CHECK DRIVE BELT
(911175, 179)
Check drive belt and replace if worn or damaged. See DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT on page 21.
CHECK FASTENERS
Check all fasteners for proper tightness. Pay special attention to blade hardware and all guards, shields and safety devices.
CHECK AIR CLEANER
See engine manual for specific information.
NOTICE: Cutting height must be set to lowest position to remove air cleaner cover. See Figure 7.
CHANGE ENGINE OIL
IMPORTANT: Change engine crankcase oil after first five (5) hours of operation. Then change oil after every 25 hours of operation.
Refer to engine manual for instructions and proper oil type.
NOTICE: User must lean mower on side to drain oil from dipstick tube.
IMPORTANT: Proper oil level must be maintained at all times or engine damage will result. DO NOT overfill. Be sure engine is level when adding oil.
GENERAL LUBRICATION
NOTICE: The mower transmission is lubricated and sealed at the factory. It should need no routine lubrication. If the transmission leaks grease, bring the mower to your local Ariens dealer for repair.
CHECK SPARK PLUG
Spark plug should be replaced every 100 hours of operation or each year.
NOTICE: Loose spark plug wire terminals can cause sparking. Replace terminal if damaged.
CHECK ENGINE COOLING
WARNING: HOT SURFACES can cause death or serious injury. DO NOT TOUCH parts which are hot from operation. ALWAYS allow parts to cool.
To prevent overheating, air must circulate freely around the cooling fins, cylinder head and block.
Every 100 hours of operation or yearly (more often if conditions require) remove blower housing and clean cooling fins. See engine manual for instructions.
CHECK MUFFLER
Check muffler for debris, cracks, wear, or other damage.
CAUTION: Replace damaged muffler immediately. Continued use could result in fire or explosion.
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