Columbia 978 Operator's Manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT. PRINTED IN U.S.A. LES DISTRIBUTIONS RVI LIMITÉE, 2955, JEAN-BAPTISTE DESCHAMPS, LACHINE, QUEBEC H8T 1C5 21” Self-Propelled Rotary Mower — Model Series 900 12/22/10 769-04157C Model 978 shown.

Table of Contents This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new equipment. It will help you assemble, prepare and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says. Customer Support 1. If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, please call an authorized dealer. Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous section to locate this information. 2. The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues in terms of performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty, and service. Depending on the engine manufacturer, more information is included in this publication or packed separately with this product. Slope Gauge........................................................ 3 Safe Operation Practices.................................... 4 Safety Symbols.................................................... 7 Set-Up & Adjustments......................................... 8 Operation............................................................ 10 Maintenance & Off-Season Storage................. 12 Trouble Shooting............................................... 16 Replacement Parts............................................ 17 Warranty............................................................. 18 BEFORE YOU START ASSEMBLING YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT, please locate the model plate on the equipment and record the information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the model plate by standing at the operating position and looking down at the rear of the machine. This information will be necessary, should you seek technical support. Model Number Serial Number

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. Sight and hold this level with a vertical tree... or a corner of a building... or a fence post Fold along dotted line (represents a 15° slope) 15° Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes.

before attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the ma- chine and in the manual(s) before operation. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts. 2. Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use of this machine before operating it. 3. This machine is a precision piece of power equip- ment, 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. 4. 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 adult. 5. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use this machine. 6. 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. 7. 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. 8. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, stay in the operator zone behind the handles and keep children, bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from the mower while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. 9. 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. 10. 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. 11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands and feet. 12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries. 13. 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. 14. 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: a. Step back from the 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. 15. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 16. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so equipped while starting engine. 17. 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. 18. 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. 19. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light. Walk, never run. 20. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads. 21. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. WARNING 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 at- tempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING! 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. 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.

a complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclogging the chute. 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. 23. 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. 24. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch. 25. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the engine is running. 26. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury. 27. 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. 28. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgment. Call customer assistance for the name of your nearest servicing dealer. 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. 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. Do: 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. 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. 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. 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. 1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the 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. 6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent. 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. 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 contain- ers 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. 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. 6 Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition. 7. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will accumulate in the area. 8. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling. 2 Safe Operation Practices WARNING This machine is equipped with an internal combus- tion 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 arrester meeting ap- plicable local or provincial laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. A spark arrester for the muf- fler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer. Notice regarding Emis- sions Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certified to operate on regu- lar unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control systems: Engine Modification (EM) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

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 equip- ment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine. 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. 14. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing. General Service: 1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. 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. 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 manufac- ture’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 equipment 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, disconnect 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. 8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the engine is running. 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 replace immediately with original equipment manufac- turer’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!” 10. Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine. 11. Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary. 12. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed. 13. Maintain or replace safety labels, as necessary. 14. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment. 15. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commis- sion (CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years, or 60 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful Life, buy a new machine or have the machine inspected annually by an authorized service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety systems are working properly and not worn exces- sively. Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death. 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. 2 Safe Operation Practices WARNING 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! 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.

read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS! 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 DANGER — ROTATING BLADES To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, DANGER — BYSTANDERS Do not mow when children or others are around. DANGER — HAND/ FOOT CUT Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts. DANGER — THROWN DEBRIS Remove objects that can be thrown by the blade in any direction. Wear safety glasses. DANGER — SLOPES Use extra caution on slopes. Do not mow slopes greater than 15°. WARNING—GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling. WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. WARNING— HOT SURFACE Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during opera- tion. Allow engine and muffler to cool before touching. 3 Safety Symbols WARNING This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the per- sonal 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!

