Murray 385047x51A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 385047x51A is a 21-inch push lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton 125cc gasoline engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (6 positions from 1.5" to 3.75"), durable steel deck, easy-start system, and rear-wheel drive. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton 125cc engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, rear bagger, mulching plug, side discharge chute, single-lever height adjuster, and recoil starter.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 125cc 4-cycle gasoline engine
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Height	6 positions (1.5" to 3.75")
Cutting Options	Mulching, Bagging, Side Discharge
Deck Material	Durable powder-coated steel
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Starter	Recoil easy-start system
Fuel Tank	0.5 gallon capacity
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Weight	Approximately 55 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and washers.
Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle using knobs; adjust to desired height.
Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets; ensure secure connection.
Install side discharge chute: If using, attach to right side of deck opening.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick for proper level).
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely before operation.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete these essential steps.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Fuel up: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline (no more than 0.5 gallon).
Inspect blade: Ensure cutting blade is properly installed and sharp.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 2.5" for first mow).
Test start: Pull recoil starter slowly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly.

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

Specifications

Model: Murray 385047x51A
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 125cc 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height Range: 1.5" - 3.75" (6 positions)
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Wheels: 8" rear, 7" front
Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallon
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent (20 oz capacity)
Weight: 55 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Recoil starter, throttle control, drive control bar, and height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure:

Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
Set throttle to FAST position.
Pull recoil starter briskly.
Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds.

Operation: Squeeze drive control bar against handle to engage self-propulsion. Release to stop. Adjust speed with throttle. Always mow across slopes, not up and down.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels simultaneously.

Stop mower and turn off engine.
Pull height adjustment lever toward wheel.
Move lever to desired position (1-6).
Release lever to lock in place.
Test by rolling mower to ensure all wheels are at same height.

Tip: For healthier grass, never cut more than 1/3 of grass blade length at one time.

3-in-1 Function Setup

Configure for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

Mulching: Install mulching plug in rear discharge opening. Grass clippings are cut finely and returned to lawn.
Bagging: Remove mulching plug, attach grass bag to rear brackets.
Side Discharge: Remove mulching plug and bag, attach side discharge chute to right side.

WARNING! Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug before changing cutting functions.

Safety Features

Blade brake clutch: Stops blade within 3 seconds when handle is released. Safety key: Prevents unauthorized operation. Protective deck design: Prevents debris ejection toward operator.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

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

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Warranty Information

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 1-800-269-6215 or visit www.murray.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

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
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blade, set throttle to FAST
Uneven cutting	Uneven tire pressure, worn blade	Check tire pressure, balance or replace blade
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent crankshaft	Tighten blade bolt, inspect for damage
Self-propel not working	Drive belt worn, control cable loose	Inspect belt, adjust drive control cable

Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean underside, store in dry place.

Service: 1-800-269-6215; www.murray.com