MTD 110-017R000 - Manual (Page 9)

OPERATION
MOWING TIPS
• Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it
may be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce
pushing effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut.
Cutting in a counterclockwise direction, starting at
the outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass
dippings more evenly and puts less load on the
engine. To keep clippings off of walkways, flower
beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clockwise direc­
tion.
Pores in cloth grass catchers (optional accessory)
can become filled with dirt and dust with use and
catchers wilt collect less grass. To prevent this,
regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry
before using.
MAINTENANCE
A
CAUTION: DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE
FROM SPARK PLUG AND PLACE Wl RE WH ERE IT
CANNOT COME IN CONTACT WITH THE SPARK
PLUG BEFORE PERFORMING ANY MAINTE­
NANCE OR ADJUSTMENTS.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATION
• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, air
filter, and check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and air filter assures proper air-fuel mixture and
helps your engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the Service Recommendation Schedule on
page 12.
MOWER
BLADE CARE
Your mower will work better with a sharp blade.
TO REMOVE BLADE (SEE FIG. 7):
• Turn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and
carburetor are up.
• Use a block of wood between blade and mower
housing to prevent blade from turning when bolt is
removed. Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap Wade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counterclockwise.
Use a 9/16" box or open-end wrench.
NOTE: Check the blade bolt lock washer at each
removal for damage and replace if necessary. The lock
washer should be replaced after every three (3) blade
removals to insure proper tightness.
TO REPLACE BLADE (SEE FIG. 7):
• Make sure key is in slot in crankshaft.
> Put blade adaptor on engine crankshaft.
Fit blade in adaptor. Be sure trailing edge of blade is
up towards engine.
• Assemble retainer plate, lock washer (undamaged)
and blade bolt.
• Use block of wood to hold blade and tighten bolt
clockwise. The recommended torque is 35 - 40 ft.
lbs.
NOTE: The bolt used to secure the blade to engine is
specially heat treated. Do not substitute (See Repair
Parts).
A CAUTION: A LOOSE BLADE CAN BE DANGER­
OUS AND MAY MAKE THE ENGINE HARD TO
START.
Use only an original manufacturer's replacement blade to
get the best cutting results.
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening the blade - but
if you do, be sure blade is balanced.
TO SHARPEN BLADE:
• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on
the mower.