This document is an operator's manual for the MTD Chipper Shredder, Model Series 462 through 465. It provides comprehensive information on assembly, safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and parts for these models.
Function Description:
The MTD Chipper Shredder is a power equipment designed for processing yard waste. It features both chipping and shredding capabilities, allowing users to reduce various types of organic material into smaller, more manageable pieces. The shredder hopper is used for processing leaves and small branches up to 1/2 inch in diameter, which are then shredded by flail blades on the impeller assembly. The chipper chute, on select models (462-465), can handle twigs and small branches up to 3 inches in diameter, feeding them into the impeller for chipping. Model 463 specifically handles branches up to 2 inches in diameter in its chipper chute. The processed material is discharged either directly from an opening or into an attached catcher bag (not shown in all illustrations but listed as a loose part). The unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine, and its exhaust system may require a spark arrester depending on local and state laws, particularly in California.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model Series: 462 thru 465
- Engine Type: Internal Combustion Engine (details in separate engine manual)
- Chipping Capacity (Chipper Chute): Up to 3 inches in diameter for models 462-465; up to 2 inches in diameter for model 463.
- Shredding Capacity (Hopper Assembly): Up to 1/2 inch in diameter for leaves and small branches.
- Spark Plug Gap: 0.030 inches (for troubleshooting)
- Chipper Blade Torque: 250-300 in. lbs.
- Shredder Blade Center Bolt Torque: 550-700 in.-lbs.
- Shredder Blade Out Bolts Torque: 250-350 in.-lbs.
- Hex Key (Allen) Wrench Size: 3/16 inch (for blade removal)
- Box (or Socket) Wrench Size: 1/2 inch (for blade removal)
Usage Features:
- Assembly: The manual details the step-by-step assembly of the hopper assembly, chute deflector, chipper chute, and discharge bag. It emphasizes the importance of securing all components with the provided hardware.
- Starting the Engine: Instructions include attaching the spark plug wire, setting the choke (if equipped), priming the engine (if equipped), moving the throttle to FAST or START, and pulling the starter handle with a rapid, continuous stroke. A "fails and fingers" noise during compression is noted as normal until the impeller reaches full speed.
- Stopping the Engine: The throttle control lever should be moved to the STOP or OFF position, and the spark plug wire disconnected and grounded against the engine.
- Lowering the Hopper Assembly: The hopper can be lowered to the ground by grasping the handle, pulling the release rod, and allowing it to pivot down, facilitating the raking of material into the hopper.
- Material Feeding: Leaves and pine needles are raked into the hopper assembly. Twigs and small branches are fed into the chipper chute. A tamper plug (if equipped) can be used to push material towards the impeller.
- Safety Features: The unit includes various safety labels warning about rotating cutting blades, thrown objects, and the importance of wearing safety glasses. It also highlights the necessity of properly installed chute deflectors and guards.
- Engine Controls: Detailed information on engine controls is provided in a separate engine manual.
Maintenance Features:
- Regular Inspections: Users are advised to check all bolts and screws for proper tightness, visually inspect for damage, and maintain/replace safety labels frequently.
- Lubrication Schedule:
- Before each use: Check engine oil.
- Once a season: Lubricate the release bracket, hopper assembly pivot points, and chute deflector pivot points with light oil.
- Engine Maintenance: Refer to the separate engine manual for instructions on checking oil, changing oil, cleaning the air filter, cleaning the engine, and checking/replacing the spark plug. The spark plug should be cleaned and gap reset once a season (or every 25 hours under normal conditions).
- Flail Screen Cleaning: If the discharge area becomes clogged, the flail screen should be removed and cleaned by scraping or washing with water. The manual provides detailed steps for removal and reinstallation.
- Chipper Blade Sharpening/Replacement: Instructions are given for safely removing, sharpening, and replacing the chipper blades. It's crucial to wear leather work gloves, maintain the original angle of grind, and ensure equal material removal from each blade to prevent unbalance and excessive vibration. Torque specifications for reassembly are provided.
- Shredder Blade Sharpening/Replacement: Similar to chipper blades, the shredder blade can be removed for sharpening or replacement. Specific torque values are given for the center and out bolts during reassembly.
- Storage: Before storing, the equipment should be thoroughly cleaned, wiped with an oiled rag to prevent rust, and stored in a clean, dry area away from corrosive materials or open flames. Fuel tank draining instructions are provided, emphasizing outdoor execution.
Troubleshooting:
The manual includes a troubleshooting guide covering common issues such as engine failure to start, erratic engine operation, excessive vibration, engine overheating, and discharge problems. It provides potential causes and remedies for each issue, advising users to contact an authorized service dealer for repairs beyond minor adjustments.
Warranty:
MTD LLC provides a limited warranty of two (2) years against defects in material and workmanship for products purchased and used in the United States. Normal wear parts are warranted for thirty (30) days. The warranty requires adherence to the operator's manual and excludes misuse, abuse, commercial use, and damage from external perils. It does not cover engine-related issues (which have separate manufacturer warranties), log splitter components (one-year warranty), routine maintenance items, or service by unauthorized dealers. The warranty explicitly disclaims implied warranties after the express warranty period and limits remedies to repair or replacement. It also excludes incidental or consequential damages.
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