1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Scheppach MS173-51 Petrol Lawn Mower. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine to ensure proper use and to prevent injury or damage.
Figure 1: Scheppach MS173-51 Petrol Lawn Mower
2. Safety Instructions
Always prioritize safety when operating power equipment. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or property damage.
- Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with all controls and proper use before starting the engine.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy footwear. Long pants are recommended.
- Clear the Area: Before mowing, remove all objects such as rocks, sticks, wires, or other debris that could be thrown by the blade.
- Fuel Handling: Handle petrol with extreme care. It is highly flammable. Refuel outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from sparks or open flames. Do not smoke while refueling.
- Engine Off: Always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance, cleaning, or clearing blockages.
- Slope Operation: Exercise extreme caution when operating on slopes. Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down. Avoid excessively steep slopes.
- Children and Bystanders: Keep children and bystanders away from the mowing area.
- Blade Safety: The blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after the engine is switched off. Do not touch the blade until it has come to a complete stop.
3. Product Overview and Features
The Scheppach MS173-51 is a versatile petrol lawn mower designed for efficient lawn care. It offers multiple functions to suit various mowing needs.
- Powerful 4-Stroke Petrol Engine: Provides reliable performance for various grass conditions.
- 51 cm Cutting Width: Ideal for medium to large-sized lawns.
- Professional Gearbox: Ensures high torque, strong performance, and long service life.
- Integrated Cleaning Function: Features a water connection for easy deck cleaning.
- Robust 65 L Grass Catcher: Collects clippings efficiently, reducing emptying frequency.
- Foldable Handle: Allows for easy and space-saving storage or transport.
- High Torque: Facilitates comfortable operation even in tall grass.
- Wheel Drive: Simplifies mowing, especially on larger areas or slopes.
- Central Cutting Height Adjustment: 7 stages from 25 mm to 75 mm for precise control.
Figure 2: The mower offers 6-in-1 functionality including mowing, catching, mulching, side discharge, cleaning function, and wheel drive.
Figure 3: Visual examples of mowing, catching, and mulching operations.
Figure 4: Overview of recommended lawn area (up to 1600 m²), cutting height range (25-75 mm), 65L grass box capacity, and Easy Clean feature.
4. Setup and Assembly
The Scheppach MS173-51 is designed for straightforward assembly. Follow these steps for initial setup:
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure all parts are present according to the packing list.
- Handle Assembly: Unfold the handle and secure it in the operating position. The foldable handle design allows for quick setup and compact storage.
- Grass Catcher Assembly: Assemble the grass catcher according to the instructions and attach it securely to the mower.
- Fluid Levels: Before first use, fill the engine with the appropriate engine oil and petrol. Refer to the engine manual for specific oil type and capacity.
- Side Discharge Chute (Optional): If using the side discharge function, easily mount the side discharge chute as needed.
Figure 5: The side discharge chute can be easily mounted or dismounted as required.
Figure 6: The foldable handle allows for space-saving storage and easy transport of the lawn mower.
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps for safe and effective operation of your lawn mower.
5.1 Starting the Engine
- Ensure the fuel tank is filled with fresh petrol and the oil level is correct.
- Set the choke lever (if applicable) to the 'START' position.
- Pull the starter cord firmly until the engine starts.
- Once started, gradually move the choke lever to the 'RUN' position.
Figure 7: The mower features a 173 cm³ engine with 4.1 PS power and a reliable pull-cord start system.
5.2 Adjusting Cutting Height
The central cutting height adjustment allows you to easily select one of 7 positions.
- Ensure the engine is off before adjusting the cutting height.
- Locate the central height adjustment lever, typically near one of the rear wheels.
- Pull the lever outwards and move it to the desired height setting (25 mm to 75 mm).
- Release the lever to lock it into position. Ensure all wheels are set to the same height.
Figure 8: The central cutting height adjustment is performed in 7 stages from 25-75 mm.
5.3 Mowing Techniques
The MS173-51 supports various mowing modes:
- Collecting: Attach the 65L grass catcher for collecting clippings. Empty the bag regularly to maintain optimal performance.
- Mulching: The mulching function finely chops grass clippings and returns them to the lawn as natural fertilizer. Ensure the mulching plug is inserted.
- Side Discharge: For areas where collecting or mulching is not desired, attach the side discharge chute to eject clippings to the side.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your lawn mower.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean the mower deck to prevent grass buildup. The integrated cleaning function with water connection makes this easy.
- Blade Inspection: Regularly inspect the blade for sharpness and damage. A dull or damaged blade can affect cutting quality and mower performance.
- Oil Change: Follow the engine manufacturer's recommendations for oil change intervals.
- Air Filter: Check and clean the air filter regularly, especially in dusty conditions. Replace if damaged.
- Spark Plug: Inspect and clean the spark plug periodically. Replace if worn.
- Storage: When storing the mower for extended periods, ensure the fuel tank is empty or treated with a fuel stabilizer. Clean the mower thoroughly and store in a dry, protected area.
Figure 9: The Easy Clean function allows for quick and convenient cleaning of the mower deck using a standard water hose connection.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For more complex problems, consult a qualified service technician.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine does not start | No fuel; old fuel; spark plug issue; air filter clogged | Check fuel level; use fresh fuel; inspect/clean/replace spark plug; clean/replace air filter |
| Mower cuts unevenly | Dull or bent blade; incorrect cutting height setting; uneven terrain | Sharpen or replace blade; ensure all wheels are at same height; adjust mowing pattern for terrain |
| Excessive vibration | Bent blade; loose components; engine imbalance | Inspect and replace blade if bent; check all fasteners; consult service technician |
| Engine loses power | Clogged air filter; dirty spark plug; low oil level; old fuel | Clean/replace air filter; clean/replace spark plug; check oil level; use fresh fuel |
8. Specifications
Technical data for the Scheppach MS173-51 Petrol Lawn Mower.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | MS173-51 |
| Manufacturer | Scheppach |
| Power Source | Petrol Powered |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Item Weight | 36.45 Kilograms |
| Cutting Width | 51 Centimeters |
| Number of Cutting Positions | 7 |
| Cutting Height Range | 25 - 75 mm |
| Grass Catcher Capacity | 65 Liters |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 164 x 56 x 113 cm |
| GTIN | 04046664081890 |
9. Warranty and Support
Scheppach products are manufactured with high-quality materials and undergo strict quality control. For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Scheppach website. For technical support or spare parts, please contact Scheppach customer service or an authorized service center.
You can find more information and contact details on the official Scheppach website: www.scheppach.com
