•
Clean the top of the mower deck, under the spindle covers and belt area. See
Figure 17.
•
Clean around and near the transmission, axle and the fan area. See Figure 18.
Wheel Not Shown For Clarity
•
Debris can accumulate anywhere on the tractor, especially on horizontal
surfaces. Additional cleaning may be necessary when mowing in dry
conditions or when mulching.
•
Fuel leaks/spills, oil leaks/spills and excess lubrication can also become
collections sites for debris. Immediate repair and cleaning up oil or fuel spills
can help reduce fire hazards.
•
In addition to cleaning the tractor before operating and storing, do not
attempt to mow unusually tall grass (10" or higher), dry grass (e.g., pasture)
or piles of dry leaves. Dry grass or leaves may contact the engine exhaust
and/or build up on the mower deck presenting a potential fire hazard.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Figure 17
Figure 18
Storing the Tractor
•
Allow the machine to cool in an open area before storing.
•
Do not park the tractor near any flammable materials (wood, cloth or
chemicals) or any open flames or other potential source of ignition (furnace,
water heater or any other type of heater).
•
Remove all combustible materials from the tractor before storing. Empty
cargo boxes, grass catchers or containers.
•
Always shut off fuel flow when storing or transporting if tractor is equipped
with a fuel shutoff.
•
Check the fuel system (lines, tank, cap and fittings) frequently for cracks or
leaks. Repair and clean as necessary.
Battery
California Proposition 65 Warning! Battery posts, terminals, and related
accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.
The battery is sealed and is maintenance-free. Acid levels cannot be checked and
fluid can not be added.
•
Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free of corrosive build-up.
•
After cleaning the battery and terminals, apply a light coat of petroleum jelly
or grease to both terminals.
If removing the battery for cleaning, disconnect the NEGATIVE (Black)
wire from its terminal first, followed by the POSITIVE (Red) wire. When
re-installing the battery, always connect the POSITIVE (Red) wire to its
terminal first, followed by the NEGATIVE (Black) wire. Be certain that the
wires are connected to the correct terminals; reversing them could result
in serious damage to your engine's alternating system.
Engine
Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for all engine maintenance procedures and
instructions for checking and adding oil. See the Changing the Engine Oil section
below for oil changing procedures and instructions.
NOTE: If the "LOW OIL" text appears immediately after the engine is started
the oil pressure may be low. This is normal. If the low oil indication persists
stop the tractor immediately and check the engine oil level as instructed in
the Engine Operator's Manual.
NOTE: The "Low Oil" function only works if the engine is equipped with an
oil pressure switch.
Changing the Engine Oil
If the engine has been recently run, the engine, muffler and surrounding
metal surfaces will be hot and can cause burns to the skin. Exercise caution
to avoid burns.
To complete an oil change, proceed as follows:
1.
Run the engine for a short time to warm the engine oil. The oil will flow more
freely and carry away more impurities. Use care to avoid burns from hot oil.
2.
Locate the oil drain hose on the left side of the engine.
20
WARNING
CAUTION
WARNING