Assembly Instructions
PREOPERATING CHECKLIST
Before operating the mower for the first time, and as a routine before daily operations, it is important to make sure the mower is properly prepared and ready for operation. The following is a list of items to be checked. (For a mower with frequent operation, some of these items will not need to be checked every day, but the operator should be aware of the condition of each.)
For proper fuel and lubricants refer to Specifications.
FILL FUEL TANK
Raise the mower body and locate the fuel tank on top of the engine, between the muffler and the air cleaner assembly.
Fill the fuel tank using clean, fresh, automotive grade unleaded gasoline (87 octane rating minimum).
DANGER
Handle gasoline with care. Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors are explosive. Use safe refueling procedures:
•DO NOT fill fuel tank with the engine run- ning.
•If the engine is hot, allow to cool before refueling.
•Use an approved fuel container.
•Fuel the mower outdoors.
•DO NOT smoke while refueling.
•Avoid spilling fuel; use a funnel or spout.
•DO NOT overfill the fuel tank; fill up to about 1 in. (25 mm) below the top of tank.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT permit dirt or other foreign matter to enter the fuel tank. Wipe dirt from around the filler cap before removing. Use a clean fuel storage container and funnel.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT mix oil with gasoline. Always use fresh, automotive grade unleaded gas- oline. DO NOT use premium, white, or
CHECK ENGINE CRANKCASE OIL LEVEL
Check the engine crankcase oil level before use and after each 5 hours of continuous operation. Refer to LUBRICATION for Checking Engine Crankcase Oil Level in Maintenance Instructions.
CHECK AND SERVICE ENGINE AIR CLEANER SYSTEM
•Check air restriction gauge to make sure there is no red indication showing.
•Check condition, cleanliness, and security of the complete air filter element (clean air filter every 100 hours). For detailed procedures, refer to CLEANING the Engine Air Cleaner System in
Maintenance Instructions.
ADJUST CARBURETOR (Initial
Refer to ADJUSTMENTS of Carburetor in Maintenance Instructions.
CHECK ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
Check that the engine cooling air intake screen is free of obstruction by grass clippings or debris and clean if required. Also, cylinder head cooling fins should be inspected and cleaned if any
Check performance of the cooling system by starting the engine, holding a hand adjacent to the cylinder head, and feeling the cooling airflow.
DANGER
Make sure to keep hands clear of exhaust pipe, muffler, and moving parts when checking airflow.
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