STIGA MCS 474 Pedestrian Controlled Lawnmower Instruction Manual
- June 4, 2024
- STIGA
Table of Contents
- STIGA MCS 474 Pedestrian Controlled Lawnmower
- SAFETY REGULATIONS
- GETTING TO KNOW THE MACHINE
- Intended us
- IDENTIFICATION LABEL AND MACHINE COMPONENTS
- DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS INDICATED ON THE CONTROLS
- OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
- GRASS CUTTING
- ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
- STORAGE
- DIAGNOSTICS
- EC Declaration of Conformity
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
STIGA MCS 474 Pedestrian Controlled Lawnmower
SAFETY REGULATIONS
please follow meticulously
TRAINING
- WARNING! Read these instructions carefully before op-erating the machine. Become acquainted with the controls and the proper use of the machine. Learn how to stop the engine quickly. Failure to follow the warnings and instruc-tions may result in fire and/or serious injury. Save all warn-ings and instructions for future reference.
- Never allow children or persons unfamiliar with these in-structions to use the machine. Local laws can restrict the minimum age of the operator.
- Never use the lawnmower while people, especially chil-dren, or pets are nearby.
- Never use the machine if the user is tired or unwell, or has taken medicine, drugs, alcohol or any substances which may slow his reflexes and compromise his judge-ment.
- Bear in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or unexpected events occurring to other people or their property. It is the user’s responsibility to assess the potential risk of the area where work is to be carried out, and to take all the necessary precautions to ensure his own safety and that of others, particularly on slopes or rough, slippery and unstable ground.
- If the machine is sold or lent to others, make sure that the operator looks over the user instructions contained in this manual.
PRELIMINARY OPERATIONS
- While using the machine, always wear anti-slip and re-sistant work footwear and long pants. Do not operate the machine when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Avoid wearing chains, bracelets, clothing that is loose fitting or has hanging cords or ties. Tie hair back if it is long. Always wear protective earplugs.
- Thoroughly inspect the entire work area and remove anything that could be thrown by the machine or damage the cutting unit or engine (stones, branches, iron wire, bones, etc.).
- WARNING: DANGER! Petrol is highly flammable.
- Store the fuel in special containers;
- Add fuel, using a funnel, only outdoors; do not smoke during this operation and each time fuel is handled;
- Top-up with fuel before igniting the engine; never remove the tank cap or add fuel while the engine is running or when it is hot;
- If you have spilled some fuel, do not attempt to ignite the engine but move the machine away from the area of spill-age and avoid creating any source of ignition until the fuel has evaporated and fuel vapours have dissipated:
- Always put the tank and fuel container caps back on and tighten well;
- Replace faulty silencers.
- Before using the machine, check its general condition and in particular:
- the appearance of the cutting means, and check that the screws and cutting unit are not worn or damaged. Replace the entire cutting means and all damaged or worn screws to preserve balance. Any repairs must be done at a specialised centre
- don’t force the safety lever as it must move freely; it should return automatically and rapidly back to the neutral position, resulting in the stopping of the cutting means
- Check the battery status regularly (where applicable). Replace it if there is any damage to the casing, cover or terminals.
- Before starting work, always fit the exit guards (grass catcher, side discharge guard or rear discharge guard).
DURING USE
- Do not operate the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can develop. All igni-tion operations have to be effected in an open or well-venti-lated area. Always remember that exhaust fumes are toxic.
- Work only in daylight or with good artificial light in good visibility conditions. Keep persons, children and animals away from the working area.
- If possible, avoid mowing wet grass. Avoid working in the rain and when there is a thunderstorm risk. Do not use the machine in bad weather conditions, especially when there is risk of lightening.
- Make sure you have a steady foothold on slopes.
- Never run, always walk. Do not allow the lawnmower to pull you along.
- Pay special attention when approaching obstacles that could compromise visibility.
- Always mow across a slope and never up and down it, being very careful when changing direction that the wheels do not hit any obstacles (such as stones, branches, roots, etc.) that may cause the machine to slide sideways or make you lose control of it.
- The machine must not be used on slopes of over 20°, re-gardless of the mowing direction.
- Be extremely careful when pulling the lawnmower toward you. Look behind you to make sure there are no obstacles before and during operations in reverse gear.
- Immobilise the cutting means if the lawnmower must be inclined for transport, when moving over surfaces other than grass and when the lawnmower is transported from or to an area that must be cut.
- Pay attention to traffic when using the machine near roads.
- Never operate the machine with damaged guards or without the grass catcher, side discharge guards or rear discharge guards.
- Be very careful near ravines, ditches or embankments.
- Ignite the engine carefully following the instructions, keeping feet away from the cutting means.
- Do not incline the lawnmower during ignition. Ignite the machine on a flat surface without obstacles or high grass.
- Never place your hands and feet near or under rotating parts. Keep away from the discharge opening.
- Do not lift or transport the lawnmower when the engine is running.
- Do not tamper with or disable safety systems.
- Do not change the engine settings or over-rev the en-gine.
- Do not touch the engine parts as they get very hot when running. Danger of burns.
- On power-driven models, disengage the wheel drive before igniting the engine.
- Use manufacturer-recommended attachments only.
- Don’t use the machine if the attachments/tools are not installed in their seats.
- Disengage the cutting means, switch off the engine and unplug the spark plug cable (making sure that all moving parts are stationary):
- When transporting the machine;
- Whenever you leave the machine unattended; also re-move the key on models with electric ignition systems;
- Before clearing blockages or unclogging the discharge chute;
- Before checking, cleaning or working on the machine;
- After striking a foreign object. Inspect the machine for damage and make repairs before using it again.
- Disengage the cutting means and switch off the engine:
- Before refuelling;
- Whenever you remove or reattach the grass catcher;
- Whenever you remove or reattach the side discharge chute;
- Before adjusting the cutting height, if this operation can not be performed from the driving seat.
- When working, always keep a safe distance from the rotary cutting means, given by the length of the handle.
- Reduce the throttle setting before stopping the engine. Shut off the fuel supply on completing the work, following the instructions in the engine manual.
- WARNING – If something breaks or an accident occurs whilst working, turn off the engine immediately and move the machine away to prevent further damage; if an accident occurs with injuries or third parties are injured, carry out the first aid measures most suitable for the situation immedi-ately and contact the medical authorities for any necessary health care. Carefully remove any debris that might cause damage or harm persons or animals should it not be seen.
- WARNING – The noise and vibration levels shown in these instructions are the maximum levels for use of the machine. The use of an unbalanced cutting means, the excessive speed of movement, or the absence of mainte-nance have a significant influence on noise emissions and vibrations. Consequently, it is necessary to take preven-tive steps to eliminate possible damage due to high levels of noise and stress from vibration. Maintain the machine well, wear ear protection devices, and take breaks while working.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
- WARNING! – Before cleaning or doing maintenance work, disconnect the spark plug cable and read the relevant instructions. Wear proper clothing and protective gloves whenever your hands are at risk.
- WARNING! – Never use the machine with worn or dam-aged parts. Faulty or worn-out parts must always be re-placed and not repaired. Only use original spare parts: The use of non-original and/or incorrectly fitted parts will jeop-ardize the safety of the machine, may cause accidents or personal injuries for which the Manufacturer is under no circumstance liable or responsible.
- Any adjustments or maintenance operations not de-scribed in this manual must be carried out by your Dealer or a specialized Service Centre with the necessary knowl-edge and equipment to ensure that the work is done cor-rectly maintaining the machine’s original safety level. Any operations performed in unauthorized centres or by un-qualified persons will totally invalidate the Warranty and all obligations and responsibilities of the Manufacturer.
- After each use, disconnect the spark plug cable and check for damage.
- Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the ma-chine is in safe working condition. Routine maintenance is essential for safety and for maintaining a high perform-ance level.
- Check that the cutting means screws are properly tight-ened on a regular basis.
- Wear work gloves when handling, disassembling and re-assembling all cutting means.
- Keep the cutting means well balanced during sharpen-ing. All work on the cutting means (disassembly, sharpen-ing, balancing, reassembly and/or replacing) are demand-ing jobs that require special skills as well as special tools. For safety reasons, these jobs are best carried out at a specialised centre.
- Be careful during adjustment of the machine to prevent entrapment of the fingers between moving parts of the cut-ting means and fixed parts of the machine.
- Do not touch the cutting means until the spark plug ca-ble has been disconnected and the cutting means is com-pletely stationary. When servicing the cutting means, bear in mind that, even though the spark plug cable is discon-nected, the cutting means can still move.
- Check the side discharge guard, the rear discharge guard and the grass catcher frequently. Replace them if they are damaged.
- Replace any instruction or warning message stickers, if damaged.
- Store the machine out of the reach of children.
- Do not store the machine with fuel in the tank in an area where the fuel vapours could reach an open flame, a spark or a strong heat source.
- Allow the engine to cool down before storing in any en-closure.
- To reduce fire hazards, keep the engine, silencer, bat-tery compartment and petrol storage area free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease. Always empty the grass catcher and do not leave containers full of cut grass inside storage areas.
