MTD Lawn Mower Series 410 thru 420 User Manual

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty  
OPERATOR’S MANUAL  
21” Rotary Mower — Model Series 410 thru 420  
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. 769-02336A  
9/25/2006  
PRINTED IN U.S.A.  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019  
 
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
 
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. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.  
Safe  
Operation  
Practices  
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during opera-  
Children  
tion and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect  
Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not alert to presence  
of children. Children are often attracted to mower and mowing  
your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious  
injury to the eyes.  
activity.They do not understand the dangers. Never assume  
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.  
that children will remain where you last saw them.  
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.  
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.  
WARNING  
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.  
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.  
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  
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:  
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.  
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.  
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.  
manual before at-  
tempting to operate  
this machine. Failure  
to comply with these  
instructions may result  
in personal injury. When  
you see this symbol.  
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so  
equipped while starting engine.  
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.  
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.  
HEED ITS WARNING!  
Your Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
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.  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
in this manual  
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.  
and on the machine.  
4
 
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.  
6. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources  
of ignition.  
7. Never fuel machine indoor because flammable vapors will  
accumulate in the area.  
The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after  
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.  
8. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or  
running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before  
refueling.  
2
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.  
9. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch  
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.  
10. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.  
11. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.  
Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting  
engine.  
Safe  
Operation  
Practices  
21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do  
not touch.  
12. 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.  
13. 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.  
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 dealer for  
assistance.  
14. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.  
Slope Operation  
General Service:  
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.  
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.  
This symbol points  
Do:  
out important safety  
instructions, which if  
not followed, could  
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. 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 manufacture’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.  
endanger the personal  
safety and/or property  
of yourself and others.  
Read and follow all  
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.  
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  
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.  
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjust-  
ment while the engine is running.  
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. Wash your skin and change clothes  
immediately.  
symbol.  
HEED IT’S 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 re-  
place immediately 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!”  
Your Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
2. Use only an approved gasoline container.  
3. 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.  
4. 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.  
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or over-rev the  
engine.The governor controls the maximum safe operating  
speed of the engine.  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
in this manual  
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.  
and on the machine.  
5. 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.  
 
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or  
oil in the engine. Fill up gasoline and oil as instructed  
in the accompanying engine manual BEFORE operat-  
ing your mower.  
A
3
1. Remove any packing material which may be between  
upper and lower handles.  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
a. 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. Do not  
crimp cable while lifting the handle up.  
b. Tighten star knobs securing upper handle to lower  
handle. See Figure 3-1. Make sure that each  
carriage bolt is seated properly in the handle.  
B
2. Locate the hairpin clip on the weld pin on each side  
lower handle.  
a. Remove hairpin clip from this hole. Using a pair  
of pliers, insert hairpin clip into the hole on pin  
closest to the bracket. See Figure 3-2. Repeat on  
other side.  
Figure 3-1: Unfold handle and tighten hardware.  
NOTE: This Operator’s  
Manual covers several  
models. Lawn Mower  
features vary by  
model. Not all features  
discussed (or engines  
pictured) in this manual  
are applicable to all  
Lawn Mower models.  
Hardware Pack  
b. Insert a carriage bolt from the hardware pack into  
the upper hole on the handle mounting bracket as  
shown in Figure 3-2. Secure with one plastic wing  
nut, also included in the hardware pack. Repeat on  
other side.  
Wing Nuts (2) Carriage Bolts (2)  
B
3. The rope guide is attached to the right side of the  
upper handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures the  
rope guide. See Figure 3-3.  
NOTE: Stand behind  
the 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.  
a. Hold blade control against upper handle.  
b. Pull starter rope out of the engine. Release blade  
control handle.  
c. Slip starter rope into rope guide.  
d. Tighten wing nut.  
A
4. Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the  
lower handle. Pull cable tie tight and trim excess. See  
Figure 3-4.  
Figure 3-2: Secure lower handle to mounting brackets.  
NOTE: Your mower  
is shipped with the  
handle in the higher  
height position.  
A
NOTE: Each end of  
the lower handle must  
be placed in the same  
relative position.  
B
IMPORTANT  
This unit is shipped  
without gasoline or  
oil in the engine. Fill  
up gasoline and oil  
as instructed in the  
accompanying engine  
manual BEFORE  
D
C
Figure 3-3: Pull recoil starter through rope guide and tighten.  
Figure 3-4: Secure cable to handle using cable ties.  
operating your mower.  
6
 
