Manual

SECTION8: MAINTAININGYOURGARDENTRACTOR
,_ WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine before
performing any adjustments, repairs or
maintenance.
Lubrication
SteeringGears
Lubricate teeth of steering gears with automotive multi-
purpose grease after every 25 hours of operation or
once a season. Refer to Figure 25.
SteeringShaft
Lubricate steering shaft at least once a season with
light oil.
Transaxle
The transaxle is lubricated and sealed at the factory
and does not require checking. If disassembled for any
reason, lubricate with 32 oz. of Shell Darina grease,
part number 737-0148 (16 oz. tube).
Linkage
Once a season lubricate all the pivot points on the
clutch, brake and lift linkage with SAE 30 engine oil.
Wheels
The front wheels may be provided with grease fittings.
Lubricate at least once a season with automotive multi-
purpose grease.
PivotPoints
Lubricate all pivot points with light oil at least once a
season.
BaliJoints
The ball joints and drag link ends are permanently
lubricated and do not need any further lubrication.
BladeSpindles
The blade spindles on the cutting deck are permanently
lubricated and do not need any further lubrication.
EngineMaintenance
Refer to the engine manual for maintenance instructions.
A list of general recommendations is given below.
• Maintain engine oil as instructed in the engine
manual. Read and follow instructions carefully.
• Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely
dusty condition. To service the air cleaner, refer to
the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
• The spark plugs 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.
CuttingBlades
WARNING: Protect hands by using heavy
gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting blades.
The blades may be removed for sharpening or
replacement as follows:
• Remove the hex flange nut that holds the blade to
the blade spindle. See Figure 29.
U___ Blade
Hex
Flange
Nut
Figure 29
• When sharpening the blades, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important
that each cutting edge be ground equally to prevent
an unbalanced blade. An unbalanced blade wilt
cause excessive vibration when rotating at high
speeds, may cause damage to the tractor and
could break, causing personal injury.
• The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it
on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from
the heavy side until it balances evenly.
• When replacing the blade, be sure to install the
blade with the side of the blade marked "Bottom"
(or with part number) facing the ground when the
tractor is in the operating position.
TorqueSpecifications
Blade: Hex FL Nut 840 in. lb. min., 1080 in. lb. max.
Blade Spindle Screws: If disassembled for any
reason, tighten the blade spindle screws to between
200 and 275 inch pounds.
BatteryCare
Type"A" Battery
Type "A" batteries are sealed and maintenance-free.
Type"B" Battery
• Check fluid level inside each cell of the battery
every two weeks and before and after charging.
Always keep level just below the split rings.
• Add only distilled water. Never add additional acid
or any other chemicals to the battery after initial
activation.
21