Murray 385004x52A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 385004x52A is a 20-inch, 5.5 horsepower push lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 side discharge/mulching/bagging capability, single-lever height adjustment, durable steel deck, 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 & Discharge Options 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Instructions 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton 5.5 HP engine, 20-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 discharge system, single-lever height adjustment, rear bagger, and easy-start system.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 5.5 HP, 4-cycle
Cutting Width	20 inches
Cutting Options	Side discharge, mulching, rear bagging
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6 positions (1-3 inches)
Deck Material	Durable steel construction
Start System	Recoil start with primer bulb
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity
Oil Type	SAE 30 (summer), 5W-30 (winter)
Weight	Approximately 55 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts.
Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with retaining clips.
Attach discharge chute: Secure to deck opening with wing nut.
Install bagger: Attach rear bagger bracket and bag assembly.
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. Wear gloves during assembly.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly, then prepare for first use.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Adjust cutting height: Set single lever to desired position (2.5 inches recommended).
Select discharge option: Install appropriate chute or plug for mulching/bagging.
Start engine: Press primer bulb 3 times, set choke, pull starter cord firmly.

CAUTION! Operate only in well-ventilated areas. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model: Murray 385004x52A
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 5.5 HP, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 20 inches
Cutting Height: 1-3 inches (6 positions)
Deck: 20-gauge steel
Discharge Options: Side discharge, mulching, rear bagging
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Capacity: 1 quart
Oil Capacity: 20 oz
Weight: 55 lbs

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Engine throttle, recoil starter, height adjustment lever, drive control bar.

Starting Procedure: 1. Check oil and fuel. 2. Press primer bulb 3 times. 3. Set throttle to FAST. 4. Pull starter cord firmly. 5. Adjust throttle as needed.

Cutting Height Adjustment: Move single lever to one of 6 positions (1=lowest, 6=highest).

Drive Control: Squeeze bar against handle to engage self-propulsion (if equipped).

Cutting & Discharge Options

Three cutting/discharge configurations available.

Side Discharge: Install discharge chute for normal cutting.
Mulching: Install mulching plug to recycle clippings.
Rear Bagging: Attach bagger for collection.

Tip: For best mulching results, cut dry grass and never remove more than 1/3 of blade height.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade, clear debris
Every 25 hours	Change oil, clean/replace air filter
Every season	Sharpen/replace blade, check spark plug
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer

Blade Sharpening: Remove blade, sharpen at 30-degree angle, balance before reinstalling.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage prevents corrosion and starting issues.

Clean mower thoroughly, removing all grass and debris.
Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change oil if due.
Store in dry, covered area.
Remove spark plug and add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, then pull starter slowly.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors or near heat sources.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
Clear area of stones, toys, and debris before mowing.
Never mow wet grass.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.
Do not allow children to operate mower.

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

Warranty & Support

Murray mowers include a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, contact Murray Customer Service at 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com. Have model number (385004x52A) and serial number ready.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, stale fuel, clogged filter	Add fresh fuel, clean/replace filter, check spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blade, set throttle to FAST.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade	Tighten blade bolt, replace bent blade.
Engine stalls	Dirty air filter, clogged deck	Clean/replace filter, clear deck of debris.
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, worn blade	Inflate tires evenly, sharpen/replace blade.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized service center.

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