Storage - 48
STORAGE
Storage
Storing Safety
Preparing Machine for Storage
1. Repair any worn or damaged parts. Replace parts if
necessary. Tighten loose hardware.
2. Repair scratched or chipped metal surfaces to prevent
rust.
3. Wash the machine and apply wax to metal and plastic
surfaces. Clean under the deck.
4. Run machine for five minutes to dry belts and pulleys.
5. Apply light coat of engine oil to pivot and wear points to
prevent rust.
6. Lubricate grease points.
7. Check tire pressure.
Preparing Fuel and Engine For Storage
Fuel:
If you have been using “Stabilized Fuel”, add stabilized fuel
to tank until the tank is full.
NOTE: Filling the fuel tank reduces the amount of air in
the fuel tank and helps reduce deterioration of fuel.
If you are not using “Stabilized Fuel”:
1. Park tractor safely in a well-ventilated area.
NOTE: Try to anticipate the last time the tractor will be
used for the season so very little fuel is left in the fuel
tank.
2. Turn on engine and allow to run until it runs out of fuel.
3. Turn key to OFF position.
4. Mix fresh fuel and fuel stabilizer in separate container.
Follow stabilizer instructions for mixing.
5. Fill fuel tank with stabilized fuel.
6. Run engine for a few minutes to allow fuel mixture to
circulate through carburetor.
Engine:
Engine storage procedure should be used when vehicle is
not to be used for longer than 60 days.
1. Change engine oil and filter while engine is warm.
2. Service air filter if necessary.
3. Clean debris from engine air intake screen.
4. Remove spark plugs. Put 30 mL (1 oz.) of clean engine
oil in cylinders.
5. Install spark plugs, but DO NOT connect spark plug
wires.
6. Start the engine and run for approximately five seconds
to allow oil to be distributed.
7. Clean the engine and engine compartment.
8. Remove battery.
9. Clean the battery and battery posts. Check the
electrolyte level.
10.Store the battery in a cool, dry place where it will not
freeze.
NOTE: The stored battery should be recharged every
90 days.
11.Charge the battery.
12.Store the vehicle in a dry, protected place. If vehicle is
stored outside, put a waterproof cover over it.
Removing Machine From Storage
1. Check tire pressure.
2. Check engine oil level.
c
CAUTION: Avoid injury! Fuel vapors are
explosive and flammable. Engine exhaust
fumes contain carbon monoxide and can
causeserious illness or death:
• If it is necessary to run the engine in an
enclosed area, use an exhaust pipe extension
to remove the fumes or have doors and
windows open for adequate ventilation.
• DO NOT store vehicle with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach an
open flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing the
machine in any enclosure.
• Remove the battery and store it in a cool dry
place where it will not freeze and where
children cannot reach it.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Stale fuel can produce
varnish and plug carburetor components and affect
engine performance.
•
Add fuel conditioner or stabilizer to fresh fuel
before filling tank.
Summary of Contents for 97-14 HS
Page 66: ...Notes NOTES Notes ...
