36
Cleaning and Storage
1. Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake, stop the
engine, and 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 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 22.
4. Grease and oil the machine; refer to Greasing and
Lubrication, page 26.
5. Change the crankcase oil and filter; refer to Engine
Oil, page 21.
6. Check the tire pressure; refer to Tire Pressure, page 29.
7. Charge the battery; refer to Servicing the Battery,
page 27.
8. Check the condition of the blades; refer to Cutting
Blades, page 24.
9. Prepare the machine for storage when non-use occurs
over 30 days. Prepare the machine for storage as
follows.
10. Add a petroleum based stabilizer/conditioner to the
fuel in the tank. Follow the mixing instructions from
the stabilizer manufacturer (1 oz. per gallon or 7.8 ml
per liter). Do not use an alcohol based stabilizer
(ethanol or methanol).
Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most effective when
mixed with fresh gasoline and used at all times.
A. Run the engine to distribute the conditioned fuel
through the fuel system (5 minutes).
B. Stop the engine, allow it to cool, and drain the fuel
tank; refer to Draining the Fuel Tank, page 29.
C. Restart the engine and run it until it stops.
D. Choke or prime the engine. Start and run the
engine until it will not start. Operate the primer, if
equipped, several times to ensure no fuel remains
in the primer system.
E. Dispose of fuel properly. Recycle as per local
codes.
Important
Do not store stabilizer/conditioned gasoline
over 90 days.
11. Remove the spark plug(s) and check its condition;
refer to Spark Plug, page 23. With the spark plug(s)
removed from the engine, pour two 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).
12. Clean any dirt and chaff from the top of the mower.
13. Scrape any heavy buildup of grass and dirt from the
underside of the mower, then wash the mower with a
garden hose.
14. Check the condition of the drive and mower belts.
15. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair or
replace any part that is worn or 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 ignition switch and
keep it in a memorable place. Cover the machine to
protect it and keep it clean.
Troubleshooting
Problem
Possible Causes
Corrective Action
The engine overheats.
1. The engine load is excessive.
1. Reduce ground speed.
g
2. The oil level in the crankcase is
low.
2. Add oil to the crankcase.
3. The cooling fins and air
passages under the engine
blower housing are plugged.
3. Remove the obstruction from
the cooling fins and air
passages.
4. The air cleaner is dirty.
4. Clean or replace the air cleaner
element.
5. Dirt, water, or stale fuel is in
fuel system.
5. Contact an Authorized Service
Dealer.
