Operator's Manual

Maintenance
32
Checking the Spark Plug
1. Look at the center of the spark plug(s) (Fig. 29).
If you see light brown or gray on the insulator,
the engine is operating properly. A black coating
on the insulator usually means the air cleaner is
dirty.
IMPORTANT: Never clean the spark plug(s).
Always r eplace the spark plug(s) when it has:
a black coating, worn electrodes, an oily film,
or cracks.
2. Check the gap between the center and side
electrodes (Fig. 29). Bend the side electrode
(Fig. 29) if the gap is not correct.
0.040 in.
(1.02 mm)
2
3
1
Figure
29
1. Center electrode insulator
2. Side electrode
3. Air gap (not to scale)
Installing the Spark Plug(s)
1. Install the spark plug(s) and metal washer. Make
sure the air gap is set correctly.
2. Tighten the spark plug(s) to 20 ft-lb (27 N.m).
3. Push the wire(s) onto the spark plug(s) (Fig. 28).
Cutting Blades
To ensure a superior quality of cut, keep the blades
sharp. For convenient sharpening and replacement,
you may want to keep extra blades on hand.
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• A blade that is worn or damaged could
break apart and pieces could be thrown at
bystanders or at you as you use the mower.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
• Pieces of blade that may be thrown could
seriously injure or kill you or bystanders.
HOW TO AV
OID THE HAZARD
• Periodically inspect the blade for wear and
damage. Immediately install a new blade if
it is worn or damaged.
Before Inspecting or Servicing the
Blades
Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the
blade control (PTO) and set the parking brake.