Murray 96012007200 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray 96012007200 is a walk-behind, self-propelled lawn mower designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 capability (mulch/bag/side discharge), single-lever height adjustment, rear-wheel drive, and a durable steel frame. 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 & Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, rear bagger, mulch plug, side discharge chute, single-lever height adjuster, drive control lever, and recoil starter.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting DeckSteel, 3-in-1 (mulch/bag/side discharge)
Drive SystemSelf-propelled, rear-wheel drive
Height AdjustmentSingle lever, 6 positions (1.5" to 3.75")
StarterRecoil pull-start
Fuel Tank0.95 gallons (unleaded gasoline only)
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Bag Capacity2.0 bushels
WeightApprox. 65 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
  3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets; ensure secure fit.
  4. Install side discharge chute (if not mulching): Attach to deck opening with provided hardware.
  5. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick).
  6. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (no ethanol preferred).

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Keep hands clear of cutting blade. Do not add fuel indoors.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete pre-operation checks.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Check fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
  3. Inspect blade: Ensure blade is sharp and securely fastened.
  4. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (start at 3" for first mow).
  5. Test drive control: Engage lever to ensure wheels turn smoothly.
  6. Start engine: Pull recoil starter slowly until resistance, then briskly.

CAUTION! Operate only in well-ventilated areas. Keep children and pets away during startup.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Drive control lever, height adjustment lever, recoil starter, fuel cap, oil dipstick.

Starting Procedure:

  1. Check oil and fuel levels.
  2. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
  3. Set throttle to FAST position.
  4. Pull recoil starter briskly.
  5. Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds.

Stopping: Release drive lever, move throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop.

Drive Control: Squeeze lever against handle to engage self-propelled drive; release to stop.

Cutting & Height Adjustment

3-in-1 cutting options: Mulching, bagging, side discharge.

  1. Mulching: Install mulch plug; cut grass into fine clippings.
  2. Bagging: Attach grass bag; collect clippings.
  3. Side Discharge: Install chute; eject clippings to side.
  4. Height Adjustment: Move single lever to one of 6 positions.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes by 2 inches for even cut.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck oil, inspect blade, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil, check air filter
Every seasonSharpen/replace blade, clean underside of deck
StorageDrain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug, remove blade, sharpen at 30-degree angle, balance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

  1. Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer and run engine 5 minutes.
  2. Change engine oil.
  3. Clean deck, wheels, and undercarriage thoroughly.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon oil, pull starter slowly to coat cylinder.
  5. Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors. Keep away from open flames.

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before operation.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause severe injury. Always ensure blade has stopped before crossing driveways or adjusting mower.

Warranty & Support

Murray 96012007200 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, contact Murray Customer Service at 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com. Have model number (96012007200) and serial number ready.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old gas, clogged air filterAdd fresh fuel; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performanceDull blade, low engine speedSharpen/replace blade; set throttle to FAST.
Self-propelled drive not workingDrive belt loose or wornCheck belt tension; replace if worn.
Excessive vibrationLoose blade, debris in deckTighten blade bolt; clean underside of deck.
Engine stalls during operationDirty fuel system, clogged carburetorClean fuel tank and carburetor; use fuel stabilizer.

Spark Plug: Gap 0.030", replace annually.

Service: 1-800-800-7310; www.murray.com

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