MTD 11A-549G729 User Manual

Operator's Manual
21" Mulching Mower
Series 540
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-cov-
ered, 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.
MTD LLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-0019
PRINTED IN U.S.A. Form No.769-00447B
(10/2003)

MTD 11A-549G729 Specifications

General

Engine Type	4-Cycle
Cutting Width	21 inches
Discharge Options	Side, Mulch
Engine	140cc Briggs & Stratton
Cutting Height	1.25 to 3.75 inches

Summary

SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

General Operation

General safety guidelines and operating procedures for the lawn mower.

Children Safety

Safety precautions regarding children around the lawn mower.

Slope Operation

Guidance for safe operation of the lawn mower on slopes.

Service and Gasoline Safety

Safety precautions for servicing the mower and handling gasoline.

SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE

SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER

Carton Removal and Parts

Steps for safely removing the mower from its shipping carton and identifying parts.

Handle Assembly

Instructions for assembling and securing the mower handle.

Wheel and Rope Attachment

Procedure for attaching rear wheels and starter rope.

Grass Catcher and Chute Assembly

Instructions for assembling the grass catcher and attaching it to the mower.

Side-Discharge Chute and Mulch Plug

How to attach the side-discharge chute and use the mulching plug.

SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

Component Descriptions

Identification and description of key mower components and controls.

SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER

Starting Engine Procedure

Step-by-step guide on how to start the lawn mower engine.

Stopping Engine Procedure

Procedure for safely stopping the lawn mower engine and blade.

Mower Operation Modes

Guidance on using the mower for mulching or bagging grass clippings.

SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS

Handle Height Adjustment

Procedure for adjusting the mower handle to different height positions.

Cutting Height Adjustment

How to adjust the cutting height of the mower using the levers.

SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER

Cleaning Mower Guide

Guidelines for cleaning the mower deck and underside after use.

Lubrication Points

Lubrication points and schedule for mower components.

Engine Care Instructions

Refer to engine manual for detailed engine care instructions.

SECTION 8: SERVICING THE MOWER

Blade Care and Servicing

Instructions for blade inspection, removal, sharpening, balancing, and installation.

Replacing Rear Flap

Instructions for replacing the rear flap on the mower deck.

Storing Your Lawn Mower

Steps for preparing and storing the mower for the off-season.

SECTION 9: TROUBLESHOOTING

SECTION 10: PARTS LIST FOR SERIES 540

MANUFACTURER'S LIMITED WARRANTY