CRAFTSMAN M230 - Front Wheel Drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Manual

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS, CONTACT US.
1-888-331-4569
WWW.CRAFTSMAN.COM

Before using this equipment, read the manual and follow all safety rules and operating instructions. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

NOTE: This Operator's Manual covers several models. Features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are applicable to all models and the model depicted may differ from yours.

Form No. 769-19555A (December 11, 2018)

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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 symbol, HEED ITS WARNING!

This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices 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 fingers, hands, toes and feet and throwing debris. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

GENERAL OPERATION

• 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 manuals before operation. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts
• Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use of this machine before operating it.
• This machine is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all times. This machine has been designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.
• Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the machine and should be trained and supervised by an adult.
• Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use this machine.
• 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.
• 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.
• Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes.

• 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.
• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with blade can amputate fingers, hands, toes and feet.
• A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.
• 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.
• 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. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms forward.
2. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.
3. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way toward you.
4. Repeat these steps as needed.

• Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on machines so equipped while starting engine.
• 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.
• 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.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.
• Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.

• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
• Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before removing the grass Bagger or unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after the blade control is released. Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you are sure the blade has stopped rotating.
• Never operate mower without proper trail shield, discharge cover, grass Bagger, 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.
• Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.
• Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the engine is running.
• Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.
• When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly. 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.
• If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgement.

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. The machine is heavy and can speed up when going downhill. Be prepared to maintain control of the machine. 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 machine on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

Do:

• Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down to avoid loss of control.
• Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes; turn uphill not down.
• Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• 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 three (3) seconds.

Do Not:

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, because you could lose your footing or balance.
• Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on the slope guide.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause slipping.

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.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
• Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
• Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down for small children.
• 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.
• Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
• Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an adult.

SERVICE

Safe Handling of Gasoline:
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. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

• Use only an approved gasoline container.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.
• Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will accumulate in the area.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
• Never over-fill fuel tank. To allow for expansion of the fuel, do not fill above the bottom of the fuel tank neck.
• Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
• If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment. Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting engine.

DO NOT MODIFY ENGINE
To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper with factory setting of engine governor.

NOTICE REGARDING EMISSIONS
Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control systems: Engine Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

SPARK ARRESTOR

This machine is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).

If a spark arrestor 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 arrestor for the muffler is available through your nearest Parts and Repair Service Center. For location and purchase information call 1-888-331-4569.

SAFETY SYMBOLS

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

Symbol	Description
	READ THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S) Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate
	ROTATING BLADES To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover or grass bagger is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.
	BYSTANDERS Do not mow when children or others are around.
	HAND/ FOOT CUT Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.
	THROWN DEBRIS Remove objects that can be thrown by the blade in any direction. Wear safety glasses.
	SLOPES Use extra caution on slopes. The machine is heavy and can speed up when going downhill. Be prepared to maintain control of the machine. To avoid loss of control, operate across slopes, not up and down. When turning, turn uphill, not down. Do not operate on slopes greater than 15°.
	GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
	CARBON MONOXIDE Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
	Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine and muffler to cool before touching.

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.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

ASSEMBLY

This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the Operation section of the Engine Manual before starting or running your machine.

NOTE: Reference to right and left hand side of the Lawn Mower is observed from the operating position.

Unpacking

Opening Carton

3. While stabilizing mower so it doesn't move, lift the upper handle up as shown in Figure 3. Do not crimp cable while lifting the handle up.
   NOTE: EZ-Fold handles only - When lifting the upper handle ensure the position indicator aligns with one of three handle positions. See Figure 3 inset.
   
4. Perform one of the following to secure the upper handle to the lower handle:
   1. Handles with Knob and Carriage Bolts - Reattach knobs and carriage bolts removed in Step 2a into lower holes of handle. See Figure 4.
      
   2. EZ-Fold Handles - Place the release levers in the locked position. See Figure 5.
      
5. Remove T-bolts from the handle brackets as shown in Figure 6.
   
6. Follow the steps below to complete handle assembly:
   1. Pull upward on the handle until holes in lower handle (shown in Figure 6 deck cutaway) line up with holes in handle bracket. See Figure 7.
      NOTE: When pulling upward on handle, make sure to not pull handle all the way out.
   2. Insert the T-bolts removed in Step 2 through the handle brackets and lower handle and tighten securely to secure the handle in place. See Figure 7.
      
