SECTION 10: MAINTENANCE
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and ground the spark plug wire before performing any repairs or maintenance.
NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and keep the engine spark plug side up. Never tip the mower more than 90 degrees and do not leave the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.
ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for all engine maintenance instructions.
•Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions carefully.
•Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicate that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
•The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of each mowing season; check engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.
•Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the cooling system (blower housing 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 invite rust and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching, discharge or bagging.
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 REMOVAL, REPLACEMENT AND SHARPENING
Blade
Adapter 
Blade Bell
Support
Hex Bolt
Figure 10
•When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.
•Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft.
•Remove the blade and the adapter from the crankshaft.
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