MTD 540 Series Lawn Mower User Manual


 
10
site. Once the bag is full, it has to be removed from the
mower and emptied before any further mowing.
Mulching Plug
Both the mulching baffle and the mulching plug are
used only for mulching purposes. Instead of collecting
the grass clippings in a grass catcher, some mower
models have the option of recirculating the clippings
back to the lawn. This is called mulching.
Throttle Control
Your unit is equipped with one of three throttle controls
described below. Follow instructions which pertain to
your unit.
1. The throttle control is located on the left side of the
upper handle. It is used to regulate the engine
speed.
2. The throttle control is located on the engine. It is
used to regulate the engine speed.
3. Your engine is equipped with a constant speed
throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance.
WARNING: The throttle control cannot be
used to stop the engine. If the throttle
control is located on the engine, do not
adjust it with the engine running.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
This lever, located at each wheel, lets you adjust
cutting height of the grass. Remember to put all four
levers at the same height to avoid uneven cut.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
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 shipping purposes your mower is set with
the wheels in a low cutting height position. For best
results, raise the cutting position until it is determined
which height is best for your lawn. Refer to instructions
for cutting 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.
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.
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 Start Engine and Engage Blade
Move throttle control lever (if equipped) to the fast
(rabbit) position.
If engine is equipped with a primer, prime engine as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed
with your unit.
Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle.
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.
NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the
Trouble Shooting Guide.
To Stop Engine and Blade
Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate
for a few seconds after engine is shut off.
Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.
Using Your Rotary Mower
WARNING: Never operate your unit without
either the rear deflector or entire grass
catcher assembly in place.
Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidentally thrown
by the mower in any direction and cause serious
personal injury to the operator and others.
For best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and
could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick
grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut.