Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Murray EQ500X Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine to ensure proper use and to prevent injury or damage.
The Murray EQ500X is a 46 cm self-propelled petrol lawn mower equipped with a reliable Briggs & Stratton 575EX Series 140 cm³ engine. It offers 4-in-1 functionality: collecting, rear discharge, side discharge, and mulching.
Safety Information
Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Keep children and bystanders away from the operating area. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy footwear.
General Safety Rules:
- Read the entire manual before operating the mower.
- Never operate the mower without the grass catcher or discharge guard in place.
- Do not operate the mower in wet grass or rain.
- Always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before cleaning, servicing, or unclogging the chute.
- Refuel outdoors only, and do not smoke while refueling.
- Store fuel in an approved container in a cool, well-ventilated area.
Assembly and Setup
Your Murray EQ500X lawn mower requires some assembly before first use. Follow these steps carefully.
Unpacking:
- Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
- Check for any damage during shipping. Contact your dealer if any parts are damaged or missing.
- Retain packaging materials until you are satisfied with the product.
Handle Assembly:
Attach the upper handle to the lower handle using the provided bolts and knobs. Ensure the handle is securely fastened and comfortable for operation. The handle has 3 adjustment positions.
Image: The Murray EQ500X lawn mower with its handle fully extended and assembled, ready for use. This view shows the ergonomic soft grip handle and the overall profile of the mower.
Adding Engine Oil:
The engine is shipped without oil. Before starting, add 0.5 liters of SAE30 4-stroke engine oil (not included). Locate the oil fill cap/dipstick on the engine. Fill slowly to the 'FULL' mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill.
Adding Fuel:
Fill the fuel tank with fresh, clean unleaded petrol. The fuel tank capacity is 0.8 liters. Do not overfill. Always refuel in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.
Image: A close-up view of the Briggs & Stratton 575EX Series engine on the Murray EQ500X lawn mower, showing the oil fill cap and fuel tank cap. This engine is known for its reliability and ease of starting.
Attaching the Grass Catcher:
Lift the rear discharge flap and hook the grass catcher onto the mower chassis. Ensure it is securely attached to prevent grass clippings from escaping.
Image: The Murray EQ500X lawn mower with the 60-liter grass catcher attached to the rear, demonstrating its collection capability. The catcher is designed for easy removal and emptying.
Operating Instructions
Starting the Engine:
- Ensure the spark plug wire is securely connected.
- Push the primer bulb (if equipped) 3-5 times.
- Hold the operator presence control bar against the handle.
- Pull the starter rope with a brisk, continuous motion until the engine starts.
Adjusting Cutting Height:
The cutting height can be centrally adjusted to 6 positions, ranging from 28 mm to 92 mm. Locate the single-point lever near the wheels and move it to the desired height setting.
Image: A detailed view of the cutting height adjustment lever on the Murray EQ500X, showing its ergonomic design and the range of height settings available. This allows for quick and easy adjustment of the cutting deck.
Engaging Self-Propel:
To engage the self-propel function, squeeze the drive control bar against the handle. Release the bar to disengage the drive.
Mowing Tips:
- Mow dry grass for best results.
- Overlap cutting swaths slightly to ensure even coverage.
- Do not attempt to cut too much grass at once; adjust height accordingly.
- For mulching, ensure the mulch plug is inserted and the grass catcher is removed.
- For side discharge, attach the side discharge chute and remove the grass catcher.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your lawn mower.
After Each Use:
- Clean the underside of the cutting deck to prevent grass buildup. The mower features a wash port for easy cleaning.
- Empty the grass catcher.
- Inspect the blade for sharpness and damage.
Image: The underside of the Murray EQ500X lawn mower deck, showing the cutting blade and the robust steel construction. Regular cleaning of this area is crucial for efficient mowing.
Engine Maintenance:
- Oil Change: Change engine oil after the first 5 hours of operation, then every 25 hours or annually.
- Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially in dusty conditions.
- Spark Plug: Inspect and clean the spark plug annually. Replace if necessary.
Blade Care:
A sharp blade is essential for a clean cut. Sharpen or replace the blade as needed. Always balance the blade after sharpening to prevent vibration.
Storage:
Before storing for extended periods, drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer. Clean the mower thoroughly and store it in a dry, protected area.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | No fuel; Spark plug wire loose; Stale fuel; Clogged fuel filter; Dirty spark plug | Add fresh fuel; Connect wire; Drain and refill with fresh fuel; Clean/replace filter; Clean/replace spark plug |
| Mower cuts unevenly | Dull or bent blade; Uneven tire pressure; Wheels not set to same height | Sharpen/replace blade; Check and adjust tire pressure; Adjust all wheels to same height setting |
| Excessive vibration | Bent or unbalanced blade; Loose engine bolts | Replace/balance blade; Tighten engine bolts |
| Self-propel not engaging | Drive belt loose or broken; Drive cable stretched | Inspect/replace drive belt; Adjust or replace drive cable |
If problems persist after attempting these solutions, please contact an authorized service center.
Specifications
| Model Number | 2691474 |
| Engine Brand | Briggs & Stratton |
| Engine Series | 575EX Series™ |
| Engine Displacement | 140 cm³ |
| Starting System | Recoil with ReadyStart™ |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0.8 Liters |
| Oil Capacity | 0.47 Liters |
| Drive System | Self-Propelled, Single Speed |
| Ground Speed | 3.6 km/h |
| Cutting Width | 46 cm (18 inches) |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Discharge Options | Rear Discharge / Collecting / Mulching / Side Discharge |
| Height of Cut Range | 28 - 92 mm |
| Height of Cut Positions | 6 |
| Height of Cut Adjustment | Single Point Lever |
| Blade Type | High Lift |
| Traction | Rear wheels |
| Front Wheels | 18 cm |
| Rear Wheels | 28 cm |
| Bearing Type (Front/Rear) | Metal Bushing / Ball Bearing |
| Handle Grip | Ergonomic Soft Grip |
| Handle Adjustment Range | 3 Positions |
| Bag Type | Soft |
| Bag Volume | 60 Liters |
| Mulch Plug | Standard |
| Wash Port | Standard |
| Product Dimensions | 92 x 54.5 x 51.5 cm |
| Item Weight | 32 Kilograms |
| UPC | 047282138298 |
Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Warranty and Support
The Murray EQ500X lawn mower comes with a 2-year customer warranty. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and maintenance.
For warranty claims, technical support, or to locate an authorized service center, please contact your dealer or visit the official Murray website. All Murray petrol lawn mowers are supported by the extensive Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer network.
When contacting support, please have your model number (EQ500X) and manufacturer part number (2691474) ready.
