| Blade Control Handle | • 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; |
Lube | check the engine manual for correct plug type and | |
|
| gap specifications. |
|
| • Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. |
|
| Keep the cooling system on the top of the engine |
| See Engine Manual | (blower housing area) clean to permit proper air |
| Engine | circulation which is essential to engine performance |
Lube | and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and | |
|
| combustible debris from the muffler area. |
|
| |
|
| |
Lube | Lube |
Figure 12
Lubrication
WARNING: Always stop the engine, discon- nect the spark plug wire, and ground it against the engine before cleaning, lubricating or doing any type of maintenance on the machine.
Blade Control Handle: Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle at least once a season with light oil. This handle must operate freely in both directions. Refer to Figure 12.
Wheels: Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light oil (or motor oil). If the wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and inner surface of the wheel with light oil.
Chute Deflector: Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point periodically with light oil to prevent any rust or binding.
Engine: Follow the separate engine manual packed with your unit for lubrication instructions.
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 carburetor flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
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 will prevent proper mulching or discharging of the grass.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug wire is disconnected).
NOTE: The use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit is NOT recommended. Using these may cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduced serviceability.
Blade Replacement and Sharpening
Blade Adapter
Blade Bell Support
Hex Bolt
Figure 13
Removing the Blade
IMPORTANT: When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect hands by using heavy gloves or a thick rag before grabbing the blade.
•Remove the bolt and blade bell support which hold the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft. Refer to Figure 13.
•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.
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