Full Product Manual

28
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Never store the tractor with fuel in the tank indoors or
in poorly ventilated enclosures, where fuel fumes may
reach an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace,
water heater, clothes dryer, etc.
2. If storing the tractor for 30 days or more:
a. To prevent gum deposits from forming inside the
engine’s carburetor and causing possible malfunction of
the engine, the fuel system must be either completely
emptied, or the gasoline must be treated with a stabilizer
to prevent deterioration.
b. Using a fuel stabilizer for storage between 30 and 90 days:
• Read the product manufacturer’s instructions
and recommendations.
• Add to clean, fresh gasoline the correct amount of
stabilizer for the capacity (approximately 3 gallons) of
the fuel system.
• Fill the fuel tank with treated fuel and run the
engine for 2-3 minutes to get stabilized fuel into
the carburetor.
• Fuel left in the fuel tank deteriorates and will cause
serious starting problems.
c. Emptying the fuel system for storage of more than
90 days:
• Prior to putting the tractor in storage, monitor
fuel consumption with the goal of running the fuel
tank empty.
• Run the engine until it begins to stall. Use the choke to
keep the engine running until all fuel in the carburetor
has been exhausted.
• Referring to the Engine Operator’s Manual, drain the
fuel from the carburetor bowl.
3. Clean the engine and the entire tractor thoroughly.
NOTE: Using a pressure washer or garden hose is not
recommended for cleaning your tractor other than to clean
the underside of the deck. It may cause damage to electrical
components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of
water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
4. Fully charge the battery, then disconnect the negative cable
at the battery to prevent possible discharge. Recharge the
battery periodically when in storage.
NOTE: Remove the battery if exposed to prolonged periods of
sub-freezing temperatures. Store in a cool, dry location where
temperatures are above freezing.
5. Lubricate all lubrication points.
Lubricating Deck Wheels
The wheels on the deck which are spherical shaped (50” and 54”
decks have four) are equipped with a grease fitting. Lubricate
with a No. 2 multi-purpose grease applied with a grease gun per
the maintenance schedule.
Lubricating Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system, parking brake
and lift linkage per the Maintenance Schedule.
NOTE: It is not necessary to grease the steering pinion/sector
gear interface. Doing so will allow dirt to accumulate and can
affect steering performance.
Hydrostatic Transmission
The hydrostatic transmission is sealed at the factory and is
maintenance-free. The fluid level cannot be checked and the
fluid cannot be changed.
Spark Arrestor Maintenance (If equipped)
Spark arrestor assemblies must be inspected and cleaned
periodically (see the Maintenance Schedule chart in this manual).
Visually inspect the screen for tears, broken wires or loose welds.
Replace the spark arrestor assembly if any of these conditions
exist. If the screen is in good condition, clean the screen by
brushing away loose dirt or carbon particles.
Tires
Keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressures. Improper
inflation will shorten the tire service life. See the tire side wall for
proper inflation pressures. Refer to Maintenance Schedule chart
located in this manual for proper service intervals.
Observe the following guidelines:
• Do not inflate a tire above the maximum pressure shown on
the sidewall of the tire.
• Do not reinflate a tire that has been run flat or seriously
under-inflated. Have it inspected and serviced by a qualified
tire mechanic.
Off-Season Storage
If your tractor is not going to be operated for an extended
period of time (30 days to approximately six months), the lawn
tractor should be prepared for storage. Store the lawn tractor in
a dry and protected location. If stored outside, cover the lawn
tractor (including the tires) to protect it from the elements. The
procedures outlined below should be performed whenever the
lawn tractor is placed in storage.
1. Change the engine oil and filter following the instructions
provided in this manual as well as the Engine Operator’s
Manual provided with this tractor.