16
WARNING: Before performing any type of
maintenance/service, disengage all controls
and stop the engine. Wait until all moving
parts have come to a complete stop. Allow
the engine to cool. Disconnect spark plug
wire and ground it against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.
General Recommendations
• Always observe safety rules on the mower and in the
manual(s) when performing any maintenance.
• The warranty on this mower does not cover
items that have been subjected to operator
abuse or negligence. To receive full value from
warranty, operator must maintain the mower as
instructed here.
• Changing of engine-governed speed will void
engine warranty.
• Check that all hardware is in place & secure and tight
before each use and before off season storage.
Lubrication
Blade Control
Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once
a season and before storage with light oil. This control
must operate freely in both directions (Figure 17).
Wheels
Lubricate all wheel hubs/axles at least once a season
and before storage with light oil (Figure 17).
Figure 17
Engine Maintenance
Annually check the engine mounting bolts torque: Min.
29.2 ft-lbs (39.6 N-m), Max. 41.7 ft-lbs (56.3 N-m).
Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual packed with your
mower for a detailed description of all engine-related
service specifications and storage.
If engine fails to start, runs erratic, overheats,
skips (hesitates) or idles poorly refer to the Engine
Operator’s Manual.
IMPORTANT: Check engine oil level before each use. Refer
to Engine Operator’s Manual.
Clean Engine
• Before every use, clean grass, chaff or accumulated
debris from engine. Keep linkage, spring, and
controls clean. Keep area around and behind muffler
free of any combustible debris.
• Keeping engine clean allows air movement
around engine.
• Engine parts should be kept clean to reduce the risk
of overheating and ignition of accumulated debris.
CAUTION: Do not use water to clean engine
parts. Water could contaminate fuel system.
Use a brush or dry cloth.
Mower Maintenance
Deck Wash (If Equipped)
Your mower’s deck may be equipped with a deck wash
system. Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings
from the deck’s underside and prevent the buildup
of corrosive chemicals. Complete the following steps
AFTER EACH MOWING:
1. Push the mower to a level, clear location on
your lawn. Ensure your garden hose can reach
your mower.
CAUTION: Make certain the mower’s
discharge chute is directed AWAY from your
house, garage, parked cars, etc.
2. Remove the fast attach deck wash nozzle from the
mower deck and thread it onto the end of your
garden hose.
3. Attach garden hose with the deck wash nozzle to
the water port on your deck’s surface (Figure 18).
4. Turn the water ON.
5. Start the engine as described in the Engine
Operator’s Manual.
6. Run the engine for a minimum of two minutes,
allowing the underside of the cutting deck to
thoroughly rinse.
7. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.
8. Turn the water OFF and detach the deck wash
nozzle from the water port on your deck’s surface.
9. After cleaning your deck, restart the mower. Keep
the engine and blade running for a minimum of two
minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting deck
to thoroughly dry.
Figure 18
PRODUCT CARE