36
Ignition System
The engine is equipped with an electronic ignition
system. Only the spark plugs require maintenance.
For recommended spark plugs, see Technical Data.
1. Remove the ignition cable boot and clean around
the spark plug.
2. Remove the spark plug with a spark plug socket
wrench.
3. Check the spark plug. Replace the spark plug
if fouled, the electrodes are burned and if the
insulation is cracked or damaged. Clean the spark
plug with a steel brush if it is to be reused.
4. Measure the electrode gap with a gapping tool.
The gap should be .030" (0.75 mm). Adjust as
necessary by bending the side electrode.
5. Reinsert the spark plug, turning by hand to avoid
damaging the threads.
6. After the spark plug is seated, tighten it using
a spark plug wrench so that the washer is
compressed. A used spark plug should be turned
1
/8 of a turn from the seated position. A new spark
plug should be turned a ¼ turn from the seated
position.
7. Replace the ignition cable.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Fitting the wrong spark plug type can damage
the engine.
Inadequately tightened spark plugs can
cause overheating and damage the engine.
Tightening the spark plugs too hard can
damage the threads in the cylinder head.
8011-054
Measure the electrode gap
Safety System
The machine is equipped with a safety system that
prevents starting or driving under the following
conditions.
The engine can only be started when:
1. The mower deck is disengaged.
2. The steering controls are in the outer, locked
neutral position.
3. The driver is sitting in the driver’s seat.
4. The parking brake is on.
Make daily inspections to ensure that the safety
system works by attempting to start the engine
when one of the conditions is not met. Change the
conditions and try again.
If the machine starts when one of these conditions
is not met, turn the machine off and repair the safety
system before using the machine again.
Make sure the engine stops when the park brake
is not engaged and the operator leaves the seated
position.
Check that the engine stops if the mower blades are
engaged and the driver temporarily moves off the
drivers seat.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
To be able to drive, the driver must sit in the
seat and release the parking brake before
the steering controls can be moved into the
neutral position, otherwise the engine will
stop.
8050-020
Start conditions