Murray F-98526 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray F-98526 is a 21-inch push lawn mower featuring a 6.75 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge capabilities, single-lever height adjustment for all four wheels, durable steel deck, easy-start system, and a 2-bushel rear bag. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. 3-in-1 Function Setup 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.75 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, single-lever height adjustment, 3-in-1 function (mulch/bag/side discharge), 2-bushel rear bag, easy-start system, and durable 10-inch rear wheels.

FeatureDescription
Engine6.75 HP Briggs & Stratton, 4-cycle, overhead valve
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting DeckDurable steel construction
Height AdjustmentSingle-lever, 6 positions (1.5" to 3.75")
3-in-1 FunctionMulching, bagging, and side discharge
Rear Bag2-bushel capacity, easy-empty design
Wheels10-inch rear, 8-inch front
Starting SystemRecoil start with primer bulb
Fuel Tank1-quart capacity
WeightApproximately 65 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach handle: Insert lower handle into deck brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles, secure with retainer clips.
  3. Attach height adjustment lever: Connect to deck bracket, ensure smooth operation.
  4. Install grass bag: Hang bag frame on rear deck hooks, attach bag to frame.
  5. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 motor oil (check dipstick for proper level).
  6. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (do not overfill).

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

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

  1. Read manual thoroughly before operation.
  2. Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and debris.
  3. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and eye protection.
  4. Never mow wet grass or in poor visibility.
  5. Keep children and pets away from mowing area.
  6. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug before maintenance.
  7. Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause severe injury. Keep hands and feet away from deck at all times.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Engine throttle, drive control bar, height adjustment lever.

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 cord firmly.

Stopping Procedure:

  1. Release drive control bar to stop blade.
  2. Move throttle to STOP position.
  3. Wait for blade to completely stop.

Operating Tips: Mow at steady pace, overlap passes slightly for even cut.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

  1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
  2. Pull height adjustment lever toward wheel.
  3. Move lever to desired position (1-6).
  4. Release lever to lock in place.
  5. Check all wheels are at same height.

Recommended Heights: 2.5" for normal lawns, 3" during hot/dry conditions, 1.5" for final fall mowing.

3-in-1 Function Setup

Configure for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

  1. Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge opening.
  2. Bagging: Remove mulch plug, attach grass bag.
  3. Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bag, attach discharge chute.

Note: Always stop engine before changing configuration. Ensure all attachments are secure.

Maintenance Schedule

MaintenanceFrequencyProcedure
Check oil levelBefore each useUse dipstick, add SAE 30 if low
Clean underside of deckAfter each useScrape with putty knife (engine off)
Check blade sharpnessEvery 25 hoursSharpen or replace dull blade
Change oilEvery 50 hoursDrain old oil, refill with fresh SAE 30
Replace air filterEvery 100 hoursRemove old filter, install new
Replace spark plugEvery 100 hoursInstall new Champion RC12YC plug

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage extends mower life.

  1. Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside.
  2. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
  3. Change oil if near due for change.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon oil to cylinder, pull starter cord twice, reinstall plug.
  5. Store in dry, covered area.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Store in approved container away from heat sources.

Warranty Information

Murray F-98526 comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or commercial use. 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 gasoline, clogged air filterAdd fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old gasolineReplace air filter, drain and add fresh fuel
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen or replace blade, check tire pressure
VibrationLoose blade, bent bladeTighten blade bolt (59-79 ft-lbs), replace bent blade
Bag not fillingWet grass, deck cloggedMow when grass is dry, clean underside of deck
Wheels not turningDebris in wheel hubsClean wheel axles, lubricate with light oil

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

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