Troy-Bilt 549, 546 manual Important Safe Operation Practices, General Operation

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SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol—HEED ITS WARNING.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

General Operation

1.Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety before attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use of this machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

2.This machine is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.

3.Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these safe operation rules should use this machine.

4.Thoroughly inspect the area where equipment is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and other foreign objects which could be tripped over or picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

5.To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, stay in the operator zone behind the handles and keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

6.Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes during equipment operation and while performing an adjustment or repair. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes.

7.Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close- fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

8.Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands and feet.

9.A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.

10.Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping. Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the handle immediately.

11.Never pull the mower back toward you while you are walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and then follow these steps:

a.Step back from the mower to fully extend your arms.

b.Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.

c.Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way toward you.

d.Repeat these steps as needed.

5.Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

6.Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so equipped while starting engine.

7.The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device inoperative and may result in personal injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle must operate easily in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged position when released.

8.Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the blade control handle

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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 Starter Rope Assembling Grass CatcherAttaching Grass Catcher & Chute 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.