5. Follow steps below to assemble the grass catcher  
(if needed). Make certain bag is turned right side  
out before assembling (warning label will be on the  
outside).  
3
a. Place bag over frame so that its black plastic side  
is at the bottom.  
A
b. Slip plastic channel of grass bag over hooks on  
the frame. See Figure 3-5. All the plastic channels  
except center top of bag attach from outside of  
bag.  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
C
c. Attach center top of bag from inside of bag.  
6. Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:  
a. Lift rear discharge door.  
B
b. Place grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go  
of discharge door so that it rests on the grass  
catcher. See Figure 3-6.  
Figure 3-5: Assemble the grass catcher (if needed).  
To remove grass catcher, lift rear discharge door on the  
mower. Lift grass catcher up and out, off of the pivot  
rod. Release rear discharge door to allow it to close rear  
opening of mower.  
WARNING  
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.  
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
A
Adjustments  
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel  
provides cutting height adjustment.  
1. Depress lever towards wheel.  
2. Move it to any one of the positions for desired cutting  
height. See Figure 3-7. Make sure that each wheel is  
positioned at the same height.  
Figure 3-6: Attach the grass catcher.  
3. Release lever towards mower deck.  
2
1
3
Figure 3-7: Use adjustment levers at each wheel to change the  
cutting height.  
 
KnowYour Lawn Mower  
Blade Control  
4
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Recoil Starter  
Cutting Height Adjustment  
Levers (one at each wheel)  
WARNING  
The blade control is a  
safety device. DO NOT  
bypass its operations.  
Use extreme care when  
handling gasoline.  
Figure 4-1:The main components on the mower.  
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.  
Now that you have setup your lawn mower, its important to become acquainted with its controls and features.  
Blade Control  
Gas and Oil Fill-Up  
Refer to the engine manual for instructions.  
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  
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine  
manual for this.  
blade.  
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the  
engine manual. Refer to the engine manual for the  
location of the gas and oil fill.  
WARNING: This blade control is a safety  
device. Never attempt to bypass its opera-  
tions.  
Keep hands and feet  
away from the chute area  
on cutting deck. Refer to  
warning label on the unit.  
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 run-  
ning. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other  
sources of ignition.  
Cutting Height Adjustment Levers  
One adjustment lever is located at each wheel and is  
used to adjust the cutting height. All four wheels must  
be positioned at the same height to ensure a uniform  
cut.  
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.  
8
 
