•Tip the mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold the mower firmly.
•Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool.
•Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you had put plastic under the gas cap, make sure to remove it now.
WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90 degrees and do not leave the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.
Lubrication
Wheels
•Lubricate the wheels and bearings, if so equipped, at least once a season with light oil or engine oil. Also, if the wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the wheel with light oil.
Engine
• Follow the engine manual instructions and recommended schedule for lubricating engine components.
Pivot Points
•Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle and the brake cable at least once a season with light oil. The blade control handle must operate freely in both directions. The cutting height adjustment lever should be able to move easily.
Engine Maintenance
•A list of key maintenance jobs required for good performance by the mower is given below. Follow the accompanying engine manual for detailed list and instructions.
•Change engine oil after the first two operating hours and every 25 operating hours thereafter. Check the oil level before starting the engine every time.
•Service foam filter in the air cleaner every 25 hours of use and replace the paper filter component every 100 hours. You may have to service the air filter more frequently if you are operating the mower under extremely dusty conditions.
•Clean the engine periodically. Remove dirt and debris with a cloth or brush. We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean mower unless the muffler, air filter and the carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can shorten engine life.
•Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to .030” at least once a season or every 50 hours of operation. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of each season. Refer to the engine manual for correct spark plug type.
•Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if necessary. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters can create a fire hazard. Make sure to avoid muffler and surrounding areas while the mower engine is hot because temperature of these areas of the engine may exceed 150o F.
SECTION 9: SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS
Blade Care
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary.
WARNING: When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting blade.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
•Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up.
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