Safetyo Assembly

o Operation

oTips & Techniques o Maintenance

* Troubleshooting

o Parts Lists oWarranty

21" Rotary Mower -- Model Series 420

READ SAFETY

RULES

AND mNSTRUCTmONS CAREFULLY

BEFORE

OPERATION

Warning: This unitis equippedwith an internalcombustionengineand shouldnot be usedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brush=

coveredor grass=coveredland unlessthe engine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwith a sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor state laws (if any),
If a sparkarresteris used, it shouldbe maintainedin effectiveworkingorder by the operator,Inthe Stateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw
(Section4442 of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode), Otherstates mayhavesimilarlaws,Federallaws applyon federallands,A sparkarrester
for the muffleris availablethroughyournearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO, Box361131Cleveland,
Ohio 44136=0019,

PRINTEDiN U,S,A

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,

OHiO 44136-0019

FORMNO,769=02160
10/25/2005

This Operator's
Manua_ is an important
part of your new lawn mower, mtwH_ he_p you assemble,
prepare, and maintain the unit for best performance.
P_ease read and understand
what it says.

Table of Contents
Smope Gauge .......................................................
Safe Operation
Practices ...................................
Setup and Adjustment
.......................................
Operating Your Lawn Mower ..............................
Maintaining
Your Lawn Mower .........................

Finding

3
4
6
8
10

Trouble Shooting ..............................................

Safety Labels ....................................................
Parts List ...........................................................
Warranty

and Recording

BEFOREASSEMBLINGYOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,please

locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the infor=
mation to the sample model plate provided to the right. You
can locate the model plate by standing at the operating posi=
tion and looking down at the rear of the deck. This information
will be necessary to use the manufacturer's web site, to obtain
assistance from the Customer Support Department,or when
contacting an authorized service dealer.

............................................

TRO_HJ[,T"

www.troybilt.oona

Customer
P_ease do NOTreturn

Back Cover

Model Number

Modem Number

12
13
14

Serial

Number

TROY-BmLT
LLC
Po O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND, OH 44136
330=558=7220
866=840=6483)

Support

the unit to the retai_er from

contacting
Customer

which it was purchased,

Support.

without

first

if you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding control, operation, or maintenance,you can seek
help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
, Visit www.troybilt.com

Phone a Customer Support Representativeat 1-866-840-6483.

The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine=relatedissues with regard to performance, power=rating,specifications,
warranty,and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer's Owner's/Operator's Manual, packed separately with your
unit, for more information.

yourlawnmoweronsuchslopes.

/
/
/
/

WARNING
w_

Do not mowon inclines

with a dope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise
of approximately
2-"

feet). A riding r
could overturn and
cause serious injury.
if operating a walb
behind mower on such
a dope, it is extremely
footing and you could
dip, resulting in serious
injury.
Operate RiDiNG
mowers up and down
dopes, neveracross
the face of dopes.

Operate
WALK-BEHIND
mowers across the
face of dopes, never
up and down slopes.
\

WARNING:
EngineExhaust,
someofitsconstituents,
andcertainvehiclecompo
_
nentscontainoremitchemicals
knownto StateofCalifornia
tocausecancerand
birthdefectsor otherreproductive
harm.
DANGER:
Thismachinewasbuilttobeoperated
according
totherubsforsafeoperation
inthis
manuakAswithanytypeofpowerequipment,
carelessness
or erroronthepartoftheoperatorcan
Sa.'_e
,,

Operation

WARNING
sut importantsafety

resultinseriousinjury.Thismachine
is capableofamputating
handsandfeetandthrowingobjects.
Failuretoobservethefollowingsafetyinstructions
couldresultin seriousinjuryordeath.
Children
Tragicaccidentscan occurif operatoris not alert to presence
of children.Childrenare oftenattractedto mowerandmowing
activity.They do not understandthe dangers.Neverassume
thatchildrenwill remainwhereyou lastsawthem.
1. Keepchildrenout of the mowingarea andunderwatchful
careof a responsibleadultotherthanthe operator.
2. Be alert andturn moweroff if a childentersthe area.
3. Beforeand whilemovingbackwards,look behindanddown
forsmallchildren.
4. Useextremecare when approachingblindcorners,
doorways,shrubs,trees, or otherobjectsthat may'obscure
yourvisionof a childwho may run into the mower.
5. Keepchildrenawayfrom hot or runningengines.Theycan
sufferburnsfrom a hot muffler.
6. Neverallowchildrenunder14 yearsoldto operatea power
mower.Children14yearsold andovershouldreadand
understandoperationinstructionsandsafetyrulesin this
manualandshouldbe trainedandsupervisedbya parent.

General
endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
of yourselfand others.
qead and follow all
manual beforeattemptingto operate
this machine. Failure

in personalinjury,When
you see this symbol.
HEED roTSWARNING!

Your Responsibility
Restrict the use
sf this powermachine
to persons who read.
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
and on the machine.

6. Alwayswear safetyglasses or safetygogglesduringoperation andwhile performingan adjustmentor repairto protect

youreyes. Thrownobjectswhich ricochetcan causeserious
injury to the eyes.
7. Wearsturdy, rough-soledwork shoesand close-fitting
slacksandshirts. Shirtsand pantsthat coverthe arms and
legs andsteel-toedshoesare recommended.Neveroperate
this machinein bare feet,sandals, slipperyor light-weight
(e.g. canvas)shoes.
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotatingparts or undercutting
deck. Contactwithblade can amputatehands andfeet.
9. A missingor damageddischargecovercan causeblade
contactor thrownobject injuries.
10. Manyinjuriesoccur asa resultof the mowerbeing pulled
overthe foot duringa fall causedby slipping or tripping.
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; releasethe
handle immediately.
11. Neverpullthe mowerback towardyou whileyou are
walking.If you mustback the moweraway'from a wall or
obstructionfirst look down andbehind to avoid trippingand
thenfollow thesesteps:
a. Stepback from mowerto fully extendyour arms.
b. Be sureyou arewell balancedwithsure footing.
c. Pullthe mowerback slowly,no morethan half way
towardyou.
d. Repeatthese stepsas needed.
12. Do not operatethe mowerwhileunderthe influenceof
alcoholor drugs.
13. Do not engagethe self-propelledmechanismon units so
equippedwhilestartingengine.
14. The bladecontrol handleis a safetydevice.Neverattempt
to bypassits operation.Doing so makesthe safetydevice
inoperativeandmay resultinpersonal injurythrough
contactwiththe rotatingblade.The bladecontrol handle
mustoperate easilyin bothdirectionsandautomatically
returnto the disengagedpositionwhen released.
15. Neveroperatethe mowerinwet grass. Alwaysbe sure of
yourfooting. A slip and fallcan causeseriouspersonal
injury.If you feel you are losingyour footing,releasethe
bladecontrol handle immediatelyandthe bladewill stop
rotatingwithinthreeseconds.
16. Mow only indaylightor good artificial light. Walk,never run.
17. Stopthe bladewhen crossinggraveldrives,walks or roads.
18. If the equipmentshouldstart to vibrateabnormally,stop the
engine andcheck immediatelyforthe cause.Vibrationis
generallya warning of trouble.

Operation

1. Readthis operator'smanualcarefullyin its entiretybefore

attemptingto assemblethis machine.Read,understand,
andfollow all instructionson the machineandin the
manual(s)beforeoperation.Be completelyfamiliarwith
the controls andthe proper use of this machinebefore
operatingit.Keepthis manualin a safe place forfuture
and regularreferenceandfor orderingreplacementparts.
2. This machineis a precision pieceof powerequipment,
not a plaything.Therefore,exerciseextremecautionat all
times.Yourunit has been designedto performonejob: to
mow grass.Do not use itfor any otherpurpose.
3. Neverallowchildren under 14yearsold to operatethis
machine.Children 14yearsold and overshould readand
understandthe instructionsinthis manualandshould
be trainedand supervisedbya parent.Only responsible
individualswho arefamiliar withthese rulesof safe
operationshould be allowedto use this machine.
4. Thoroughlyinspectthe area wherethe equipmentis to
be used. Removeall stones,sticks,wire, bones,toys
and otherforeign objects,which could be trippedover or
picked up andthrown bythe blade.Thrown objectscan
causeseriouspersonalinjury.Plan your mowingpattern
to avoid dischargeof materialtoward roads,sidewalks,
bystandersandthe like.Also,avoid dischargingmaterial
againsta wall or obstruction,whichmay causedischarged
materialto ricochetback towardthe operator.
5. Tohelp avoid bladecontact or a thrown objectinjury,
stay inoperatorzone behindhandles andkeepchildren,
bystanders,helpersand pets at least 75 feet from mower
whileit is in operation.Stopmachineif anyoneenters
area.

19. Shuttheengineoffandwaituntilthebladecomestoa
completestop beforeremovingthe grasscatcheror uncloggrogthe chute.
The cutting bladecontinuesto rotatefor a fewseconds after
the engine is shut off. Neverplace any part of the body'in
the blade area untilyou are surethe blade has stopped
rotating,
20. Neveroperate mowerwithoutpropertrail shield, discharge
cover, grasscatcher,bladecontrolhandle or othersafety
protectivedevices in place andworking.Neveroperate
mowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.Failureto do socan
resultin personalinjury.
21. Mufflerandengine becomehot and can causea burn.Do
not touch.
22. Onlyuse parts and accessoriesmadefor this machineby
manufacturer.Failureto do so can result inpersonalinjury.
23. If situationsoccurwhichare not coveredin this manual,
use careand goodjudgment. Contactyour dealerfor
assistance.Telephone1-800-800-7310forthe name of your
nearestdealer.

