Husqvarna Lawn Mower LC221RH Manual

The Husqvarna LC221RH is a 21-inch self-propelled rotary lawn mower featuring a 160cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 cutting system (mulch, bag, side discharge), 7-position single-lever height adjustment, rear-wheel drive with variable speed control, electric start capability, and durable steel deck. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting System Setup 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 21-inch steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton 160cc engine, rear bagger, mulch plug, side discharge chute, 7-position height adjustment lever, variable speed drive control, electric start with key, and safety blade brake system.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	21-inch steel deck
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 160cc 4-cycle
Drive System	Rear-wheel self-propelled with variable speed
Starting System	Recoil and electric start (battery included)
Cutting Height	7 positions (1.5" to 4")
Cutting Options	Mulch, bag, side discharge
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank	1.0 gallon capacity
Weight	Approximately 75 lbs
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, operator presence control

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts.
Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with retainer clips.
Attach grass bag: Connect bagger frame to rear deck hooks.
Install battery: For electric start models, connect battery cables (red to positive, black to negative).
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (20 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Always wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly, then prepare for first use.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3" for first mow).
Select cutting mode: Install mulch plug, bagger, or side discharge chute.
Test safety features: Verify blade stops within 3 seconds when handle is released.

CAUTION! Never operate without proper oil level. Keep area clear of bystanders during initial start.

Specifications

Model: LC221RH
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 160cc 4-cycle OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height: 1.5" - 4" (7 positions)
Drive: Rear-wheel self-propelled, variable speed (0-3 mph)
Starting: Dual (recoil & 12V electric)
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Fuel Capacity: 1.0 gallon
Oil Capacity: 20 oz SAE 30
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control lever, blade engagement lever, height adjustment lever, electric start key switch.

Operation Steps:

Prime engine: Press primer bulb 3 times for cold start.
Set choke: Move to FULL position for cold start.
Start engine: Turn key to START (electric) or pull recoil cord.
Engage blade: Pull blade control lever against handle.
Engage drive: Squeeze drive control lever to move forward.
Adjust speed: Variable speed control on handle.

Safety: Always release both levers to stop blade and drive immediately.

Cutting System Setup

3-in-1 system allows quick conversion between modes.

Mulching: Install mulch plug completely. Ensure deck underside is clean.
Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear hooks. Ensure bag is empty and vents clear.
Side Discharge: Install discharge chute securely. Direct chute away from people and objects.

Tip: For best results, never cut more than 1/3 of grass height at one time.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change oil, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Every season	Sharpen/replace blade, clean underside of deck, lubricate wheels
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, remove battery for electric start models

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Safety Features

Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blade within 3 seconds when control lever is released. Operator Presence Control: Engine stops if operator leaves position. Safety Labels: Read and understand all warning labels on mower.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage (especially winter).

Clean thoroughly: Remove all grass and debris from deck and engine.
Fuel treatment: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes, OR drain tank completely.
Oil change: Replace oil at end of season.
Battery: Remove and store in cool, dry place (charge monthly).
Storage location: Store in dry, covered area away from moisture.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline degrades over time.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna LC221RH includes 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: Normal wear, improper maintenance, commercial use, or damage from abuse. For warranty service, contact authorized Husqvarna dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, spark plug	Check fuel level; use fresh gasoline; inspect/clean spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blade; check throttle setting.
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, wrong height setting	Inflate tires equally; adjust cutting height level.
Self-propel not working	Drive cable loose, debris in drive	Adjust drive cable tension; clean drive mechanism.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose parts	Stop immediately! Check blade balance and tightness; inspect for damage.

Reset: For electric start models, check battery connection and charge.

Service: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com