Maintenance Instructions

CLEANING/

CHECKING/SERVICING

Transaxle Cooling Fins

Keeping the cooling fins on the transaxles clean and free of obstruction is essential to avoid overheating the transmission fluid and shortening transmission life. The cooling fins should be checked every 100 hours; and cleaned if necessary.

To clean the fins, use compressed air and/or a pressure washer. The cooling fins extend all the way around the housing -- the fins underneath need to be clean as well as the more visible fins above. Also, pay close attention to the area under the drive pulley.

IMPORTANT: In case an oil leak develops on the input shaft, the cooling fan blowing dusty air and oil on the transmission will quickly pack the cooling fins with oily dirt. If this condition occurs, contact your dealer immediately to avoid overheating and damaging the transaxle.

An additional procedure in maintaining transaxle cooling is to inspect the cooling fans. Replace the fan(s) if blades are missing or damaged.

Cooling Fins

Cooling

Fan

Transaxle Cooling Fins

CHECKING/SERVICING

DANGER

To prevent accidental starting of the engine when servicing or adjusting the ma- chine, remove the key from the ignition switch and disconnect the spark plug wires.

Security of Air Cleaner System

NOTE: The following inspection is only an external inspection and should be done without “disturb- ing” the filtration components.

On a daily basis, visually inspect the external condition of the air cleaner cover.

Check for damage. Make sure the cover is in place and the cover latches are secure - do not run the engine without the air cleaner cover in place and secure.

Battery

NOTE: For initial battery service during setup, refer to Battery Service in Assembly Instructions.

IMPORTANT: Make sure battery is securely mounted in the frame. A loose battery may cause damage to the case resulting in acid leakage and severe damage to the machine. A hazard may be created by damage to critical working parts and safety systems.

Cleaning the Terminals

If battery terminals are corroded, remove battery from the mower. Using a wire brush, remove corrosion with a solution of one part baking soda and four parts water. Rinse with clean water. Coat the terminals with petroleum jelly or terminal protector spray to retard further corrosion.

Charging the Battery

DANGER

BATTERIES PRODUCE EXPLOSIVE

GASES

Charge the battery in a well-ventilated area, so that gases produced while charg- ing can dissipate.

Keep sparks, flames, and smoking ma- terials away from the battery at all times.

Make sure the battery cap vents are open (check manifold vent on each cap).

Make sure the battery charger is un- plugged before connecting or discon- necting cables to the battery.

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