7. The rope guide is attached to the right side of the upper handle. Loosen the wing knob which secures the rope guide. Refer to Figure 8.
   
   1. Hold blade control against upper handle.
   2. Slowly pull starter rope handle from engine and slip starter rope into the rope guide. See Figure 8.
   3. Tighten rope guide wing knob.
   4. Use cable ties provided to secure blade control and drive cables to lower handle as shown in Figure 8.

To reduce wear and allow for proper operation, make sure to leave some slack in the upper portion of the cable(s).

Attaching the Grass Catcher

1. Follow steps below to assemble the grass catcher. Make certain bag is turned right side out before assembling (warning label will be on the outside).
   1. Place bag over frame so that its black plastic side is at the bottom.
   2. Slip plastic channel of grass bag over hooks on the frame. See Figure 9.
      
2. Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:
   
   1. Lift rear discharge door.
   2. Place grass catcher into the slots in the handle brackets as shown in Figure 10. Let go of discharge door so that it rests on the grass catcher.

To remove grass catcher, lift rear discharge door on the mower. Lift grass catcher up and off the slots in the handle brackets. Release rear discharge door to allow it to close rear opening of mower.

Attaching Side Discharge Cover

Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To convert to side discharge, make sure grass catcher is off of the unit and rear discharge door is closed.

1. On the side of the mower, lift the mulch cover. See Figure 11.
2. Slide two hooks of side discharge cover under hinge pin on mulching cover assembly. Lower mulching cover. Do not remove side mulching cover at any time, even when you are not mulching.
   

Installing/Removing Battery Pack (if equipped)

Read all safety warnings, instructions, and cautionary markings for the battery pack, charger and product. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

NOTE: To ensure maximum performance and life of lithium-ion battery packs, charge the battery fully before first use.

Refer to instructional manual supplied with battery charger for charging, maintenance and battery disposal instructions.

1. To install the battery pack perform the following. See Figure 12:
   
   1. Lift the battery box cover.
   2. Insert the battery pack into the battery box. An audible "click" will be heard when the battery is properly connected.
   3. Close the battery box cover.
2. To remove the battery perform the following. See Figure 12:
   1. Lift the battery box cover.
   2. Press the battery pack release button.
   3. Pull the battery pack from the battery box.
   4. Close the battery box cover.

Adjustments

Cutting Height

There is a cutting height adjustment lever located above the front and rear right wheel.

1. Pull the height adjustment lever outward towards wheel (unit will tend to fall when lever is moved outward). See Figure 13.
   
2. Move lever to desired position for a change in cutting height. See Figure 13.
3. Release lever towards deck.

All wheels must be placed in the same position. For rough or uneven lawns, move each height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will prevent you from cutting the grass too close to the ground.

Handle Pitch (If Equipped)

For convenience of operation, you may adjust the pitch of the handle. Perform one of the following:

1. Handles with Knobs and Carage Bolts. See Figure 14
   
   1. Remove wing nuts and carriage bolts from handle.
   2. Position the handle in one of the three positions that is most comfortable. See Figure 14 inset.
   3. Secure into position with wing nuts and carriage bolts removed in Step 1.
2. EZ-Fold Handles. See Figure 15
   
   1. Place the release levers in the unlocked positions.
   2. Move the upper handle to align the position indicator with the most comfortable of the three handle positions.
   3. Place the release levers in the locked positions.

Drive Control (If Equipped)

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 adjustment wheel clockwise to tighten cable or counterclockwise to loosen the cable. See Figure 16 or Figure 17.

OPERATION

Blade Control

The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

This blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation.

Drive Control - Bail or Single Lever (If Equipped)

The drive control is located on top of the upper handle and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze it against the upper handle to engage the drive; release it to slow down or stop mower from propelling.

Drive Control - Dual Lever (If Equipped)

The drive controls are located on top of the upper handle and are used to engage the drive. Squeeze the right, left, or both right and left controls against the upper handle to engage the drive; release it/them to slow down or stop mower from propelling.

