5.2 CHECKING ENGINE OIL

Check the engine oil daily prior to use.

IMPORTANT: Never operate the engine with the oil below the low mark on the dipstick.

See the Engine Manual for oil specifications and oil filter service instructions.

To check oil level:

1.Move the unit to level location.

2.Clean around the dipstick and filler tube to prevent dirt from entering the engine.

3.Remove the dipstick and wipe off the oil on the dipstick.

4.Put the dipstick back into the engine, tighten in place, and remove again.

5.When the dipstick is removed, note the oil level. Oil should be between the full and add mark.

6.Replace dipstick.

7.If required, add oil. Do not overfill.

8.Clean up any spillage that may have occurred.

5.3 CHANGING OIL

WARNING: Do NOT touch parts which are hot. Allow parts to cool before servicing.

Engine muffler and other parts will be hot if unit has been running.

1.Engine oil should be changed after the first five hours of operation and every 25 hours there after.

2.Move the unit to a level and well ventilated area and set the parking brake.

3.If the engine is cold, let the unit run for five minutes.

4.When the engine is warm, stop the engine.

5.Clean the area around the dipstick and drain hose.

6.Put an open container that will hold one gallon of oil under the drain hose.

7.Open the drain valve.

8.Allow the engine oil to drain completely into the one gallon container. Remove container and contents for future recycling as required.

9.Close the oil drain valve.

10.If used, remove the oil filter.

11.Clean the oil filter port and install a new oil filter according to the instructions on the oil filter. Fill with new oil to the "full" mark on the dipstick.

12.Start and run the engine for one minute. Stop the engine and recheck the oil level and add as necessary.

13.Check for leakage at the drain plug and oil filter if used. Tighten the fittings as necessary if leakage occurs.

14.Release the parking brake.

15.Return the unit into service.

5.4 CHECKING ENGINE COOLING

IMPORTANT: To prevent severe damage to the engine, proper cooling will need to be maintained.

1.Check the air intake screen on the engine each day.

2.The air intake screen must be kept clean. Remove any grass, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated.

3.Check the engine cooling yearly.

5.5 CLEANING THE AIR CLEANER

1.Check the air cleaner element every day.

2.Clean the air cleaner precleaner every 25 hours. See your Engine Manual for instructions.

3.Apply oil and reinstall over the paper air filter element.

4.Wipe out the air cleaner cover to remove any dirt build up in the cover.

5.Reinstall the cover over the air cleaner prior to operating the engine. See your Engine Manual.

5.6CHANGING THE AIR CLEANER ELEMENT

Replace the air cleaner element when clogged or every 100 hours. Do not attempt to clean. See your Engine Manual for instructions.

5.7INSPECT MUFFLER/SPARK ARRESTER

Inspect muffler and (if equipped) spark arrester. Replace muffler if corroded, as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

5.8 REPLACE SPARK PLUGS

Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in Specifications. See Engine Manual for detailed instructions.

5.9 ENGINE REMOVAL

1.Remove deck.

2.Remove the hood.

3.Remove the negative cable from the battery.

4.Remove the main drive belt from the engine sheave by releasing the idler tension spring.

5.Remove the throttle and choke control from the engine.

6.Remove the electrical wiring from the engine (charge lead, starter cable, fuel solenoid lead, and magneto kill wire).

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