General Recommendations; Cleaning Mower - MTD 503 Operator's Manual

22” rotary mower
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SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER

General Recommendations

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.
The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or
negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed here.
Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine warranty.
All adjustments should be checked at least once each season.
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.
WARNING:
Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine before cleaning,
lubricating or doing any kind of maintenance on your machine.
Lubrication
Blade Control Handle
Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle
at least once a season with light oil. The blade control
must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 13.
Wheels
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.
Chute Deflector
Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point
periodically with light oil to prevent rust. See Figure
13.
Engine
Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrication schedule and instruction.

Cleaning Mower

The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings,
leaves, dirt or other matter. Follow the steps below for this job.
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause
damage to electric components, spindles, pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened
life and reduce serviceability.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from the lawn mower, or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.
2. Tip the mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold the mower firmly.
WARNING:
Never tip the mower more than 90 degrees in any directions and do not leave the mower
tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.
3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool. Do not spray with water.
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.
Lubricate
11
Lubricate
Figure 13

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