Electric Starter Push Key (If Equipped)

The electric starter push key is located on the right side of the upper handle. It is both a removable key and push button and is only provided on electric start models.

Cutting Height Adjustment Lever

One adjustment lever is located on the right rear wheel and one is located on the right front wheel. Both levers have to be at the same position to ensure a uniform cut. To adjust the cutting height, refer to the Assembly Section.

Side Discharge Cover (If Equipped)

Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To discharge the grass clippings to the side instead, follow the instructions in the Assembly section to attach the side discharge cover.

Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer to warning label on the unit.

Grass Catcher (If Equipped)

The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag the grass clippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is full, remove it up through the handles and empty it before any further mowing.

Mulch Cover (If Equipped)

The mulch cover is used for mulching purposes. Instead of collecting the grass clippings in a grass catcher or using the side discharge chute, some mower models have the option of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is called mulching.

Trail Shield (If Equipped)

The trail shield is attached to the rear of the mower and is there to protect the operator from flying debris. Do not use the mower unless the shield is fully functional and in place.

Deck Wash (If Equipped)

Your mower's deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its deck wash system. Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck's underside.

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.

Oil Fill Cap/Dipstick

Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual packed with your mower for detailed oil filling, checking and changing instructions.

GAS AND OIL FILL-UP

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.

Refer to the separate Engine Operator's Manual for additional engine information.

This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline and oil as instructed before starting or running your lawn mower.

1. Add provided oil before starting mower for the first time as instructed in the separate Engine Operator's Manual.
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the separate Engine Operator's Manual.

Checking Battery Pack Charge (if equipped)

Read all safety warnings, instructions, and cautionary markings for the battery pack, charger and product. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

Refer to instructional manual supplied with battery charger for charging, maintenance and battery disposal instructions.

1. Press the battery gauge button on front of the battery pack to check charge level. See Figure 19:
   

• Charged Battery - One to three lights of the battery gauge will light to show charge level.
• Discharged Battery - If no lights show, charge battery pack. Refer to manual supplied with battery charger for charging instructions.

To Start Engine

Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.

Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for instructions on starting and stopping the engine.

Keep a firm grip on the starter cord handle to prevent rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback). Rapid retraction can pull hand and arm toward engine faster than you can let go, and result in broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains.

To Stop Engine

1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

Wait for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the mower or to remove the grass catcher.

Using Your Lawn Mower

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.

1. Perform one of the following:

• Bail and Single Lever Drive Controls - Once the engine is running, squeeze the drive control against the upper handle to propel mower.
• Dual Lever Drive Controls

1. Once the engine is running and while continuing to hold the blade control down, squeeze either (or both) drive controls against the upper handle to propel mower. See Figure 20.
   
2. To change speed, move speed control to the desired speed.

NOTE: When selecting a drive speed, use the first speed until you are comfortable and familiar with the operation of the mower.

If you are shifting speeds while the mower is stationary it may be difficult to shift into first speed under certain conditions. This is easily remedied by briefly engaging the drive lever.

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.

NOTE: Your mower is equipped with an advanced internal drive system for ease of use. When turning or pulling the unit rearward, you may notice higher than normal resistance in the rear wheels under certain conditions. This is perfectly normal and can be remedied by allowing the unit to roll forward slightly without the drive lever(s) engaged before pulling backwards.

Using as Mulcher

For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher or side discharge chute from the mower. When you remove the grass catcher from the mower, ensure the rear mulch plug (if equipped) is installed and allow the rear discharge door to close the rear opening of mower. When you remove the side discharge chute, the mulching cover will close. For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. 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.

Using Grass Catcher (If Equipped)

You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while you are operating the mower.

1. Attach grass catcher following instructions in the Assembly section. Grass clippings will automatically collect in bag as you run mower. Operate mower until grass bag is full.
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.

If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Disconnect the spark plug wire, thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair damage before restarting and operating. Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls and stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop. Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent unintended starting.

Follow the maintenance schedule given below. This chart describes service guidelines only. Use the Service Log column to keep track of completed maintenance tasks. To locate the nearest Service Center or to schedule service, call the following toll free number: 1-888-331-4569.

See the Engine Operator's manual packed with the mower for detailed instructions on how to perform many of the following maintenance items.

