Maintenance Instructions LUBRICATION
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LUBRICATION
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lubricate the machine
with the engine running. Disengage the
PTO clutch, shut o the machine, and re-
move the ignition key.
Proper lubrication is an important maintenance pro-
cedure. It reduces wear and makes the machine
quieter and easier to operate.
Engine Oil
Engine Break-In Oil
No special break-in oil is required. The engine is
serviced with 10W-30, Service Class SJ oil from the
factory. Change the oil after the initial engine break-
in period of 35 hours. Thereafter, change oil after
every 100 hours of operation.
Checking Engine Crankcase Oil Level
Check the engine crankcase oil level before use and
after each 5 hours of continuous operation.
IMPORTANT: The importance of checking and
maintaining the proper crankcase oil level cannot be
overemphasized. Check the oil level BEFORE
EACH USE.
1. Park the mower on a level surface with the en-
gine stopped. Also, make sure the engine is
cool and oil has had time to drain into the sump
[allow at least ve (5) minutes after stopping
the engine].
IMPORTANT: NEVER check or add oil with the
engine running.
2. Before removing the dipstick, clean the area
around the dipstick to keep any dirt or debris out
of the engine.
3. Remove the dipstick, wipe o with a clean rag,
then reinsert the dipstick into the tube and press
all the way down.
4. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil lev-
el on the dipstick. The oil level should be within
the “Operating Range” on the dipstick (between
the lower mark and the upper mark).
IMPORTANT: DO NOT operate engine without
a sucient oil supply in the crankcase. DO NOT
operate with the oil level below the lower mark or
above the upper mark on the dipstick.
5. If additional oil is needed, refer to Specications
for proper crankcase lubricant. Fill up to, but
not above, the upper mark on the dipstick.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT overll the crankcase
(oil above upper mark) as this CAN result in en-
gine overheating, loss of power, and possible
en gine damage.
Upper Mark
Lower Mark
Dipstick Operating Range
Changing Engine Crankcase Oil/Oil Filter
Change the engine crankcase oil after every 100
hours of operation and replace the oil lter every
other oil change (every 200 hours of operation).
1. Park the mower on a level surface with the
en gine stopped. The engine oil should be
warm before draining. If not warm from opera-
tion, start the engine and run a few minutes to
warm the oil.
2. Before removing the dipstick and oil ll cap,
clean the area around them to keep any dirt or
debris out of the engine.
3. Remove the dipstick, oil ll cap, and oil drain plug
and drain the oil into a suitable container. Be
sure to allow ample time for complete drainage.