Cleaning Underside Mower Deck, Lubrication

Section 5: Maintenance

WARNING Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the unit, shut off engine, wait for all parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition key on electric start models. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.

CLEANING UNDERSIDE OF

MOWER DECK

WARNING

Mower blades are sharp.

When working near blades, wear heavy leather gloves or wrap blades in thick rags to protect yourself from the sharp edges.

Frequently check, and clean if necessary, the underside of the mower deck. Grass build-up in this area can affect the cut- ting performance. Before inspecting or cleaning, make sure that the engine is shut off and the spark plug wire is disconnected from the spark plug.

Inspection/Cleaning of Mower Deck:

1.Stop engine, wait for all parts to stop moving, and disconnect spark plug wire.

2.Tip mower on rear wheels by follow- ing instructions "Tipping Mower For Service" in this Section.

3.Use a plastic or metal scraper to remove grass build-up from deck or blades. If needed, spray with a garden hose.

LUBRICATION

Oil and grease the mower according to the recommendations listed in the Lubrication Chart on the next page.

•Stop engine, wait for all parts to stop moving, and disconnect spark plug wire before performing any lubrication procedures.

•The transmission has been factory sealed and requires no lubrication. If a leak should develop, contact your local authorized dealer for service information.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE

•Stop engine, wait for all parts to stop moving, and disconnect spark plug wire before performing any storage procedures. Review the storage safety rules in the Safety Section of this Manual.

•If engine will be unused for 30 days or more, prepare it for storage by following the recommended procedures found in the Engine Owner's Manual.

•Inspect all parts for damage, breakage, and wear. Tighten or replace fasteners. Contact your local authorized dealer for factory-approved replacement parts.

•Clean the exterior of the mower thor- oughly and touch up all chipped or scratched surfaces to prevent rust from forming.

WARNING

Never store machine with fuel in the fuel tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark, or where ignition sources are present such as hot water and space heaters, furnaces, clothes dryers, stoves, elec- tric motors, etc.