* Clean more often under dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present. Replace air cleaner if very dirty.

Always stop engine, allow engine to cool, disconnect spark plug wire, and ground against engine before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

General Recommendations

Engine Maintenance

Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual packed with your mower for a detailed description of all engine-related service specifications.

Clean Engine

• Daily or before every use, clean grass, chaff or accumulated debris from engine. Keep linkage, spring, and controls clean. Keep area around and behind muffler free of any combustible debris.
• Keeping engine clean allows air movement around engine.
• Engine parts should be kept clean to reduce the risk of overheating and ignition of accumulated debris.

Do not use water to clean engine parts. Water could contaminate fuel system. Use a brush or dry cloth.

Mower Maintenance

Cleaning Deck

Clean underside of the mower deck once a season to prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow steps below for this job.

1. Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel. Do not attempt to pour fuel from the engine. Disconnect spark plug wire. Refer to Engine Operator's Manual.
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing, keeping the muffler side down. Hold mower firmly.

Never tip the mower more than 90º in any direction and do not leave the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.

3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool. Do not spray with water.

Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.

4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground.

Deck Wash (If Equipped)

Your mower's deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its deck wash system.

Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck's underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals. Complete the following steps AFTER EACH MOWING:

1. Push the mower to a level, clear location on your lawn, near enough for your garden hose to reach. Remove the grass bag if attached.

Make certain the mower's discharge chute is directed AWAY from your house, garage, parked cars, etc.

2. Remove the fast attach deck wash nozzle from the mower deck and thread it onto the end of your garden hose.
3. Attach garden hose with the deck wash nozzle to the water port on your deck's surface. See Figure 22.
   
4. Turn the water ON.
5. Start the engine as described in the Operation section.
6. Run the engine for a minimum of two minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly rinse.
7. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.
8. Turn the water OFF and detach the deck wash nozzle from the water port on your deck's surface.

After cleaning your deck, restart the mower. Keep the engine and blade running for a minimum of two minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly dry

Blade Care

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service.

1. Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel. Do not attempt to pour fuel from the engine. Disconnect spark plug wire. Refer to Engine Operator's Manual.
2. Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are facing up.
3. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure 23.
   
4. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.
5. 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. When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of grind. Grind each cutting edge equally to keep the blade balanced.

An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could break causing personal injury.

1. 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 "Grass Side" (or with part number) faces the ground when the mower is in the operating position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter flanges. See Figure 23 inset.

7. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.
8. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in-lb (min.), 600 in-lb (max.).

To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the blade bolt for correct torque.

Belt Care

NOTE: Several components must be removed in order to change the mower's selfpropulsion drive belt. See an authorized Service Center to have your belt replaced.

Charging Electric Starter Battery (If Equipped)

Refer to instructional manual supplied with battery charger for charging, maintenance and battery disposal instructions.

The battery contains corrosive fluid and toxic material; handle with care and keep away from children. Do not puncture, disassemble, mutilate or incinerate the battery. Explosive gases could be vented during charging or discharging. Use in a well ventilated area, away from sources of ignition.

Read all safety warnings, instructions, and cautionary markings for the battery pack, charger and product. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE

Never store lawn mower with fuel in tank indoors or in poorly ventilated areas where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark, or pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, or gas appliance.

Preparing The Engine

For engines stored over 30 days:

• To prevent gum from forming in fuel system or on carburetor parts, run engine until it stops from lack of fuel or add a gasoline additive to the gas in the tank. If you use a gas additive, run the engine for several minutes to circulate the additive through the carburetor.
• An oil change is not required but if you desire to change the oil then change while the engine is warm.
• Clean engine of surface debris.

Preparing The Lawn Mower

• Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the lubrication instructions.
• Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.
• Coat mower's cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting.

When handling the cutting blade, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

• Refer to Preparing the Engine for correct engine storage instructions.
• Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn mower before storage.

Battery

TROUBLESHOOTING

Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent unintended starting. Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls and stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop. Always wear safety glasses during operation or while performing any adjustments or repairs.

This section addresses minor service issues. To locate the nearest Service Center or to schedule service, call the following toll free number: 1-888-331-4569.