may be between upper and lower handles. a. Pull up and back on the upper handle to raise the handle from position A. See Figure 1. b. Tighten hand knobs (star knobs) securing upper handle to lower handle. Make sure that each carriage bolt is seated properly in the handle. NOTE: On some models wing nuts have been replaced with star knobs. Figures show wing nuts only. 2. Locate hairpin clip in one hole on the weld pin on each side of lower handle. a. Remove hairpin clip from this hole. Using a pair of pliers, insert hairpin clip into the other hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side. b. Place one carriage bolt (found in the hardware pack included with your unit) in the upper hole of the right handle mounting bracket from the inside outward. See Figure 2. Secure with one wing nut (star knobs). Repeat process on the left side. 3. The rope guide (pigs tail) is part of the grass catcher support rod attached to the lower handle. See Figure 3. a. Hold the blade control handle against the upper handle. Position A. b. Pull the starter rope out of the engine slowly until it extends past the rope guide (pigs tail). Position B. c. Guide the starter rope around the rope guide (pig tail) until the rope is securely in the center. Position C. d. Tighten rope guide wing nut (star knob). 4. Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the lower handle. Pull cable tie tight and trim excess. See Figure 4. NOTE: Your unit is shipped as a mulcher with the mulching plug installed. Figure 3 Figure 2 Figure 1 Figure 4 Disconnect and ground the spark plug wire as instruct- ed in the separate engine manual. IMPORTANT This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE or OIL. After assembly, service engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Setup and Adjustments Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher height position. NOTE: Each end of the lower handle must be placed in the same relative position. WARNING NOTE: This owner’s manual covers various models of lawnmowers. The units illustrated may vary slightly from your unit. Follow only those instructions which pertain to your model lawnmower. Wing Nuts Mulching Plug A B A B A C B

the drive cable is routed around the outside and above the lower handle so it does not interfere with attaching the grass bag. 4 Figure 6 Figure 7 Never operate mower unless grass bag, side discharge chute or mulching baffle is firmly in place. All mowers are equipped with a rear protective guard. The guard helps eliminate projectiles thrown by the blade from injur- ing the operator. DO NOT REMOVE THIS GUARD. 5. Bagging Grass Clippings. a. Remove wing nuts holding mulching plug (see Figure 4) or side discharge chute (see Figure 5) in place. Then remove baffle or discharge chute. b. Replace with bagging adapter (see Figure 6). Attach using wing nuts. Be sure that inner lip of attachment goes under the edge of the deck. c. Lift flap and slide bag onto adapter. See Figure 7. 6. Side Discharge grass clippings. a. Remove mulching plug or grass bag adapter. b. Attach discharge chute with wing nuts. See Figure 5. 7. The height adjuster determines the cutting height of the mower. The adjuster is located above the left rear wheel. To adjust the cutting height, pull the lever out and away from the mower and then move it forward or back to select a new cutting height. See Figure 9. NOTE: Some models are equipped with optional front wheel casters. Refer to the Operation Section for adjustment. 8. Use the adjustment wheel located on the underside of the clutch control housing to tighten the drive belt if mower does not self-propel with the drive clutch control engaged, or if drive belt is slipping (unit hesitates while engine maintains the same speed). See Figure 8. In addition, the adjustment wheel may also be used to determine the position in which the drive clutch control is engaged. If it is more comfortable to have the drive engaged with the lever further away from the handle, tighten the drive belt. WARNING Setup and Adjustments Figure 8 Side Discharge Chute Wing Nuts Grass Bag Adapter Wing Nuts 1 2 Loosen Tighten Drive Clutch Control Shift Lever

