Murray Parklander 2690997 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray Parklander 2690997 is a 21-inch push lawn mower featuring a 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge capability, 6-position single-lever height adjustment, durable steel deck, easy-start system, and rear-wheel drive. 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. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, rear bagger, mulching plug, side discharge chute, 6-position height adjustment lever, and rear-wheel drive system.

FeatureDescription
Engine159cc Briggs & Stratton 450E Series, OHV
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting Options3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge)
Height AdjustmentSingle-lever, 6 positions (1.25" - 3.75")
Drive SystemRear-wheel drive
Deck MaterialPowder-coated steel
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Starting SystemRecoil start
Fuel Tank Capacity0.95 quarts (0.9 liters)
WeightApproximately 65 lbs

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 washers.
  2. Install wheels: Insert axle through wheel hubs and deck brackets, secure with retaining clips.
  3. Attach upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs securely.
  4. Install grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets, ensure secure attachment.
  5. Add mulching plug: Insert into rear discharge opening when mulching.
  6. Check oil: Engine comes pre-filled; verify level is between marks on dipstick.

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

Safety Precautions

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and other objects that could be thrown.
  2. Never operate without proper guards, plates, or grass bag in place.
  3. Do not mow wet grass or in poor lighting conditions.
  4. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades and discharge area.
  5. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.
  6. Never allow children to operate mower.

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

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control bar, height adjustment lever, engine control (stop) cable.

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 handle firmly.

Stopping: Release drive control bar, move throttle to STOP, wait for blades to stop.

Operation Tips: Mow at steady pace, overlap passes slightly for even cut. Avoid cutting more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment controls all four wheels simultaneously.

  1. Stop engine and ensure blades are not rotating.
  2. Pull lever toward wheel to disengage lock.
  3. Move lever to desired height position (1-6).
  4. Release lever to lock in position.
  5. Test adjustment by pushing mower to ensure even cutting height.

Recommended Settings: Position 3 (2.5") for normal conditions, higher for uneven terrain.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Maintenance TaskFrequency
Check engine oil levelBefore each use
Clean underside of deckAfter each use
Check blade sharpness/balanceEvery 25 hours
Replace air filterEvery 50 hours
Change engine oilEvery 50 hours or season
Replace spark plugEvery 100 hours
Lubricate wheel bearingsEvery season
Check drive belt tensionEvery 50 hours

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

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and ensures easy starting next season.

  1. Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer to full tank.
  2. Run engine for 5 minutes to circulate stabilized fuel.
  3. Change oil while engine is warm.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
  5. Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
  6. Store in dry, covered area, protected from elements.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank in enclosed area due to fire risk.

Warranty Information

Murray Parklander 2690997 comes with 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Murray service center. Keep this manual and receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old gasoline, clogged filterCheck fuel level, use fresh gas, clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old fuelReplace air filter, drain and refill with fresh gasoline.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen/balance blade, check tire pressure (20 PSI).
Excessive vibrationLoose blade, bent bladeTighten blade bolt (55-65 ft-lbs), replace bent blade.
Loss of powerClogged deck, dirty filterClean underside of deck, replace air filter.
Wheels not turningDrive belt loose/brokenAdjust or replace drive belt.
Grass not dischargingWet grass, clogged chuteMow when grass is dry, clean discharge chute.

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

Murray Parklander 2690997 Lawn Mower Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025