Maintenance Instructions

CHECKING/SERVICING/

REPLACING/REPAIRING

Spark Plugs

Every 100 hours, remove the spark plugs, inspect, clean, and reset the gap (or replace with a new plug). Clean spark plug with a wire brush. If the electrodes are burned short or pitted, replace the plug (refer to Specifications for the proper type of replacement plug). Check the spark plug gap with a wire-type feeler gauge and set the gap between 0.028 and 0.032 in. (0.7 and 0.8 mm). Reinstall and tighten to 17 ft-lb (23 N·m). Both spark plugs should be replaced yearly.

Breaker Points

The Briggs & Stratton engine is equipped with elec- tronic ignition. No breaker points, maintenance, or adjustments are necessary with this system. Con- tact an authorized Briggs & Stratton engine dealer in case of ignition failure.

Fuel Lines and Clamps

Every year, inspect the fuel line from the tank to engine for deterioration or damage. Also, inspect the fuel line clamps for tightness. Good preventive maintenance calls for complete replacement of fuel lines and clamps every two (2) years.

Blade Brake Action

WARNING

It is important to check and maintain blade brake action for safe operation of the ma- chine.

Check the function of the cutter blade brake by engaging the blade clutch (PTO), operating the engine at full throttle, then disengaging the clutch and measuring how quickly the blades stop. Watch the rotation of the blade drive shaft as a visual indi- cation that movement has stopped. If the brake is working properly, all rotation will stop five (5) seconds after disengagement of the clutch. If the brake system malfunctions -- blades do not stop in five (5) seconds -- repair the brake before operating the mower.

REPLACING/REPAIRING

DANGER

To prevent accidental starting of the engine when replacing parts or repairing the machine, remove the key from the ignition switch and disconnect the spark plug wires.

IMPORTANT: ALWAYS use genuine factory re- placement parts. Substitute parts CAN result in product malfunction and possible injury to the oper- ator and/or others.

Drive Belts

There are two (2) individual belts on the machine:

Engine/PTO Belt

Ground Drive Belt

The belts may be removed and replaced using the procedures described on the following pages.

Engine/PTO

Belt

Ground Drive Belt

Belt Locations

46

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Briggs & Stratton MB (18 HP) owner manual Spark Plugs, Breaker Points, Replacing/Repairing, Belt Locations