MTD 838 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
8
4
Operating
Your 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.
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.
WARNING: This blade control is a safety
device. Do not bypass its operations.
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.
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.
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.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine
manual for this. See Figure 4-1 for location of the oil
fill.
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the
engine manual. See Figure 4-1 for location of gas fill.
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. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
and other sources of ignition.
WARNING
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.
Keep hands and feet
away from the cutting
deck. Refer to warning
label on the unit.
Know Your Lawn Mower
Figure 4-1: The major parts on the lawn mower.
Recoil Starter
Grass Bag
Drive Control
Drive
Control
Lever
Blade Control
Height Adjustment Lever
Oil Fill
Gasoline Fill