Scag Power Equipment MAG manual Diesel Engine BREAK-IN, Starting the Diesel Engine

Section 4

4.4 DIESEL ENGINE BREAK-IN

The proper break-in of a new diesel engine can make a difference in the performance and life of the engine. Perform the following break-in procedure during the first 50 hours of operation:

1.A new engine should be operated with as near full load as possible. However, the engine must be allowed to reach an operating temperature before operating at full load conditions.

2.The engine oil should be checked twice daily. Higher than normal oil consumption is not uncommon during the initial break-in period.

3.Change the oil and filter element after the first 40 hours of operation.

4.Check all engine belts for proper tension after the first 10 hours of operation and adjust, if necessary. Refer to Adjustments in Section 6.

5.During the break-in period, check and tighten all engine hardware.

4.5 STARTING THE DIESEL ENGINE

4.Turn the ignition key switch to the PREHEAT position until the indicator light for the glow plug glows bright red. The colder the temperature, the longer it will take to energize the glow plug. This step is not necessary when starting a warm engine.

5.Turn the ignition key switch to START position and release the key as soon as the engine starts. Do not hold the key in the START position for more than 15 seconds at a time. Allow at least 60 seconds between each cranking attempt to inhibit overheating the starter motor. Prolonged cranking can damage the starter motor and shorten battery life.

6.Allow engine to warm to operating temperature.

4.6 OPERATOR COMFORT ADJUSTMENTS

Two adjustments can be made to make your mowing job comfortable. The steering handle can be adjusted up or down and the seat can be adjusted forward or back.

A. Adjusting Steering Handle Height

1.Remove the hardware securing the handle to the steering shaft. Two sets of holes are available to adjust the handle height.

CAUTION:

DO NOT USE STARTING FLUIDS. Use of starting fluids in the air intake system may be potentially explosive or cause “Runaway” engine condition that could result in engine damage and/or personal injury.

1.Be sure the fuel shut-off valve is completely open. The valve is located in the fuel line between the fuel tank and electric fuel pump (See Section 7).

2.Sit in the operator’s seat and depress the interlock foot pedal with your left foot. Make sure the parking brake and mower blade brake are engaged.

3.Set throttle lever to 3/4 throttle.

Hardware

Second Bolt Hole

Figure 4-4 Steering Handle Adjustment

2.Move the handle to align with the other holes in the steering shaft. Install the hardware and tighten.

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