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13
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect the
spark plug wire and DE-ENERGIZE starter
before performing any repairs or
maintenance. DO NOT attempt any
maintenance or service to the engine and/or
mower equipped with the safety key in the
unlocked and/or energized mode.
NEVER assume starter is de-energized, even
if the key is in the locked position and/or
removed from the engine. ALWAYS de-
energize self starter prior to performing any
maintenance or service to the engine and/or
mower. Follow instructions on the engine
and/or machine to de-energize starter.
Engine
NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and
keep the spark plug side of engine up. Never tip the
mower more than 90 degrees and do not leave the
mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into
the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.
Refer to the engine manual for all engine maintenance
instructions.
• Maintain engine oil as instructed in the engine
manual. Check oil level before starting mower.
• Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicate that the air cleaner should be
serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the
engine manual.
• The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to
permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine
performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass,
dirt, and combustible debris from muffler area.
Deck
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned
after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings,
leaves, dirt, or other matter. If this debris is allowed to
accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may
prevent proper mulching, discharge, or bagging. The
deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scraping
clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug
wire is disconnected).
IMPORTANT: We do not recommend the use of a
pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. The
use of water will result in shorter life and less
serviceability.
Cutting Blade
• When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or
replacement, protect your hands with a pair of
heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.
To Remove Blade
• Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine
crankshaft. See Figure 13.
• Remove the blade and the adapter from the
crankshaft.
Figure 13
WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade
adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a
foreign object. Replace when necessary.
• When sharpening the blade, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important
that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of
grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade.
WARNING: An unbalanced blade will
cause excessive vibration when rotating at
high speeds. It may damage the mower, and/
or cause personal injury.
• The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy
side until it balances evenly. It is recommended that
the blade always be removed from the adapter
when testing for balance. Before reinstalling the
blade and the blade adapter to the unit, lubricate
the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the
blade adapter with light oil.
To Reinstall Blade
• Be sure to install the blade with the side marked
“Bottom” (or with part number) facing the ground
when the mower is in the operating position.
Blade
Hex Bolt
Blade Bell
Adapter
Support