Murray 552549 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 552549 is a 21-inch push lawn mower featuring a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (1.5-4 inches), durable steel deck, easy-start system, and large rear wheels for maneuverability. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications. Always read and follow all safety instructions before use.

1. Safety Information 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Controls and Features 4. Operation 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Storage 7. Troubleshooting 8. Specifications 9. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow warnings may result in serious injury or death.

Symbol/Alert	Meaning
DANGER!	Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING!	Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION!	Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

General Safety Rules: Clear mowing area of debris. Wear sturdy footwear and eye protection. Do not mow wet grass. Never remove safety devices or guards. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and check against the parts list. Assembly requires basic tools (included: wrench).

Handle Assembly: Attach lower handle to deck using provided bolts and wing nuts. Attach upper handle section, ensuring height is comfortable.
Wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with push-on caps or washers and cotter pins as specified.
Bagging System (if applicable): Attach rear bagger bracket to deck. Hook bag onto bracket.
Side Discharge Chute: Attach chute to discharge opening, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
Oil & Fuel: Add engine oil (SAE 30) to full mark on dipstick. Add fresh unleaded gasoline (no ethanol recommended).

WARNING! Do not add fuel while engine is hot or running. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

Controls and Features

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Control/Feature	Description
Engine Control Lever	Combined throttle and stop control. Move to FAST to start and run. Move to STOP to shut off engine.
Recoil Starter Handle	Pull to start engine.
Drive Control Bar	Located on upper handle. Squeeze to engage self-propelled drive (if equipped). Release to stop drive.
Height Adjustment Lever	Single lever adjusts cutting height for all four wheels simultaneously (positions: 1.5" to 4").
Mulching Plug	Insert into rear discharge opening to enable mulching mode.
Fuel Tank Cap	Located on top of engine. Remove to add fuel.
Oil Fill Cap/Dipstick	Located on side of engine. Check and add oil here.

Operation

Operating your mower correctly ensures a quality cut and long engine life.

Starting: Ensure height is set. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine). Set engine control to FAST. Pull recoil starter firmly.
Mowing: Mow at a steady walking pace. Overlap each pass slightly for even cutting. For best results, do not cut more than 1/3 of grass blade length at one time.
Stopping: Release drive control (if engaged). Move engine control lever to STOP. Wait for all moving parts to stop completely.
Bagging/Mulching/Side Discharge: Install appropriate accessory (bag, plug, or chute) before starting. Empty bag frequently to maintain airflow and cutting performance.

CAUTION! Always mow across slopes, never up and down. Be extra careful when changing direction on slopes.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is essential for safe operation and long mower life.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level. Inspect blade for damage or dullness. Clear deck of grass clippings.
Every 25 hours	Check/replace air filter. Clean under deck thoroughly. Check blade balance and sharpness.
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil (more frequently in dusty conditions). Replace spark plug.
End of Season	Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer. Perform all 50-hour maintenance tasks. Lubricate wheel bearings and height adjustment points.

Blade Sharpening/Replacement: Disconnect spark plug wire. Tip mower on its side (carburetor side up). Use a wrench to hold blade and remove bolt. Sharpen blade evenly or replace if cracked or badly worn. Always balance blade before reinstalling.

Storage

Proper storage prevents corrosion and starting problems next season.

Run engine to burn off remaining fuel in carburetor OR add fuel stabilizer to a full tank and run for 5 minutes.
Change the engine oil.
Clean the mower thoroughly, especially under the deck.
Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into the cylinder, pull starter cord slowly to distribute oil, then reinstall plug.
Store in a clean, dry place, covered to protect from dust.

WARNING! Gasoline is extremely flammable. Store mower and fuel away from open flame, pilot lights, and heat sources.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel; Old fuel; Choke not set; Spark plug wire disconnected; Clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel. Check choke/primer. Ensure spark plug wire is connected. Clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs poorly or stalls	Dirty air filter; Water in fuel; Clogged fuel line; Dirty spark plug	Replace air filter. Drain fuel tank and refill. Check fuel line. Clean or replace spark plug.
Uneven cutting	Dull or bent blade; Uneven tire pressure; Deck clogged; Mowing speed too fast	Sharpen or replace blade. Check tire pressure. Clean deck. Slow down mowing pace.
Excessive vibration	Loose or damaged blade; Loose engine bolts; Debris stuck in blade	Stop engine immediately. Disconnect spark plug. Tighten blade bolt and engine mounts. Remove debris.
Self-propel does not work	Drive belt worn or broken; Drive control cable loose or damaged	Inspect and replace drive belt if necessary. Adjust or replace drive control cable.

Specifications

Model: Murray 552549
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 1.5 - 4 inches (6 positions)
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 450 Series
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (min. 87 octane)
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent motor oil (API service classification SJ or higher)
Oil Capacity: 20 oz. (0.6 L)
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Capabilities: Mulch, Bag, Side-Discharge (3-in-1)

Warranty Information

The Murray 552549 Lawn Mower is covered by a limited warranty. For complete terms and conditions, visit the manufacturer's website or contact customer service.

Consumer Support: For parts, technical questions, or warranty service, contact Murray at 1-800-XXX-XXXX or visit www.murray.com. Have your model number (552549) and serial number (located on the engine housing or deck) ready.

Note: Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, lack of maintenance, or use of non-genuine parts.