15
c. Mower maintenance
Cutting system
Before and after each mowing session, check that the blade, its attachment bolts and drive
shaft are not damaged or excessively worn. Never try to straighten a bent blade. Replace
a damaged, worn or bent blade as soon as possible. Use only genuine parts. Excessive
vibration when mowing is a good indication of a problem with the cutting system.
WARNING: Vibration from a bent or damaged blade can cause costly damage to the mower.
Working with an excessively worn blade wastes fuel and can lead to injury if the blade
becomes detached from the machine.
Sharpening the blade
For best mowing results, have the edges sharpened and the blade balanced at least once
a year by a specialist service dealer or agent.
Removing the blade
Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent possible injury when handling the blade.
Disconnect the spark plug cap and tilt the mower on its side with air filter and carburettor
side uppermost.
Holding the blade firmly in one hand, use a spanner or socket to loosen the blade screw.
Mounting the blade
Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent possible injury when handling the blade.
Disconnect the spark plug cap and tilt the mower on its side with air filter and carburettor
side uppermost.
Check that all components (the blade, key, blade holder, screws and washers).are present,
clean and in good condition.
Position the blade on its support with the cooling fins facing the engine.
Check the correct alignment and matching of pads with the blade. The blade must be
positioned precisely on its stand.
Tighten the screws connecting all of the components. Make a final visual check that all
parts are present and aligned before tightening the fixing bolt very firmly with a wrench
while holding the blade firmly in one hand (NB wear suitable gloves).
Spark plug
Check the spark plug initially after the first five hours of mower use. Thereafter,
maintenance of the spark plug should take place every 25 hours.
Remove the spark plug cap using a rotary motion and then remove the spark plug with the
wrench provided.
Clean off any carbon deposits using a copper brush and check the electrode gap with a
feeler gauge.
Replace and retighten the serviced spark plug and replace the cap.
If the spark plug is worn or damaged, replace with a new spark plug of the same or suitable
type for the engine.
Air Filter
An air filter in poor condition will reduce
the performance and life of the engine
while making
it harder to start. Regular checks are therefore essential, especially
when using the mower
in dusty conditions. Check and clean the air filter
every 25 hours of use or more often if
the
engine is used in a dusty environment.
Remove the air box lid and carefully remove the foam filter
cartridge. Clean the cartridge in
a small bowl of warm water containing a
few drops of washing up liquid until it is perfectly
clean and free from all
traces of grease and dust. Rinse the filter cartridge in clean water
and then
squeeze gently to remove most of the water. Let it air dry until it is
completely dry.
WARNING: Never clean the foam cartridge in petrol, white spirit or other solvents. These
products will degrade the filter cartridge.
Clean the cover and inside of the air box with a clean lint
‐
free cloth. Apply a uniform layer
of oil to the outside of the cartridge filter with a brush (you can use clean engine oil for this).