- To reduce fire hazards, check there are no oil and/or fuel leaks on a regular basis.
- If the fuel tank has to be emptied, this should be done outdoors once the engine has cooled down.
TRANSPORTATION AND HANDLING
- Whenever the machine is to be handled, lifted, transport-ed or tilted you must:
- Wear sturdy work gloves;
- Grasp the machine at the points that offer a safe grip, taking into account the weight and relative distribution of the same
- Use an appropriate number of people for the weight of the machine and the characteristics of the vehicle or the place where it must be placed or collected
- Make sure that machine movements do not cause petrol leaks, damage or injuries.
- During transport, fasten the machine securely with ca-bles or chains.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
- Environmental protection should be a priority of consid-erable importance when using the machine, for the benefit of both social coexistence and the environment in which we live. Try not to cause any disturbance to the surround-ing area.
- Scrupulously comply with local regulations and provi-sions for the disposal of packaging, oils, petrol, filters, dam-aged parts or any elements which have a strong impact on the environment; this waste must not be disposed of as normal waste, it must be separated and taken to specified waste disposal centres where the material will be recycled.
- Scrupulously comply with local regulations for the dis-posal of waste materials after mowing.
- When decommissioning, do not pollute the environment with the machine, but hand it over to a disposal centre, in accordance with the local laws in force
GETTING TO KNOW THE MACHINE
MACHINE DESCRIPTION AND SCOPE OF APPLICATION
- This machine is a garden tool and precisely a pedestrian-controlled lawnmower.
- The machine is essentially composed of an engine which drives a cutting means enclosed in a casing, equipped with wheels and a handle.
- The operator is able to operate the machine and use the main controls, always staying behind the handle at a safe distance from the rotating cutting means. If the operator leaves the machine, the engine and cutting means will stop within a few seconds.
Intended us
This machine was designed and manufactured for cutting grass in gardens and grassy areas, in areas in proportion to its cutting capacity, done by a pedestrian operator. This machine can:
- mow, chop and deposit the grass on the ground (mulching effect);
- mow the grass and discharge it sideways (for suitably equipped machines).
User types
This machine is intended for use by consumers, i.e. non-professional
operators. The machine is intended for “DIY” use only.
Improper use
Any other usage not in keeping with the above-mentioned ones may be
hazardous and harm persons and/or dam-age things. Examples of improper
use may include, but are not limited to:
- transporting persons, children or animals on the ma-chine;
- letting oneself be transported by the machine;
- using the machine to tow or push loads;
- using the machine to trim hedges, or for cutting vegeta-tion other than grass;
- use of the machine by more than one person;
- using the cutting means on surfaces other than grass.
IDENTIFICATION LABEL AND MACHINE COMPONENTS
- 1 Acoustic power level
- 2 Conformity marking
- 3 Year of manufacture
- 4 Type of lawnmower
- 5 Serial number
- 6 Name and address of Manufacturer
- 7 Article Code
- 8 Engine-rated power and maximum operating speed
- 9 Weight in kg
- 11 Chassis
- 12 Engine
- 13 Cutting means
- 14a. Side discharge chute (if provided)
- 14b. Side discharge guard (if provided)
- 15 Handle
- 16 Variable speed drive
- 17 Engine brake lever/cutting means
- 18 Drive engagement lever
As soon as you have purchased the machine, do not forget to write the identification numbers (3 – 4 – 5) in the spaces on the last page of the manual. The example of the Declaration of Conformity is provided on the penultimate page of the manual.
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS INDICATED ON THE CONTROLS
- 21. Slow
- 22. Fast
- 23. Choke
- 24. Engine stop
- 25. Drive on
- 26. Idle
- 27. Engine ignition
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS – Your lawnmower should be used with due care and attention. Therefore, pictograms have been placed on various parts of the machine to remind you of the main precautions to be taken. Their meaning is explained below. You are also asked to carefully read the safety regulations in the specific chapter of this manual. Replace damaged or illegible labels.
- 41. Warning: Read the instruction handbook before using the machine.
- 42. Risk of thrown objects. Keep all persons away from the work area whilst mowing.
- 43. Danger of cutting yourself. Cutting means in motion. Do not put hands or feet near or under the opening of the cutting means housing. Disconnect the spark plug cap and read the instructions before carrying out any maintenance or repairs.
- 46. Danger of cutting yourself. Cutting means. Do not put hands or feet near or under the opening of the cutting means.
- 47. Beware of hot surfaces!
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
For information on the engine and the battery (if supplied), read the relevant
owner manuals.
NOTE – The number which precedes each paragraph links the references in
the text to the respective illustrations (listed on page iii and following
pages).
