YARDMAX YG1550 21-inch 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower Instruction Manual

Introduction

The YARDMAX 21-inch 2-in-1 high-rear-wheel walk-behind manual push mower is designed for efficient lawn care. Its light and compact design facilitates easy maneuvering in tight spaces and is suitable for smaller lawns. Powered by a 170cc OHV Yardmax engine, this mower offers robust performance. Key features include seven cutting positions adjustable via a single lever, 7-inch front and 11-inch rear ball-bearing wheels for smooth mobility, and a durable 16-gauge seamless stamped steel deck. The mower can be compactly folded for convenient storage, requiring only limited assembly.

Key Features:

• Single-lever deck adjustment for quick height changes.
• MAXFlow Deck Technology with volute spiral deck design for improved airflow and mulching.
• Heavy-duty, 16-gauge stamped steel deck for durability and reduced vibration.
• Seven cutting heights ranging from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches.
• Double-ball-bearing wheels for effortless mowing.
• Adjustable 3-position handle height.
• Folds for space-saving storage.
• 7-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels for enhanced stability and control.
• Minimal assembly required.

Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when operating power equipment. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

General Safety Rules

• Read the entire instruction manual before operating the mower.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy footwear.
• Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from all moving parts.
• Ensure children and pets are kept a safe distance from the operating area.
• Never operate the mower in wet grass or adverse weather conditions.
• Always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance or clearing blockages.

Fuel Safety

• Store fuel in an approved container in a cool, well-ventilated area.
• Never refuel the mower while the engine is running or hot. Allow it to cool down.
• Avoid spilling fuel. If spilled, wipe it up immediately and do not start the engine until fumes have dissipated.
• Do not smoke or use open flames near fuel or the mower.

What's in the Box

Your YARDMAX YG1550 mower typically includes the following components:

• Mower Deck with Engine
• Upper and Lower Handle Sections
• Handle Knobs and Bolts
• Side Discharge Chute
• Engine Oil (often a small bottle for initial fill)
• Owner's Manual

Setup & Assembly

1. Handle Assembly

Unfold the handle sections and align the holes. Secure the upper and lower handle sections using the provided knobs and bolts. Ensure all cables are routed correctly and not pinched. The handle features a 3-position adjustable height for user comfort.

Image: YARDMAX YG1550 Lawn Mower with handle assembled, ready for use.

2. Adding Engine Oil

Locate the oil fill cap on the engine. Remove the cap and carefully pour the recommended engine oil (typically SAE 30W for initial fill) into the oil reservoir. Do not overfill. Check the oil level using the dipstick. Refer to the engine manufacturer's instructions for specific oil type and capacity.

Image: Top view of the YARDMAX YG1550 engine, showing the oil fill cap and air filter cover.

3. Adding Fuel

Ensure the engine is cool before adding fuel. Remove the fuel cap and fill the tank with fresh, unleaded gasoline. Do not use E85 or fuel with more than 10% ethanol. Replace the fuel cap securely.

4. Attaching Side Discharge Chute (Optional)

If using the side discharge function, lift the side discharge cover and slide the chute into place. Ensure it is securely attached.

5. Adjusting Cutting Height

The YARDMAX YG1550 features a single-lever deck adjustment. Locate the lever on the side of the mower deck. Pull the lever outwards and move it to the desired cutting height position. There are seven cutting heights available, from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. Ensure all wheels are set to the same height for an even cut.

Image: Side view of the YARDMAX YG1550, highlighting the single-lever cutting height adjustment mechanism.

Operating Instructions

1. Starting the Engine

• Ensure the fuel tank is filled and the oil level is correct.
• Push the primer bulb (if equipped) 3-5 times until fuel is visible.
• Hold the control bar against the handle.
• Pull the starter cord firmly and smoothly until the engine starts.

2. Mowing Techniques

The YARDMAX YG1550 offers 2-in-1 functionality: mulching and side discharge.

• Mulching: For mulching, ensure the side discharge chute is removed and the mulching plug (if included) is installed. This recycles grass clippings back into the lawn as fertilizer.
• Side Discharge: For side discharge, attach the side discharge chute. This expels clippings out the side of the mower.

Mow in overlapping rows for an even cut. For best results, avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time.

Image: Front view of the YARDMAX YG1550 in operation, demonstrating its cutting width.

3. Stopping the Mower

To stop the engine and blade, simply release the control bar. The blade will stop within three seconds for safety.

4. Maneuvering

The light and compact design, combined with 7-inch front and 11-inch rear ball-bearing wheels, makes the YG1550 easy to maneuver, especially in tighter spaces and over varied terrain. The wide 1.5-inch treads on the wheels provide stability and control.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your mower.

1. Blade Care and Replacement

A sharp blade is crucial for a clean cut. Inspect the blade regularly for dullness or damage. Blade replacement is quick and easy, typically taking only a few minutes. Always wear heavy-duty gloves when handling the blade and ensure the spark plug wire is disconnected.

Image: Underside view of the YARDMAX YG1550 mower deck, showing the cutting blade and MAXFlow volute spiral design.

2. Engine Maintenance

• Oil Change: Change the engine oil after the first 5 hours of operation, then every 25 hours or annually, whichever comes first.
• Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially in dusty conditions, to ensure proper engine performance.
• Spark Plug: Inspect and clean the spark plug annually. Replace if worn or fouled.

3. Cleaning and Storage

After each use, clean grass clippings from the underside of the deck. For long-term storage, drain the fuel or add a fuel stabilizer, clean the mower thoroughly, and store it in a dry, protected area. The mower's handle folds for space-saving storage.

Image: Rear view of the YARDMAX YG1550, showcasing its high rear wheels for improved stability.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your YARDMAX YG1550 lawn mower.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or to order replacement parts, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official YARDMAX website. Keep your purchase receipt and model number (YG1550) handy when contacting support.