Troy-Bilt 549, 546 manual Mulching, Bagging Grass Clippings, Handle Height Adjustment

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•For a healthy lawn, always cut off one-third or less of the total length of the grass.

Mulching

For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. New or thick grass may require a narrower cut. If the grass has grown in excess of 4”, mulching is not recommended. Mow using the side discharge to reduce the grass height to 3.25” maximum before mulching.

Bagging Grass Clippings

You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings while you are operating the mower.

•Attach grass catcher following instructions on page 8 of this manual. Grass clippings will automatically collect in the bag as you run the mower.

•Operate the mower till the grass bag is full.

•Stop engine completely by releasing the blade control handle. Make sure that the unit has come to a complete stop.

•Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away from the mower to dispose of the grass clippings.

SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Do not at any time make any adjustments without first stopping engine and disconnecting spark plug wire.

Handle Height Adjustment

Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher height position. To lower the height proceed as follows:

•Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.

•Remove the upper handle by removing the hand knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out of the way, being careful not to bend or kink the cables.

•Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the handle brackets and remove the wing nuts and carriage bolts from the upper hole on the handle mounting bracket. Press out on the legs of the lower handle and remove lower handle from the mower.

•Turn lower handle around so the notch on the bottom of the lower handle is facing forward. See Figure 12A.

•Reassemble the handle, placing the bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the handle mounting bracket.

•Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes in the weld pins and insert the carriage bolts though the upper hole on the handle mounting bracket and secure with plastic wing nuts. Repeat on the other side.

 

Height

Notch

Adj.

Lever

Lower

 

Handle

 

A

B

Figure 12

•Reassemble the upper handle to the lower handle.

•Attach the starter rope as instructed in the Assembly Section.

Cutting Height Adjustment

For rough or uneven lawns, move the height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will help stop scalping of the grass.

An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel position provides cutting height adjustment. Each adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut will change when you move the thumb lever from one position to another.

•Simply depress the lever towards the wheel and move the lever assembly to desired position. See Figure 12B. All wheels must be placed in the same relative position.

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Contents MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, Ohio Operator’s ManualTable of Contents General Operation Important Safe Operation PracticesDo Not ServiceSlope Operation ChildrenYour Responsibility General ServiceSlope Gauge Removing Unit From Carton Before AssemblySetting Up Your Lawn Mower Assembling Your Lawn MowerAttaching Grass Catcher & Chute Attaching Starter RopeAssembling Grass Catcher Know Your Lawn Mower Operating Your Lawn Mower Bagging Grass Clippings Handle Height AdjustmentCutting Height Adjustment MulchingServicing Your Lawn Mower Maintaining Your Lawn MowerStoring Your Lawn Mower TroubleshootingInstalling the Blade Replacing Rear FlapParts 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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