Blade Care, Belt Care | MTD 838 instruction

Figure 5-3: Remove bolt, bell support, blade, and adapter to gain access to the blade.

Figure 5-4: Loosen the screw that holds deck bafﬂe onto deck.

Figure 5-5: Remove belt from transmission and engine pulley.

Blade Care

WARNING: When removing cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold blade.

1.Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up.

2.Remove bolt, blade bell support, blade, and blade adapter from the engine crankshaft, Figure 5-3.

NOTE: When removing the blade, blade adapter, etc., be careful not to remove or lose parts above it associated with the engine pulley.

3.The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grind- ing wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade while it is still on the mower. When sharpening blade, follow original angle of grind. Grind cutting edges equally to keep blade balanced.

4.Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance. Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

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.

5.Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter such that the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number) faces the ground when the mower is in the operating position. Make sure that blade is aligned and seated on blade adapter flanges.

6.Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches on the blade bell support with small holes in blade. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.

To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the blade bolt for correct torque.

Belt Care

1.Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine.

2.Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plastic beneath the cap to prevent gasoline leakage.

3.Tip mower on its side (air cleaner side of engine up).

4.Remove blade, adapter, and related hardware as instructed under “Blade Care” above.

5.Loosen self-tapping screw that secures deck baffle to the deck, Figure 5-4.

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement or when sliding the belt around it, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotat- ing at high speeds. It may cause damage to mower, and could break causing per- sonal injury.

838 specifications

The MTD 838 is a powerful and versatile rotary lawn mower, designed to meet the demands of both residential and commercial landscaping. Engineered with precision, this model stands out in the competitive mower market due to its advanced features and user-friendly design.

One of the defining characteristics of the MTD 838 is its robust engine. Equipped with a high-performance four-stroke engine, it delivers reliable power, ensuring optimal cutting performance across different types of grass and terrain. The engine is specifically designed to provide excellent torque, allowing it to handle thick grass and uneven ground with ease.

The cutting deck of the MTD 838 is another standout feature. With a width of 21 inches, it allows for efficient mowing in both open areas and tighter spaces. The deck is constructed from durable materials, ensuring longevity and the ability to withstand harsh conditions. Additionally, the mower features a three-in-one cutting system, which allows users to choose between bagging, mulching, or side discharge, providing flexibility to achieve the desired lawn finish.

For user convenience, the MTD 838 incorporates a self-propelled drive system, making it easy to maneuver without requiring excessive effort from the operator. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who may struggle with heavy machinery, allowing for a more enjoyable mowing experience. The adjustable speed settings also customize the mowing pace, ensuring comfort and control during operation.

Ergonomics play a crucial role in the design of the MTD 838. It features an adjustable handle that accommodates different user heights and ensures a comfortable grip. This is complemented by a lightweight structure, which aids in easy transportation and storage.

Safety is paramount with the MTD 838. It includes essential safety features such as a blade brake, which stops the blades quickly when the handle is released, and a sturdy body design that minimizes the risk of debris projection.

In summary, the MTD 838 is a versatile and reliable lawn mower that brings together power, efficiency, and user-centric design. Whether you're maintaining a small residential lawn or managing larger green spaces, the MTD 838 is equipped to deliver exceptional results with ease. Its combination of advanced technologies, durable construction, and safety features makes it a valuable addition to any lawn care toolkit.