TRACTOR STORAGE
If your tractor is not going to be operated for an extended period of time (thirty days to approximately six months), the tractor should be prepared for stor- age. Store the tractor in a dry and protected location. If stored outside, cover the tractor (including the tires) to protect it from the elements. The procedures out- lined below should be performed whenever the tractor is placed in storage.
1.Change the engine oil and filter following the instructions provided in the engine manual packed with this manual.
WARNING: Never store the tractor with fuel in the tank indoors or in poorly ven- tilated enclosures, where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, etc.
WARNING: Fuel left in the fuel tank dete- riorates and will cause serious starting problems.
2.If storing the tractor for 30 days or more:
To prevent gum deposits from forming inside the engine’s carburetor and causing possible malfunc- tion of the engine, the fuel system must be either completely emptied, or the gasoline must be treated with a stabilizer to prevent deterioration.
Using a fuel stabilizer:
•Read the product manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations.
•Add to clean, fresh gasoline the correct amount of stabilizer for the capacity (approximately 3 gallons) of the fuel system.
•Fill the fuel tank with treated fuel and run the engine for
Emptying the fuel system:
•Prior to putting the tractor in storage, monitor fuel consumption with the goal of running the fuel tank empty.
•Run the engine until it begins to stall. Use the choke to keep the engine running until all fuel in the carburetor has been exhausted.
•Referring to the engine manual, drain the fuel from the carburetor bowl.
3.Clean the engine and the entire tractor thoroughly.
4.Fully charge the battery, then disconnect the neg- ative cable at the battery to prevent possible discharge. Recharge the battery periodically when in storage.
NOTE: Remove the battery if exposed to prolonged periods of
5. Lubricate all lubrication points.
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your tractor. They may cause damage to electrical components; spindles; pulleys; bearings; or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
REMOVING THE TRACTOR FROM STORAGE
•Check the engine oil.
•Fully charge the battery and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure.
•If drained before storing, fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
•Add clean, fresh fuel.
•Start the engine and allow to idle for a few minutes to ensure engine is operating properly.
•Drive the tractor without a load to make certain all the tractor systems are functioning properly.
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