Storage
Cleaning and Storage
1. Disengage the blade control switch, move the
motion controls outward to the park position, stop
the engine, and remove the key.
2. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from the
external parts of the entire machine, especially the
engine. Clean dirt and chaff from the outside of the
engine cylinder head fins and blower housing.
Important: You can wash the machine with
mild detergent and water. Do not pressure
wash the machine. Avoid excessive use of
water, especially near the control panel, engine,
hydraulic pumps, and motors.
3. Service the air cleaner; refer to Servicing the Air
Cleaner in the Engine Maintenance section.
4. Grease and oil the machine; refer to the Lubrication
section.
5. Change the crankcase oil and filter; refer to Servicing
the Engine Oil in the Engine Maintenance section.
6. Check the tire pressure; refer to Checking the Tire
Pressure in the Drive System Maintenance section.
7. Charge the battery; refer to Servicing the Battery
in the Electrical System Maintenance section.
8. Check the condition of the blades; refer to Servicing
the Cutting Blades in the Mower Maintenance
section.
9. Prepare the machine for storage when non-use
occurs over 30 days. Prepare the machine for storage
as follows.
10. Add a petroleum based stabilizer/conditioner to the
fuel in the tank. Follow the mixing instructions from
the stabilizer manufacturer. Do not use an alcohol
based stabilizer (ethanol or methanol).
Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most effective
when mixed with fresh gasoline and used at all times.
Run the engine to distribute the conditioned fuel
through the fuel system (5 minutes).
Stop the engine, allow it to cool, and drain the fuel
tank; refer to Draining the Fuel Tank in the Fuel
System Maintenance section.
Restart the engine and run it until it stops.
Choke the engine. Start and run the engine until it
will not start.
Dispose of fuel properly. Recycle pursuant to local
codes.
Important: Do not store stabilizer/conditioned
gasoline over 30 days.
11. Remove the spark plug(s) and check its condition;
refer to Servicing the Spark Plug in the Engine
Maintenance section. With the spark plug(s)
removed from the engine, pour two tablespoons of
engine oil into the spark plug hole. Use the starter
to crank the engine and distribute the oil inside the
cylinder. Install the spark plug(s). Do not install the
wire on the spark plug(s).
12. Clean any dirt and chaff from the top of the mower.
13. Scrape any heavy buildup of grass and dirt from the
underside of the mower, then wash the mower with
a garden hose.
14. Check the condition of the drive and mower belts.
15. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair
or replace any part that is worn or damaged.
16. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paint is
available from your Authorized Service Dealer.
17. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or storage
area. Remove the key from the ignition switch and
keep it in a memorable place. Cover the machine to
protect it and keep it clean.
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