Murray 309008x99A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 309008x99A is a 21-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. Designed for residential use with safety features including blade control system and operator presence control. 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: 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, rear grass bag, mulch plug, side discharge chute, single-lever height adjuster, blade control handle.

Feature	Description
Engine	159cc Briggs & Stratton 450E Series, OHV
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Height	1.5 to 3.75 inches (6 positions)
Cutting Options	3-in-1: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Deck Material	Durable steel construction
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Starting System	Recoil start with primer bulb
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Blade Control	Operator presence control system
Fuel Tank	0.95 gallon capacity

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Insert lower handle into deck brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
Install grass bag: Attach bag frame to rear deck hooks, secure bag to frame.
Install mulch plug: Insert into rear discharge opening for mulching mode.
Attach side discharge chute: Secure to side discharge port with provided hardware.
Check oil: Engine comes without oil; add SAE 30 detergent oil (20 oz.) before first use.

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

First-Time Setup

Prepare mower for first use.

Add oil: Fill to FULL mark on dipstick with SAE 30 detergent oil.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum). Do not overfill.
Check blade: Ensure blade is properly installed and tightened.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (middle setting recommended for first mow).
Prime engine: Press primer bulb 3 times for cold starts.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot. Work in well-ventilated area.

Specifications

Model: Murray 309008x99A
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 450E Series, 159cc, OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height Range: 1.5-3.75 inches (6 positions)
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Drive System: Rear-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity: 0.95 gallon
Oil Capacity: 20 oz. SAE 30
Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Blade control handle (must be held for blade rotation), drive control lever, height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure:

Check oil and fuel levels.
Set cutting height.
Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
Set throttle to FAST position.
Pull recoil starter firmly.

Stopping: Release blade control handle. Engine will stop. Move throttle to STOP position.

Drive Control: Squeeze lever against handle to engage drive. Release to stop.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels.

Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
Pull height adjustment lever outward.
Move lever to desired position (1-6, lowest to highest).
Release lever to lock in position.
Check all wheels are at same height.

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

Mulching & Bagging

3-in-1 cutting system: Mulch, Bag, or Side Discharge.

Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge. Cuts clippings finely and returns to lawn as fertilizer.
Bagging: Remove mulch plug, attach grass bag. Collects clippings for disposal.
Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bag, attach discharge chute. Discharges clippings to side.

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing cutting modes. Ensure attachments are secure.

Safety Features

Blade Control System: Blade stops within 3 seconds when handle is released. Operator Presence Control: Requires constant pressure on handle for blade operation. Safety Labels: Read and understand all labels on mower. Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, long pants, and sturdy shoes.

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. Sharpen or replace as needed.
Seasonally: Change oil (first 5 hours, then every 50 hours or season). Replace air filter. Check spark plug.
Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer. Clean thoroughly. Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance. Allow engine to cool completely.

Warranty Information

Murray 309008x99A 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 authorized service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.murray.com or contact 1-800-800-7310.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Clean air filter, drain and replace fuel.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade, check tire pressure.
Vibration	Loose blade, bent blade	Tighten blade bolts, replace bent blade.
Won't drive	Drive cable loose, worn drive belt	Adjust drive cable, replace drive belt.
Grass not bagging	Wet grass, full bag, clogged deck	Mow when dry, empty bag, clean deck.

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