20
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
WARNING:
Before performing any
maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO,
move shift lever into neutral position, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key to
prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Check
engine oil level
before each use as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
Read and follow instructions carefully.
Changing Engine Oil
NOTE:
Depending on the engine model found on your
tractor, it may be necessary to remove the tractor’s side
panel in order to replace the oil filter (if so equipped).
•
Unscrew oil fill cap and remove dipstick from the oil
fill tube. See Figure 17.
Figure 17
•
Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil
drain valve to expose the drain port. See Figure 17.
•
Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual)
onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of
the hose into an appropriate oil collection container
with a capacity of no less than 64 oz.
•
Push the oil drain valve in slightly, then rotate
counterclockwise and pull outward to begin
draining oil. See Figure 17.
•
Service the
oil filter
(if so equipped)
as instructed
in the separate
Engine
Manual packed with your
unit.
Perform the above steps in the opposite order after oil
has finished draining.
•
Refill the engine with new motor oil.
IMPORTANT:
Refer to the separate engine manual
packed with your unit for information regarding the
quantity and proper weight of motor oil.
Air Cleaner
Service the pre-cleaner, if so equipped, and cartridge/
air cleaner element as instructed in the separate engine
manual packed with your unit.
Spark Plug(s)
The spark plug(s) should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season.
Refer to the separate engine manual for correct plug
type and gap specifications.
Lubrication
WARNING:
Before lubricating, repairing, or
inspecting, always disengage PTO, move
shift lever into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.
Engine
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system,
parking brake and lift linkage at least once a season
with light oil.
Rear Wheels
The rear wheels should be removed from the axles
once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well
with an all-purpose grease before re-installing them.
Front Axles
Each end of the tractor’s front pivot bar may be
equipped with a grease fitting. Lubricate with a grease
gun after every 25 hours of tractor operation.
Cleaning the Engine and Deck
Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped
off promptly. Do NOT allow debris to accumulate
around the cooling fins of the engine or on any other
part of the machine.
IMPORTANT:
The use of a pressure washer or garden
hose to clean your tractor is NOT recommended. It may
cause damage to electrical components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
result in a shortened life of the tractor and reduce its
serviceability.
Protective Cap
Oil Drain Hose
Drain Port
Oil Fill Cap
Oil Fill Tube
Oil Drain Valve
