HUSTLER FasTrak SD, Operator'S Manual, Page: 41 / 43

602901 6-1 REV G
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
Maintenance section.
5. Block mower up so weight is off tires. Check tire
pressure and inflate to proper operating pressure.
NOTE: Do not deflate tires.
6. Perform separate engine and battery preparation as listed
below.
7. Store mower in a clean, dry place.
Preparation of engine for storage
When the engine is to be unused for long periods, proceed as
follows:
1. Run the engine for a minimum of 15 minutes.
2. Drain the oil from the crankcase while the engine is still
warm.
3. Refill with fresh oil of the proper viscosity.
4. Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops from
lack of fuel. Gasoline evaporates if left in the carburetor
for long periods, forming gum and varnish deposits in the
carburetor. These deposits will cause engine flooding and
loss the previous 100 hours.
5. Remove the spark plugs and pour a tablespoon of engine
oil into each spark plug hole. Install plugs, but do not
reconnect plug leads.
6. Crank the engine with the starter at least a dozen
revolutions to distribute oil over the cylinder walls and
valve mechanism.
7. Clean the exterior surface of the engine. Spread a light
film of oil over any exposed metal surfaces of the engine
that are subject to corrosion.
8. Clean dirt and chaff from the cylinders and fins, blower
housing and muffler.
9. Check the oil filler cap and fuel tank caps to make certain
they are securely in place.
10. Refer to the 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 the battery, terminals, and cable connectors.
3. Charge the battery, if necessary.
4. Store the battery in a cool, dry place (do not expose to
freezing temperatures).
5. Always keep the battery fully charged. Especially
important to prevent battery damage when the
temperature is below 32°F (0°C).
New season preparation
Before starting the mower following post season storage, the
following service is required:
1. Clean mower, removing trash and dirt accumulation.
2. Check engine oil and hydraulic oil levels.
3. Fill fuel tanks with fresh fuel. 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 has
been added to machine. If oil is drained at season’s end
and not replaced, engine damage will result.