AirFilter

The engine is equipped with a replaceable, high density paper air cleaner element. Always examine the air cleaner before starting the engine. Check for a buildup of dirt and debris around the air cleaner system. Keep this area clean. Also check for loose or damaged components. Replace all bent or damaged air cleaner components.

NOTE: Starting the tractor with loose or damaged air cleaner components could allow unfiltered air into the engine causing premature wear and failure.

Service Paper Element

The paper element should be replaced at least once a season, or every 100 hours of operation. Replace more frequently if the tractor is operated under extremely dusty conditions. To replace the paper element, proceed as follows:

1.Loosen the air cleaner cover knob and remove the cover. See Figure 18.

5.Check the air cleaner base. Make sure it is secured and not damaged. Also check the air cleaner cover for damage or improper fit. Replace all damaged air cleaner components.

6.Install the precleaner over the new paper element and reinstall the element.

7.Reinstall the cover and tighten the knobs securely.

SparkPlug

Every two years or 200 hours of operation, remove the spark plug, check its condition, and reset the gap or replace with a new plug as necessary. Spark plug replacement is recommended at 500 hours.

1.Lift the tractor's hood by pivoting it forward.

NOTE: Removing the tractor's hood may ease the following steps, but is not necessary.

2.Remove the upper hex screws that secure the heat shield in place, on both the left side and right side of the tractor. See Figure 19.

NOTE:Hoodnot shownfor clarity.

Figure 18

,Remove the air cleaner element.

3.Remove the precleaner from the element and service as instructed earlier in this section.

IMPORTANT: Do not wash the paper element or use pressurized air, as this will damage the element.

Examine the element and discard if dirt and/or damage is present.

NOTE: Handle new element carefully; do not use if the sealing surfaces are bent or damaged.

,If any loose dirt or debris fell on the air cleaner base when the element was removed, carefully remove it and wipe the base clean. Be careful that none of it drops into the intake.

HeatShield

Hex Screw

Figure 19

3.Pivot the heat shield forward.

4.Carefully pull the spark plug wire boot off of the spark plug.

5.Before removing the spark plug, clean the area around the base of the plug to keep dirt and debris out of the engine.

6.Using a ratchet with a 5/8-inch spark plug socket, remove the spark plug and check its condition.

7.Replace the plug if worn, dirty or damaged. Reuse only after resetting the gap as instructed.

NOTE: Do not clean the spark plug using an abrasive grit. Some grit could remain in the spark plug and enter the engine causing extensive wear and damage.