Section 3 – MAINTENANCE
3.1INTRODUCTION
To retain the quality of the mower, use genuine SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact a local SNAPPER dealer for parts and service assistance. For the correct part or information for a particular mower, always mention model and serial number.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or service with engine and blade running. STOP engine and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure away from spark plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all components to cool. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and can cause severe injury.
3.2SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS 3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL
IMPORTANT: Drain fuel tank before tipping machine. DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or spark plug down. Oil from crankcase will saturate the air filter and cause the engine to be hard to start or not start at all. If contamination does occur, the air filter will have to be replaced.
1.Refer to Engine Manual for proper oil specifications, procedures and proper service intervals.
For simplest/cleanest oil change, simply turn mower on its side to drain oil, as shown in Figure 3.1. Drain oil through dipstick tube into a container. Allow sufficient time for all oil to drain.
FIGURE 3.1
2.Dispose of drain oil properly.
3.Fill engine with oil as specified in Engine Manual. Do Not overfill.
3.2.2. CHECK MOWER BLADE
1.Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away from plug.
2.Tilt mower up on its rear wheels for access to the blade cap screw. Do not tilt mower with spark plug or carburetor down. See Figure 3.2.
3.Check torque of blade retaining cap screw. Recommended torque should be 40 ft. lbs. See Figure 3.2.
4.Check blade for sharpness, wear and damage. Refer to Section “Blade Wear Limits”.
RECOMMENDED BLADE RETAINING CAP SCREW TORQUE VALUE SHOULD BE 40 FT. LBS.
FIGURE 3.2
IMPORTANT: Drain fuel tank before tipping mower. DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or spark plug down. Oil from crankcase will saturate the air filter and cause the engine to be hard to start or not start at all. If contamination does occur, the air filter will have to be replaced.
3.2.3. CHECK ENGINE DRIVE BELT
1. Visually check engine drive belt for cracking, fraying, severed or belt strands exposed. If worn or damaged, replace belt before operating mower.
3.3SERVICE - PERIODIC
Perform all maintenance as described in the “Service Schedule” section of this manual.
3.3.1. Engine
Service engine according to engine owner’s manual.
3.3.2. Air Filter
Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.
3.3.3. Engine Oil
Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.
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