a.Turn the oil drain valve 1⁄4-turn, then pull outward to begin draining oil. After the oil has finished draining, push the end of the oil drain valve back in and turn 1⁄4-turn to secure it back in place. Re-cap the end of the oil drain valve to keep debris from entering the drain port.

b.Pinch the tabs on the oil drain valve, then pull outward to begin draining oil. After the oil has finished draining, push the end of the oil drain valve back in, until the tabs click into place. Re-cap the end of the oil drain valve to keep debris from entering the drain port.

3.After the oil has finished draining, push the end of the oil drain valve back in, until the tabs click into place. Re-cap the end of the oil drain valve to keep debris from entering the drain port.

4.Replace the oil filter, and refill the engine with new oil as instructed in the Kohler Owner’s Manual.

Hydrostatic Transmission

The zero turn tractor is equipped with dual integrated hydrostatic pumps/transaxles that are sealed and are maintenance-free. Fluid levels cannot be checked and fluid cannot be added or changed.

Steering Lubrication

The steering arms, pivot shafts, and axles must be lubricated if ever the steering effort increases, or after every 25 hour of operation. Lubricate using a pressure grease gun and Cub Cadet 251H EP grease, or an equivalent No. 2 multipurpose lithium grease.

1.Apply grease through the lube fitting on the RH and LH steering arms which are located at rearward end of the two steering drag links. See Fig. 6-2.

Steering

Steering Arm

Gear Cover

Lube Fitting

 

Shoulder

Bolt

Hex Screw

Cover Tab

Axle Pivot Bar

Lube Fittings

Figure 6-2

2.Locate the lube fittings for the pivot shaft and axle on the front of one end of the axle pivot bar. Apply grease through the two lube fittings, then repeat to lubricate the other end of the pivot bar. See Fig. 6-2.

Cleaning Steering Gears

Once a year, or if a tight spot is experienced when turning the steering wheel, remove the steering gear cover on each end of the pivot bar and clean the two steering gears.

1.From beneath the cover base plate on each end of the pivot bar, remove the three hex screws securing the steering gear cover. Remove the covers and clean the gears. It is not necessary to lubricate the gears. Refer to Fig. 6-2.

2.Insert the tab of the LH steering gear cover into the square hole in the LH base plate, position the cover, and secure with the three hex screws. Do not over tighten. Repeat to install the cover on the RH side.

Lubricate Front Wheel Bearings

Lubricate the front wheel bearings with Cub Cadet 251H EP grease after every 25 hours of operation. The lube fittings are located in the rim hub inside each front wheel.

Lubricate Deck Spindles and Idler Bracket

Lubricate the deck spindles and idler bracket with Cub Cadet 251H EP grease after every 10 hours of operation.

The deck spindle lube fittings are in the spindle housings, and can only be accessed from the underside of the deck. Lubricate the idler bracket through the lube fitting in the top of the shoulder bolt. Use a pressure grease gun to lubricate the spindles and idler bracket.

Lubricate Pivot Points & Linkage

Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system, parking brake and lift linkage at least once a season with light oil.

Lubricate Rear Wheels

The rear wheels should be removed from the axles once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well with an all-purpose grease before re-installing them.

Tires

WARNING! Never exceed the maximum inflation pressure shown on the sidewall of tire. Refer to the tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer’s recommended or maximum psi. Do not overinflate.

The recommended operating tire pressure is:

•Approximately 10 psi for the rear tires

•Approximately 14 psi for the front tires

NOTE: Uneven tire pressure could cause the cutting deck to mow unevenly.

Cleaning the Tractor and Deck

Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped off promptly. Do NOT allow debris to accumulate around the deck pulleys or any other part of the machine.

Periodically remove the belt covers and remove any accumulated grass clippings from around the spindle pulleys and the deck belt.

NOTE: The use of a pressure washer to clean your tractor is NOT recommended. It may cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine.

18Section 6— Maintenance & Adjustments