The mowing season is coming to an end and winter is just around
the corner! Once you are done mowing for the year we suggest
replacing any worn parts and properly storing your machine
to help ensure it is ready for next spring.
If you're planning to do your own maintenance, or just
want to see what we recommend, read below for tips which
will help you be ready for next spring. See your operator's
manual for further details on performing any of the maintenance
mentioned.
If you prefer to have a dealer do any necessary maintenance
or repairs, now would be a good time to contact them. Once
spring comes, their shops will be extremely busy and they
will most likely have long delays.
1. Fuel System Preparation
Add fuel stabilizer/conditioner to the fuel tank. Run engine
for five minutes to distribute conditioned fuel through
fuel system. Stop engine, allow it to cool, and drain fuel
tank or run engine until it stops. Restart the engine again
and
allow it to run until it stops. Continue to attempt to restart
the engine until it will no longer start.
2. Cylinder/Piston Care
4-cycle engines:
Remove spark plug and add about one tablespoon of oil through
spark plug hole. Slowly rotate engine several times using
starter rope or key starter to distribute oil. Reinstall
spark plug, but do not connect spark plug wire.
2-cycle engines:
Slowly pull recoil starter until resistance is felt due
to compression pressure, then stop. Release starter tension
slowly to prevent engine from reversing due to compression
pressure. This position closes both the intake and exhaust
ports to prevent outside air entry, which can result in
corrosion of the cylinder
bore.
3. Tighten fasteners as needed
4. Service air filter as described in operator's
manual
5. Clean unit thoroughly
6. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces
7. Battery (if applicable)
Remove battery from unit and fully
charge prior to storage.
8. Replace damaged or worn parts
9. Lubricate unit per the operator's manual
10. Storage
Ensure engine has cooled. Cover unit and store in a clean,
dry location out of the reach of children. Note: Never store
unit in house (living area) or basement where ignition sources
may be present suchas a hot water heater, space heater,
clothes dryer and the like. Gasoline and fumes are highly
flammable and explosive. Fumes can also be dangerous if
inhaled.
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