Murray SELECT 309000x8NA Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray SELECT 309000x8NA is a walk-behind, self-propelled gasoline lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment, rear-wheel drive, and easy-start system. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure optimal performance and user safety.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before assembly and operation. Failure to follow warnings can result in serious injury or death.

General Safety Rules: Clear mowing area of objects. Wear sturdy footwear and eye protection. Do not mow wet grass. Never leave mower unattended with engine running. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts from carton. Verify contents against parts list. Assembly requires basic tools (included: adjustable wrench, screwdriver).

1. Handle Assembly: Attach upper and lower handle sections using provided bolts, washers, and knobs. Tighten securely.
2. Install Bagging System: Attach rear grass bag to deck mounts. Ensure bag is fully seated and retention clip is engaged.
3. Attach Side-Discharge Chute: If using side discharge, slide chute into deck opening and secure with wing nut.
4. Add Engine Oil: Engine is shipped without oil. Add SAE 30 detergent oil (approx. 20 oz.) to fill line on dipstick.
5. Add Gasoline: Use fresh, unleaded gasoline. Fill tank to approximately 1 inch below filler neck.

WARNING! Do not add gasoline while engine is hot or running. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

Controls and Features

Key components and their functions.

Specifications

• Model: Murray SELECT 309000x8NA
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 550e Series, 140cc, OHV
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Height: 6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches
• Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
• Drive System: Self-propelled, rear-wheel drive
• Speed Settings: Single speed forward
• Grass Collection: 2.1 bushel rear bag
• Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
• Weight (Approx.): 65 lbs
• Fuel Capacity: 0.95 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz. (SAE 30)

Before First Use

Complete these steps before starting the engine for the first time.

1. Check Oil Level: Ensure oil is at the full mark on the dipstick.
2. Check Tire Pressure: Inflate all tires to 15 PSI.
3. Inspect Blade: Ensure cutting blade is sharp, undamaged, and securely fastened.
4. Select Operation Mode: Decide on mulching, bagging, or side discharge and configure deck accordingly.
5. Clear Mowing Area: Remove stones, sticks, toys, and other debris from lawn.

CAUTION! A new engine requires a break-in period. Avoid extended full-throttle operation for the first 5 hours of use.

Operating Instructions

Steps for safe and effective mowing.

1. Starting the Engine:
   • Move throttle control to FAST position.
   • Prime engine by pressing primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
   • Hold blade control handle against upper handle.
   • Pull recoil starter handle briskly.
2. Engaging Drive: With engine running, squeeze drive control lever to the upper handle to engage self-propelled drive. Mower will move forward.
3. Mowing: Walk at a steady pace behind the mower. Overlap each pass by a few inches for even cutting.
4. Stopping: Release drive control lever to stop forward motion. Release blade control handle to stop engine and blade.
5. Emptying Bag: Stop engine. Lift rear flap to empty grass clippings. Ensure bag is reattached securely before resuming.

WARNING! Always mow across slopes, never up and down. Be extra cautious when changing direction on a slope.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust the cutting height to match grass conditions (e.g., higher in summer heat, lower for a manicured look).

1. Stop engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2. Locate the single height adjustment lever on the right side of the deck.
3. Pull lever outward and move to the desired position (1-6).
4. Release lever to lock into place.
5. Verify all wheels are at the same height by checking the deck is level.

NOTE: Do not set cutting height below 1.5 inches as this may scalp the lawn and damage the mower.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and reliable operation.

CAUTION! Always disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance, especially blade-related work.

Storage & Winterization

Proper preparation for off-season storage prevents fuel system problems and corrosion.

1. Fuel System:
   • Option A: Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine for 5 minutes to circulate, then run carburetor dry.
   • Option B: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor.
2. Engine: Change oil while engine is warm. Clean cylinder: Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter rope slowly to distribute, reinstall plug.
3. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the mower, especially the underside of the deck. Allow to dry completely.
4. Blade: Sharpen blade and coat with light oil to prevent rust.
5. Storage: Store in a clean, dry place. Cover mower to keep dust off.

WARNING! Never store the mower with fuel in the tank indoors or in an enclosed area where fumes could accumulate.

Troubleshooting

Warranty Information

The Murray SELECT 309000x8NA Lawn Mower is covered by a limited warranty. Please retain your dated sales receipt.

• Residential Use Warranty: 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase.
• What is Covered: Repair or replacement of defective parts in materials or workmanship.
• What is Not Covered: Normal wear items (blades, belts, cables), damage from misuse, neglect, accident, improper maintenance, or commercial use.
• To Obtain Service: Contact Murray Customer Service or an authorized service center. Have your model and serial numbers ready (located on the engine housing and deck label).
• Customer Service: 1-800-XXX-XXXX | www.murray.com

NOTE: This manual supersedes all previous editions. Specifications subject to change without notice.