This document is an owner's manual for the Greenworks 20" 12A Electric Lawn Mower, model MO12B00. It provides comprehensive information on the mower's specifications, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty.
Function Description
The Greenworks 20" 12A Electric Lawn Mower is designed for residential lawn care. It is a 3-in-1 mower, meaning it can perform mulching, side discharge, or rear bagging functions, offering versatility for different lawn conditions and user preferences. The electric motor eliminates the need for gasoline, reducing emissions and simplifying maintenance compared to gas-powered mowers. Its primary function is to cut grass efficiently and safely, providing options for how clippings are handled.
Important Technical Specifications
- Motor: 120 V AC, 60 Hz, 12 A
- No-load speed: 3600 RPM
- Cutting Height Adjustments: 1 2/5 – 3 3/4 inches (3.5 – 9.5 cm)
- Functions: 3-in-1: Mulch, side discharge, or rear bag
- Weight: 53.1 lbs (24.1 kg)
- Blade Size: 20 inches (implied by model name)
- Insulation: Double insulated system for user protection against electrical shock.
- Circuit Requirement: Designed to operate on a 15 A circuit.
Usage Features
The manual emphasizes safe and efficient operation of the lawn mower.
- Starting/Stopping: The mower is started by pressing and holding a start button, then pulling a bail switch upward to the handle, and releasing the button. To stop, the bail switch is released.
- Cutting Height Adjustment: The cutting height can be adjusted using a single lever. Moving the lever toward the back of the mower raises the blade height, while moving it toward the front lowers it. Recommended cutting heights are 1 1/2" to 2" (3.8 to 5 cm) during cool months and 2" to 3 1/2" (5 to 8.3 cm) during hot months.
- Cord Retainer: The mower is equipped with a cord retainer to prevent the extension cord from disconnecting during use. The extension cord should be looped through the retainer and secured to prevent accidental disconnection.
- Mowing Pattern: Users are advised to mow across the lawn, starting from the point closest to the power source and moving away, ensuring the cord lies behind the mower in the cut portion. Mowing in circles is discouraged.
- Mulching Tips: For effective mulching, it's recommended not to cut wet grass, as it can stick to the deck. New or thick grass may require a narrower cut, and walking speed should be adjusted. If grass is overgrown (longer than 4" or 10 cm), it should be mowed twice to reduce height gradually.
- Slope Operation: The mower should be operated across the face of a slope, never up and down. Extreme caution is advised when changing direction on a slope. Mowing slopes greater than 15° is not recommended. A slope gauge is provided in the manual to help determine safe operating angles.
- Safety Zone: Maintain a distance of at least 100 feet (30 m) from children and bystanders during operation.
- Handle Adjustment: The handle can be unfolded and adjusted for operation and folded for storage using cam locks and handle knobs.
- Accessory Installation: Instructions are provided for installing the grass catcher bag, mulching plug, and side discharge chute, allowing users to switch between the 3-in-1 functions.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the mower's performance and safety.
- Blade Inspection and Replacement: The blade and motor mounting bolts should be checked frequently for tightness and damage (bent, cracked, or worn). The blade should be sharpened at least once a year for optimal performance. When replacing the blade, heavy gloves are required, and a block of wood should be used to prevent the blade from turning. Only GREENWORKS replacement blades should be used.
- Cleaning: The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent grass clippings, leaves, dirt, and debris from accumulating, which can cause rust and corrosion. The motor cover should also be kept free of buildup. Water should not be used to clean the motor area to prevent electric shock.
- Storage: Before storing, the mower should be cleaned, the blade inspected/sharpened, and the power cord disconnected. It should be stored indoors in a dry, clean area, away from corrosive materials and out of reach of children. The handle can be folded for compact storage.
- Cord Inspection: The power cord and extension cords should be inspected regularly for damage and replaced immediately if any is found.
- Safety Devices: All safety devices, including the trail shield, discharge cover, grass catcher, and switch control, must be in place and working correctly. They should be checked regularly for proper operation and replaced if damaged or worn.
- Lubrication: The manual advises following instructions for lubricating, though specific points are not detailed in the provided excerpts.
- Troubleshooting: A troubleshooting section helps users identify and resolve common issues such as the handle not being in position, the mower not starting, uneven cutting, poor mulching, difficulty pushing, and excessive vibration.
The manual includes extensive safety information, emphasizing the importance of reading all instructions carefully before operation. Key safety points include:
- Eye and Face Protection: Always wear proper eye protection (ANSI Z87.1 compliant) and a face mask or dust mask in dusty environments.
- Dress Code: Avoid loose clothing or jewelry that can get caught in moving parts. Protective gloves and safety footwear are recommended.
- Children and Bystanders: Children under 14 should not operate the mower. Those 14 and older must be trained and supervised. Keep children and bystanders at least 100 feet (30 m) away from the mowing area.
- Area Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the mowing area for foreign objects (stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys) that could be thrown by the blade.
- Electrical Safety: Use only CSA/CUL listed, outdoor-approved, polarized extension cords of adequate gauge. Do not abuse the cord, and keep it away from heat, oil, and sharp edges. Never operate the mower in rain or wet/damp grass.
- Vibration: Stop the mower immediately if it vibrates abnormally, as this indicates a problem.
- Blade Stop: Always wait for the blade to come to a complete stop before performing any adjustments or maintenance.
- Double Insulation: Servicing a double-insulated mower requires extreme care and knowledge and should only be performed by a qualified service technician using original factory replacement parts.
- Proposition 65 Warning: Alerts users to potential exposure to chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive harm from dust created by power tool operation. Recommends working in well-ventilated areas and using approved safety equipment.
Warranty
The Greenworks 20" 12A Electric Lawn Mower comes with a 4-year limited warranty against defects in materials, parts, or workmanship for the original purchaser with proof of purchase. The warranty covers personal use only and requires maintenance according to the owner's manual. It does not cover misuse, commercial use, abuse, neglect, accidents, improper maintenance, normal wear (except as noted), routine maintenance items, or normal deterioration of the exterior finish. A toll-free helpline (1-888-90WORKS) is provided for warranty service. Transportation charges for warranty returns are the responsibility of the purchaser unless otherwise requested by Greenworks.
Need help?
General
To Next Page