Maintenance Instructions

CLEANING/

CHECKING/SERVICING

1.Raise the deck lock lever handle on each side of the carrier frame and pull out to release carrier frame for tilting action.

2.Using the carrier frame lift handle, raise deck to the TILT-UPposition and insert the deck hook into the tilt-up latch on the tractor body.

Tilt-Up Latch

Deck Secured in Tilt-Up Position

3.Clean grass buildup underneath the deck using a pressure washer (and scraper if required).

NOTE: If the buildup is severe, it may be easier to clean the deck by removing the deck assem- bly from the tractor and standing the desk assembly on its “nose”.

NOTE: While some degree of material buildup in the mower deck housing can be tolerated, a point is finally reached where cutting quality deteriorates and clogging begins to occur because of too much buildup on the baffling and housing.

4.Lower the deck to the normal operating position and re-engage the deck lock levers.

CAUTION

Do not operate machine with deck tilt-up pivot joint unlocked.

Transaxle Cooling Fins

Keeping the cooling fins on the transaxles clean and free of obstruction is essential to avoid overheat- ing the transmission fluid and shortening transmission life. The cooling fins should be checked every 100 hours; and cleaned if necessary.

To clean the fins, use compressed air and/or a pres- sure washer. The cooling fins extend all the way around the housing -- the fins underneath need to be clean as well as the more visible fins above. Also, pay close attention to the area under the drive pulley.

IMPORTANT: In case an oil leak develops on the input shaft, the cooling fan blowing dusty air and oil on the transmission will quickly pack the cooling fins with oily dirt. If this condition occurs, contact your dealer immediately to avoid overheating and dam- aging the transaxle.

An additional procedure in maintaining transaxle cooling is to inspect the cooling fans. Replace the fan(s) if blades are missing or damaged.

Cooling Fins

Cooling

Fans

Transaxle Cooling Fins

CHECKING/SERVICING

DANGER

To prevent accidental starting of the en- gine when servicing or adjusting the ma- chine, remove the key from the ignition switch and disconnect the spark plug wires.

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Briggs & Stratton MB (18 HP) owner manual Deck Secured in Tilt-Up Position, Checking/Servicing