Murray EQ2-300 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray EQ2-300 is a 21-inch 3-in-1 push lawn mower featuring a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-position height adjustment, rear bagging, side discharge, and mulching capabilities. It includes a durable steel deck, easy-start system, and ergonomic handle with single-point height adjustment. 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 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 functionality (bag/mulch/side discharge), single-lever height adjustment, rear grass bag, and fold-down handle.

Feature	Description
Engine	140cc Briggs & Stratton 450E series, 4-cycle
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Height	6 positions (1.25" to 3.75")
Deck Material	Powder-coated steel
Discharge Options	Rear bagging, side discharge, mulching
Starting System	Recoil start with primer bulb
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Handle	Ergonomic, foldable for storage
Bag Capacity	1.9 bushels (fabric bag with hard frame)
Weight	Approx. 57 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and wing nuts.
Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with retainer clips.
Attach grass bag: Hang bag frame on rear deck hooks; attach fabric bag to frame.
Install discharge chute: For side discharge, attach chute to deck opening.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (approx. 20 oz) – check dipstick.
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Keep hands and feet clear of cutting blade during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete final checks and safety inspection.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Inspect blade: Verify blade is sharp, balanced, and securely fastened.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired height (middle setting recommended for first mow).
Prime engine: Press primer bulb 3 times for cold starts.
Start engine: Pull recoil starter firmly.
Test operation: Engage blade control and mow a small test area.

CAUTION! Always mow in clear daylight conditions. Keep children and pets away from mowing area.

Specifications

Model: Murray EQ2-300
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 450E, 140cc, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 6 positions (1.25" - 3.75")
Deck: 21-inch steel, powder-coated
Discharge: 3-in-1 (bag, mulch, side discharge)
Bag Capacity: 1.9 bushels
Wheels: 8" rear, 7" front
Weight: 57 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Blade control lever (must be held to engage cutting blade), drive control lever (self-propelled models only), height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Check oil and fuel. 2. Prime engine (cold starts). 3. Set throttle to FAST. 4. Pull recoil starter firmly. Stopping: Release blade control lever; engine will stop. Move throttle to STOP position.

Height Adjustment: Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously. Select from 6 positions. Blade Control: Must be held against handle to keep blade engaged. Safety feature stops blade when released.

Cutting & Discharge Options

3-in-1 system allows quick conversion between bagging, mulching, and side discharge.

Bagging: Install rear bag; ensures clean lawn collection.
Mulching: Install mulching plug (blocks discharge chute); cuts clippings finely for natural fertilizer.
Side Discharge: Install discharge chute; for tall or wet grass.

Tip: For best results, never cut more than 1/3 of grass height at one time. Keep blade sharp.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly

Blade Sharpening: Remove blade; maintain original angle. Balance blade before reinstalling.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents corrosion and starting issues.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside.
Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer and run engine 2 minutes.
Change oil if near service interval.
Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors. Allow engine to cool completely before storing.

Regulatory Information

EPA Certified: Engine meets EPA emission standards. CARB Compliant: For sale in California. Safety Standards: Meets ANSI B71.1-2017 specifications. Copyright © Murray LLC. For support, visit www.murray.com or contact 1-800-269-6215.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, stale fuel, clogged air filter	Check fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty spark plug, old fuel	Clean/replace spark plug; drain and refill with fresh fuel.
Uneven cut	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade.
Bag not filling	Wet grass, clogged deck	Mow when grass is dry; clean deck underside.

Safety Recall Info: Check www.murray.com/recalls for any safety notices.

Service: 1-800-269-6215; www.murray.com