Maintenance36Cleaning and Storage1. Disengage the power take off (PTO), set theparking brake, and turn the ignition key to“OFF” to stop the engine. Remove the key.2. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from theexternal parts of the entire machine, especiallythe engine. Clean dirt and chaff from the outsideof the engine’s cylinder head fins and blowerhousing.IMPORTANT: You can wash the machinewith mild detergent and water. DO NOTPRESSURE WASH THE MACHINE.Pressure washing may damage the electricalsystem or wash away necessary grease atfriction points. Avoid excessive use of water,especially near the control panel, lights,engine, and the battery.3. Check the brake; refer to Brake, page 28.4. Service the air cleaner; refer to Air Cleaner,page 22.5. Grease the chassis; refer to Greasing andLubrication, page 27.6. Change the crankcase oil; refer to Engine Oil,page 24.7. Remove the spark plug(s) and check itscondition; refer to Spark Plug, page 26. With thespark plug(s) removed from the engine, pour twotablespoons of engine oil into the spark plughole. Now use the electric starter to crank theengine and distribute the oil inside the cylinder.Install the spark plug(s) and tighten it to 15 ft–lb(20.4 Nm). Do not install the wire on the sparkplug(s).8. Remove the battery from the chassis, check theelectrolyte level, and charge it fully; refer toBattery, page 33. Do not connect the batterycables to the battery posts during storage.IMPORTANT: The battery must be fullycharged to prevent it from freezing and beingdamaged at temperatures below 32°F (0°C). Afully charged battery maintains its charge forabout 50 days at temperatures lower than40°F (4°C). If the temperatures will be above40°F (4°C), check the water level in thebattery and charge it every 30 days.9. Check the tire pressure; refer to Tire Pressure,page 27.10. For long-term storage (more than 90 days) addstabilizer/conditioner additive to fuel in the tank(1 oz. per gallon) (8 ml per liter) and proceed asfollows:A. Run the engine to distribute conditionedfuel through the fuel system (5 minutes).B. Stop the engine, allow it to cool and drainthe fuel tank; refer to Fuel Tank, page 29, oroperate engine until it stops.C. Restart the engine and run until it stops.Repeat, with the “CHOKE” on, until theengine will not restart.D. Dispose of fuel properly or use within 90days for other applications. Recycle inaccordance with local codes.Note: Do not store stabilizer/conditionedgasoline over 90 days.11. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws.Repair or replace any part that is damaged ordefective.12. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paintis available from your Authorized ServiceDealer.13. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage orstorage area. Remove the key from the ignitionswitch and keep it in a memorable place. Coverthe machine to protect it and keep it clean.