7. Extinguishallcigarettes cigars pipes andothersources

of ignition.
8. Neverfuel machineindoorbecauseflammablevapors will
accumulatein the area.

L{'_
--J
///

i
"_
/,'

9. Neverremovegas cap or add fuel whileengine is hot or

running. Allow engineto cool at least two minutesbefore
refueling.
10. Neverover fill fuel tank. Filltank to no morethan _/_inch
belowbottom of filler neckto providefor fuel expansion.
11. Replacegasolinecap andtighten securely.
12. If gasolineis spilled,wipe it off the engineand equipment.
Moveunit to anotherarea.Wait 5 minutesbeforestarting
engine.
13. Neverstore the machineor fuel containernear an open
flame,spark or pilot light as on a water heater,space
heater,furnace, clothesdryeror othergas appliances.
14. Toreducefire hazard,keepmowerfree of grass, leaves,
or otherdebrisbuild-up.Clean up oil or fuel spillageand
removeanyfuel soakeddebris.
15. Allow a mowerto cool at least5 minutesbeforestoring.

General Service:

SJope Operation

1. Neverrun an engineindoorsor ina poorlyventilatedarea.

Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an odorlessand
deadlygas.
2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertainthe
bladeandall movingparts havestopped.Disconnectthe
sparkplug wire andgroundagainstthe engineto prevent
unintendedstarting.
3. Checkthe bladeandenginemountingbolts atfrequent
intervalsfor propertightness.Also,visuallyinspectbladefor
damage(e.g, bent, cracked,worn) Replacebladewiththe
originalequipmentmanufacture's(O.E.M.)bladeonly',listed
inthis manual.Use of parts whichdo not meetthe original
equipmentspecificationsmay leadto improperperformance
andcompromisesafety!"
4. Mowerbladesare sharp andcan cut.Wrap the bladeor wear
gloves,anduse extracautionwhen servicingthem.
5. Keepall nuts,bolts, andscrewstight to be surethe equipment is in safeworkingcondition.
6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheirproper operation regularly.

Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto slip andfallaccidents,which

can resultinsevereinjury'.Operationon slopes requiresextra
caution.Ifyou feel uneasyon a slope,do not mow it.Foryour
safety,use the slopegaugeincludedas part of this manualto
measureslopes beforeoperatingthis unit on a slopedor hilly
area.If the slope is greaterthan 15 degrees,do not mowit.
Do:
1. Mowacrossthe face ofslopes;neverup anddown.Exercise
extremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon slopes.
2. Watchfor holes,ruts, rocks,hidden objects,or bumpswhich
can causeyou to slip or trip.Tall grasscan hide obstacles.
3. Alwaysbe sure of yourfooting.A slip andfall can cause
seriouspersonalinjury.If you feel you are losingyour
balance,releasethe blade controlhandle immediately,and
the blade will stop rotatingwithin 3 seconds.

Do Not:
1. Do not mownear drop-offs, ditchesor embankments,you
could loseyour footing or balance.
2. Do not mowslopes greaterthan 15degrees as shownon
the slope gauge.
3. Do not mowon wetgrass. Unstablefooting could cause
slipping.

7. Afterstrikinga
the engine,disconnectthe spark foreignobject,stop
plugwire andgroundagainstthe
engine.
Thoroughly'inspectthe mowerfor any damage.Repairthe
damagebeforestartingandoperatingthe mower,
8. Neverattempt
to makea
wheel or cutting height adjustment
whilethe engineis
running.
9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,and trail
shieldare subjectto wear anddamagewhichcould expose

Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personalinjury or propertydamage useextreme
care in handlinggasoline.Gasolineis extremelyflammable
andthe vapors are explosive.Serious personalinjury can
occurwhen gasolineis spilledon yourself or your clothes,
which can ignite.
2. Washyour skinand changeclothesimmediately.
3. Useonly an approvedgasolinecontainer.
4. Neverfill containersinsidea vehicle or on a truckor trailer
bedwith a plasticliner.Alwaysplace containerson the
groundawayfrom yourvehicle beforefilling.
5. Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom the truck or trailer
andrefuel it on the ground. Ifthis is not possible,then refuel
such equipmenton a trailer witha portablecontainer,rather
than from a gasoline dispensernozzle.
6. Keepthe nozzlein contactwith the rim of the fuel tank or
container openingat all times until fuelingis complete.Do
not use a nozzlelock-opendevice.

movingparts
or allow objectsto
be thrown.Forreplaceimsafety'
protection,frequentlycheck
componentsand
mediatelywithoriginal equipmentmanufacturer's(O.EM.)
parts only,listed in this manual.'Use of partswhich do
not meetthe original equipmentspecificationsmaylead to
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
10. Donot changethe engine governorsettingor over-revthe
engine.The governorcontrolsthe maximumsafe operating
speedof the engine.
11. Maintainor replacesafetylabels,as necessary.
12. Observeproperdisposallawsand regulations.Improper
disposalof fluidsand materialscan harmthe environment.

safety and!or property

ual before attempting to

Fai!ureto ComplyWith
these inStrUctionsmay
resu!t !n personal injury,
When You see this
symbo.
YOUr _
Hespon$

i'TB31Jty

Of this power machine

1 Removeanypackingmaterialwhich may be between

upperand lowerhandbs
a Pull up and backon upperhandb as shownin
Step 1 Makecertain the lowerhandb isseated
securelyintothe handb mountingbrackets
b Tighten handknobs securingupperhandleto
lowerhandb Makesure thateach carriagebolt is
seatedproperlyin the handb
2 Locatehairpinclip in one hob on the weldpin on each
sideof lowerhandle
a Removehairpinclipfrom this hob Usinga pair of
plbrs, inserthairpinclip intothe otherhob on the
weldpin Repeaton otherside
b insert a carriagebolt from the hardwarepack into
the upperhob on thehandle mountingbracket
Securewith one plasticwing nut,also included
in the hardwarepack Repeaton otherside with
remainingitemsfrom hardwarepack

Step 1

3 The ropeguide is attachedto the right sideof the

upperhandle Loosenthe wingnut whichsecuresthe
rope guide,
a. Holdblade controlagainstupper handb.

manuaUareapplicab!e
to allLawnMower

b. Pull starterrope outof the engine,Releaseblade

control
c. Slip starterrope intorope guide,
d. Tighten wingnut.
4. insert post on cane ties into hobs providedon the
lowerhandb. Pull cane tie tight and trim excess,

Step 2

/
accompany

ng eng ne

manual BEFORE
operating your mower

\
_
Step3

"

_"

i
__ep4

5, An adiustingplateand thumb leverat eachwheel

positionprovidescuttingheightadiustment,

f ..........

a, Depresslevertowardswheel,
b, Moveit to any of the nine positionsfordesired
cutting height,See Step5,
c, Releaselevertowardsmowerdeck,
6, Followsteps belowto assemblethe grasscatcher:
a, Placebagoverframe so that its black plasticside
is at the bottom,

\,

b, Slipplasticchannelof grass bagover hookson the

frame,See Step6, All the plasticchannelsexcept
center topof bagattachfrom outsideof bag,
c, Attachcentertop of bagfrom insideof bag,
7, Followsteps belowto attachgrass catcher:
a, Lift rear dischargedoor,
b, Placegrass catcheron the pivotrod, Letgo
of dischargedoorso that it restson thegrass

Step 5

catcher,See Step7,
Never operate mower

To removegrass catcheror convertto a mulcher,lift rear

dischargedoor on the moweras shownin Step8, Lift
grass catcherup and outof the pivotrod, Releaserear
dischargedoor to allowit to close rear openingof mower,

o<essthe
hooks
o,,
the grass catcher are

WARNING: Never operate mower

unJess the hooks on the grass
catcher are firmly seated in the
slots on the handJebracket as-

firmlyagainst
topof

semblies, and the rear discharge

door rests firmly against top of
the grass catcher.

Step 6

i ill

Step 7

_n i _ii

Recoil
Starter
Oil Fill

Cutting Height

Adjustment Lever
(for each wheel)

@ass

WARNING

The blade control

mechanism is a
GasolineFill

safety device. Never

attempt to bypass its
operations.

J
Use extreme care
when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive. Neverfuel
the machine indoors
or while the engine
is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes and
other sources of

Figure 1
Nowthat youhaveset up your lawnmowerfor operation, getacquaintedwith its controlsand features,
These are describedbelowand illustratedon this page,
This knowledgewillallowyou to use yournewequip=
mentto its fullestpotential

1, Checkoil leveland add oil if necessary,Followengine

manualfor this, See Figure1 abovefor locationof the
oil fill
2, Servicethe enginewith gasolineas instructedin the
enginemanual See Figure1 abovefor locationof
gasfill

Blade Control
The bladecontrolis attachedto the upperhandb of
the mower,Depressand squeezeit againstthe upper
handleto operatethe unit, Releaseit to stop engineand
blade,

WARNING:Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely

flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Never fuel the machine indoors or while

WARNING:This blade control mechanism is a safety device. Never attempt

to bypass its operations.

ignition.
Keep hands and feet
_way from the chute
tea on cutting deck.
Refer to warning
label on the unit.

