40
Maintenance Instructions
LUBRICATION
LUBRICATION
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lubricate the machine
with the engine running. Disengage the
PTO clutch, shut off the machine, and re-
move the ignition key.
Proper lubrication is an important maintenance pro-
cedure. It reduces wear and makes the machine qui-
eter and easier to operate.
Engine Oil
Engine Break-In Oil
No special break-in oil is required. The engine is ser-
viced with 10W-30, Service Class SG oil from the
factory. The oil should be changed after the initial
engine
break-in period
of
5-8 hours.
Thereafter,
change oil
after every 100 hours
of operation.
Checking Engine Crankcase Oil Level
Check the engine crankcase oil level before use and
after each 8 hours
of continuous operation.
IMPORTANT:
The importance of checking and main-
taining the proper crankcase oil level cannot be over-
emphasized. Check the oil level
BEFORE EACH
USE.
1. Park the mower on a
level surface with the en-
gine stopped.
Also, make sure the engine is cool
and oil has had time to drain into the sump [allow
at least five (5) minutes
after stopping the en-
gine].
IMPORTANT:
NEVER
check or add oil with the
engine running.
2. Before removing the dipstick, clean the area
around the dipstick to keep any dirt or debris out
of the engine.
3. Remove the dipstick, wipe off with a clean rag,
then reinsert the dipstick into the tube and
tighten.
4. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil
level on the dipstick. The oil level should be
within the “Operating Range” on the dipstick (be-
tween the
LOW
mark and the
FULL
mark).
IMPORTANT:
DO NOT
operate
engine without
sufficient oil supply in the crankcase.
DO NOT
operate with oil level below the
LOW
mark or
above the
FULL
mark on the dipstick.
Full Mark
Low Mark
Dipstick Operating Range
5. If additional oil is needed, refer to
Specifications
for proper crankcase lubricant.
Fill to the FULL
mark.
IMPORTANT:
DO NOT
overfill crankcase (oil
above
FULL
level) as this
CAN
result in engine
overheating, loss of power, and possi ble en-
gine damage.
Changing Engine Crankcase Oil/Oil Filter
Change the engine crankcase oil
after every 100
hours
of operation and the oil filter
after every 200
hours
of operation as follows:
1. Park the mower on a
level surface with the en-
gine stopped.
The engine oil should be warm
before draining. If not warm from opera tion, start
the engine and run a few minutes to warm the oil.
2. Before removing the dipstick, clean the area
around it to keep any dirt or debris out of the
engine.
