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Maintenance
Storage Procedure
Prepare the mower for “end of season” storage as follows:
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and secure away from
the spark plug.
2. Drain the fuel tank and let the engine run until all fuel is
out of the carburetor.
NOTE: If using a fuel stabilizer, there is no need to drain the
fuel tank. Refer to the section entitled ‘Fuel System’.
3. Use a brush or compressed air to remove loose debris,
then use a damp cloth to wipe down the unit.
4. Tilt the mower up on its rear wheels and inspect the
underside of the deck. (Do not tilt the mower with the
spark plug or carburetor down.) Scrape away stubborn
accumulation of grass with a putty knife and/or wire
brush.
5. Lubricate all exposed metal with a light coating of oil to
prevent corrosion.
6. Carefully fold the handles, flexing the control cables to
prevent cable damage.
7. Store the mower in a shed or other dry area, protected
from weather.
Fuel System
Fuel can become stale when stored over 30 days. Stale fuel
causes acid and gum deposits to form in the fuel system or
on essential carburetor parts. To keep fuel fresh, use Briggs
& Stratton FRESH START
®
fuel stabilizer, available as a
liquid additive or a drip concentrate cartridge.
There is no need to drain gasoline from the engine if a fuel
stabilizer is added according to instructions. Run the engine
for 2 minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the fuel
system. The engine and fuel can then be stored up to 24
months.
If gasoline in the engine has not been treated with a fuel
stabilizer, it must be drained into an approved container. Run
the engine until it stops from lack of fuel. The use of a fuel
stabilizer in the storage container is recommended to
maintain freshness.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or service
with engine and blade running. STOP engine and blade.
Remove starter insert. Disconnect spark plug wire and
secure away from spark plug. Engine and components are
HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all com-
ponents to cool. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling
or working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely
sharp and can cause severe injury.
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