Gas and Oil Fil_-Up

the engine is hot or running.Extinguish

cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
WARNING:The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign objects
being thrown intothe eyes,which can
damage your eyes severely. Always
wear safety glasses while operating
the mower, or while performing any
adjustments or repairs on it.

Cutting
Height
Adjustment
Levers
One adiustmentbver is locatedon eachwheeland is
usedto adiustthe cuttingheight,All fourlevers haveto
be at the same relativepositionto ensurea uniformcut,
Recoi_

Starter

The recoilstarter is attachedto the rightupper handb,

Standbehindthe unitand pull the recoilstarter ropeto
startthe unit,

or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.

Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep
hands, feet, hair and loose clothing
awayfrom any moving parts on engine
and lawn mower.
1, Pushprimerthreetimes,Wait abouttwo seconds
betweeneachpush, See Figure2, In temperature
around55 F or below,primefive times,Do not prime
to restarta warmengine,
Figure 2

2, Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethe blade control

againstupper handle,See Figure2,

WARNING:If you strike a foreign

object, stop the engine. Remove
wire from the spark plug, thoroughly
inspect mower for any damage, and
repair damage before restarting and
operating. Extensive vibration of
mower during operation isan indication of damage. The unit should be
promptly inspected and repaired.

3, Holdingthesetwo handlestogetherfirmly,grasprecoil
starterhandleand pull ropeout with a rapid,continu=
ous, full arm stroke,See Figure2, Keepinga firm
grip on the starterhandle,let the rope rewindslowly,
Repeatuntil enginecranks,Letthe rope rewindeach
time slowly,

WARNING:Wait for the blade to stop

completely before doing any work
on the mower or to remove the grass
catcher.

1, For bestresults,do notcut wet grass,

2, Fora healthierlawn, nevercut off morethanone=
thirdof the total lengthof the grass,

Stopping
Engine
1, Releasebladecontrol to stopthe engine and blade,

Using

2, Disconnectsparkplug wire fromspark plug and

groundagainstthe engine,

being thrown into

the eyes, which can
damage your eyes
severely. Always wear
safety glasses while
iioperating the mower,

as Muncher

Formulchinggrass,removethe grass catcherfrom the

mower,The rear dischargedoor shouldbe closed,
1, Foreffectivemulching,do notcut wet grass,

Using Your Lawn Mower

2, New or thickgrass may requirea narrowercut,

Adiustgroundspeedaccordingto conditionof lawn,

WARNING: Never operate your mower

without either the rear door or the entire
grass catcher assembly firmly secured.

3, if thegrass has beenallowedto growin excessof

4 inches,mulchingis not recommended,Usethe
grasscatcherto bag clippingsinstead,

_ngine or operating

Using

_ower. Never tun

engine !ndoors or

Grass Catcher
Youcan usethe grass catcherto collectclippingswhile
youare operatingthe mower,
1, Attachgrasscatcherfollowinginstructionson page
7, Grass clippingswill automaticallycollectin the
bag as you runthe mower,Operatethe mowertill the
grass bagis full,

Be surelawnis clear of stones,sticks,wire,or other

obiectswhich coulddamagelawnmoweror engine,
Suchobiectscouldbe acddentlythrownby the mower
in anydirectionand causeserious personaliniuryto the
operatorand others,

2, Stopenginecompletelyby releasingthe blade

controlhandle,Makesurethat the unit hascometo
a completestop,
3, Lift dischargedoorand pull grass bagup and away
from the mowerto disposeof the grass clippings,

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 mov ng

Deck Care
Cleanundersideof the mowerdeck after eachuse to
preventbuild-upof grass clippingsor otherdebris. Follow
stepsbelowforthis iob.
!. Disconnectspark plug wire.Draingasolinefrom lawn
mower,or placea pieceof plasticunderthegas cap.
2. Tip mowerso that it restson the housing.Keepthe
sidewith the air cleanerfacing up.Hold mowerfirmly.

WARNING: Never tip the mower

more than 90 degrees in any
directions and do not leave the
mower tipped for any tength of
time. Oil can drain into the upper
part of the engine causing a
starting problem.

Figure 3

Genera_ Recommendations

WARNING
Nways stop engine,
disconnect spark
plug, and ground
against engine before
cJeaning, lubricating
or doing any kind of
maintenance on your
machine.
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 engtne
causing a starting
problem.

1, Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing
any maintenance.

3. Scrapeand clean the undersideof the deck with a

suitabletool Do notspraywith water.

