Murray 461000x8A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 461000x8A 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. Designed for residential use, it includes safety features like blade control system, operator presence control, and durable construction. 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 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 21-inch steel deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, rear bagger, height adjustment lever, drive control bar, blade control handle.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	21 inches
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine
Drive System	Self-propelled rear-wheel drive
Cutting Options	Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6 positions (1.5-3.75 inches)
Deck Material	Powder-coated steel
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity
Starter	Recoil pull-start
Safety Features	Blade control system, operator presence control
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, clear surface.

Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and wing nuts.
Install bagger: Attach rear bagger frame to deck mounts; secure bag with hooks.
Attach discharge chute: For side discharge, snap chute into deck opening.
Install wheels: Secure wheels with washers and retaining clips.
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. Keep hands clear of cutting blade 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 or higher).
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (start at 3 inches).
Test controls: Engage blade control and drive control to ensure smooth operation.
Start engine: Pull recoil starter firmly; allow engine to warm up.

CAUTION! Always operate outdoors in well-ventilated area. Clear mowing area of debris before starting.

Specifications

Model: Murray 461000x8A
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 3.75 inches (6 positions)
Drive: Self-propelled rear-wheel drive
Deck: 21-inch steel, powder-coated
Fuel Capacity: 1 quart
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Blade control handle, drive control bar, height adjustment lever, recoil starter.

Starting: 1. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine). 2. Set throttle to FAST. 3. Pull recoil starter firmly.

Stopping: Release blade control handle; engine and blade will stop. Move throttle to STOP position.

Self-Propelled Drive: Squeeze drive control bar against handle to engage; release to disengage.

Height Adjustment: Move single lever to one of 6 positions; ensure all wheels are at same height.

Cutting & Discharge Options

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

Mulching: Install mulch plug; grass clippings are cut finely and returned to lawn.
Bagging: Attach rear bag; clippings are collected for disposal.
Side Discharge: Install discharge chute; clippings are ejected to side.

Tip: For best results, mow when grass is dry. Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level; inspect blade for damage; clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil; check air filter; inspect spark plug
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade; lubricate wheel bearings and height adjuster
As needed	Replace air filter; clean fuel system; check drive belt tension

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

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage (especially winter).

Drain fuel: Run engine until tank is empty, or add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil: Replace with fresh SAE 30 oil.
Clean deck: Remove grass and debris; apply light oil to prevent rust.
Remove spark plug: Add teaspoon of oil to cylinder; pull starter slowly to coat.
Store indoors: Keep in dry, covered location; cover mower if stored outdoors.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or in enclosed spaces.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions to prevent injury.

Always wear sturdy shoes and eye protection.
Clear mowing area of sticks, stones, and debris.
Do not mow wet grass or on steep slopes.
Never allow children to operate mower.
Keep hands and feet away from rotating blade.
Stop engine and disconnect spark plug before unclogging or maintenance.
Use only original Murray replacement parts.

Warranty & Support

Murray 461000x8A 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 Murray service center with proof of purchase.

Customer Support: 1-800-XXX-XXXX (Murray Customer Care)

Online: www.murray.com

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	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gasoline.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure and cutting height.
Loss of power	Clogged deck, dirty air filter	Clean underside of deck; replace air filter.
Self-propel not working	Drive belt loose or worn	Adjust or replace drive belt; check drive control cable.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade shaft	Tighten blade bolt; replace blade if bent; check for debris.

Reset: For safety system issues, ensure blade control handle is fully engaged and operator presence controls are functioning.

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