Murray 309000x8A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 309000x8A is a 22-inch push lawn mower featuring a 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (1.5-3.75 inches), durable steel deck, easy-start system, and rear-wheel drive. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for optimal performance and longevity.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 22-inch steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton 159cc engine, rear grass bag, mulching plug, side discharge chute, single-lever height adjuster, recoil starter, and rear-wheel drive system.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	22 inches for efficient mowing
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 159cc, 4-cycle, OHV
Cutting Options	3-in-1: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Height Adjustment	Single lever, 6 positions (1.5-3.75 inches)
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive for better traction
Deck Material	Durable steel construction
Starter	Recoil (pull-start) system
Fuel Tank	0.95-gallon capacity
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs (unassembled)

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts from box. Ensure all hardware and components are present.

1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and washers.
2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs or bolts.
3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets; ensure secure fit.
4. Install mulching plug: Insert into rear discharge opening if mulching.
5. Add side discharge chute: Attach to right-side opening if using side discharge.
6. Install wheels: Slide axles through deck brackets, secure with retainer clips.
7. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 20 oz) as specified in engine manual.
8. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Keep hands clear of cutting blade. Do not add gasoline indoors or near flames.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete assembly and perform pre-operation checks.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
2. Inspect blade: Ensure blade is sharp, undamaged, and securely fastened.
3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired height (start at 2.5 inches).
4. Test controls: Verify throttle, choke, and drive control operate smoothly.
5. Start engine: Follow starting procedure in engine manual.
6. Test mower: Mow a small area to ensure proper operation.

CAUTION! Always mow in daylight with clear visibility. Clear lawn of debris before mowing.

Specifications

• Model: Murray 309000x8A
• Cutting Width: 22 inches
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 159cc, 4-cycle, OHV
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 3.75 inches (6 positions)
• Cutting Options: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
• Drive: Rear-wheel drive
• Deck Material: Steel
• Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
• Fuel Capacity: 0.95 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
• Weight: Approx. 65 lbs (unassembled)

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Throttle lever, choke control, recoil starter, drive control bar, height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure:

1. Move mower to clear, level area.
2. Set throttle to FAST position.
3. Pull choke knob out (cold engine only).
4. Pull recoil starter cord firmly until engine starts.
5. Push choke in after engine warms (30 seconds).

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

Operating Tips: Mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes by 2-3 inches. Change mowing pattern weekly.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment controls all four wheels simultaneously.

1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
2. Pull height adjustment lever toward wheel.
3. Move lever to desired height setting (1-6).
4. Release lever to lock in position.
5. Check all wheels are at same height.

Recommended Heights: Bermuda grass: 1.5-2 inches; Fescue: 2.5-3 inches; St. Augustine: 3-3.75 inches.

Tip: Never adjust height while engine is running. Always mow at highest setting for first cut of season.

Mulching & Bagging

3-in-1 system allows quick conversion between functions.

Mulching:

1. Install mulching plug in rear discharge opening.
2. Ensure grass bag is removed.
3. Mow at slower speed for finer clippings.

Bagging:

1. Remove mulching plug.
2. Attach grass bag to rear brackets.
3. Empty bag when 2/3 full for optimal performance.

Side Discharge:

1. Remove mulching plug and grass bag.
2. Attach side discharge chute to right-side opening.
3. Direct discharge away from people and property.

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing cutting modes. Keep hands and feet away from discharge area.

Safety Features

Blade brake system: Blade stops within 3 seconds of releasing handle. Safety key: Prevents unauthorized operation. Discharge guard: Protects from thrown objects.

Safety Guidelines:

• Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
• Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and debris.
• Never mow wet grass.
• Never remove grass bag or unclog chute with engine running.
• Keep children and pets away from mowing area.
• Use extreme caution when mowing on slopes.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends mower life.

After Each Use:

1. Clean underside of deck (after engine cools).
2. Check blade for damage or dullness.
3. Wipe mower clean of grass and debris.

Monthly:

1. Check air filter; clean or replace if dirty.
2. Check spark plug; clean or replace as needed.
3. Lubricate wheel bearings and height adjuster.

Seasonal/Storage:

1. Change engine oil (every season or 50 hours).
2. Sharpen or replace blade (every 25 hours).
3. Drain fuel or add stabilizer for off-season storage.
4. Store in clean, dry location.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Allow engine to cool completely.

Warranty Information

Murray 309000x8A includes limited warranty: 2 years on mower, 2 years on engine (Briggs & Stratton). Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal residential use. Not covered: commercial use, neglect, improper maintenance, accidents, or unauthorized repairs. 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 fuel, clogged air filter, spark plug	Add fresh gasoline; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old gasoline, clogged carburetor	Clean air filter; drain old fuel; clean carburetor.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure, deck clogged	Sharpen/replace blade; check tire pressure; clean deck.
Mower vibrates excessively	Loose blade, bent blade, unbalanced blade	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade; balance blade.
Grass not discharging properly	Wet grass, deck clogged, engine speed too low	Mow when dry; clean deck; run at full throttle.
Wheels not turning	Drive belt loose or broken	Adjust or replace drive belt.

For Technical Support: 1-800-800-7310 (Murray) or 1-800-233-3723 (Briggs & Stratton)

Parts & Manuals: www.murray.com or www.briggsandstratton.com