English-37
Ignition System
The engine is equipped with an electronic ignition
system. Only the spark plug requires maintenance.
For recommended spark plug, 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 ¼ turn
from the seated position.
7. Replace the ignition cable.
Checking the 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:
• The mower deck is disengaged.
• The steering controls are in the outer, locked
neutral position.
• The driver is sitting in the driver’s seat.
• 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.
1. Make sure the engine stops when the
parking brake is not engaged and the
operator leaves the seated position.
2. Check that the engine stops if the mower
blades are engaged and the driver
temporarily stands up.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Fitting the wrong spark plug type can
damage the engine.
Inadequately tightened spark plug can
cause overheating and damage the engine.
Tightening the spark plug too hard can
damage the threads in the cylinder head.
Measure the electrode gap
8011-054
0.028-0.031 in
(0.70-0.80 mm)
Starting conditions
8050-801