Troy-Bilt 546, 549 manual Operating Your Lawn Mower

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Grass Catcher

The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag the grass clippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is full, it has to be removed from the mower and emptied before any further mowing.

grass catcher and the side-discharge chute from the mower, and operate with the mulching plug only for this purpose.

Mulching Plug

Instead of collecting grass clippings in a grass catcher, this mower has the option of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is called mulching. Remove the

SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER

WARNING: Read, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating.

NOTE: You must service the engine with oil and gasoline before starting the mower for the first time. Check oil and gasoline levels and fill up as necessary for subsequent starts.

Gas & Oil Fill-Up

•Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow relevant instructions in the engine manual for this.

•Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the engine manual.

WARNING: Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

Before Starting Mower

•Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.

Starting Engine

•(On Model 549 only, Model 546 skip to next bullet point) Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds between each push. In cold weather around 55° F or below, prime five times. Do not prime to restart a warm engine after a short shutdown.

•Standing behind the mower, depress the blade control handle and hold it against the upper handle.

•Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches the start of compression cycle

(rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope rewind slowly.

•Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly.

WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while starting engine or operating mower.

WARNING: Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

WARNING: Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.

NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit for more detailed instructions.

Stopping Engine

•Release blade control handle to stop the engine and the blade.

•Disconnect spark plug wire and move away from spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

Using Your Lawn Mower

•You can use your mower as a mulching mower or a rear bagger.

•Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage lawn mower or engine.

WARNING: If the mower strikes a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove spark plug wire from the spark plug and thoroughly inspect for any damage. Repair the damage promptly before restarting and operating the mower.

•For best results, do not cut wet grass. New grass or thick grass may require a narrower cut.

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Contents Operator’s Manual MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OhioTable of Contents Important Safe Operation Practices General OperationChildren ServiceSlope Operation Do NotGeneral Service Your ResponsibilitySlope Gauge Assembling Your Lawn Mower Before AssemblySetting Up Your Lawn Mower Removing Unit From CartonAssembling Grass Catcher Attaching Starter RopeAttaching Grass Catcher & Chute Know Your Lawn Mower Operating Your Lawn Mower Mulching Handle Height AdjustmentCutting Height Adjustment Bagging Grass ClippingsMaintaining Your Lawn Mower Servicing Your Lawn MowerReplacing Rear Flap TroubleshootingInstalling the Blade Storing Your Lawn MowerParts List for Models 546 Parts List for Models 546 MANUFACTURER’S Limited Warranty for

549, 546 specifications

The Troy-Bilt 546 and 549 are considered some of the most reliable and efficient garden tractors available in the market. Designed for heavy-duty tasks, these models cater to homeowners with expansive lawns and landscapes that require a robust machine for maintenance.

One of the main features of the Troy-Bilt 546 and 549 is the powerful engine. Both models come equipped with a reliable 24-horsepower engine that provides ample power for various mowing and towing tasks. This strength allows users to tackle even the toughest grass, making lawn care more efficient. The automatic transmission enhances the riding experience by providing smooth acceleration and seamless shifting without manual intervention.

The cutting decks of the 546 and 549 models are engineered for optimal performance. With a wide mowing deck ranging from 42 inches to 54 inches, these tractors can cover large areas in a single pass. The adjustable cutting height feature allows users to select from multiple settings, ensuring they achieve the perfect lawn finish, whether it be a close cut or a more relaxed height.

The technologies incorporated into these models also elevate their functionality. The Troy-Bilt 546 and 549 are equipped with the innovative Twin Blade System that ensures a clean and even cut every time. This system also improves bagging capabilities, making it easier to maintain a tidy yard. Additionally, the mulching option allows for nutrient recycling back into the soil, promoting healthier grass growth.

Both models boast user-friendly characteristics aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience. The high-back seat provides support during extended use, while the ergonomic steering wheel and easy-to-reach controls make operating the tractor straightforward.

Moreover, safety features, such as a built-in seat switch, ensure that the engine stops if the operator leaves the seat, preventing accidents during operation.

In terms of versatility, the Troy-Bilt 546 and 549 are compatible with various attachments, such as snow blades, tillers, and mulch kits, transforming them into multi-use machines that can tackle year-round tasks, from mowing lawns in summer to clearing snow in winter.

Overall, the Troy-Bilt 546 and 549 models stand out with their combination of power, cutting technology, and user-friendly design, making them excellent choices for homeowners aiming to maintain their outdoor spaces efficiently and effectively.
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