Murray 20408x34A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 20408x34A is a 20-inch, 3.5 HP push lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 2-in-1 mulching/bagging capability, 6-position single-lever height adjustment, durable steel deck, rear discharge, and easy-start system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. Mulching & Bagging 8. Safety Features 9. Maintenance & Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, steel cutting deck, rear grass bag, height adjustment lever, recoil starter, safety handle.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5 HP Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle engine
Cutting Width	20-inch steel deck
Cutting Options	2-in-1 mulching and rear bagging
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6 positions (1.25" - 3.75")
Start System	Recoil easy-start
Discharge	Rear discharge with bag
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Handle	Foldable, padded D-handle with safety bail
Fuel Tank	0.5 gallon capacity
Weight	Approx. 55 lbs

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, clear surface.

Attach handle: Insert lower handle into deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
Install grass bag: Attach bag support frame to rear deck, hook bag onto frame.
Attach wheels: Slide wheels onto axles, secure with push nuts or washers.
Install height adjustment lever: Connect to deck linkage as per diagram.
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (20 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Do not add fuel indoors or near ignition sources. Keep hands clear of cutting blade during assembly.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete final checks and adjustments.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Check blade: Ensure blade is properly installed and tightened.
Adjust handle height: Loosen knobs, set to comfortable height, retighten.
Test safety features: Verify engine stops when safety bail is released.
Start engine: Follow starting procedure in open, clear area.

CAUTION! Always wear sturdy shoes and eye protection during operation.

Specifications

Model: Murray 20408x34A
Engine: 3.5 HP Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 20 inches
Cutting Height: 1.25" - 3.75" (6 positions)
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Wheels: 8" rear, 7" front
Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallon
Oil Capacity: 20 oz SAE 30
Bag Capacity: 1.8 bushels
Weight: 55 lbs

Controls and Operation

Main controls located on handle and engine.

Handle Controls: Safety bail (must be held to run), throttle control, height adjustment lever.

Engine Controls: Recoil starter grip, choke control, fuel valve.

Starting Procedure:

Move to clear, flat area.
Push fuel valve to ON.
Set throttle to FAST.
Pull choke to ON (cold engine).
Hold safety bail against handle.
Pull starter cord briskly.
After engine starts, push choke to OFF.

Stopping: Release safety bail. Engine will stop.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust all wheels simultaneously with single lever.

Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
Pull height adjustment lever outward.
Move lever to desired position (1-6).
Release lever to lock in position.
Test by pushing mower to ensure all wheels contact ground evenly.

Height Positions: 1 (1.25"), 2 (1.75"), 3 (2.25"), 4 (2.75"), 5 (3.25"), 6 (3.75")

Mulching & Bagging

2-in-1 system allows quick conversion between modes.

Mulching:

Remove grass bag and bagging frame.
Install mulch plug (if included) or ensure discharge chute is closed.
Mow as normal; clippings are recut and returned to lawn.

Bagging:

Ensure bag support frame is securely attached.
Hook grass bag onto frame.
Empty bag when full or when mowing performance decreases.

Tip: For best mulching, mow when grass is dry and don't cut more than 1/3 of grass height.

Safety Features

Safety bail: Engine stops immediately when released. Blade brake: Stops blade within 3 seconds. Shielded discharge area. Warning labels indicate danger zones.

Safety Precautions:

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, wires.
Never operate without grass bag or mulch plug properly installed.
Never reach under deck while engine is running.
Always push mower, never pull.
Stop engine before adjusting height or unclogging.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

After each use: Clean underside of deck, check for damage.
Monthly: Check blade sharpness and balance, tighten bolts.
Seasonally: Change oil, replace air filter, check spark plug.
Winter storage: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer, clean thoroughly, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Warranty Information

Murray 20408x34A includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Murray customer service at 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, stale gas, spark plug	Check fuel level, drain old gas, check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old gas	Clean/replace air filter, use fresh gasoline.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven height	Sharpen/replace blade, adjust cutting height evenly.
Vibration	Loose blade, bent blade	Tighten blade bolt, replace bent blade.
Bag not filling	Wet grass, full bag	Mow when grass is dry, empty bag frequently.
Wheels not turning	Debris in axles	Clean axles, lubricate if necessary.

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