Murray 40601A-DECK Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 40601A-DECK is a 20-inch push lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge capability, adjustable cutting height, easy-start system, durable steel deck, and ergonomic handle with soft-grip. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage guidelines for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Blade Care & Sharpening 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 20-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 system, height adjustment lever, rear bagger, mulching plug, and ergonomic handle.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine with easy-start system
Cutting Width	20-inch steel deck
3-in-1 Function	Mulch, bag, or side discharge clippings
Cutting Height	6-position adjustment (1.5-3.75 inches)
Drive System	Push-powered (manual)
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front wheels
Handle	Ergonomic design with soft-grip and foldable storage
Starter	Recoil pull-start mechanism
Fuel Tank	0.5-gallon capacity
Bag Capacity	1.8 bushels (rear bagger included)

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
Install wheels: Insert axle through deck brackets, secure wheels with washers and retaining clips.
Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets, ensure secure latch.
Install mulching plug: Insert plug into rear discharge chute when mulching.
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick), add fresh unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Do not add fuel indoors or near ignition sources. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Safety Precautions

Always operate mower with caution to prevent injury.

Clear area: Remove stones, sticks, and debris from lawn before mowing.
Wear protection: Use safety glasses, sturdy shoes, and hearing protection.
Check fuel: Fill fuel tank outdoors, away from sparks or flames.
Start safely: Ensure blade control handle is engaged, stand clear when pulling starter.
Children/pets: Keep at a safe distance during operation.

CAUTION! Never operate mower without grass bag or mulching plug properly installed. Disconnect spark plug before maintenance.

Specifications

Model: Murray 40601A-DECK
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 20 inches
Cutting Heights: 6 positions (1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 3.25", 3.75")
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Bag Capacity: 1.8 bushels
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent oil (20 oz capacity)
Weight: 55 lbs (approx.)

Controls and Operation

Primary controls: Blade control handle (safety lever), throttle control, recoil starter, height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Check oil and fuel levels. 2. Move throttle to FAST position. 3. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine). 4. Hold blade control handle against handlebar. 5. Pull starter cord briskly. Stopping: Release blade control handle; engine and blade will stop. Move throttle to STOP position.

Operating Tips: Mow in dry conditions; overlap passes slightly; avoid mowing wet grass to prevent clumping.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust height based on grass type and season.

Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
Locate height adjustment lever near each wheel.
Move lever to desired setting (1-6). Ensure all levers are set to same height.
Test mower on flat surface to verify height.

Tip: Cut no more than 1/3 of grass height at a time. Higher settings for summer, lower for spring/fall.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, lubricate wheel axles, inspect cables
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean entire mower, store in dry place

Note: Refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance details.

Blade Care & Sharpening

A sharp blade ensures clean cuts and healthy grass.

Disconnect spark plug wire to prevent accidental start.
Tip mower on side (air filter up) to access blade.
Use block of wood to prevent blade from turning, remove blade bolt.
Sharpen blade with file or grinder, maintaining original angle.
Balance blade by hanging on nail; remove metal from heavy side.
Reinstall blade with cutting edge toward ground, torque bolt securely.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling blade. Replace if cracked or excessively worn.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents corrosion and starting issues.

Clean mower thoroughly, removing grass and debris from deck and underside.
Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change oil if near service interval.
Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
Store in cool, dry place, preferably covered.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or near open flames.

Warranty Information

Murray 40601A-DECK includes limited warranty: 2 years on mower, 2 years on engine (Briggs & Stratton). Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship under normal residential use. Not covered: commercial use, neglect, improper maintenance, accident, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact Murray customer service with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.murray.com or call 1-800-269-6215.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged air filter	Check fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty spark plug, stale fuel	Clean or replace spark plug; drain and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure (if applicable).
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, debris	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade; clean deck.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, clogged deck, dull blade	Mow when dry; clean underside; sharpen blade.

Reset: For engine issues, refer to Briggs & Stratton engine manual.

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