2. Thewarrantyon this lawnmowerdoes notcover

itemsthat havebeensubiectedto operatorabuse
or negligence.Toreceivefull valuefrom warranty,
operatormustmaintainthe lawnmoweras
instructedhere.

4. Putthe mowerback on its wheelson the ground.If

you hadput plasticunderthe gas capearlier,make
sureto removeit now.

3. Changingofengine-governedspeedwill void
enginewarranty.
4. All adiustmentsshouldbe checkedat leastonce
eachseason.
5. Periodicallycheckall fastenersand makesurethese
are tight.

NOTE: Wedo not recommendthe use ofpressure

washersor garden hoseto cleanyour unit. Thesemay
cause damageto electriccomponents,spindles,puh'e_zs,
bearings,or the engine.Theuse of waterwill resultin
shortenedfife and reduceserviceability.

Engine
WARNING: Always stop engine,
disconnect spark plug, and
ground against engine before
cleaning, lubricating or doing
any kind of maintenance on your
machine.

Lubrication
1, Lubricatepivot pointson the bladecontrolat least
oncea seasonwith lightoil The bladecontrol must
operatefreely in both directions,See Figure3,
2, Lubricatethe wheelsat least oncea seasonwith
lightoil (or motoroil), If wheelsare removedfor any
reason,lubricatesurfaceof the pivotarm and inner
surfaceof the wheelwith light oil See Figure3.
3. Lubricatethe torsionspringand pivot pointon the
rear dischargedoor periodicallywith lightoil to
preventrust. See Figure3.

Care
A list of key enginemaintenanceiobs requiredfor good
performanceby the moweris givenbelow.Followthe
accompanyingengine manualfor a detailedlist and
instructions.
1. Maintainoil levelas instructedin enginemanual.
2. Serviceair cleanerevery25 hoursundernormal
conditions.Cleaneveryfew hoursunderextremely
dustyconditions.Poor engineperformanceand
floodingusuallyindicatesthat the air cleanershould
be serviced.Toservicethe air cleaner,referto the
enginemanual
3. Cleansparkplug and reset thegap oncea season.
Sparkplug replacementis recommendedat the start
of eachmowingseason.Checkenginemanualfor
correctplugtype and gap specifications.
4. Cleanengineregularlywith a cloth or brush. Keepthe
coolingsystem(blowerhousingarea) cleanto permit
properair circulation.Removeall grass,dirt and
combustibledebrisfrom mufflerarea.

10

WARNING:
Whenremovingthe
cuttingbladeforsharpeningor
repJacement,
protectyour hands
with a pair of heavy gloves or use
a heavy rag to hold the blade.
Periodicallyinspecttheblade adapterfor cracks,
especiallyif you strikea foreignobject,Replacewhen
necessary,Followthe stepsbelowfor bladeservice,
1, Disconnectspark plugwire fromspark plug,Turn
moweron its side makingsurethat the air filter and
the carburetorare up,

J
Figure 4

2, Removethe boltand the bladebell supportwhich

holdthe blade and the bladeadapterto the engine
crankshaft,See Figure4,
3, Removeblade and adapterfrom thecrankshaft,
4, The bladecan be sharpenedwith a file or on a grinding wheel Do notattemptto sharpenthe blade whileit
is still on the mower,
5, Whensharpeningthe blade,followthe originalangle
of grind, Grindeachcuttingedge equallyto keepthe
bladebalanced,
6, Removeblade fromthe adapterfor testingbalance,
7, Balancetheblade on a roundshaftscrewdriverto
check, Removemetalfrom the heavyside untilit
balancesevenly,

Figure 5

WARNING: An unbalanced blade

will cause excessive vibration
when rotating at high speeds. It
may cause damage to mower, and
could break causing personal
injury.
8, Lubricatetheenginecrankshaftand the inner surface
of the bladeadapterwith lightoil Slidethe blade
adapterontotheengine crankshaft,
9, Placethe blade on the adaptersuch that the side
of the blademarked"Bottom"(or with partnumber)
facesthe groundwhenthe moweris in the operating
position,Makesurethat the blade is alignedand
seatedon theblade adapterflanges,
10,Placeblade bell supporton the blade,Align notches
on the bladebell support with smallholesin blade,
11,Replacehexbolt and tightenhex boltto torque: 450
in, Ibs,rain,,600 in, Ibs,max,
Toensuresafe operationof yourmower,periodically
checkthe blade boltfor correcttorque,