Starting Engine  
WARNING: 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.  
2
4
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Follow the set of instructions pertaining to your unit.  
Refer to engine manual for help with the engine.  
3
Briggs & Stratton/ Tecumseh Engine:  
1. Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds  
between each push. See Figure 4-2. In temperature  
around 55° F or below, prime five times. Do not prime  
to restart a warm engine.  
3
1
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade control  
against upper handle.  
Figure 4-2: Starting the Briggs & Stratton/ Tecumseh engine.  
3. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp recoil  
starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continu-  
ous, full arm stroke. See Figure 4-2. Keeping a firm  
grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly.  
Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each  
time slowly.  
3
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 glasses while  
operating the mower or  
Honda Engine:  
1. Place the fuel valve lever found on the left side of the  
engine into the ON (OPEN) position. See Figure 4-3.  
2. Move the choke lever all the way backward into the  
choke position.  
4
1
2
while performing any  
adjustments or repairs on it.  
3. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade control  
against upper handle. The choke will now begin to  
slowly return to the off choke position after activating  
the blade control. Therefore, quickly move onto step  
four below.  
OFF  
ON  
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.  
4. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp recoil Figure 4-3: Starting the Honda engine.  
starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continu-  
ous, full arm stroke. See Figure 4-3. Keeping a firm  
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,  
stop the engine. Remove wire from the  
grip on the starter handle let the rope rewind slowly.  
Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each  
time slowly.  
spark plug, 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.  
WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop com-  
pletely before performing any work on the  
mower or to remove the grass catcher.  
Stopping Engine  
1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.  
Using as Mulcher  
For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher and side  
discharge chute from the mower. For effective mulching,  
do not cut wet grass. If the grass has been allowed to  
grow in excess of four inches, mulching is not recom-  
mended. Use the grass catcher to bag clippings instead.  
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and  
ground against the engine.  
Never operate your mower  
without either the rear door  
or the entire grass catcher  
assembly firmly secured.  
UsingYour 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.  
Using Grass Catcher  
You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while  
you are operating the mower. Refer to setup section for  
instructions on attaching the grass catcher.  
9
 
Lubrication  
Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least  
once a season with light oil. The blade control must  
operate freely in both directions. See Figure 5-1.  
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 pivot arm and inner  
surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 5-1.  
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on the rear  
discharge door periodically with light oil to prevent  
rust. See Figure 5-1.  
Follow the accompanying engine manual for engine  
lubrication schedule and instructions.  
Deck Care  
WARNING: 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.  
Figure 5-1: Areas to lubricate on the mower.  
WARNING  
General Recommendations  
Always observe safety rules when performing  
any type of maintenance.  
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to  
prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn  
mower, or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.  
Always stop engine,  
disconnect spark  
plug, and ground  
against engine before  
performing and type  
of maintenance on  
the mower.  
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.  
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the  
side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.  
3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a  
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.  
Changing of engine-governed speed will void  
engine warranty.  
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.  
All adjustments should be checked at least once  
each season.  
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these  
are tight.  
Engine Care  
A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good  
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the  
accompanying engine manual for a detailed list and  
instructions.  
WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect  
spark plug, and ground against engine  
before cleaning, lubricating, or performing any type  
of maintenance.  
Maintain oil level as instructed in engine manual.  
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal  
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely  
dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and  
flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should  
be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the  
engine manual.  
IMPORTANT: Do not use a  
pressure washer or garden  
hose to clean your unit.  
These may cause damage  
to electric components,  
spindles, pulleys, bear-  
ings, or the engine. The  
use of water will result in  
shortened life and reduce  
serviceability.  
Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.  
Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start  
of each mowing season. Check engine manual for  
correct plug type and gap specifications.  
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.  
10  
 
Blade Care  
WARNING: 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.  
Blade  
Blade  
Adapter  
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
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. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Turn  
mower on its side making sure that the air filter and  
the carburetor are up.  
Bell Blade  
Support  
Hex Bolt  
Figure 5-2: Remove blade and hardware.  
2. Remove the bolt and the bell blade support which  
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine  
crankshaft. See Figure 5-2.  
3. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.  
4. 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 the blade,  
follow the original angle of grind and grind each cut-  
ting edge equally to keep the blade balanced. Balance  
the blade on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal  
from the heavy side until it balances evenly.  
WARNING  
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.  
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.  
5. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and slide the blade  
adapter onto the engine crankshaft.  
Figure 5-3: Cut wire rod to remove the rear flap.  
6. 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 the blade is aligned and  
seated on the blade adapter flanges.  
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.  
Off-Season Storage  
The following steps should be taken to prepare your  
lawn mower for storage.  
Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described  
in the lubrication instructions.  
7. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches  
on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.  
We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer  
or garden hose to clean your unit.  
8. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450  
in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.  
Refer to engine manual for correct engine  
storage instructions.  
To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically  
check the blade bolt for correct torque.  
Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to  
prevent rusting.  
Replacing Rear Flap  
1. To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire rod  
which secures it to the deck. See Figure 5-3.  
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next  
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.  
2. Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending the  
ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.  
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.  
11  
 
