Operator's Manual

38
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 Servicing the Air
Cleaner, page 23.
4. Grease and oil the machine; refer to Greasing and
Lubrication, page 27.
5. Change the crankcase oil and filter; refer to Servicing
the Engine Oil, page 22.
6. Check the tire pressure; refer to Checking the Tire
Pressure, page 30.
7. Charge the battery; refer to Servicing the Battery,
page 28.
8. Check the condition of the blades; refer to Servicing the
Cutting Blades, page 25.
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. 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 30.
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 Servicing the Spark Plug, page 24. 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.