• In addition to cleaning the tractor before operating and
storing, do not attempt to mow unusually tall grass (10"
(25.4 cm) or higher), dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry
leaves. Dry grass or leaves may contact the engine exhaust
and/or build up on the mower deck presenting a potential
fire hazard.
Storing the Tractor
• Allow the machine to cool in an open area for at least five
minutes before storing.
• Do not park the tractor near any flammable materials (wood,
cloth or chemicals) or any open flames or other potential
source of ignition (furnace, water heater or any other type
of heater).
• Remove all combustible materials from the tractor before
storing. Empty cargo boxes, grass catchers or containers.
• Always shut off fuel flow when storing or transporting if
tractor is equipped with a fuel shutoff.
• Check the fuel system (lines, tank, cap and fittings) per the
maintenance schedule for cracks or leaks. Repair and clean
as necessary.
Maintenance
REMOVING THE FLOOR PANEL (IF EQUIPPED)
Do not operate tractor with floor panel removed.
On some models, the floor panel can be removed for
maintenance, service and cleaning. To remove the floor panel:
1. Using the multi-tool (if equipped) or a 1/2" socket, remove
the hex screw (a) that secures the floor panel in place.
See 1 in Figure 33.
1
(a)
2
Figure 33
2. Carefully lift the rear of the floor panel. See 2 in Figure 33.
3. Slide the floor panel rearward to free the front of the floor
panel. See 3 in Figure 33.
4. Lift it off the tractor. See 4 in Figure 33.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
WARNING
4
5. To place the floor panel back on the tractor, carefully put
the floor panel back in place and re-install the hex screw
removed in Step 1. Torque to 108-132 in-lbs (12-15 N-m).
ENGINE
Allow machine to cool in an open area for at least five
minutes before storing or refueling.
Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for all engine maintenance
procedures and instructions.
NOTE: Maintenance, repair or replacement of the emission
control devices and systems which are being done at owner's
expense may be performed by any engine repair establishment
or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an
authorized dealer.
CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL
If the tractor has been recently run, the engine, muffler
and surrounding metal surfaces will be very hot and can
cause burns to the skin. Let the engine cool for at least
five minutes. Exercise caution to avoid burns.
NOTE: The oil filter should be changed at every oil change interval.
To complete an oil change, proceed as follows:
1. Locate the oil drain hose (a) on the side of the engine.
2. Place an appropriate oil collection container with at least a
2.5 quart (2.37 liter) capacity below the opening of the oil
drain hose, to collect the used oil. Remove the oil fill cap/
dipstick (b) from the oil fill tube.
3. While holding the free end of the oil drain hose over the oil
collection container, unscrew the square head hose plug (c)
from the end of the oil drain hose. See Figure 34. Drain the
engine oil into the collection container.
3
(a)
(c)
4. After draining the oil, wipe any residual oil from the oil drain
hose. Thread the square head hose plug into the oil drain
hose fitting and tighten the square head hose plug to
16 ft-lbs. (22 N-m).
5. Remove the oil filter (d) and drain into the collection container.
6. Replace the oil filter (d) and refill the engine with new oil as
instructed in the Engine Operator's Manual.
25
WARNING
WARNING
(d)
Figure 34
(b)