The blade control handle is located on the upper handle of the mower. See Figure 9. The blade control handle must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade. Drive Control Lever Squeezing the drive control lever engages the drive system. Releasing the clutch control disengages the drive system. Release the clutch control to slow down when negotiating an obstacle, making a turn or stopping. Shift Lever The shift lever is located on the drive control housing on the upper handle. See Figure 9. This lever is used to select the forward speed of the mower. When changing your speed selection, release the drive clutch control. Mulching Plug The mulching plug is used to close the side discharge chute opening when mulching or bagging grass. Do not remove the hinged mulching plug at any time, even when you are not mulching. 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. Know Your Lawn Mower Rear Cutting Height Adjustment Lever The height adjuster determines the cutting height of the mower. The adjuster is located above the left rear wheel. Casters (optional) The front wheel cutting height is determined by the selection of one of six positions in each caster assembly. See Figure 9. To adjust, remove the wing nut from the axle bolt. Slide the axle bolt and spring washer from the assembly and select a cutting height. With the spring washer on the axle bolt reinsert in the square hole desired, through the wheel assembly and secure with the wing nut previously removed. IMPORTANT: All wheels must be placed in the same relative position. NOTE: For rough or uneven lawns, move the height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will help stop scalping. Caster Lock (optional) WARNING: When operating mower on hills, front wheels should be locked in the straight ahead position. The casters can be locked in a straight ahead position or can be left to swivel freely. Lift and place the lock pins WARNING Figure 9 Height Adjustment Lever Caster Locking Pin Grass Catcher Side Deflector Mulch Plug * Casters are optional equipment Axle Bolt and Spring Washer Blade Control Recoil Starter Drive Control Shift Lever Read, understand, and follow all instruc- tions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating. This blade control mechanism 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.

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. 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. En- gine 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. Figure 10 in the larger holes for locked, straight ahead operation, place pins in smaller holes to allow casters to rotate freely. Before Starting 1. Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual. 2. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the spark plug wire, make certain the metal loop on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug. 3. Before each use, check for proper drive clutch operation by performing the following before starting the engine: a. With the drive control released, push mower forward. It should move freely. Pull mower back- ward. It should move with only a small amount of resistance. b. If it does not the clutch may not be releasing completely. Do not start the engine until correc- tions have been made. Check the control cable for severe bend, kinks and binding. Also check for grass build-up around the belt. To Start Engine and Engage Blade 1. If your unit is equipped with a primer, choke or fuel valve lever, operate as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. 2. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control handle and hold it against the upper handle as shown in Figure 10. 3. Grasp the starter handle as shown and pull slowly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly to start engine and avoid kickback. Return it slowly to the rope guide. 4. To engage the drive, squeeze the drive control handle towards the upper handle. Release the drive control to slow down when negotiating an obstacle, making a turn, or stopping. 5. The six speed shift lever is located on the drive clutch control housing on the upper handle. See Figure 9. This lever is used to select the operating speed of the mower. Release the drive clutch control when changing speeds. To Stop Engine 1. Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade. WARNING: The blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off. 2. Disconnect and ground the spark plug wire as instructed in the separate engine manual to prevent accidental starting while equipment is unattended. Using Your Lawn Mower Be sure the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage the lawn mower or the engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others. WARNING: If you strike a foreign ob- ject, stop the engine. Remove wire from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the mower. Extensive vibration of the mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired. IMPORTANT: Move the shift lever ONLY when the engine is running. Shifting the speeds with the engine off can cause damage to the unit. Disengage the drive clutch control before changing the speed selection. Operating Tips 1. For best results do not cut wet grass. 2. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass may require a narrower cut. 3. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4 inches, mulching is not recommended. Mow using the side discharge to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4 inches or less before mulching. 4. Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight. NOTE: To operate your unit using the grass bag, mulcher or optional side discharge refer to page 7. 3 1 2 3

at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 11. 2. If your mower is equipped with ball bearing wheels, lubricate at least once a season with a light oil, all other types require no lubrication. However, if the wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the wheel with light automotive oil. 3. Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point periodi- cally with light oil to prevent rust. See Figure 11. 4. The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the factory and does not require lubrication. 5. Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrica- tion schedule and instruction. Engine 1. Refer to the separate engine manual for engine maintenance instructions. 2. Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions carefully. 3. Under normal conditions service air cleaner as in- structed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced. 4. The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset 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. NOTE: This spark ignition system meets all require- ments of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations. 5. Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area. Deck The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching. The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scrap- ing clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug wire is disconnected). Replacing Rear Flap The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck. If the rear flap becomes damaged replace it. 1. To remove rear flap, lift rear door, remove screw, and press flap in on either side to remove from hole. 2. Remove screw and flap from opposite hole and replace with new flap in the opposite order and manner of removal. Six speed shift cable adjustment Periodic adjustment of the six speed shift cable may be required due to normal stretch and wear on the cable. Adjustment is needed if all six speeds cannot be obtained. The adjustable cable bracket is located on the left side of the mower, beside the engine. Start engine and place shift lever in the sixth speed position. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against engine. 1. Loosen the hex nut which secures the adjustable cable bracket. See Figure 12. 2. Pull backward on the bracket (toward the rear of the mower). 3. Tighten the hex nut. Lubricate these points before reassembly. Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine before cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of maintenance on your machine. Cutting grass in sandy soil condition causes abrasive wear to the blade. If unit is tipped for easier access to blade or belt, tip mower as specified in separate engine manual. If it does not specify turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up. Maintenance 1 2 3 Figure 12

especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service: 1. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure 13. 2. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft. 3. The blade may be resharpened by removing it and either grinding or filing the cutting edge keeping as close to the original bevel as possible. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade while it is still on the mower. 4. It is extremely important that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. NOTE: Improper blade balance will result in excessive vibration causing eventual damage to the engine and mower. Be sure to carefully balance blade after sharpen- ing. Possible damage resulting from blade unbalance condition is not the responsibility of the manufacturer. NOTE: Always remove blade from the adapter for testing balance. 5. The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly. 6 Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil. 7. Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the “star” away from the engine. See Figure 13. Place the blade with the side marked “bottom” (or with part number) facing away from the adapter. Align the blade bell support over the blade with the tabs in the holes of the blade and insert the hex bolt. 8. Tighten the hex bolt to the torque listed below: Blade Mounting Torque Center Bolt 450 in. lb. min., 600 in.lb. max. To insure safe operation of your unit, ALL nuts and bolts must be checked periodically for correct tightness. Belt Care 1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine. 2. Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plastic beneath the cap to prevent gasoline leakage. 3. Place shift lever in the first position and tip the mower on its side. (air cleaner side of engine up). 4. Remove the blade and blade adapter as described previously. 5. Move rear height adjuster to the highest position. 6. Using a 3/8” socket remove three hex screws holding the baffle to the deck. See Figure 13. 7. Pivot baffle towards the rear of the mower. See Figure 14. 8. Remove the hex bolt holding the transmission to the mower housing. See Figure 14. Maintenance We do not recommend the use of pressure washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability. When removing the cutting blade or belt, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade. 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. A B A B 9. Tilt the transmission forward and loosen the idler pulley bolt and locknut ½ turn using two 7/16” wrenches. See Figure 15.

disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine before cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of maintenance on your machine. Cutting grass in sandy soil condition causes abrasive wear to the blade. If unit is tipped for easier access to blade or belt, tip mower as specified in separate engine manual. If it does not specify turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up. Maintenance 10. Using a pair of pliers, pull back and rotate belt keeper bracket from the slot on idler pulley. 11. Slide the belt out from between the belt keeper bracket and the idler pulley. See Figure 16. 12. Squeeze the belt together and push belt forward. Press the control arm inward towards the deck and remove the six speed cable from the slot. See Figure 17. 13. Pivot the control arm down away from the pulley and belt. 14. Lift off the lower pulley assembly and remove the old belt from around the crankshaft. 15. Place the new belt over the transmission pulley. Start the belt in pulley groove and rotate pulley until belt is seated in transmission pulley. 16. Place belt between idler pulley and the belt keeper bracket. 17. Using pliers, rotate the belt keeper bracket so that it snaps into slot on the idler bracket. 18. Tighten the idler pulley bolt and locknut ½ turn using two 7/16” wrenches. 19. Place belt between the two pulley halves on the crankshaft. Make sure to route the belt inside the belt guard pin. See Figure 18. 20. Pinch belt together so that it is not in the pulley groove, and the lower pulley can be pushed towards the engine. See Figure 19. 21. Pivot the control arm back to its original position and reinstall the six-speed cable into the slot. 22. Check and make sure the belt is routed inside the pulley halves and the belt guard pin. 23. Reinstall the bolt securing transmission to rear mower housing. Belt Guard Pin Figure 16 Six speed cable slot Figure 17 Figure 18 Figure 19

