13
• Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the
notches on the blade bell support are aligned with
the small holes in the blade. See Figure 11.
• Replace hex bolt. Tighten to recommended torque.
Blade Torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
• To ensure safe operation of mower, check all nuts
and bolts periodically for correct torque.
Cutting Deck
• The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a build-up 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.
• The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).
NOTE:
We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to electric components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
shorten life and reduce serviceability.
Engine
• Refer to the engine manual for all engine
maintenance instructions.
• Maintain engine oil as instructed in the engine
manual.
• Service air cleaner every 25 hours of operation
under normal conditions. Clean every few hours
under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine
performance and flooding usually indicates 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;
check engine manual for correct plug type and gap
specifications.
• Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) cleaned
to permit proper air circulation which is essential to
engine performance and life. Make sure to remove
all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler
area.
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE
The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn
mower for storage.
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.
WARNING:
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.
WARNING:
Never store the machine or
fuel container indoors where there is an open
flame, spark or pilot light such as on water
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliance.
• Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described
in the lubrication instructions.
NOTE:
We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to electric components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
• Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
• Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
• Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE:
When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the lawn mower, especially cables and all
moving parts, before storing it for the off-season.