4. If equipped with the optional grass catcher, be sure to empty and
clean the bags before storage.
5. Remove the cutter deck (see pages 64 - 65).
6. Turn the cutter deck upside down. Clean the underside of the deck
with water, and dry thoroughly.
7. For longer service and greater efficiency, keep the underside of the
mower housing clean and free of accumulated grass clippings by
washing it down with a hose after use and/or cleaning it with a wire
brush and scraper. Remove any rust and apply a rust-resistant paint.
Cleaning and rust prevention are especially important before seasonal
storage.
8. Reinstall the cutter deck by reversing the removal procedure.
9. Store the lawn tractor on a level surface in a dry, dust-free area with
the parking brake lever set.
IO. Cover the lawn tractor to keep out dust.
11. Check tire air pressure regularly during storage and inflate if
necessary.
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE
1. Check the battery electrolyte level (see p. 26). Fully charge the battery,
and install it in the tractor.
2. Remove the spark plugs and check that they are clean and properly gap-
ped (see p. 59).
Turn the engine a few revolutions by hand without the spark plugs.
3. Thread the spark plugs in as far as possible by hand, then tighten them
l/8 to l/4 turn further with the plug wrench.
4. Check the engine oil level (see p. 20).
5. Check the coolant level (see p. 25).
6. Fill the fuel tank, and start the engine by following the starting instruc-
tions (see p. 34).
NOTE: If the cylinders were coated with oil, the engine will smoke at start
up; this is normal.
77