with three hex screws earlier removed. You will need a 3/8” socket for these screws. 25. Lightly lubricate the crankshaft and reinstall blade and blade adapter as described in the “Cutting Blade” section. 26. Tip the mower back on its wheels. 27. Make certain to retest the unit for neutral as instructed in the Operation Section. Off-Season Storage The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower for storage. 1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the lubrication instructions. 2. We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. 3. Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage instructions. 4. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting. 5. Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer. NOTE: 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. 6 WARNING Maintenance This spark ignition system meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference- Causing Equipment Regulations. When removing the cutting blade or belt, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade. 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.

the minor adjust- ments listed here, contact an authorized service dealer. 7 Trouble Shooting Cause Problem Remedy Engine fails to start 1. Blade control handle disengaged. 2. Spark plug wire disconnected. 3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel. 4. Engine not primed. 5. Faulty spark plug. 6. Blocked fuel line. 7. Engine flooding. 8. Fuel valve (if quipped) closed. 9. Engine not choked (if equipped with choke). 10. Burnt fuse. (Electric Start only). 1. Engage blade control handle. 2. Connect wire to spark plug. 3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. 4. Refer to engine manual. 5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace. 6. Clean fuel line. 7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not prime. 8. Open fuel valve. See engine manual. 9. Choke engine. See engine manual. 10. Replace fuse (see Maintenance Section). Engine runs erratic 1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire. 2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. 3. Clear vent. 4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor. Refill with fresh fuel. 5. Refer to engine manual. 6. Refer to engine manual. 1. Spark plug wire loose. 2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel. 3. Gas cap vent plugged. 4. Water or dirt in fuel system. 5. Dirty air cleaner. 6. Carburetor out of adjustment. Engine overheats 1. Fill crankcase with proper oil. 2. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit. 3. Remove blower housing and clean. 4. Refer to engine manual. 1. Engine oil level low. 2. Dirty air filter. 3. Air flow restricted. 4. Carburetor not adjusted properly. Occasional skip (hesitates) at high speed 1. Adjust gap to .030”. Refer to engine manual. 2. Refer to engine manual. 1. Spark plug gap too close. 2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment improperly set. Idles poorly 1. Reset gap to .030” or replace spark plug. Refer to engine manual. 2. Refer to engine manual. 3. Refer to engine manual. 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide. 2. Carburetor improperly adjusted. 3. Dirty air cleaner. 1. Cutting Blade loose or unbalanced. 2. Bent cutting blade. 1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade 2. Replace blade. Excessive vibration 1. Wheels not positioned correctly. 2. Dull blade. Uneven cut 1. Place all four wheels in same height position. 2. Sharpen or replace blade. 1. Wet grass. 2. Excessive high grass. 3. Dull blade. 1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut. 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. Mower will not mulch grass 1. Belt not installed properly. 2. Debris clogging drive operation. 1. Checking belt for proper pulley installation and movement. 2. Clean out debris. Wheels will not propel

accessories refer to customer support on page 2. Component Part Number and Description 734-2044B Wheel (Rear) 734-2004A Wheel (Front, models w/o front wheel casters) 734-1857 Wheel (Front, models w/ front wheel casters) 731-1832 Side Discharge Chute 664-0076A Grass Bag 942-0741A Mulching Blade 954-0460 V-Belt 725-04329† Battery Charger 925-04323† Battery 925-0201† Key † If Equipped

