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Maintenance
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scrap- ing clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug wire is disconnected).
Replacing Rear Flap
The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck. If the rear flap becomes damaged, replace it by cutting off the flat end of the wire rod which secures it to the deck using a pair of
Blade Care
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service: 1. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which
WARNING
Figure
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure
Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine before cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of maintenance on your machine.
If unit is tipped for easier access to blade or belt, tip mower as specified in separate engine manual. If it does not specify turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up.
Cutting grass in sandy soil condition causes abrasive wear to the blade.
Lubrication
1.Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure
2.If your mower is equipped with ball bearing wheels, lubricate at least once a season with a light oil, all other types require no lubrication. However, if the wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the wheel with light automotive oil.
3.Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point periodi- cally with light oil to prevent rust. See Figure
4.The transmission is
Engine
1.Refer to the separate engine manual for engine maintenance instructions.
2.Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions carefully.
3.Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions.
4.Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to permit proper air circulation which is es- sential to engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.
Deck
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching.
Figure
2.Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.
3.The blade may be resharpened by removing it and either grinding or filing the cutting edge keeping as close to the original bevel as possible. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade while it is still on the mower.
4.It is extremely important that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade.
NOTE: Improper blade balance will result in excessive vibration causing eventual damage to the engine and mower. Be sure to carefully balance blade after sharpen- ing. Possible damage resulting from blade unbalance condition is not the responsibility of the manufacturer.
NOTE: Always remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.
5.The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
6Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil.
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