Storage
Storage Safety
• Shut of f the engine, remove the key , and wait
for all movement to stop before you leave the
operator ’ s position. Allow the machine to cool
before adjusting, servicing, cleaning, or storing it.
• Do not store the machine or fuel container where
there is an open ame, spark, or pilot light, such
as on a water heater or other appliance.
Storing the Battery
• Service the battery and cables as follows:
1. Remove the battery terminals from the
battery posts; refer to Removing the Battery
( page 55 ) .
2. Clean the battery , terminals, and posts with
a wire brush and baking-soda solution.
3. Coat the cable terminals and battery posts
with Grafo 1 12X skin-over grease (T oro Part
No. 505-47) or petroleum jelly to prevent
corrosion.
4. If you plan to store the machine more than 30
days, remove the battery and charge it fully .
Note: Slowly charge the battery for 24 hours
every 60 days to prevent lead sulfation of the
battery .
• Store the battery in position on the machine.
• Leave the cables disconnected if the battery is
stored in the machine.
• Store the battery in a cool atmosphere to avoid
quick deterioration of the charge in the battery .
• T o prevent the battery from freezing, ensure that
it is fully charged. The specic gravity of the
electrolyte in a fully charged battery is between
1.265 to 1.299.
Preparing the Machine
Important: Do not use brackish or reclaimed
water to clean the machine.
1. Thoroughly clean the machine, cutting unit, and
the engine, paying special attention to these
areas:
• Radiator and radiator screen
• Underneath the cutting unit
• Under the belt covers
• PT O shaft assembly
• All grease ttings and pivot points
• Remove the steering column rear access
panel and clean out inside
• Beneath the seat plate and top of the
transmission
2. Check and adjust the air pressure in the tires;
refer to Checking the Air Pressure in the T ires
( page 24 )
3. Remove, sharpen, and balance the mower
blades.
4. Check for loose fasteners and tighten them as
necessary .
5. Lubricate all grease ttings and apply oil to pivot
points and the transmission bypass-valve pins.
Wipe clean any excess lubricant.
6. Lightly sand and use touch-up paint on
scratched or chipped paint, or rust. Repair any
dents in the metal body .
Preparing the Engine
1. Change the engine oil and oil lter; refer to
Changing the Engine Oil and Filter ( page 51 ) .
2. Start the engine and run it at idle speed for 2
minutes.
3. Shut of f the engine.
4. Empty the fuel from the fuel tank, fuel lines,
pump, lter , and separator .
5. Flush the fuel tank with clean diesel fuel and
connect all fuel lines.
6. Thoroughly clean and service the air-cleaner
assembly; refer to Servicing the Air Cleaner
( page 48 ) .
7. Seal the air-cleaner inlet and the exhaust outlet
with weatherproof masking tape.
8. Secure all fuel-system ttings.
9. Check the anti-freeze protection level of the
cooling system and adjust the concentration of
the coolant as needed for the coldest expected
temperature in your area.
10. Check the oil-ller cap and fuel-tank cap to
ensure that they are secure.
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