SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
WARNING: Before performing any maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral position, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine maintenance instructions.
Check engine oil level before each use as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
Read and follow instructions carefully.
Changing Engine Oil
NOTE: Depending on the engine model found on your tractor, it may be necessary to remove the tractor’s side panel in order to replace the oil filter (if so equipped).
•Unscrew oil fill cap and remove dipstick from the oil fill tube. See Figure 17.
Oil Fill Cap | Protective Cap |
| |
| Oil Drain Hose |
Oil Fill Tube | Oil Drain Valve |
| Drain Port |
Figure 17
•Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil drain valve to expose the drain port. See Figure 17.
•Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual) onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of the hose into an appropriate oil collection container with a capacity of no less than 64 oz.
•Push the oil drain valve in slightly, then rotate counterclockwise and pull outward to begin draining oil. See Figure 17.
•Service the oil filter (if so equipped) as instructed
in the separate Engine Manual packed with your unit.
Perform the above steps in the opposite order after oil has finished draining.
•Refill the engine with new motor oil.
IMPORTANT: Refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit for information regarding the quantity and proper weight of motor oil.
Air Cleaner
Service the
Spark Plug(s)
The spark plug(s) should be cleaned and the gap reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of each mowing season. Refer to the separate engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.
Lubrication
WARNING: Before lubricating, repairing, or inspecting, always disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral position, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system, parking brake and lift linkage at least once a season with light oil.
Rear Wheels
The rear wheels should be removed from the axles once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well with an
Front Axles
Each end of the tractor’s front pivot bar may be equipped with a grease fitting. Lubricate with a grease gun after every 25 hours of tractor operation.
Cleaning the Engine and Deck
Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped off promptly. Do NOT allow debris to accumulate around the cooling fins of the engine or on any other part of the machine.
IMPORTANT: The use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your tractor is NOT recommended. It may cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will result in a shortened life of the tractor and reduce its serviceability.
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