Replacing

Rear F_ap

1, Toremoverearflap, cut off the flat end of the wire

rod which securesit to the deck, See Figure5,
2, Attachthe newflapand newrod to deck, bending
the endsof the newrod overto secureto deck,
Off-Season
Storage
The followingstepsshouldbe takento prepareyour
lawnmowerfor storage,
1, Cleanand lubricatemowerthoroughlyas described
in the lubricationinstructions,
2, Wedo not recommendthe useof a pressurewasher
or garden hoseto cleanyourunit,
3, Referto engine manualfor correctengine
storageinstructions,
4, Coat mower'scuttingblade with chassisgreaseto
preventrusting,
5, Storemowerin a dry, cleanarea,Do not storenext
to corrosivematerials,suchas fertilizer,
When storinganytype of powerequipmentin a poorly
ventilatedor metalstorageshed, careshouldbe taken
to rust-proofthe equipment,Usinga lightoil or silicone,
coat theequipment,especiallycablesand all moving
parts of yourlawnmowerbeforestorage,

11

When removing
the cutting blade
for sharpening or
replacement, protect
your hands with a
pair of heavy gloves
or use a heavy rag to
holdthe blade.
An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive
vibration when rotatingat high speeds. It
may cause damage
to mower, and could
break causing personal injury.

Problem

Cause

Enginefails to start

Engine runs erratic

For repairs beyond

theminoradjustments
Iisted here, contact
an authorized seMce

Remedy

1. Bade controldisengaged.

1. Engagebladecontrol

2. Sparkplugwire disconnected.

2. Connectwire to spark plug.

3. Fueltank emptyor stalefuel.

3. Filltank with clean,fresh gasoline.

4. Enginenotprimed.

4. Primeeng ne as instructed n
OperatingYourLawnMower.

5. Fauty spakpr ug.

5. C can, adjust gap,or repace

6. Blockedfuel line_
7 En ne fooded
'
g
'

6. Cleanfuel line.
7 Wait a few minutesto restart but
do not prime

1. Sparkplug wireloose.

1. Connectandtighten spark
plugwire.

2. Blockedfuel lineor stale fuel

2. Cleanfuel line; fill tankwith clean,

fresh gasoline.

3. Ventin gas cap plugged.

3. Clearvent.

4. Wateror dirt in fuel system.

4. Drainfuel tank.Refill with

fresh fuel.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

5. Referto enginemanual

6. Carburetorout of adjustment.

6. Referto enginemanual

1 Engineoil level ow.

1. Fill crankcasewith properoil.

2. A r flow restricted.

2. RemoveNewer
housing
and clean.

dealer.
I

Eng ne overheats

Occasional skips
(hesitates) at
high speed

3. Carburetornotadjustedproperly.

1. Sparkplug gap tooclose.

1. Adiust gap to .030".

2. Carburetoridle mixtureadiustment

2. Referto enginemanual

improperly
set.

Excessive
Vibration

Mower will not

2....Carburetormpropery adiusted

2 Referto eng ne manua

1. Cuttingbladelooseor unbalanced.

1. Tightenblade and adapter.

Balanceblade.

2. Bentcuttingblade.

2. Seean authorizedservicedealer.

!. Wetgrass.

1. Donot mowwhengrass is wet;

2 Excessvey h gh grass
'
'
[

wait until laterto cut.

2. Mowonceat a high cuttingheight
then mowagain at desiredheight
or makea narrowercuttingpath.

3. Sharpenor replaceblade.

mulch grass

[
I

Unevencut

3. Referto enginemanual

3 Du bade
'
'

1. Wheelsnot positionedcorrectly.

1. Placeall fourwheels in same

heightposition.

2. Dull blade.

2. Sharpenor replaceblade.

12

WARNING
DO NOT remove safety
(or any) labeJs from
newer for any reasen,

13

Mode_ Series 420

Q
Q

/-

Q
Q

14

747-1161A

BladeControlHandle

24 710-1257

749-1092A

UpperHandle

25 687-02077A PivotArmAssemblyRH (8" wheel)

747-04080

Grass CatcherFrame

749-0928A

LowerHandle

26 736-0524B

BladeBell Support
FrontAdiustmentPlate

Hex Bolt, 3/8-24x 1.5

687-02076A PivotArmAssemblyLH(8" wheel)

720-0279

Wing Nut

27 787-01290

710-1205

RopeGuide

28 720-0426

AdiustmentLeverKnob

710-1174

CarriageBolt,5/16-18x 2

29 732-0404

SpringLeverAssembly

664-04011

Grass Bag Assembly

30 738-0507B

ShoulderScrew

720-04072

HandKnob

31 734-04014B FrontWheel,8x 2.125

10 738-04136

ShoulderScrew

32 710-04371

Screw,1/4-15x 1.250

11 726-0240

CableTie

33 746-1130

ControlCable- 40"

