Murray PRO 164891 96016001500 Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray PRO 164891 (96016001500) is a walk-behind gas-powered lawn mower designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, single-lever height adjustment, 2-in-1 side discharge/mulching capability, rear bagger, and easy-start technology. 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 Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, single-lever height adjustment, rear bagger, 2-in-1 discharge system, recoil start.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting DeckSteel construction with reinforced edges
Height AdjustmentSingle-lever, 6 positions (1.5-3.75 inches)
Discharge OptionsSide discharge or mulching (mulching plug included)
Grass CollectionRear bagger with 2.1 bushel capacity
Starting SystemRecoil start with easy-pull technology
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front plastic wheels
HandleFoldable with cushioned grip
Fuel Tank0.95 quart capacity

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with push nuts or washers.
  3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets; ensure secure attachment.
  4. Install mulching plug (if using): Insert into side discharge chute.
  5. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (20 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Do not add fuel indoors or near ignition sources. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete assembly and perform pre-operation checks.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
  3. Inspect blade: Ensure cutting blade is sharp and securely fastened.
  4. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (middle setting recommended).
  5. Test start: Pull recoil starter slowly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly.

CAUTION! Never operate mower without proper oil level. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Handle controls: Recoil starter grip, drive control bail, height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure:

  1. Check oil and fuel levels.
  2. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
  3. Set throttle control to FAST position.
  4. Pull recoil starter briskly.
  5. To engage blade, press and hold drive control bail against handle.

Stopping: Release drive control bail to stop blade. Move throttle to STOP position.

Operating Tips: Mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes slightly for even cut. Clear area of debris before mowing.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment controls all four wheels simultaneously.

  1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
  2. Pull height adjustment lever outward and move to desired position.
  3. Release lever to lock in position.
  4. Positions range from 1.5" (lowest) to 3.75" (highest).

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

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance TaskFrequency
Check oil levelBefore each use
Check blade sharpness/balanceEvery 25 hours
Replace air filterEvery season or 25 hours
Replace spark plugEvery season or 100 hours
Change oilFirst 5 hours, then every 50 hours
Clean under deckAfter each use
Lubricate wheelsEvery 25 hours
Check all bolts/nutsMonthly

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug wire. Remove blade, sharpen at original angle (40°), balance before reinstalling.

Storage Guidelines

End-of-season storage preparation:

  1. Run engine to burn remaining fuel or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Change oil and replace air filter.
  3. Clean entire mower, especially under deck.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly, reinstall plug.
  5. Store in clean, dry place, covered if possible.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation.

Safety Information

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause severe injury. Always follow safety rules:

Warranty & Support

Murray PRO mowers come with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance.

Registration: Register your product online at www.murray.com/register within 30 days of purchase.

Customer Support: For parts, service, or questions:

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old fuel, clogged air filter, spark plug issueAdd fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check/replace spark plug
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old fuel, water in fuelClean air filter, drain fuel tank and add fresh fuel
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressure, deck cloggedSharpen blade, check tire pressure, clean under deck
Excessive vibrationLoose blade, bent blade, debris in blade areaTighten blade bolts, replace bent blade, clean deck
Grass not dischargingWet grass, deck clogged, engine speed too lowMow when dry, clean deck, operate at full throttle
Wheels not turningDebris in wheel hubs, axle damageClean wheel hubs, inspect axles for damage

For Service: Contact authorized Murray service center. Always reference model number 164891 (96016001500).

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