Cleaning the Battery and Cables

WARNING

Be careful when handling the battery. Avoid spilling electrolyte. Keep flames and sparks away from the battery.

When removing or installing battery cables, disconnect the negative cable FIRST and reconnect it LAST. If not done in this order, the positive terminal can be shorted to the frame by a tool.

Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling batteries.

Service Interval: 100 Hours

1.Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative cable first (B, Figure 21).

2.Remove the rubber strap securing the battery, and remove the battery.

3.Clean the battery and battery compartment with a solution of baking soda and water.

4.Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush until shiny.

5.Reinstall the battery and secure with the rubber strap.

6.Reattach the battery cables: first attach the positive cable (see A, Figure 21), then attach the negative cable (B).

7.Coat the cable ends and battery terminals with petro- leum jelly or non-conducting grease.

Figure 21. Engine Compartment

A.Positive (+) Battery Cable

B.Negative (-) Battery Cable

CHECK RIDER SAFETY

SYSTEM

Service Interval: Every 100 hours, every spring/fall, and after storage of 30 days or longer.

This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches. These safety systems are present for your safety. Do not attempt to bypass safety switches, and never tamp- er with safety devices. Check their operation regularly.

Operational SAFETY Checks

Your unit is equipped with a seat switch safety system. Check the seat switch operation every fall and spring with the follow- ing tests.

Test 1 — Engine should NOT crank if:

•PTO switch is ON, OR

•Brake pedal is NOT fully depressed (parking brake OFF), OR

•The cruise control lever is NOT in NEUTRAL.

Test 2 — Engine SHOULD crank and start if:

•Operator is sitting in seat, AND.

•PTO switch is OFF, AND

•Brake pedal is fully depressed (parking brake ON),

AND

•The cruise control lever is in NEUTRAL

Test 3 — Engine should SHUT OFF if:

• Operator rises off seat.

Test 4 — Blade Brake Check

The mower blades and mower drive belt should come to a complete stop within five seconds after the PTO switch is turned OFF. If mower drive belt does not stop within five seconds, contact an authorized dealer.

NOTE: Once the engine has stopped, the PTO switch must be turned OFF and the ground speed control levers must be locked in their PARK positions in order to start the engine.

WARNING

If the unit does not pass a safety test, do not operate it. See an authorized Dealer. Under

no circumstance should you attempt to defeat the purpose of the safety interlock system.