THREE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD Products Limited with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in Canada and/or its territories and possessions (either entity respectively, “MTD”). MTD warrants this product (excluding its normal wear parts as described below) against defects in material and workmanship for a period of three (3) 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 workman- ship. This limited warranty 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: batteries, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, friction wheels, shave plates, auger spiral rubber, tires, engine oil, air filters and spark plugs. 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; In the U.S.A.: 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 Web site at www.mtdproducts.com. In Canada: Contact MTD Products Limited, Kitchener, ON N2G 4J1, or call 1-800-668-1238 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdcanada.com. 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. The Powermore engine is not excluded under this agreement. 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. d. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service dealer. e. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported outside of Canada, including possessions and territories. f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts. g. Transportation charges and service calls. h. If Products are used commercially. (MTD may separately offer Limited Commercial Warranties on certain select products. Ask your dealer or retailer for details or contact MTD Service for more information.) No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability 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 jurisdictions 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 LOCAL LAWS RELATE TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary in different jurisdictions. IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain warranty coverage. MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-4683 MTD Products Ltd., P. O. BOX 1386, KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1; Phone: 1-800-668-1238

CONSUMER’S WARRANTY COLUMBIA OUTDOOR THREE YEARS- 120 Hrs. LIMITED WARRANTY For three (3) years-120 hrs. whichever come first, from the date of original purchase of COLUMBIA products, COLUMBIA will either repair or replace, at its option, free of charge, F.O.B. factory or authorized service firm, any part found to be defective in material and workmanship. All transportation charges on parts submitted for replacement under this warranty must be paid by the purchaser unless return is requested by COLUMBIA. This warranty DOES NOT apply to any part which has become inoperative through misuse, excessive use, accident, neglect, improper maintenance or alterations by unauthorized persons. This limited warranty does not extend to the replacement of parts which are not defective, but where regular usage has ex- hausted the life of the part. TRACTOR ATTACHMENT WARRANTY Mower decks included with, or sold separately, as an attachment for COLUMBIA garden tractors will be warranted according to the above terms of the COLUMBIA THREE (3) YEARS - 120 hrs. limited consumer warranty. ALL OTHER ATTACHMENTS will be sold under the same conditions as above except the warranty will be ONE YEAR FROM DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE. ENGINES, ELECTRIC START KITS, HYDROGEAR, PEERLESS TRANSMISSIONS AND PEERLESS TRANSAXLES ARE WAR- RANTED BY THEIR RESPECTIVE MANUFACTURER. ALL CLAIMS AGAINST THESE COMPONENTS MUST BE HANDLED THROUGH THE RESPECTIVE MANUFACTURERS SERVICE DEALERS. Belts, light bulbs, clutch parts (friction wheels), grass bags, tires, seats, rider deck wheels and cutting blades are covered by a 60 day limited warranty. Batteries are warranted against defect for 90 days at 100% of their value and 50% of their value for the period between the 91st day and the 120th day. Fuses, shear bolts and blade adapters are considered consumable items and as such are not warranted. Note: Regular maintenance replacement parts and related inspections and adjustments are excluded from coverage when made as part of normal maintenance service. EXTERIOR FINISH NORMAL DETERIORATION OF THE EXTERIOR FINISH DUE TO USE OR EXPOSURE TO THE ELEMENT, CORROSIVE PRODUCTS ETC… IS NOT WARRANTED. LABELS ARE COVERED FOR 1 YEAR FROM THE ORIGINAL DATE OF PUR- CHASE. PERSONAL USE THE FOREGOING PARAGRAPHS CONSTITUTE COLUMBIA’S ENTIRE WARRANTY WITH RESPECT TO ANY PRODUCT PURCHASED AND USED FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY, HOUSEHOLD/RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES, AS DISTINGUISHED FROM COMMERCIAL USAGE. COMMERCIAL USE ALL APPLICATIONS OTHER THAN PERSONAL USE AS OUTLINED ABOVE, ARE CONSIDERED COMMERCIAL USAGE. COLUMBIA products purchased by a company or used for commercial purposes are not covered by any warranty. WARRANTY SERVICE CAN ONLY BE PERFORMED BY AN AUTHORIZED COLUMBIA SERVICE DEALER. ANY NON- ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT PART USED ON OR IN A PRODUCT UNDER WARRANTY WILL BE EXCLUDED FROM THAT WARRANTY COVERAGE, AS WILL BE ANY RELATED DAMAGED COMPONENTS RESULTING FROM THE INSTALLATION OF A NON-COLUMBIA REPLACEMENT PART. MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-4683