108548_1208 5-7
STORAGE
When storing the unit at the the end of the mowing season, the
following steps should be taken to ensure readiness for the next
mowing season.
1. Remove all grass, dirt, and trash from tractor and mower.
Clean tractor and mower and touch up all scrapes with
Hustler spray paint.
IMPORTANT: Wash the machine with a mild detergent
and water. Do not pressure wash the machine. Avoid
excessive use of water.
2. Install new air filter per Engine Owner’s Manual.
3. Check thoroughly for any worn or damaged parts that
need replacing and order them from your dealer.
4. Clean the graass catcher bag.
5. Perform separate engine preparation as listed below.
6. Store tractor in a clean, dry place.
Preparation of engine for storage
When engine is to be unused for long periods, proceed as
follows:
1. Run engine for a minimum of 15 minutes.
2. Drain oil from crankcase while engine is still warm.
3. Refill with fresh oil of proper viscosity.
4. Drain fuel tank and run the engine until it stops from lack
of fuel. Gasoline evaporates if left in carburetor for long
periods, forming gum and varnish deposits in carburetor.
These deposits will cause engine flooding and loss of
power.
5. Remove and replace fuel filter if not done in previous
100 hours.
6. Remove spark plug and pour a tablespoon of engine oil
into the spark plug hole, Install plug, but do not
reconnect spark plug wire.
7. Crank engine with starter rope at least a dozen
revolutions to distribute oil over cylinder walls and valve
mechanism.
8. Clean exterior surface of engine. Spread a light film of
oil over any exposed metal surfaces of engine that are
subject to corrosion.
9. Clean dirt and chaff from cylinders and fins, blower
housing and muffler.
10. Check oil filler cap and fuel tank cap to make certain they
are securely in place.
11. Refer to engine manual for more information.
New season preparation
Before starting the tractor following post season storage, the
following servicing is required:
1. Clean mower, removing trash and dirt accumulation.
2. Check engine oil level.
3. Fill fuel tank with fresh gasoline. Run machine at half
speed for 5 minutes. Stop engine and check for leaks,
loose fittings and so forth.
4. Tighten any bolts that have loosened and make sure all
hair pins, cotter pins and clevis pins are in place.
5. Install all safety shields and review safety precautions
listed in this manual.
6. Refer to engine manual for more information.