Murray SELECT 425001x8A Lawn Mower Manual

The Murray SELECT 425001x8A is a 21-inch self-propelled gas lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton 550EXi engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (6 positions), rear-wheel drive, and a durable steel deck. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.

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 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton 550EXi engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, rear bagger, mulch plug, side discharge chute, single-lever height adjuster, self-propelled drive system, and recoil start.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton 550EXi, 140cc, OHV
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting Options3-in-1: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Drive SystemRear-wheel self-propelled
Height AdjustmentSingle lever, 6 positions (1.5-3.75 inches)
Deck MaterialDurable steel
Fuel Tank Capacity0.95 quarts (0.9 liters)
Starter TypeRecoil
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front
WeightApproximately 65 lbs (29.5 kg)

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage. Assembly requires basic tools (included: wrench).

  1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
  3. Attach grass bag: Slide bag frame onto rear deck hooks; ensure secure fit.
  4. Install side discharge chute (if not mulching): Snap into place on right side of deck.
  5. Insert mulch plug (for mulching): Place into rear discharge opening.
  6. Check wheel height: Adjust lever to desired setting.

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

First-Time Setup

Before first use, perform initial setup for safe operation.

  1. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 detergent oil (approx. 20 oz). Check dipstick.
  2. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum). Do not overfill.
  3. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 15 PSI if necessary.
  4. Inspect blade: Ensure it is sharp and securely fastened.
  5. Test controls: Verify drive engagement lever and height adjuster work smoothly.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot or running. Work in well-ventilated area.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Main controls located on handle. Front Panel: Engine ON/OFF switch, Recoil starter grip, Drive engagement lever, Height adjustment lever.

Operation Steps:

  1. Check oil and fuel levels.
  2. Set cutting height via single lever.
  3. Select cutting mode (bag, mulch, side discharge).
  4. Pull recoil starter cord to start engine.
  5. To engage self-propelled drive, squeeze lever against handle.
  6. Release drive lever to stop movement; engine remains running.
  7. To stop engine, move ON/OFF switch to OFF position.

Tip: Always mow across slopes, not up and down, for stability.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels simultaneously.

  1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
  2. Pull height adjustment lever toward wheel.
  3. Move lever to desired position (1-6, lowest to highest).
  4. Release lever; ensure it locks into place.
  5. Check that all wheels are at same height.

Recommended: For first mow of season, set to highest setting; gradually lower.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends mower life.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil (or annually)
Every seasonReplace air filter, spark plug
As neededSharpen or replace blade, check tire pressure
End of seasonDrain fuel or add stabilizer, clean underside of deck

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Run engine to burn off remaining fuel in carburetor, or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Change oil if due.
  3. Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter cord slowly, reinstall plug.
  5. Store in dry, covered area, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety rules before operation.

DANGER! Blade rotates at high speed; keep hands and feet away from deck at all times.

Warranty & Support

Murray SELECT 425001x8A comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized Murray service center with proof of purchase.

For support, visit www.murray.com or contact customer service at 1-800-800-7310.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old fuel, spark plug wire disconnected, choke not setAdd fresh fuel; check spark plug connection; set choke to START.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old fuel, clogged carburetorReplace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gas; clean carburetor.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressure, deck cloggedSharpen or replace blade; inflate tires evenly; clean deck underside.
Self-propelled drive not engagingDrive cable loose or broken, drive belt wornAdjust or replace drive cable; inspect and replace drive belt if necessary.
Excessive vibrationLoose or damaged blade, debris stuck in bladeStop engine, disconnect spark plug, tighten or replace blade; remove debris.

Reset: For engine safety switch issues, ensure all controls are in proper start position.

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

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