12 710-0703

CarriageBolt,1/4-20

13 731-04134A RearDischargeDoor

34 687-02074A Hr. Adi.Assy.Front- RH

687-02075A Hr. Adi.Assy.Front- LH

14 750-04162

35 731-04998

Trailshield

15 732-04089A TorsionSpring- LH

36 732-0700

TrailshMdWire

16 732-04090A TorsionSpring- RH

37 712-0397

Wing Nut, 1/4-20

17 731-04150C RearBaffle

38 747-04035

RearDoorPivot Rod

18 731-04204

Bail Cover

39 732-04175

19 787-01276

Deck- 21"

20

Spacer

SpringLever
40 687-02071A PivotArmAssembly- RH

687-02069

RearHandleBracketAssy.- LH

687-02068

RearHandleBracketAssy.- RH

41 710-1652

AB Screw

21

782-5002B

FrontBaffle

42 712-04085

FlangeLock Nut,3/8-16

22

748-0377C

BladeAdapter

43 714-0104

HairpinClip

23

742-0741

MulchingBlade

44 710-0654A

TT SeresScrew,3/8-16x 1.0

To order replacement
parts, contact
1-800-648-6776

687-02070A PivotArmAssembly- LH

or visit
www.troybilt.com.

15

MANUFACTURER'S

LIMITED WARRANTY

FOR

The limitedwarrantyset forth belowis givenbyTroy_BiltLLCwith respect

to newmerchandisepurchasedand usedin the UnitedStates,its posses_
sionsand territories.
"Troy_Bilt"warrantsthis productagainstdefects in materialand workmam
shipfor a periodof two (2) years commencingon thedate of original
purchaseand will, at its option,repair or replace,freeof charge,any part
foundto be defectivein materialsor workmanship.This limitedwarranty
shallonly applyif this producthasbeen operatedand maintainedin
accordancewith the Operator'sManualfurnishedwith the product,and
has notbeen subiectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse, neglect,accident,
impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft, fire, water,or damage
becauseof other perilor naturaldisaster.Damageresultingfromthe
installationor use ofany part, accessoryor attachmentnot approvedby
Troy_Biltfor use with theproduct(s)coveredby this manualwill voidyour
warrantyas to any resultingdamage.
Normalwearparts are warrantedto be free fromdefects in materialand
workmanshipfor a period of thirty (30) days from thedate of purchase.
Normalwearparts include,butare notlimitedto itemssuch as: batteries,
belts,blades,bladeadapters,grass bags,rider deck wheels,seats,snow
throwerskid shoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberand tires.
NOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH
PROOF OF PURCHASE,through your local authorized service
dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages,
or contact Troy-Bilt LLC at RO. Box 361131,Cleveland, Ohio 441360019, or can 1-866-840-6483 or 1-330-558-7220,or log on to our
Web site at www.troybilt.com.
This limitedwarrantydoesnot providecoveragein the followingcases:
a.

b.
c.

d.

The engineor componentparts thereof.These itemsmay

carry a separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicable
manufacturer'swarrantyfor termsand conditions.
Log splitterpumps,valves,and cylindershavea separateone
yearwarranty.
Routinemaintenanceitemssuch as lubricants,filters, blade
sharpening,tune_ups,brakeadiustments,clutch adiustments,
deck adiustments,and normaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinish
due to use or exposure.
Servicecompletedbysomeoneotherthanan authorizedservice
dealer.

Troy-Bitt

LLC, p.o. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,

e.

f.
g.

Troy_Biltdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssold or

exportedoutsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsand
territories,exceptthosesold throughTroy_Bilt'sauthorized
channelsof exportdistribution.
Replacementpartsthat are notgenuineTroy_Biltparts.
Transportationchargesand servicecalls.

No impliedwarranty, includingany impliedwarranty of merchant

ability 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, includinga dealer or
retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind Troy-Bilt. 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 providethe sole and
exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Troy-Bilt 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.
Somestatesdo not allowtheexclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitationson howlong an impliedwarranty
lasts,so the aboveexclusionsor limitationsmay notapplyto you.
In no eventshall recoveryof any kind be greaterthanthe amountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold. Alteration of safety features of the
product shall void this warranty. Youassumethe risk and liability for
loss,damage,or injuryto youand yourpropertyand/or to others and their
propertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto use the product.
This limitedwarrantyshall notextendto anyoneotherthanthe original
purchaseror to the personfor whom it was purchasedas a gift.
HOWSTATELAW RELATESTO THiS WARRANTY:This limitedwarrantygh,'esyouspecificlegal rights,and you mayalso haveother rights
which vary from stateto state.
IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof Purchaseto obtain
warrantycoverage.

OHIO 44136-0019;

Phone: 1(866) 840-6483, 1-330-558-7220