil. Engine oil may also be used.  
NOTE: An unbalanced blade will cause excessive  
vibration when rotating at high speeds and may cause  
damage to the mower and/or personal injury.  
When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and keep  
engine spark plug side up.  
Test the blade by balancing it on a round shaft  
screwdriver. See Figure 15.  
Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances  
evenly. Always remove blade from the adapter for  
the best test of balance.  
Lube  
1. Insert screw driver through hole  
2. Blade should be parallel to ground  
Screw  
Blade  
Driver  
Ground  
Figure 15  
Figure 13 : Lubrication Chart  
To reassemble blade  
Blade Care  
Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner  
surface of the blade adapter with light oil (or engine  
oil). Also lubricate the bolt holes, bolts and inner  
surface of the nuts.  
Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the  
staraway from the engine. Refer to Figure 14.  
Place the blade with the side marked bottom (or  
with part number) facing away from the adapter.  
Align the blade bell support over the blade with the  
tabs in the holes of the blade and insert the hex  
bolt. Tighten the hex bolt to the torque listed in the  
Blade Mounting Torquesection below.  
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,  
especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace  
when necessary.  
WARNING: When removing the cutting  
blade for sharpening or replacement, protect  
hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp  
the cutting blade.  
To remove blade  
Remove the bolt and blade support or bell washer  
which hold the blade and adapter to the engine  
crankshaft. See Figure 14. Remove the blade and  
adapter from the crankshaft.  
Blade Mounting Torque  
Center Bolt: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.  
IMPORTANT: To ensure safe operation, all nuts and  
bolts must be checked periodically for correct tightness.  
Blade Adapter  
Replacing Rear Flap  
To remove rear flap, compress the hinge clips and  
remove from the slots in rear of deck.  
Blade  
Blade  
Bell  
Attach new rear flap by placing new spring clips in  
the slots on the flap. Then compress the spring  
clips and reinsert in slots in rear of deck.  
Support  
Hex Bolt  
Engine  
Figure 14  
Follow engine manual for instruction and schedule  
of maintenance and lubrication.  
12  
 
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE  
The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn  
mower for storage.  
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next  
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.  
Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described  
in the lubrication instructions.  
Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage  
instructions.  
Coat mowers cutting blade with chassis grease to  
prevent rusting.  
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in  
an unventilated 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.  
SECTION 9: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE  
Trouble  
Possible Cause(s)  
Corrective Actions  
Engine fails to 1. Blade control handle disengaged. 1. Engage blade control handle.  
start  
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.  
3. Dirty aircleaner.  
4. Primer button not depressed.  
5. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.  
6. Blocked fuel line.  
2. Connect wire to spark plug.  
3. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.  
4. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.  
5. Clean fuel line.  
6. Clean, adjust gap or replace.  
7. Faulty spark plug.  
7. Refer to the engine manual.  
8. Engine flooded.  
8. Wait for a while and crank the engine.  
1. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
2. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.  
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.  
Engine runs  
erratic  
Engine  
1. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.  
2. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
1. Engine oil level low.  
overheats  
2. Dirty air cleaner.  
3. Air flow restricted.  
2. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.  
3. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire. Remove  
blower housing and clean.  
4. Carburetor not adjusted properly. 4. Refer to the engine manual.  
Occasional skip 1. Spark plug gap too close.  
1. Adjust gap to.030".  
(hesitates) at  
high speed  
Idles poorly  
2. Carburetor idle mixture  
adjustment improperly set.  
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap  
too wide.  
2. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.  
1. Reset gap to.030" or replace spark plug.  
2. Carburetor not adjusted.  
1. Cutting blade loose or  
unbalanced.  
2. Refer to the engine manual.  
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.  
Excessive  
vibration  
2. Bent cutting blade.  
Mower will not 1. Wet grass.  
2. See an authorized service dealer.  
1. Wait until later to cut.  
mulch grass  
2. Excessively high grass.  
2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at  
desired height.  
Uneven cut  
1. Wheels positioned incorrectly.  
2. Dull blade.  
1. Place all four wheels in same height position.  
2. Sharpen or replace blade.  
NOTE: For repairs beyond those listed above, contact your local authorized service representative.  
13  
 
