Operator`s manual

Storage - 49
STORAGE
Storage
Storing Safety
Preparing Machine for Storage
1. Repair any worn or damaged parts. Replace parts if
necessary. Tighten loose hardware.
2. Repair scratched or chipped metal surfaces to prevent
rust.
3. Clean under the deck and remove grass and debris from
inside chute and bagger.
4. Wash the machine and apply wax to metal and plastic
surfaces.
5. Run machine for five minutes to dry belts and pulleys.
6. Apply light coat of engine oil to pivot and wear points to
prevent rust.
7. Lubricate grease points.
8. Check tire pressure.
Preparing Fuel and Engine For Storage
Fuel:
If you have been using “Stabilized Fuel”, add stabilized fuel
to tank until the tank is full.
NOTE: Filling the fuel tank reduces the amount of air in
the fuel tank and helps reduce deterioration of fuel.
If you are not using “Stabilized Fuel”:
1. Park machine safely in a well-ventilated area.
NOTE: Try to anticipate the last time the tractor will be
used for the season so very little fuel is left in the fuel
tank.
2. Turn on engine and allow to run until it runs out of fuel.
3. Turn key to OFF position.
4. Mix fresh fuel and fuel stabilizer in separate container.
Follow stabilizer instructions for mixing.
5. Fill fuel tank with stabilized fuel.
6. Run engine for a few minutes to allow fuel mixture to
circulate through carburetor.
Engine:
Engine storage procedure should be used when vehicle is
not to be used for longer than 60 days.
1. Change engine oil and filter while engine is warm.
2. Service air filter if necessary.
3. Clean debris from engine air intake screen.
4. Remove spark plugs. Put 30 mL (1 oz.) of clean engine
oil in cylinders.
5. Install spark plugs, but DO NOT connect spark plug
wires.
6. Crank the engine five or six times to allow oil to be
distributed.
7. Clean the engine and engine compartment.
8. Remove battery.
9. Clean the battery and battery posts. Check the
electrolyte level.
10.Close fuel shut-off valve, if your machine is equipped.
11.Store the battery in a cool, dry place where it will not
freeze.
NOTE: The stored battery should be recharged every
90 days.
12.Charge the battery.
13.Store the vehicle in a dry, protected place. If vehicle is
stored outside, put a waterproof cover over it.
Removing Machine From Storage
1. Check tire pressure.
2. Check engine oil level.
3. Check battery electrolyte level. Charge battery if
necessary.
4. Install battery.
5. Check spark plug gap. Install and tighten plugs to
c
CAUTION: Avoid injury! Fuel vapors are
explosive and flammable. Engine exhaust
fumes contain carbon monoxide and can cause
serious illness or death:
• Run the engine only long enough to move
the machine to or from storage.
• Do not store vehicle with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach an
open flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing the
machine in any enclosure.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Stale fuel can produce
varnish and plug carburetor components and affect
engine performance.
• Add fuel conditioner or stabilizer to fresh fuel
before filling tank.