Remedy  
Cause  
1. Blade control disengaged.  
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.  
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.  
4. Engine not choked.  
Problem  
Engine fails to start  
1. Engage blade control.  
6
2. Connect wire to spark plug.  
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
4. Choke engine as instructed in the  
“Operating Your Lawn Mower” section.  
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.  
6. Clean fuel line.  
Trouble  
5. Faulty spark plug.  
6. Blocked fuel line.  
7. Engine flooded.  
Shooting  
7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do  
not prime.  
1. Spark plug wire loose.  
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.  
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean,  
fresh gasoline.  
Engine runs erratic  
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.  
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.  
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.  
5. Dirty air cleaner.  
3. Clear vent.  
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.  
5. Refer to engine manual.  
6. Refer to engine manual.  
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
1. Engine oil level low.  
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.  
2. Remove blower housing and clean.  
3. Refer to engine manual.  
Engine overheats  
2. Air flow restricted.  
For repairs beyond  
the minor adjustments  
listed here, contact  
an authorized service  
dealer.  
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.  
1. Spark plug gap too close.  
2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment  
improperly set.  
1. Adjust gap to .030-inch.  
2. Refer to engine manual.  
Occasional skips  
(hesitates) at high speed  
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.  
1. Reset gap to .030-inch or replace  
spark plug.  
Idles poorly  
2. Refer to engine manual.  
3. Refer to engine manual.  
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.  
3. Dirty air cleaner.  
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.  
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance  
blade.  
Excessive Vibration  
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. Mow once at a high cutting height,  
then mow again at desired height or  
make a narrower cutting path.  
3. Sharpen or replace blade.  
2. Excessively high grass.  
3. Dull blade.  
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.  
2. Dull blade.  
1. Place all four wheels in same  
height position.  
Uneven cut  
2. Sharpen or replace blade.  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
12  
 
Safety Label Found OnYour Lawn Mower  
7
Safety  
Labels  
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT  
OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE COVER OR  
GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.  
IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.  
MAX 15  
˚
KEEP HANDS and FEET AWAY  
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS  
ARE AROUND.  
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH  
• KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM  
ROTATING PARTS.  
• USE EXTRA CAUTION ON SLOPES. DO NOT  
MOW SLOPES GREATER THAN 15 MOW  
˚
ACROSS, NEVER UP AND DOWN. NEVER  
PULL MOWER CLOSE TO YOUR FEET. LOOK  
DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE  
MOVING BACKWARDS.  
• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT CAN BE THROWN  
BY THE BLADE IN ANY DIRECTION.  
WEAR SAFETY GLASSES.  
WARNING  
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (BLADE CONTROL, TRAILING SHIELD,  
DISCHARGE COVER, ETC) IN PLACE AND WORKING. IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.  
S32102 CD  
DO NOT remove safety  
(or any) labels from  
mower for any reason.  
13  
 
Model Series 410 & 420  
1
9
12  
2
11  
4
3
10  
6
5
13  
14  
15  
7
8
17  
19  
20  
18  
22  
21  
38  
16  
41  
40  
35  
23  
29  
35  
34  
39  
24  
36  
29  
37  
33  
30  
31  
33  
29  
25  
29  
27  
28  
26  
32  
Wheel Treads  
Pin Bar Tread  
Zag Tread  
S-WaveTread  
K2 Tread  
14  
 
