Lubricating the Wheel Gears
Service Interval:
Every 25 hours
1. Wipe the grease fittings just inside the rear wheels
with a clean rag (Figure 41).
Figure 41
2. Install a grease gun onto each fitting and gently apply
2 or 3 pumps of #2 multi-purpose lithium-base
grease.
Replacing the Blade
Service Interval:
Before each use or daily
Every 25 hours—Replace the blade
or have it sharpened (more frequently
if the edge dulls quickly).
Important:
You will need a torque wrench to install
the blade properly
. If you do not have a torque
wrench or are uncomfortable performing this
procedure, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
Examine the blade whenever you run out of gasoline. If
the blade is damaged or cracked, replace it immediately.
If the blade edge is dull or nicked, have it sharpened or
replace it.
WARNING
The blade is sharp; contacting the blade can result
in serious personal injury.
Wear gloves when servicing the blade.
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
Refer to Preparing for Maintenance.
2. Tip the mower onto its side with the air filter up.
3. Use a block a wood to hold the blade steady
(Figure 42).
Figure 42
4. Remove the blade, saving all mounting hardware.
5. Install the new blade and all mounting hardware.
Important:
Position the curved ends of the
blade to point toward the mower housing.
6.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade bolt to
60 ft-lb (82 N-m).
Important:
A bolt torqued to 60 ft-lb (82 N-m)
is very tight. While holding the blade with a
block of wood, put your weight behind the
ratchet or wrench and tighten the bolt securely.
This bolt is very difficult to overtighten.
Cleaning the Mower
Service Interval:
Before each use or daily
WARNING
The mower may dislodge material from under the
mower housing.
•
Wear eye protection.
•
Stay in the operating position (behind the
handle) when the engine is running.
•
Do not allow bystanders in the area.
For best results, clean the mower soon after you have
completed mowing.
1. Lower the mower to its lowest cutting height setting.
Refer to Adjusting the Cutting Height.
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