Murray EM2045 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray EM2045 is a 20-inch 4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine push lawn mower with a 3-in-1 cutting system (mulch, bag, side discharge), 6-position single-lever height adjustment, durable steel deck, easy-start engine, and large rear wheels for enhanced maneuverability. It features a 2.1 bushel grass bag, washout port for easy cleaning, and a fold-down handle for compact storage. 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 System Setup 7. Maintenance Schedule 9. Safety Features 10. Care & Storage 11. Warranty Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 20-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 cutting system, single-lever height adjustment, fold-down handle, washout port, rear grass bag.

FeatureDescription
Engine4.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, 125cc, easy-start system
Cutting Width20-inch steel deck
Cutting System3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge)
Height AdjustmentSingle-lever, 6 positions (1.25" to 3.75")
Grass Bag2.1 bushel capacity, easy-empty design
Washout PortFor easy deck cleaning after use
HandleFold-down for compact storage
WheelsLarge 8-inch rear wheels for better traction
StarterRecoil pull-start
Fuel Tank1-quart capacity

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach the handle: Align lower handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install the grass bag: Attach bag support brackets to rear deck, hook bag onto brackets.
  3. Attach side discharge chute (if not pre-installed): Slide into side port, secure with provided pin.
  4. Install mulch plug (for mulching): Insert into rear discharge opening.
  5. Check wheel height: Ensure all wheels are set to same position using adjustment lever.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely before operation.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete final preparations.

  1. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 detergent oil (approx. 20 oz). Check dipstick for correct level.
  2. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher). Do not overfill.
  3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 2.5" for first mow).
  4. Select cutting mode: Install mulch plug, bag, or attach side discharge chute as needed.
  5. Start engine: Pull recoil starter firmly. Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot. Operate outdoors only.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Engine throttle control, recoil starter, height adjustment lever, blade control bail.

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 firmly until engine starts.
  5. To engage blade: Hold blade control bail against handle.

Stopping: Release blade control bail, move throttle to STOP position.

Height Adjustment: Move single lever to desired position (1-6). Ensure all wheels lock at same height.

Cutting System Setup

Configure for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

  1. Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge opening. Ensure side discharge chute is removed.
  2. Bagging: Remove mulch plug. Attach grass bag to rear brackets.
  3. Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bag. Install side discharge chute.

Tip: For best mulching results, mow when grass is dry and cut no more than 1/3 of blade height.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil (or annually)
Every seasonReplace air filter, spark plug
As neededSharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck
End of seasonDrain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly, store properly

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug wire. Remove blade, sharpen at 30-degree angle, balance before reinstalling.

Safety Features

Blade control bail: Blade stops within 3 seconds of release. Engine kill switch: Stops engine when bail is released. Safety labels: Read and follow all warnings on mower.

Important: Always wear sturdy shoes and eye protection. Keep hands and feet away from cutting deck. Never operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Care & Storage

Clean after each use. Use washout port to rinse deck underside (run engine with water). Dry thoroughly.

Winter Storage:

  1. Drain fuel or add stabilizer and run engine 2 minutes.
  2. Change oil.
  3. Remove spark plug, add 1 oz oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
  4. Clean entire mower, store in dry place.
  5. Fold handle down to save space.

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

Warranty Information

Murray EM2045 comes with 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 Murray customer service at 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old gas, clogged filterAdd fresh fuel, check fuel line, clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old spark plugClean air filter, replace spark plug.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen or replace blade, check tire pressure.
VibrationLoose blade, bent bladeTighten blade bolt (59-65 ft-lbs), replace if bent.
Grass not dischargingWet grass, clogged deckMow when dry, clean underside of deck.
Loss of powerDirty deck, old oilClean deck, change oil.

Service: For technical support, call 1-800-800-7310 or visit www.murray.com.

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