Murray MXH550 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray MXH550 is a 21-inch, 190cc gas-powered push lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (1.5-3.75 inches), durable steel deck, easy-start system, washout port for cleaning, and large rear wheels for maneuverability. 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 Deck Functions 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 190cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, single-lever height adjuster, rear bagger, mulching plug, washout port, and recoil starter.

FeatureDescription
Engine190cc Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle, OHV
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting HeightSingle-lever adjustment (1.5" to 3.75")
Deck MaterialDurable powder-coated steel
Capability3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side-Discharge)
StarterRecoil with Easy-Start technology
WheelsLarge 8-inch rear wheels for traction
Fuel Tank1.1-quart capacity
Oil TypeSAE 30 (summer) / 5W-30 (winter)
Washout PortFor easy deck cleaning after use

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install grass bag: Attach bagger frame to rear deck hooks, then clip bag onto frame.
  3. Attach mulching plug: If using mulch function, insert plug into discharge chute.
  4. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick). Add fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).

WARNING! Always wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

Safety Precautions

Read all safety instructions before operating.

  1. Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and debris.
  2. Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
  3. Never operate without guards or safety devices in place.
  4. Do not mow on steep slopes or wet grass.
  5. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
  6. Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors, with engine off and cool.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control bar (must be held to propel), throttle lever, primer bulb, recoil starter.

Starting Procedure:

  1. Check oil and fuel levels.
  2. Move throttle to FAST position.
  3. Press primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
  4. Pull recoil starter firmly.

Stopping: Release drive bar, move throttle to STOP. For emergency stop, release all controls.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Use single lever near each wheel to adjust cutting height.

  1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
  2. Move lever to desired height setting (1-8).
  3. Adjust all wheels to same setting for even cut.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting. Never remove more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

3-in-1 Deck Functions

Configure deck for desired grass disposal method.

  1. Mulching: Install mulching plug. Cuts clippings finely and returns to lawn.
  2. Bagging: Attach grass bag. Collects clippings for disposal.
  3. Side-Discharge: Remove plug and bag. Discharges clippings to side (use deflector).

WARNING! Always ensure proper configuration is secured before operation.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck oil level, inspect blade, clear deck
Every 25 hoursChange oil, check air filter, sharpen blade
Every seasonReplace spark plug, clean fuel system
As neededClean underside of deck, check wheel bolts

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

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for long-term storage (especially winter).

  1. Run engine to warm oil, then drain and refill with fresh oil.
  2. Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine 5 minutes to circulate.
  3. Clean deck thoroughly using washout port.
  4. Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank untreated. Drain or stabilize to prevent gum formation.

Warranty Information

Murray MXH550 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized Murray service center. For support, visit www.murray.com or call 1-800-800-7310.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old gas, clogged filterCheck fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs poorlyDirty spark plug, stale fuelClean/replace spark plug; drain and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure.
Excessive vibrationLoose blade, debris in deckTighten blade bolt; clean underside of deck.
Mower won't propelDrive cable loose, worn beltAdjust drive cable tension; inspect drive belt.

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

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