5

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

Figure 5-1: Areas of lubrication (model 435 shown)

General Recommendations

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed here.

Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine warranty.

All adjustments should be checked at least once each season.

Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.

WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine

before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

Deck Care

Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris.

1.Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn mower, or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.

2.Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.

WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90º in any direction and do not leave the mower

tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.

3.Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool. Do not spray with water.

4.Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you had put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to remove it now.

Engine Care

A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good performance by the mower is given below. Follow the accompanying engine manual for a detailed list and instructions.

1.Maintain oil level as instructed in engine manual.

2.Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the engine manual.

3.Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of each mowing season. Check engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.

4.Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to permit proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.

Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to electric components, spindles, pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.

Lubrication

Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both directions, Figure 5-1.

Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light oil (or motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate surface of the pivot arm and inner surface of the wheel with light oil, Figure 5-1.

Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on the rear discharge door and side mulch plug periodically with light oil to prevent rust, Figure 5-1.

Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrica- tion schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.

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MTD Series 430 warranty Maintaining Your Lawn Mower, General Recommendations, Deck Care, Engine Care, Lubrication

Series 430 specifications

The MTD Series 430 is a versatile and robust line of lawn care equipment designed for both residential and professional users. Known for its reliability and cutting-edge technology, the Series 430 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain their outdoor spaces efficiently.

One of the standout features of the MTD Series 430 is its powerful engine. The series is equipped with high-performance motors that deliver exceptional cutting power, making it easy to tackle even the toughest grass and foliage. With varying displacements available, users can choose the engine that best meets their mowing needs, providing an ideal balance of power and fuel efficiency for every user type.

The cutting deck of the MTD Series 430 combines durability with innovative design. Made from high-quality materials, the deck is built to withstand the rigors of regular use while ensuring a clean cut. The adjustable cutting height feature allows users to select their desired grass length with precision, making it suitable for various lawn types and conditions. This feature is essential for maintaining lawn health and aesthetics.

Another important aspect of the Series 430 is its user-friendly operation. These machines are designed with intuitive controls that make operating the equipment effortless, allowing even novice users to achieve professional-looking results. Additionally, the ergonomic design of the handles ensures comfort during prolonged use, reducing strain on the operator.

The MTD Series 430 also incorporates advanced technologies for enhanced performance. With its advanced mulching capabilities, the mower can finely chop grass clippings, returning nutrients to the soil and promoting a healthier lawn. Furthermore, some models in the series come equipped with easy-start technology, which ensures that starting the engine is a smooth and hassle-free experience.

For added convenience, the MTD Series 430 features easy-to-maintain designs, including accessible spindles and a quick-release cutting deck for effortless cleaning and maintenance. This practical focus extends to the overall build quality of the machines, ensuring longevity and reliability for years to come.

In summary, the MTD Series 430 is a top choice for those seeking a powerful, efficient, and user-friendly lawn care solution. With its advanced features, robust build quality, and focus on ease of use, it effectively meets the diverse needs of lawn enthusiasts and professionals alike, making yard maintenance a more manageable task.