Owners Manual for Husqvarna LC221A Lawn Mower

The Husqvarna LC221A is a 21-inch self-propelled gas lawn mower featuring a 160cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 cutting system (mulch/bag/side discharge), single-lever height adjustment, rear-wheel drive, and Smart Start technology for easy starting. 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 deck, Briggs & Stratton 160cc engine, rear-wheel drive system, 3-in-1 cutting system, height adjustment lever, foldable handle, grass collection bag.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton 160cc, OHV, easy-start technology
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting Height1.5 to 4 inches, 7 positions
Drive SystemRear-wheel self-propelled, single-speed
Cutting System3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge)
Deck MaterialSteel with corrosion-resistant coating
StarterRecoil start with Smart Start technology
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank0.5 gallon capacity
HandleFoldable with ergonomic grips

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach handle: Insert lower handle sections into deck brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, secure with provided hardware.
  3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets, ensure secure attachment.
  4. Install side discharge chute: If using side discharge, attach to deck opening.
  5. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick for proper level).
  6. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane).

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely before operation.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly, then prepare for first use.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Add fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
  3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3 inches for first mow).
  4. Select cutting mode: Install mulch plug, bag, or side discharge chute as needed.
  5. Start engine: Pull recoil starter slowly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly.
  6. Test drive: Engage drive control lever and walk behind mower to test operation.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot. Allow engine to cool for 5 minutes.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Main controls located on handle. Engine controls on engine housing.

Handle Controls: Drive control lever (squeeze to engage), height adjustment lever, bag handle.

Engine Controls: Throttle control (FAST/SLOW/STOP), primer bulb, choke control, recoil starter.

Starting Procedure: 1. Move throttle to FAST position. 2. Press primer bulb 3 times. 3. Pull starter cord briskly. 4. Adjust throttle as needed.

Stopping: Move throttle to STOP position. Wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving mower.

Cutting System Setup

Three cutting options available:

  1. Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge opening. Grass clippings are cut finely and returned to lawn.
  2. Bagging: Attach grass collection bag to rear brackets. Empty bag when full indicator shows.
  3. Side Discharge: Install side discharge chute. Use for tall or wet grass conditions.

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.

Maintenance TaskFrequency
Check oil levelBefore each use
Clean under deckAfter each use
Check air filterEvery 25 hours
Change oilFirst 5 hours, then every 50 hours
Replace spark plugEvery 100 hours
Sharpen bladeEvery 25 hours or when dull
Check drive beltEvery 50 hours
Lubricate wheelsEvery 100 hours

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Safety Features

Blade brake system: Blade stops within 3 seconds when drive control is released. Safety key: Must be inserted to start engine. Guarded discharge openings: Prevent contact with moving blade.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage (especially winter).

  1. Drain fuel: Run engine until fuel tank is empty, or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Change oil: Replace with fresh oil before storage.
  3. Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings from deck and undercarriage.
  4. Remove spark plug: Add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter cord slowly.
  5. Store indoors: Keep in dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna LC221A comes with 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 accidents. For warranty service, contact authorized Husqvarna dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, bad spark plug, clogged air filterCheck fuel level; clean/replace spark plug; clean air filter.
Engine runs poorlyOld fuel, dirty carburetorDrain old fuel; clean carburetor; use fresh gasoline.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure (12 PSI).
Self-propel not workingDrive belt loose or brokenAdjust or replace drive belt; check drive control cable.
Excessive vibrationLoose blade, bent blade shaftTighten blade bolt; check for bent blade or shaft.
Grass not dischargingWet grass, clogged deckWait for grass to dry; clean under deck; raise cutting height.

Reset: For safety system issues, ensure safety key is properly inserted and drive control is fully engaged.

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

Owners Manual for Husqvarna LC221A Lawn Mower © - All Rights Reserved 2025