Maintenance
36
Cleaning and Storage
1.
Disengage the power take off (PTO), set the
parking brake and turn the ignition key to “OFF”
to stop the engine. Remove the key.
2.
Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from the
external parts of the entire machine, especially
the engine. Clean dirt and chaff from the outside
of the engine’s 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.
3.
Service the air cleaner; refer to Air Cleaner,
page 21.
4.
Grease the machine; refer to Greasing and
Lubrication, page 25.
5.
Change the crankcase oil; refer to Engine Oil,
page 22.
6.
Change the hydraulic fluid; refer to Hydraulic
System, page NO TAG.
7.
Remove the spark plug(s) and check its
condition; refer to Spark Plug, page 24. With the
spark plug(s) removed from the engine, pour two
tablespoons of engine oil into the spark plug
hole. Now 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).
8.
Check the tire pressure; refer to Tire Pressure,
page 26.
9.
During long-term storage, either drain gasoline
from the fuel tank (step 10) or add a fuel
stabilizer/conditioner additive to a full tank of
gasoline (step A).
10. Drain gasoline from the fuel tank; refer to Fuel
Tank, page 27. After fuel is drained, start the
engine and let it idle until all gasoline is
consumed and the engine stops. This eliminates
gum-like buildup in the fuel system, which
causes hard starting. Try to start the engine two
more times to assure that no gasoline is in the
fuel system.
A.
Add the correct amount of a fuel
stabilizer/conditioner or an isopropyl-based
stabilizer/conditioner to a full tank of
gasoline. Operate engine for 5 minutes to
distribute stabilizer/conditioner throughout
fuel system.
Note:
Stabilizer/conditioners normally
preserve gasoline for six to eight
months.
11. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws.
Repair or replace any part that is damaged or
defective.
12. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paint
is available from your Authorized Service
Dealer.
13. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or
storage area. Remove the key from the ignition
switch and keep it in a memorable place. Cover
the machine to protect it and keep it clean.
