MTD 21” Self Starter 589 - Manual (Page 14)

14
• Slide the blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft.
• Place the blade on the adapter.The blade has to be
aligned and seated on the blade adapter flanges.
• Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the
notches on the blade bell support are aligned with
small holes in the blade.
• Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450
in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
NOTE: To ensure safe operation, the blade bolt must
be checked periodically for correct torque.
Lubrication
WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning,
lubricating or doing any kind of service work
on the lawn mower.
Blade Control
Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle at
least once a season with light oil. The blade control
must operate freely in both directions.See Figure 14.
Wheels
Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light
oil (or motor oil). If the wheels are removed for any
reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and inner
surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 14.
Rear Discharge Door
Lubricate the torsion springs and pivot points on rear
discharge door using light oil. This will insure the door,
which is a safety device, can always work properly.
Engine
Follow the engine manual for lubrication instructions.
Figure 14
Replacing Rear Flap
• To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 15.
• Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.
Figure 15
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE
The following steps should be taken to prepare your
lawn mower for storage.
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect the
spark plug wire and DE-ENERGIZE starter
before performing any repairs or
maintenance. DO NOT attempt any
maintenance or service to the engine and/or
mower equipped with the safety key in the
unlocked and/or energized mode.
WARNING: NEVER assume starter is de-
energized, even if the key is in the locked
position and/or removed from the engine.
ALWAYS de-energize self starter prior to
performing any maintenance or service to the
engine and/or mower. Follow instructions on
the engine and/or machine to de-energize
starter.
WARNING: Never store the machine or
fuel container indoors where there is an open
flame, spark or pilot light such as on water
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliance.
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to electric components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
• Refer to engine manual for storage instructions.
• Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
• Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in a
poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all
moving parts.
Lubricate
Handle
Bracket
Handle
Bracket
Rear Discharge
Door
Rear
Wi
re
Ro
d
Flap