27
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
4.
Check that the spark plug washer is in good condition and thread the spark
plug in by hand to prevent cross-threading.
5.
After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a spark plug wrench to compress
the washer.
NOTE:
When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark
plug seats to compress the washer. When reinstalling a used spark plug,
tighten 1/8-1/4 turn after the spark plug seats to compress the washer.
IMPORTANT:
The spark plug must be securely tightened. An improperly
tightened spark plug can become very hot and may damage the engine.
Fuel Filter Service
WARNING
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Fire or
explosion can cause severe burns or death.
•
Keep gasoline away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat, and other
ignition sources.
•
Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace
if necessary.
•
Before replacing the fuel filter, drain the fuel tank as in To Drain the Fuel.
•
Do not drain fuel when the engine is hot. Allow the engine adequate time to
cool. Drain fuel into an approved container outdoors, away from open flame.
•
Drain any large volume of fuel from the tank by disconnecting the fuel line
from the in-line fuel filter near the engine.
•
Remove the fuel line from the ln-line side (side towards the fuel tank) of the
fuel filter.
•
Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the same position as
the original parts.
•
If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine.
•
Before replacing the fuel filter, drain the fuel tank. Otherwise, fuel can leak
out and cause a fire or explosion.
To Drain The Fuel:
1.
Locate the fuel filter, which is routed on the left side of the engine between
the fuel tank and the carburetor, and may be attached to the engine with a tie
strap. Cut the tie strap, if present, then pinch the in-line clamp on the fuel filter
with a pair of pliers, slide the clamp up the fuel line. Pull the fuel line free from
the filter and place the open end of the line into an approved container to drain
the fuel.
To Change The Fuel Filter:
1.
Use pliers to squeeze the tabs on the other clamp (the out-line side of the
fuel filter), and slide the clamp away from the fuel filter. Twist and pull the
fuel line off of the fuel filter. See Figure 37.
2.
Check the fuel lines for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.
3.
Replace the fuel filter with an original equipment replacement filter.
Call
1-888-331-4569 to purchase the original equipment replacement
filter.
4.
Secure the fuel lines with the clamps.
The fuel filter cannot be cleaned and should be replaced every 100 operating hours;
more often if run with old gasoline.
Fuel Filter
Fuel Line
Tab
Clamp
Figure 37
Clean Engine
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least half an hour before
cleaning. Periodically remove dirt build-up from engine. Clean the engine cooling
fins every 25 hours. Clean with a brush or compressed air.
IMPORTANT:
Do not spray engine with water to clean because water could
contaminate fuel. Using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can also
force water into the air cleaner or muffler opening. Water in the air cleaner will soak
the paper element, and water that passes through the element or muffler can enter
the cylinder, causing damage.
WARNING
Accumulation of debris around muffler could cause a fire. Inspect and clean
before every use.
Cutting Deck Removal
To remove the cutting deck, proceed as follows:
1.
Place the PTO (Blade Engage) lever in the disengaged (OFF) position and
engage the parking brake.
2.
Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the bottom notch on the
right fender.