COMPLETE ASSEMBLY
NOTE The machine can be supplied with some parts already assembled.
WARNING! Unpacking and completing the assembly should be done on a flat
and stable surface, with enough space for moving the machine and its
packaging, always making use of suitable equipment. Disposal of the packaging
should be done in accordance with the local regulations in force.
Assembling the handle
Battery connection
- Electric push-button ignition models
- Insert the supplied battery in the relative engine compartment (par. 3.2b, “II - “III”).
CONTROLS DESCRIPTION
NOTE The meanings of the symbols on controls are explained in the previous pages.
2.2 Engine brake lever/cutting means
- The cutting means brake is controlled by the lever (1) which must be held against the handle during ignition and during lawnmower operations.
- The engine stops when the lever is released.
2.3 Drive lever (where applicable)
- On power-driven models, push the lever (1) toward the handle for forward movement.
- The lawnmower stops moving forward when the lever is released.
- The engine must always be ignited with the drive disengaged.
WARNING! To prevent damage to the transmission, do not pull the machine backwards with the transmission engaged.
2.4 Converter control lever (if fitted)
In the models with drive systems, the converter control le-ver (if fitted) allows the operator to regulate forward gear speed. To do so, move the lever (1) following the indications provided near the control lever.
IMPORTANT The engine must be running and the drive engaged when switching
from one speed to another.
Do not touch the converter control when the engine is stopped. Doing this
could damage the converter.
NOTE If the machine does not move forward with the lever in the « » position, simply move the lever to « » and then immediately return to the « » position.
2.5 Cutting height adjustment
- The cutting height is adjusted by the levers (1).
- The four wheels must be adjusted to the same height. DO THIS WHEN THE CUTTING MEANS IS STATIONARY.
Cutting he
GRASS CUTTING
3.1a Preparation for mowing and mulching
On models with a side discharge: make sure that the side discharge guard (2) is lowered and blocked by the safety lever (1).
3.1b Preparation for mowing and side discharge of grass (if provided)
- Push the safety lever (1) slightly and lift the side discharge guard (2).
- Insert the side discharge chute (3) as shown in the figure.
- Close the side discharge guard (2) so that the side discharge chute (3) is locked in place.
To remove the side discharge chute:
- Push the safety lever (1) slightly and lift the side discharge guard (2).
- Release the side discharge chute (3).
3.2 Engine ignition
During ignition, follow the instructions in the engine manual.
Manual ignition models (“I”)
Pull the cutting means brake lever (1) against the handle and firmly tug the knob on the ignition cable (2).
3.2b
-
Electric push-button ignition models (“II – III”)
-
Insert the supplied battery in the relative engine compartment (4); (follow the instructions provided in the engine manual).
-
Insert the key as far as possible (if fitted) (5).
-
Pull the engine cutting means brake lever towards the handle (1).
NOTE Keep pulling the engine/cutting means brake or the engine will stop. -
Press and hold the starter button until the engine switches on (6).
-
3.3 Mowing the lawn
The appearance of the lawn will improve if you alternate cutting in both directions at the same height. A machine that is equipped with a MULCHING system cuts the grass, chops it then distributes it over the lawn. It is not necessary to collect the cut grass.
For best MULCHING results, proceed as follows:
- Never cut the grass too short. Only cut the grass by 1/3 of its height.
- Keep the body shell perfectly clean (underneath).
- Always use well-sharpened cutting means.
- Avoid mowing wet grass. It accumulates more easily under the body shell and the mowing performance decreases considerably.
Lawn care recommendations
Each type of grass has different characteristics and may thus require
different ways of caring for the lawn; always read the instructions on seed
boxes for mowing height for the growing conditions in the work area. Keep in
mind that most grass is made up of a stem and one or more leaves. If leaves
are fully cut, the lawn is damaged and growth is more difficult. The following
indications generally apply:
- cutting too low tears and uproots the grass, giving it a “spotted” appearance;
- in the summer, cutting must be higher to prevent the ground from drying;
- do not cut wet grass; this could reduce cutting means efficiency due to sticky grass and tear the lawn.
- for particularly high grass, initially mow at the maximum height allowed by the machine then mow again after two or three days.
3.4 When work is finished
When work has been completed, release the brake lever (1) and disconnect the spark plug cap (2).
- Electric push-button ignition models
Press the tab (5) and remove the consent key (4).
WAIT UNTIL THE CUTTING MEANS STOPS before proceeding any further.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
Store the lawnmower in a dry place.
IMPORTANT Routine and accurate maintenance, at least once a year, is
essential in maintaining original machine safety and performance levels.
