BigDog BigDog Mowers X Diablo, Operator'S Manual

Page: 41 / 43

603742_1011 6-1
STORAGE
When storing the unit at the end of the mowing season, the
mower, engine, and battery should have the following items
serviced before storage.
If the mower has been stored for an extended period of time,
follow the new season preparation steps before beginning
operation.
General mower preparation for storage
1. Remove all grass, dirt, and trash from mower and cutting
units.
IMPORTANT: Wash the machine with a mild detergent
and water. Do not pressure wash the machine. Avoid
excessive use of water, especially near the control panel
and engine.
Clean mower and deck and touch up all scrapes with
touch-up paint.
2. Replace air filter element.
3. Check thoroughly for any worn or damaged parts that
need replacing and order them from your dealer.
4. Thoroughly lubricate machine, according to the Mainte-
nance section.
5. Block mower up so weight is off tires. Check tire pres-
sure and inflate to proper operating pressure.
NOTE: Do not deflate tires.
6. Store mower in a clean, dry place.
Preparation of engine for storage
When engine is to be unused for long periods, proceed as
follows:
1. Run engine for a minimum of 15 minutes.
2. Drain oil from crankcase while engine is still warm.
3. Refill with fresh oil of proper viscosity.
4. Drain fuel tank and run the engine until it stops from lack
of fuel. Gasoline evaporates if left in carburetor for long
periods, forming gum and varnish deposits in carburetor.
These deposits will cause engine flooding and loss of
power.
5. Remove and replace fuel filter if not done in previous
100 hours.
6. Remove spark plugs and pour a tablespoon of engine oil
into each spark plug hole, Install plugs, but do not recon-
nect plug leads.
7. Crank engine with starter at least a dozen revolutions to
distribute oil over cylinder walls and valve mechanism.
8. Clean exterior surface of engine. Spread a light film of oil
over any exposed metal surfaces of engine that are sub-
ject to corrosion.
9. Clean dirt and chaff from cylinders and fins, blower
housing and muffler.
10. Check oil filler cap and fuel tank caps to make certain
they are securely in place.
11. Refer to engine manual for more information.
Preparation of battery for storage
When the machine is to be unused for long periods, it is best
to disconnect the battery and remove it from the unit. At this
time perform the following battery maintenance:
1. Remove the battery from machine
2. Clean battery, terminals and cable connectors
3. Charge the battery, if necessary
4. Store battery in a cool, dry place (do not expose to freez-
ing temperatures)
5. Always keep the battery fully charged. (Especially
important to prevent battery damage when the tempera-
ture is below 32°F (0°C).
New season preparation
Before starting the mower following post season storage, the
following servicing is required:
1. Clean mower, removing trash and dirt accumulation.
2. Check engine oil, hydraulic oil and coolant levels.
3. Fill fuel tanks with fresh fuel. Prime fuel system as out-
lined in
Fuel system section. Run machine at half speed
for 5 minutes, checking operation of steering control
lever. Stop engine and check for oil leaks, loose fittings
and so forth.
4. Tighten any bolts that have loosened and make sure all
hair pins, cotter pins and clevis pins are in place.
5. Install all safety shields and review safety precautions
listed in this manual.
6. Check and inflate tires to 8-12 psi (55-83 KPa).
7. Install fully charged battery and attach the battery cables.
8. Refer to engine manual for more information.
WARNING
At start of new season always check that fresh oil and
coolant have been added to machine. If oil and coolant
are drained at season’s end and not replaced, engine dam-
age will result.