NOTE: This spark ignition system meets all requirements of the Canadian Interfer-
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the cooling system (blower hous- ing area) clean to permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.
DECK
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to accumulate, it will in- vite rust and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug wire is disconnected).
CUTTING BLADE
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and ground the spark plug wire and remove ignition key before working on the cutting blade to prevent acci- dental engine starting. Protect hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting blades.
Tip mower as specified in separate engine manual. If it is not specified tip with carburetor up.
Remove the bolt and blade support which holds the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft. Remove the blade and adapter from the crankshaft.
WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary.
For best results your blade should be sharp. The blade may be resharpened by removing it and either grinding or filing the cutting edge keeping as close to the original bevel as pos- sible. It is extremely important that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. Im- proper blade balance will result in excessive vibration causing eventual damage to the en- gine and mower. Be sure to carefully balance blade after sharpening. The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
Blade Adapter
Blade
Blade Bell
Support
Hex Bolt
Figure 18
Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crank- shaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil. Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the “star” away from the engine. Refer to Figure 18. Place the blade with the side marked bottom (or with part number) facing away from the adapter. Align the blade bell support over the blade with the tabs in the holes of the blade and insert the hex bolt. Tighten the hex bolt to the torque listed below:
Blade Mounting Torque
Center Bolt 450 in. lb. min., 600 in.lb. max.
To insure safe operation of your unit, ALL nuts and bolts must be checked periodically for correct tightness.
CAUTION: Cutting grass in sandy soil conditions causes abrasive wear to the blade.
After prolonged use, especially in sandy soil conditions, the blade will become worn and lose some of the original shape. Cutting effi- ciently will be reduced and the blade should be replaced. Replace with an approved factory re- placement blade only. Possible damage resulting from blade unbalance condition is not the responsibility of the manufacturer.
BELT REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
1.Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine.
2.Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plastic beneath the cap to prevent gaso- line leakage.
3.Tip the mower on its side. Block securely.
4.Remove the blade and blade adapter as described previously.
5.Move rear height adjuster to the highest position. See Figure 21.
14