Operator's Manual

37
Cleaning and Storage
1. Disengage the blade control (PTO) lever and set the
parking brakes.
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 the blower housing.
Important Wash the machine with a mild detergent and
water. Do not use a pressure washer to wash the machine.
Avoid excessive use of water, especially near the control
panel and engine.
3. Check the brakes; refer to Servicing the Brakes,
page 31.
4. Service the air cleaner; refer to Servicing the Air
Cleaner, page NO TAG.
5. Grease the machine; refer to Greasing and Lubrication,
page 30.
6. Change the crankcase oil; refer to Servicing the Engine
Oil, page 27.
7. Check the tire pressure; refer to Checking the Tire
Pressure, page 30.
8. For long-term storage (more than 90 days) add a
stabilizer/conditioner additive to the fuel in the tank.
9. Empty the fuel tank using the following steps:
A. Run the engine to distribute conditioned fuel
through the fuel system (5 minutes).
B. Stop engine and wait for all moving parts to stop
before leaving the operating position.
C. Allow the engine to cool and drain the fuel tank;
refer to Servicing the Fuel Tank, page 31, or operate
engine until it stops.
D. Start the engine and run it until it stops. Repeat this
step with the throttle in the Choke position until
engine will not start.
E. Dispose of fuel properly. Recycle per local codes.
Note: Do not store stabilizer/conditioned gasoline over
90 days.
10. Remove and inspect the spark plug; refer to Servicing
the Spark Plug, page 29.
11. With the spark plug removed from the engine, pour two
tablespoons of engine oil into the spark plug hole, then
use the starter to crank the engine and distribute the oil
inside the cylinder.
12. Install the spark plug. Do not connect the wire to the
spark plug.
13. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair or
replace any part that is worn or damaged.
14. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces with paint
available from an Authorized Service Dealer.
15. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or storage area,
and cover it to protect it and keep it clean.
Troubleshooting
Problem Possible Causes Corrective Action
The engine will not start, starts
hd fil k i
1. The fuel tank is empty. 1. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline.
g
hard, or fails to keep running.
2. The choke is not on. 2. Set the throttle control to the
Choke position.
3. The blade control (PTO) lever
is engaged.
3. Disengage the blade control
(PTO) lever.
4. The air cleaner is dirty. 4. Clean or replace the air
cleaner element.
5. The spark plug wire is loose
or disconnected.
5. Connect the wire to the spark
plug.
6. The spark plug is pitted,
fouled, or gap is incorrect.
6. Install new, correctly gapped
spark plug.
7. There is dirt in the fuel filter. 7. Replace the fuel filter.
8. There is dirt, water, or stale
fuel in the fuel system.
8. Contact an Authorized
Service Dealer.