Storage
Storage Safety
•
Shut off the engine, remove the key, wait for all
moving parts to stop, and allow the machine to
cool before storing it.
•
Do not store the machine or fuel near flames or
drain the fuel indoors.
•
Remove the key and store it in a safe place out
of the reach of children.
Cleaning and Storage
1.
Disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and
engage the parking brake.
2.
Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait
for all moving parts to stop before leaving the
operating position.
3.
Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from the
external parts of the entire machine, especially
the engine and hydraulic system. Clean dirt and
chaff from the outside of the engine cylinder
head fins and blower housing.
Important:
You can wash the machine with
mild detergent and water. Do not pressure
wash the machine. Avoid excessive use
of water, especially near the control panel,
engine, hydraulic pumps, and motors.
4.
Check the parking brake operation; refer to
Adjusting the Parking Brake (page 64)
.
5.
Service the air cleaner; refer to
Maintenance (page 42)
.
6.
Grease the machine; refer to
Lubrication (page
.
7.
Change the crankcase oil; refer to
Maintenance (page 42)
.
8.
Check the tire pressure; refer to
Tire Pressure (page 63)
.
9.
Change the hydraulic filters; refer to
the Hydraulic-System Filters and Fluid (page
72)
.
10.
Charge the battery; refer to
(page 60)
.
11.
Scrape any heavy buildup of grass and dirt
from the underside of the mower, then wash the
mower with a garden hose.
Note:
Run the machine with the blade-control
switch (PTO) engaged and the engine at high
idle for 2 to 5 minutes after washing.
12.
Check the condition of the blades; refer to
Servicing the Cutting Blades (page 74)
.
13.
Prepare the machine for storage when non-use
occurs over 30 days. Prepare the machine for
storage as follows:
A.
Add a petroleum-based
stabilizer/conditioner to fuel in the
tank. Follow mixing instructions from
the stabilizer manufacturer. Do not use
an alcohol-based stabilizer (ethanol or
methanol).
Note:
A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most
effective when mixed with fresh fuel and
used at all times.
B.
Run the engine to distribute conditioned fuel
through the fuel system for 5 minutes.
C.
Shut off the engine, allow it to cool, and
drain the fuel tank.
D.
Start the engine and run it until it stops.
E.
Dispose of fuel properly. Recycle the fuel
according to local codes.
Important:
Do not store fuel containing
stabilizer/conditioner longer than
the duration recommended by the
fuel-stabilizer manufacturer.
14.
Remove and check the condition of the spark
plug(s); refer to
.
With the spark plug(s) removed from the engine,
pour 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of engine oil into the
spark plug hole. Use the starter to crank the
engine and distribute the oil inside the cylinder.
Install the spark plug(s). Do not install the wire
on the spark plug(s).
15.
Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws.
Repair or replace any part that is damaged.
16.
Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paint
is available from your Authorized Service Dealer.
17.
Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or
storage area. Remove the key from the switch
and keep it out of reach of children or other
unauthorized users. Cover the machine to
protect it and keep it clean.
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