Murray 201013x51A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 201013x51A is a 20-inch push lawn mower featuring a 4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, single-lever height adjustment, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, durable steel deck, easy-start system, and rear-wheel drive. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage guidelines to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Engine Care 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 20-inch steel cutting deck, single-lever height adjustment, rear bagger, mulching plug, side discharge chute, and easy-grip handle.

FeatureDescription
Engine4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, 125cc, easy-start system
Cutting Width20 inches
Cutting DeckDurable steel construction
Height AdjustmentSingle-lever, 6 positions (1-3 inches)
Capability3-in-1: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Drive SystemRear-wheel drive
StarterRecoil pull-start
Fuel Tank1-quart capacity
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front
WeightApproximately 55 lbs

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

  1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
  3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets.
  4. Install side discharge chute: Slide into slot on right side of deck.
  5. Insert mulching plug: Place into rear discharge opening when mulching.
  6. Check wheel alignment: Ensure all wheels are securely fastened.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tight before operation.

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

  1. Read manual thoroughly before use.
  2. Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and debris.
  3. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and eye protection.
  4. Do not mow wet grass or in rain.
  5. Never leave mower unattended with engine running.
  6. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
  7. Stop engine before unclogging or adjusting.
  8. Use extreme caution on slopes; mow across, not up/down.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors with engine off and cool.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Throttle lever, drive control bar, height adjustment lever.

Starting: 1. Check oil and fuel levels. 2. Push primer bulb 3 times. 3. Set throttle to FAST. 4. Pull recoil starter firmly.

Stopping: Release drive control bar, move throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop.

Operation: Engage drive control bar to self-propel. Release to stop movement. Adjust speed with throttle.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

  1. Stop engine and ensure blade is not rotating.
  2. Pull lever outward and move to desired height setting (1-6).
  3. Release lever to lock into position.
  4. Test on small area before full mowing.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting. Never remove more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck oil level, inspect blade, clear deck
Every 25 hoursChange oil, clean/replace air filter
Every seasonSharpen/replace blade, check spark plug
As neededClean underside of deck, lubricate wheels

Note: Refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance.

Engine Care

Briggs & Stratton 4.5 HP engine maintenance guidelines.

  1. Oil: Check level before each use. Change every 25 hours or seasonally. Use SAE 30 detergent oil.
  2. Air Filter: Clean foam filter every 25 hours; replace if damaged.
  3. Spark Plug: Clean and gap to 0.030 inches annually; replace if worn.
  4. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline. Add fuel stabilizer for storage.
  5. Carburetor: May need adjustment if engine runs rough; refer to engine manual.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and extends mower life.

  1. Clean mower thoroughly, removing grass and debris.
  2. Drain fuel or add stabilizer and run engine 2 minutes.
  3. Change oil if near due.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
  5. Store in dry, covered area, off ground if possible.
  6. Cover mower to protect from dust.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or near open flame.

Warranty Information

Murray 201013x51A includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal residential use. Warranty does not cover commercial use, neglect, improper maintenance, or normal wear items (blades, belts, etc.). Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Murray customer service at 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com. Keep this manual and receipt for reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old gas, clogged filterCheck fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs roughDirty spark plug, bad fuelClean/gap spark plug; drain and replace fuel.
Poor cutting performanceDull blade, low engine speedSharpen/replace blade; set throttle to FAST.
Mower vibrates excessivelyBent blade, loose partsInspect and replace blade; tighten all bolts.
Won't self-propelDrive cable loose, worn beltAdjust drive cable tension; replace drive belt.
Grass clumps under deckWet grass, deck cloggedMow when dry; clean deck after use.

Service: For technical support, call 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com.

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