Caution
If you leave the wire on the spark plug, someone could accidently start the engine and seriously injure you or other bystanders.
Disconnect the wire from the spark plug before you do any maintenance. Set the wire aside so that it does not accidently contact the spark plug.
Checking the Engine Oil Level
Before you use the lawn mower, make sure that the oil level is between the Add and the Full marks as shown on the dipstick (Fig. 7). If the oil level is below the Add mark, and oil. Refer to Filling the Crankcase with Oil on page 8.
Cleaning the Underside of the Lawn Mower Housing
To ensure the best performance, keep the underside of the lawn mower housing clean (Fig. 16).
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Figure 16
Washing Method
1.Position the lawn mower on a flat concrete or asphalt surface near a garden hose.
2.Start the engine.
3.Hold the running garden hose at handle level and direct the water to flow on the ground just in front of the right rear tire (Fig. 17).
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Note: The blade will draw in water and wash out clippings. Let the water run until you no longer see clippings being washed out from under the housing.
4.Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
5.Turn off the garden hose.
6.Start the lawn mower and let it run for a few minutes to dry out the moisture on the lawn mower and its components.
Scraping Method
If washing does not remove all debris from under the lawn mower, scrape it clean.
1.Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 10).
2.Drain the fuel from the fuel tank. Refer to Emptying the Fuel Tank and Cleaning the Fuel Filter on page 18.
Warning
Tipping the lawn mower may cause the fuel to leak from the carburetor or the fuel tank. Gasoline is extremely flammable, highly explosive, and, under certain conditions, can cause personal injury or property damage.
Avoid fuel spills by running the engine dry or by removing the gasoline with a hand pump; never siphon.
3.Tip the lawn mower onto its right side (Fig. 16).
4.Remove the dirt and grass clippings with a hardwood scraper. Avoid burrs and sharp edges.
5.Turn the lawn mower upright.
6.Fill the fuel tank.
7.Connect the wire to the spark plug.
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Figure 17
1. Rear right wheel
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