c.Emptying the fuel system:

•Prior to putting the tractor in storage, monitor fuel consumption with the goal of running the fuel tank empty.

•Close the fuel tank shutoff valve. Disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor and put the end into an approved fuel container.

•Open the fuel tank shutoff valve and drain the fuel tank and line into the approved container. Reinstall the fuel line on the carburetor.

•Start the engine and allow it to run out of fuel.

This will prevent gum and varnish deposits from forming. Replace the fuel filter.

3.Remove the spark plugs and pour approximately one ounce of oil into each cylinder. Crank the engine one or two turns to spread the oil evenly on the cylinder walls. Replace the spark plugs.

4.Clean the engine and the entire tractor thoroughly.

NOTE: Use of a pressure washer or garden hose is not recommended 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.

5.Sharpen the blades so that the mower will be ready to use when needed.

6.Protect the metal surfaces. Repair scratches with the appropriate touch-up spray paint. Brush a rust preventive oil on any unpainted surfaces including the pulleys and blades. (Be careful not to get any oil on the drive belts.)

7.Clean and fully charge the battery, then disconnect the negative 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 sub-freezing temperatures. Store in a cool, dry location where temperatures are above freezing.

8.Lubricate all lubrication points.

9.Jack the mower up and store it on blocks to take the weight off of the tires.

Removing The Tractor From Storage

1.Check the engine oil.

2.Fully charge the battery, lower tractor off blocks, and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure.

3.Remove the spark plugs and wipe them off. Using the starter, crank the engine to pump the excess oil out of the spark plug holes. Replace the spark plugs and the ignition leads.

4.If drained before storing, fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

5.Check the level of the engine oil in the crankcase and the hydraulic reservoir tank.

6.Start the engine and allow to idle for a few minutes to ensure engine is operating properly.

7.Drive the tractor without a load to make certain all the tractor systems are functioning properly.

Adjustments

Seat Position Adjustment Lever

To adjust the position of the seat, pull up and hold the seat adjustment lever. Slide the seat forward or rearward to the desired position; then release the adjustment lever. Make sure seat is locked into position before operating the tractor. See Fig. 6-4.

Figure 6-4

Weight Adjustment Lever

The weight adjustment lever is located on the right side of the seatback and incorporates three settings: upper is 110 lbs, middle is 195 lbs, and lower is 285 lbs.

Seatback Recline Knob

The seatback recline knob is located on the right side between the seat back and seat bottom. Turning it clockwise adds additional recline up to 10 degrees.

Adjusting RH & LH Drive Control Levers

The RH and LH drive control levers can be adjusted up or down and fore-and-aft for the comfort of the operator. Proper drive control lever and seat adjustment will result in the following:

In the neutral position with hands on the control levers,

•Operator’s upper arms should be relaxed and approximately vertical.

•Operator’s forearms should be approximately horizontal.

•In the full forward position,

•Operator’s back should stay in contact with the seat back.

•Control levers should not contact operator’s legs.

•In the full reverse position,

•Control levers should not contact the operator’s legs or torso.

26Section 6— Maintenance & Adjustments