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
747-1161A  
Blade Control  
687-02074A Ht. Adj. Assy. Front - RH (8” Wheel)  
687-02099A Ht. Adj. Assy. Front - LH (7” Wheel)  
687-02100A Ht. Adj. Assy. Front - RH (7” Wheel)  
24 782-5002B Front Baffle  
749-1092A Upper Handle  
710-1205  
720-0279  
710-1174  
Rope Guide  
8
Wing Nut, 1/4-20  
Carriage Bolt, 5/16-18 x 2  
25 748-0377C Blade Adapter  
720-04072 Hand Star Knob  
749-0928A Lower Handle  
26 742-0641  
742-0741†  
Standard Blade  
Mulch Blade  
Parts List  
712-0397  
746-0957  
746-1130  
746-0554  
746-1137  
Wing Nut, 1/4-20  
Control Cable - 37.25”  
Control Cable - 40”  
Control Cable - 40.5”  
Control Cable - 53”  
Cable Tie  
27 736-0524B Blade Bell Support  
28 710-1257 Screw, 3/8-24 x 2.50  
29 712-04065 Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16  
30 787-01290 Height Adjustment Plate  
31 687-02076A Pivot Arm Assy RH (7" wheel)  
687-02077A Pivot Arm Assy LH (7" wheel)  
687-02076A Pivot Arm Assy LH (8" wheel)  
687-02077A Pivot Arm Assy RH (8" wheel)  
10 726-0240  
11 664-04007A Grass Bag Assembly  
12 747-04080 Grass Bag Frame  
13 732-0700  
Trailshield Wire  
32  
Front Wheel  
To order replacement  
parts, contact  
14 731-05642 Trailshield  
33 738-0507B Shoulder Screw  
15 747-04587 Rear Door Pivot Rod  
16 710-0654A TT Screw, 3/8-16 x 1  
17 731-05865 Rear Discharge Door  
18 731-04150C Rear Baffle  
34 732-0404  
35 720-0426  
Spring Lever  
1-800-800-7310  
or visit  
Height Adjustment Knob  
36 687-02071A Pivot Arm Assembly - RH  
687-02070A Pivot Arm Assembly - LH  
37 732-04175 Spring Lever  
19 732-04090A Torsion Spring RH  
20 710-1241  
Screw, 1/4-15 x 1.00  
38 710-0703  
39  
Carriage Bolt, 1/4-20  
Rear Wheel  
21 787-01276 Deck 21 inch  
22 687-02271 Handle Bracket Assy - RH  
687-02270 Handle Bracket Assy - LH  
23 687-02075A Ht. Adj. Assy. Front - LH (8” Wheel)  
40 710-1652  
41 714-0104  
Screw, 1/4-20 x .625  
Hairpin Clip  
† If equipped  
‡ Refer to Wheel Chart  
‡ Wheel Chart  
Part No.  
Type  
Tread  
Bar  
Wheels w/o bearing  
734-1781, Slot Hub  
734-04215, 8 x 1.8  
734-04213, 7 x 1.8  
734-2004A, Disc Hub  
734-2005A  
K2 Bar  
K2 Bar  
Zag  
Wheels w/ BB  
Zag  
This Operator’s Manual covers a range of product specifications for various models. Characteristics and features  
discussed and/or illustrated in this manual may not be applicable to all models. MTD LLC reserves the right to  
change product specifications, designs, and equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.  
15  
 
MANUFACTURER’S 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.  
e. 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.  
“MTD” warrants this product against defects in material and workman-  
ship for a period of two (2) years 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 war-  
ranty shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained  
in accordance 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.  
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: batter-  
ies, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats,  
snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.  
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  
f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.  
g. Transportation charges and service calls.  
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of mer-  
chantability 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. 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.  
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 shall not extend to anyone other than the original  
purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a gift.  
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.  
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:  
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items may carry a  
separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable manufacturer’s  
warranty for terms and conditions.  
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one year  
warranty.  
c. 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.  
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain  
warranty coverage.  
d. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service  
dealer.  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-ꢁ310, 1-330-220-4683  
 

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