Engine Maintenance
Engine Oil
Check the engine oil level each time the mower
is used or after every 8 operating hours. Change
the oil after the first 8 operating hours and every
50 hours thereafter. More frequent oil changes
are required in dusty or dirty conditions. The
crankcase must be filled with approximately
20 fluid ounces of proper viscosity oil before
staring. The engine uses any high-quality oil
having the American Petroleum Institute - APl
- “service classification" SF, SG, SH or SJ. Oil
viscosity - weight - must be selected according
to ambient temperature. Figure 21 illustrates the
temperature/viscosity recommendations.
Figure 21
Note:
Using multi-grade oils (5W-20, 10W-30,
and 10W-40) will increase oil consumption. Check
the oil level more frequently when using them.
Checking the Engine Oil Level
1. Position mower so the engine is level and clean
around oil level gauge (Figure 22).
Figure 22
1. Oil level gauge
2. Drain plug
2. Remove oil level gauge by rotating it
counterclockwise.
3. Wipe oil level gauge clean and insert it into
filler port. Do not screw into port. Then
remove and check level of oil. If level is low,
add only enough oil to raise level to bottom
of filler opening. Recheck level of oil. Do not
overfill.
4. Reinstall oil level gauge and wipe up any spilled
oil.
Changing the Engine Oil
1. Start and run engine for a few minutes to
warm the engine oil.
2. Place a drain pan at rear of machine under
drain plug (Figure 22). Remove drain plug.
3. Push down on handle to tip mower and engine
backward, allowing all oil to run into drain pan.
4. Install drain plug and refill crankcase with the
specified oil; refer to Checking the Oil Level.
Servicing the Air Cleaner
Normally, clean air cleaner foam element after
every 25 operating hours. More frequent cleaning
is required when mower is operated in dusty or
dirty conditions.
1. Make sure wire is off spark plug.
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