MTD 400 warranty Operating, Your Lawn Mower

To Stop Engine

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

WARNING: The blade continues	�
to rotate for a few seconds after
the engine is shut off.

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Operating

2. Disconnect and ground the spark plug wire as instructed in the separate engine manual to prevent accidental starting while equipment is unattended.

Using Your Lawn Mower �

WARNING: Never operate your mower without either the rear door or the entire grass catcher assembly firmly secured.

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Your Lawn

Mower

Be sure the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage the lawn mower or the engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove wire from the spark plug, thor- oughly inspect the mower for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the mower. Extensive vibration of the mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

Operating Tips

1.For best results and effective mulching, do not cut wet grass.

2.New grass, thick grass, or wet grass may require a narrower cut.

3.For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-third of the total length of the grass.

4.Your lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.

5.Adjust ground speed according to condition of lawn.

6.If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4 inches, mulching is not recommended. Mow using the grass catcher to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4 inches or less before mulching.

Figure 9

WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop completely before doing any work on the mower or to remove the grass catcher.

NOTE: To operate your unit using the grass catcher, mulcher or optional side discharge refer to page 7.

WARNING

The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or

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 moving parts on engine and lawn mower.

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