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SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR GARDEN TRACTOR
Engine
Refer to the engine manual for maintenance details.
• Check engine oil level before each use as
instructed in the engine manual.
Figure 13
Changing Engine Oil
NOTE: Depending on the engine model found on your
tractor, it may be necessary to remove the tractor’s side
panel in order to replace the oil filter (if so equipped).
• Unscrew oil fill cap and remove dipstick from the oil
fill tube. See Figure 13.
• Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil
drain valve to expose the drain port. See Figure 13.
• Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual)
onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of
the hose into an appropriate oil collection container
with a capacity great enough to collect the used oil
(approximately 64 oz.).
• Push the oil drain valve in slightly, then rotate
counterclockwise and pull outward to begin
draining oil. See Figure 13.
• Service the oil filter (if so equipped) as instructed
in the engine manual.
• Perform the above steps in the opposite order after
oil has finished draining.
• Refill the engine with new motor oil.
IMPORTANT:
Refer to the engine manual for details
about quantity and proper weight of motor oil.
Air Cleaner
• Service the pre-cleaner, if so equipped, and
cartridge/air cleaner element as instructed in the
engine manual.
Spark Plugs
• Clean the spark plugs and reset the gap once a
season. Spark plug replacement is recommended
at the start of each mowing season. Refer to the
engine manual for correct plug type and gap
specifications.
Cleaning the Engine and Deck
• Promptly wipe off any fuel or oil spilled on the
machine.
• Do not allow grass, leaves, and dirt to accumulate
around the cooling fins of the engine or on any
other part of the machine, especially the pulleys
and other moving parts.
IMPORTANT:
The use of a pressure washer to clean
your tractor is not recommended.
Lubrication
Engine
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the
engine manual.
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system,
parking brake and lift linkage at least once a season
with light oil.
Deck Spindles
Grease fittings can be found on the front of each deck
spindle. After every 25 hours of tractor operation,
lubricate with 251H EP grease or an equivalent No. 2
multi-purpose lithium grease. Using a grease gun,
apply two strokes (minimum) or sufficient grease to
each spindle.
Rear Wheels
The rear wheels should be removed from the axles
once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well
with an all-purpose grease before re-installing them.
Front Wheels
Each of the front wheel axles is equipped with a grease
fitting. Lubricate with 251H EP grease or an equivalent
No. 2 multi-purpose lithium grease after every 25 hours
of tractor operation.
Transmission
The hydrostatic transmission is sealed at the factory.
Oil level cannot be checked nor can the oil be changed.
WARNING: Before performing any
maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key
to prevent unintended starting.
Protective Cap
Oil Drain Hose
Drain Port
Oil Fill Cap
Oil Fill Tube