Maintenance Instructions
LUBRICATION
36
LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication is an important maintenance pro-
cedure. It reduces wear and makes the machine
quieter and easier to operate.
Engine Oil
Engine Break-In Oil
No special break-in oil is required. The engine is ser-
viced with 10W-30, Service Class SG oil from the
factory. The oil should be changed after the initial
engine break-in period of 5-8 hours. Thereafter,
change oil after every 50 hours of operation.
Checking Engine Crankcase Oil Level
Check the engine crankcase oil level before use and
after each 8 hours of continuous operation.
IMPORTANT: The importance of checking and
maintaining the proper crankcase oil level cannot be
overemphasized. Check the oil level BEFORE
EACH USE.
1.
Park the mower on a level surface with the
engine stopped. Also, make sure the engine is
cool and oil has had time to drain into the sump
[allow at least five (5) minutes after stopping
the engine].
IMPORTANT: NEVER check or add oil with the
engine running.
2.
Before removing the dipstick, clean the area
around the dipstick to keep any dirt or debris out
of the engine.
3.
Remove the dipstick, wipe off with a clean rag,
then reinsert the dipstick into the tube and press
all the way down.
4.
Remove the dipstick again and check the oil
level on the dipstick. The oil level should be
within the “Operating Range” on the dipstick
(between the LOW mark and the FULL mark).
IMPORTANT: DO NOT operate engine without
sufficient oil supply in the crankcase. DO NOT
operate with oil level below the LOW mark or
above the FULL mark on the dipstick.
Dipstick Operating Range
5.
If additional oil is needed, refer to
Specifications
for proper crankcase lubricant. Fill to the FULL
mark.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT overfill crankcase [oil
above FULL level] as this CAN result in engine
overheating, loss of power, and possible
engine damage.
Changing Engine Crankcase Oil/Oil Filter
Change the engine crankcase oil after every 50
hours of operation and the oil filter after every 100
hours of operation as follows:
1.
Park the mower on a level surface with the
engine stopped. The engine oil should be
warm before draining. If not warm from opera-
tion, start the engine and run a few minutes to
warm the oil.
2.
Before removing the dipstick, clean the area
around it to keep any dirt or debris out of the
engine.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lubricate the machine
with the engine running. Disengage the
PTO clutch, shut off the machine, and re-
move the ignition key.
{
LOW
Mark
FULL
Mark
Operating
Range