Adjustments or maintenance operations must only be performed with the engine
switched off and the spark plug cable disconnected.
- Wear strong protective gloves before cleaning, maintaining or adjusting the machine.
- Accurately wash the machine with water after cutting; remove grass debris and mud accumulated in the chassis to prevent it from drying and causing problems the next time the lawnmower is used.
- Paint on internal chassis parts may start to flake over time due to the abrasive action of cut grass; if this happens, promptly touch up with rust-proof paint to prevent rusting that could corrode the metal.
- If accessing the lower part is necessary, only tilt the machine on the side indicated in the engine manual, following the relevant instructions, making sure that the machine is perfectly stable before performing any interventions.
- Do not drip petrol onto the plastic parts of the engine or the machine to prevent damaging them and remove all traces of spilled petrol immediately. The warranty does not cover damage to plastic parts caused by petrol.
- On models with AVS: If the handle vibrates unusually, check the anti-vibration sleeves and contact your Dealer.
- To ensure that the machine will function properly over time, it is highly recommended to change the engine oil regularly, following the timing indicated in the engine’s Instruction Manual.
The oil can be discharged at a specialized servicing center, or by using a syringe to suction the oil out through the filler spout, bearing in mind you may need to repeat the operation several times in order to completely empty the tank.
Remember to top up with oil before using the machine again.
4.1 Cutting means maintenance
- All interventions on the cutting means must be done at a specialised Centre that has the most appropriate tools and equipment.
- Only cutting means bearing the code indicated in the table on page vi must be used on this machine.
- Given product evolution, the above mentioned cutting means may be replaced in time with others having similar interchangeable and operating safety features.
4.2 Drive adjustment
-
Model 474:
On power-driven models, remove the guard (1) once or twice a year by unscrewing the screws (2); then clean carefully using a brush or compressed air, removing the grass and dirt from the area around the transmission and belt. Always reassemble the guard (1). -
Model 504:
On power-driven models, remove the guard (1) once or twice a year by unscrewing the screws (2) and releas-ing the fittings (3). Then clean carefully using a brush or compressed air, removing the grass and dirt from the area around the transmission and belt. Always reassem-ble the guard (1).
4.3 Battery recharging (where applicable)
- Electric push-button ignition models
Read the engine instruction manual for instructions re-garding autonomy, recharging, reinstating and mainte-nance of the battery.
4.4 Adjusting the converter cable (if fitted)
This adjustment is necessary when the lever (1) tends not to remain in the « » position. With the lever (1) in the « » position, turn the cable ad-juster (2) in the direction indicated by the arrow as needed to ensure the lever remains in position.
IMPORTANT
The adjustment must be made when the engine is off.
STORAGE
When the machine is to be stored away:
- Start the engine outdoors and leave it running at idle until it stops in order to consume all the fuel left in the carburettor;
- check the integrity of the machine;
- store the machine:
- in a dry place;
- protected from inclement weather;
- in a place out of children’s reach;
- making sure that keys or tools used for maintenance are removed.
DIAGNOSTICS
What to do if ….
Problem description| Corrective Action
1. The petrol-driven lawnmower doesn’t work
No oil or fuel in the engine| Check the oil and petrol
levels
The spark plug and filter
are not in good condition
| Clean the spark plug and filter which may be dirty or replace them
The lawnmower’s fuel tank was not emptied at the end of the previous season|
The float may be blocked; tilt the lawnmower on the carburetor side
2. Mowing is difficult
The cutting means is not in
good condition
| Have the cutting means
sharpened or replace it
3. The machine starts to vibrate abnormally
Damaged or loose parts| Stop the machine and disconnect the spark plug cable
Inspect for damage Check for and tighten any loose parts
Have all checks, repair work and replacements carried out by a specialized Centre only.
EC Declaration of Conformity
(Machine Directive 2006/42/EC, Annex II, part A)
-
The Company
-
Herby declares under its own responsibility that the machine:
Pedestrian-controlled lawn mower / Grass cutting- Type / Base Model
- Month / Year of manufacture
- Serial number
- Motor: petrol
-
Conforms to directive specifications:
- Certifying body
- EC examination of Type
-
Reference to harmonized Standards
- Sound power level measured
- Sound power level guaranteed
- Range of cut
- Person authorized to create the Technical Folder:
- Place and Date
The content and images in this User Manual were produced expressly for ST. S.p.A. and are protected by copyright – any unauthorized reproduction or modification to the document, either partially or in full, is prohibited.
ST. S.p.A.
Via del Lavoro, 6
31033 Castelfranco Veneto (TV) ITALY