SECTION 10: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL SERIES 020  
5
4
27  
26  
15  
18  
19  
21  
19  
3
20  
29  
16  
22  
23  
17  
7
24  
29  
28  
16  
28  
25  
1
22  
23  
24  
6
24  
22  
23  
15  
28  
10  
14  
25  
2
28  
12  
24  
30  
23  
11  
13  
22  
9
8
14  
 
Model Series 020  
Ref.  
No.  
Part No.  
710-0654A  
Description  
Hex Ind. Washer Screw 3/8-16 x 1.0  
Cutting Deck: 20”  
Lower Handle  
1.  
2.  
782-0048  
749-04037  
749-1092A  
747-1161A  
731-0872A  
17098  
3.  
Upper Handle  
4.  
Control Handle (Bail)  
Rear Flap  
5.  
6.  
Hinge Clip  
7.  
710-1044  
936-0524A  
748-0376C  
742-0640  
731-0064  
710-0932  
736-0173  
712-0324  
710-3008  
712-3004A  
710-1205  
710-0262  
736-0119  
712-0267  
734-1779  
738-0533  
736-0105  
712-0798  
726-0240  
746-0946  
746-0957  
736-0331  
738-04033  
753-0588  
Screw 3/8-24 x 1.5Group 8  
Blade Bell Support  
Blade Adapter  
8.  
9.  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13.  
14.  
15.  
16.  
17.  
18.  
19.  
20.  
21.  
22.  
23.  
24.  
25.  
26.  
27.  
Cutting Blade  
Discharge Chute  
Carriage Screw 1/4-20 x 1.0”  
Flat Washer  
Lock Nut 1/4-20  
Hex Bolt 5/16-18  
Lock Nut 5/16-18  
Eye Bolt  
Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5”  
Lock Washer  
Nut 5/16-18  
Wheel  
Shoulder Screw .498 x 1.635  
Bell Washer  
Flange Lock Nut  
Cable Tie  
Control Cable (Model 021)  
Control Cable (Models 020 & 022)  
Bell Washer  
28.  
29.  
30.  
Shoulder Screw, 3/8-16x.428  
Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 8- 10)  
15  
 
MANUFACTURERS LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with  
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the  
United States, its possessions and territories.  
d.  
MTD LLC does not extend any warranty for products  
sold or exported outside of the United States, its  
possessions and territories, except those sold through  
MTD LLCs authorized channels of export distribution.  
Parts that are not genuine MTD parts are not covered  
by this warranty.  
Service completed by someone other than an  
authorized service dealer is not covered by this  
warranty.  
MTD LLC warrants this product against defects for a period of  
one (1) year 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 Operators  
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  
accessory or attachment not approved by MTD LLC for use  
with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your  
warranty as to any resulting damage.  
e.  
f.  
g.  
Transportation charges and service calls are not  
covered.  
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of  
merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose,  
applies after the applicable period of express written  
warranty above as to the parts as identified. 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 LLC. During the period of the warranty,  
the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the  
product as set forth above.  
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to  
separate terms as follows: All normal wear parts or  
component failures will be covered on the product for a period  
of 90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the  
one year period, normal wear part failures will be covered  
ONLY IF caused by defects in materials or workmanship of  
OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts and  
components include, but are not limited to: batteries, belts,  
blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats,  
snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber,  
and tires.  
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the  
sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD  
LLC 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.  
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 MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131,  
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-  
330-220-4683 or log on to our Web site at  
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  
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.  
carry a separate manufacturers warranty. Refer to  
applicable manufacturers warranty for terms and  
conditions.  
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This  
limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may  
also have other rights which vary from state to state.  
b.  
c.  
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.  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-4683  
 

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