Murray 309000x8B Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 309000x8B is a walk-behind, self-propelled lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment, rear-wheel drive, and easy-start system. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications. Always read and follow all safety instructions before use.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, rear bagger, height adjustment lever, drive control bar, recoil starter, and mulching plug.

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 wing nuts.
2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets; ensure bag is securely fastened.
4. Install mulching plug (if mulching): Insert plug into rear discharge chute.
5. Check oil: Engine is shipped without oil. Add SAE 30 motor oil to full mark on dipstick.
6. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher). Do not overfill.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Keep hands clear of cutting blade. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

First-Time Setup & Operation

Before first start, complete assembly and pre-operation checks.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark.
2. Add fuel: Fill tank with fresh gasoline.
3. Set cutting height: Adjust lever to desired position (start at highest setting).
4. Select discharge mode: Install bag, mulching plug, or open side chute.
5. Start engine: Set throttle to FAST, pull recoil starter firmly.
6. Engage drive: Squeeze drive control bar to self-propel; release to stop.
7. Mow: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.

CAUTION! Never operate without oil or with dirty air filter. Clear mowing area of debris.

Specifications

• Model: Murray 309000x8B
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 125cc, 4-cycle OHV
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5" - 3.75" (6 positions)
• Drive: Self-propelled, rear-wheel
• Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
• Wheels: 8" rear, 7" front
• Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
• Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallon
• Oil Type: SAE 30 (20W-50 acceptable above 40°F)
• Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)

Controls and Adjustments

Handle Controls: Drive control bar, throttle lever, height adjustment lever.

Drive Control: Squeeze bar to engage self-propelled drive; release to stop. Throttle: Set to FAST for mowing, SLOW for idling. Height Adjustment: Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously. Recoil Starter: Pull firmly to start engine. Blade Control: Must be engaged to start (safety feature).

Cutting Height Settings: Position 1 (1.5") to Position 6 (3.75"). Adjust based on grass type and season.

Cutting & Discharge Options

3-in-1 system: Bagging, Mulching, Side Discharge.

1. Bagging: Attach rear bag; ensures clean lawn; empty when bag is 2/3 full.
2. Mulching: Install mulching plug; cuts clippings finely and returns to lawn as fertilizer.
3. Side Discharge: Remove bag and plug; discharges clippings to side for tall/wet grass.

Tip: For best mulching, mow when grass is dry and cut no more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance. Always use genuine Murray parts.

Storage Instructions

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

1. Clean: Remove all grass and debris from deck and engine.
2. Fuel: Option A: Run engine until fuel tank is empty. Option B: Add fuel stabilizer, run 5 minutes, then turn fuel valve off.
3. Oil: Change oil if due.
4. Spark Plug: Remove and check gap; replace if worn.
5. Blade: Sharpen or replace if dull.
6. Store: In dry, covered area; cover mower to prevent dust.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety labels on mower.

• Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
• Clear mowing area of stones, sticks, and debris.
• Never mow wet grass.
• Do not allow children to operate mower.
• Always turn off engine and disconnect spark plug before unclogging or maintenance.
• Do not remove safety devices or guards.
• Use extreme caution on slopes; mow across, not up and down.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause severe injury. Keep hands and feet away from deck at all times.

Warranty & Support

Murray mowers are backed by a limited warranty. Proof of purchase required.

Residential Warranty: 2-year limited warranty on mower; engine warranty provided by Briggs & Stratton. Commercial Use: 90-day warranty. For warranty service, contact an authorized Murray service center. For support, visit www.murray.com or call 1-800-800-7310. Have model number (309000x8B) and serial number ready.

Troubleshooting

Note: For persistent issues, contact authorized service center.

Service: 1-800-800-7310; www.murray.com