Murray 425600x8A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 425600x8A 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, and rear-wheel drive. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications. Always read and understand all instructions before use.

1. Safety Information 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Controls and Features 4. Operation 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Engine Care 7. Cutting Deck & Blade 8. Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Specifications 11. Warranty & Support

Safety Information

Key safety symbols and warnings: Danger, Warning, Caution. Always wear appropriate footwear and eye protection.

Symbol/AreaDescription
Engine AreaHot surfaces; allow to cool before servicing
Cutting DeckRotating blade; keep hands and feet clear
FuelFlammable; refuel outdoors, engine off and cool
SlopesDo not mow on steep inclines; mow across slope
Children & PetsKeep clear of mowing area
Electric Start (if equipped)Use grounded outlet; keep cord clear of blade
Starter RopePull smoothly; do not let snap back
Discharge ChuteNever operate with missing or damaged deflector
Bagging/MulchingEnsure proper attachment installed
TransportDisengage drive; turn off engine for crossing surfaces

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included: wrench, screwdriver).

  1. Handle Assembly: Attach upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and knobs.
  2. Wheels: Slide wheels onto axles; secure with washers and retaining clips.
  3. Height Adjustment Lever: Connect to cutting deck linkage.
  4. Drive Control: Attach cable to engine and handle bracket.
  5. Bagging/Mulching Kit: Attach rear bagger or mulching plug as desired.

WARNING! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not attempt to assemble without proper tools.

Controls and Features

Access controls from operator position behind handle.

Handle/Controls: Drive Control Lever (engage self-propelled drive), Height Adjustment Lever (single lever for all wheels), Blade Control Handle (must be held to run engine), Recoil Starter, Throttle/Choke Control, Fuel Shut-Off Valve.

Features: 3-in-1 Deck (select mulch, bag, or side-discharge), Rear Bagger with easy-empty bag, Washout Port for deck cleaning, Engine Oil Drain for easy changes, Fold-Down Handle for compact storage.

Operation

Starting, mowing, stopping procedures.

  1. Pre-Start Check: Check oil level, fuel, tire pressure, and clear area of debris.
  2. Starting Engine: Set throttle/choke, prime (if equipped), pull starter rope firmly.
  3. Engaging Blade: Hold blade control handle against handlebar.
  4. Self-Propelled Drive: Squeeze drive control lever to move forward; release to stop drive.
  5. Height Adjustment: Move lever to desired setting (1-4, 1=lowest cut).
  6. Stopping: Release blade control handle; engine will stop. Turn fuel valve off for storage.

Tip: Mow in overlapping passes for even cut. Avoid mowing wet grass.

Maintenance Schedule

Engine Care

Briggs & Stratton engine maintenance.

  1. Oil: Check level with dipstick; change when dirty. Use SAE 30 detergent oil (check manual for capacity).
  2. Air Filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner; replace paper element if dirty.
  3. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inch; replace if worn or fouled.
  4. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with octane rating 87 or higher. Do not use E85.
  5. Carburetor: Adjust if engine runs rough (refer to engine manual).

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before any maintenance. Engine must be cool.

Cutting Deck & Blade

Deck cleaning and blade service.

  1. Blade Removal: Disconnect spark plug wire. Tip mower on side (carburetor side up). Use block to secure blade; remove bolt.
  2. Blade Sharpening: File cutting edge at original angle. Balance blade (use balancer).
  3. Deck Cleaning: Use washout port or tip mower to clean grass buildup.
  4. Deck Leveling: Adjust deck height linkages to ensure even cut (front slightly lower than rear).

WARNING! Blade is sharp; wear gloves. Ensure blade is balanced to prevent vibration.

Storage

End-of-season preparation.

  1. Fuel System: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer. Run for 5 minutes to circulate.
  2. Oil: Change oil if due.
  3. Blade: Sharpen and coat with light oil.
  4. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean deck and undercarriage.
  5. Storage Location: Store in dry, covered area. Fold handle down if space is limited.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank indoors. Keep away from open flame.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, bad spark plug, clogged air filterCheck fuel; clean/replace spark plug; clean air filter.
Engine runs poorlyDirty carburetor, old gasolineClean carburetor; drain and replace fuel.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, deck not levelSharpen blade; level deck.
Self-propelled drive not workingDrive belt loose or brokenAdjust or replace drive belt.
Excessive vibrationUnbalanced blade, loose partsBalance or replace blade; tighten bolts.
Grass not dischargingWet grass, clogged deckMow when dry; clean deck.
Wheels not turning freelyDebris in axles, lack of lubricationClean axles; lubricate bearings.

Reset: For safety interlock issues, ensure blade control handle is fully engaged.

Specifications

Warranty & Support

Murray mowers are covered by a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or commercial use. For technical support, parts, or service, contact Murray Customer Service at 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com. Always use genuine Murray replacement parts.

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