Owners manual

24
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Tire Maintenance
Check the tire air pressure after every 50 hours of operation or weekly. Keep the
tires inflated to the recommended pressures. Improper inflation will shorten the
tire service life. See the tire side wall for proper inflation pressures. Observe the
following guidelines:
• Do not inflate a tire above the maximum pressure shown on the sidewall of
the tire.
• Do not reinflate a tire that has been run flat or seriously under inflated. Have
a qualified tire mechanic inspect and service the tire.
Lubrication
• Using a pressure lubricating gun, lubricate the front castor wheel axles and
the front pivot axle with No. 2 multipurpose lithium grease after every 10
hours of service.
• Periodically lubricate all other pivot points; i.e. the seat pivot bracket, idler pivot
bracket on the deck, deck lift shaft assembly, etc. with a quality lubricating oil.
Cleaning and Lubricating the Spindle Pulleys
Once a month remove the belt covers to remove any accumulation of grass clippings
from around the spindle pulleys and V-belt. Clean more often when mowing tall,
dry grass.
Every 25 hours, lubricate the deck spindles. Locate the spindle lube fitting and using
a grease gun, lubricate the spindles. The spindle holds 2.3 ounces of grease. See
Figure 27.
Figure 27
General Battery Information
WARNING
Should battery acid accidentally splatter into the eyes or onto the skin,
rinse the affected area immediately with clean cold water. If there is
any further discomfort, seek prompt medical attention. If acid spills on
clothing, first dilute it with clean water, then neutralize with a solution of
ammonia/water or baking soda/water.
WARNING
NEVER connect (or disconnect) battery charger clips to the battery while
the charger is turned on, as it can cause sparks. Keep all sources of ignition
(cigarettes, matches, lighters) away from the battery. The gas generated
during charging can be combustible. As a further precaution, only charge
the battery in a well ventilated area. Always shield eyes and protect skin
and clothing when working near batteries.
WARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may emit explosive gases. Use extreme
caution when handling batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach of
children.
Battery Maintenance
The battery is filled with battery acid and then sealed at the factory. However, even a
“maintenance free” battery requires some maintenance to ensure its proper life cycle.
• Spray the terminals and exposed wire with a battery terminal sealer, or coat
the terminals with a thin coat of grease or petroleum jelly, to protect against
corrosion.
• Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free of corrosion.
• Avoid tipping. Even a sealed battery will leak electrolyte when tipped.
Battery Removal
WARNING
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands after handling.
The battery is located beneath the seat frame. To remove the battery: