Murray E20M42 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray E20M42 is a 20-inch, 4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine-powered push lawn mower with a 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side-discharge system, 6-position cutting height adjustment, durable steel deck, easy-start engine, and ergonomic handle with soft-grip. Designed for residential lawns up to 1/2 acre. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 20-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 system (mulch/bag/side-discharge), 6-position height adjustment, rear bag with indicator, ergonomic handle.

Assembly Instructions

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

1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided 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.
4. Install side-discharge chute (if not pre-installed).
5. Check wheel installation; ensure all are secure.
6. Add engine oil (SAE 30) to full mark on dipstick.
7. Add unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Do not add gasoline during assembly. Keep away from sparks or flames.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete pre-operation checks.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
2. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (max 10% ethanol).
3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3" for first mow).
4. Select discharge mode: Install mulch plug, bag, or side chute.
5. Start engine: Pull recoil starter firmly.
6. Test operation: Engage blade control, mow a small area.

CAUTION! Never run engine indoors. Ensure all safety guards are in place.

Specifications

• Model: Murray E20M42
• Engine: 4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, 125cc, 4-cycle
• Cutting Width: 20 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5" to 3.75" (6 positions)
• Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
• Discharge Options: Mulch, bag (2.1 bu), side-discharge
• Wheels: 8" rear, 7" front
• Fuel Capacity: 1 quart
• Oil Type: SAE 30 (20 oz capacity)
• Weight: 55 lbs (approx.)

Controls and Settings

Handle Controls: Blade control lever (must be held to engage blade), throttle control (FAST/SLOW), recoil starter grip.

Deck Controls: Single-lever height adjustment (positions 1-6), discharge mode selector (mulch plug/bag/chute).

Engine: Primer bulb (3 presses for cold start), choke lever (cold start), fuel shut-off valve. Safety: Blade control must be held; release stops blade within 3 seconds. Handle: Height adjustable, foldable for storage.

Operating the Mower

Starting, mowing, stopping procedures.

1. Pre-start: Check oil, fuel; clear mowing area of debris.
2. Starting: Move throttle to FAST, press primer 3x (cold), pull recoil firmly.
3. Engage blade: Hold blade control lever against handle.
4. Mowing: Walk at steady pace; overlap passes slightly.
5. Stopping: Release blade control; move throttle to STOP.
6. Shut-off: Close fuel valve if storing over 30 days.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Avoid mowing in extreme heat.

Cutting & Discharge Options

3-in-1 system: mulch, bag, side-discharge.

1. Mulching: Install mulch plug; cut grass finely returns to lawn.
2. Bagging: Attach rear bag; empty when indicator shows full.
3. Side-discharge: Install chute; direct clippings to side.
4. Height adjustment: Use lever to raise/lower deck (1.5"-3.75").
5. Cutting pattern: Mow in straight lines, alternate direction weekly.

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing discharge mode. Keep hands and feet away from chute.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and performance.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

1. Clean: Remove grass clippings from deck, wheels, engine.
2. Fuel: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer.
3. Oil: Change oil if near 25-hour interval.
4. Blade: Sharpen and balance; consider removal for storage.
5. Store: In dry, covered area; fold handle if space is limited.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank over 30 days without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions in manual.

• Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, long pants.
• Clear area of sticks, stones, toys before mowing.
• Never remove safety devices or guards.
• Do not mow on steep slopes (over 15 degrees).
• Keep children and pets away during operation.
• Stop engine before unclogging or adjusting.
• Use only original Murray replacement parts.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause severe injury. Always disconnect spark plug before servicing.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Murray service center or call 1-800-269-6215.

Parts: Visit www.murrayparts.com or contact dealer with model E20M42.