HYDRO-GEAR TRANSMISSION (IF EQUIPPED)
Models with Hydro-Gear hydrostatic transmission are equipped with dual integrated
hydrostatic pumps/transaxles equipped with a transmission oil expansion reservoir.
Under normal operating conditions, the oil level in the expansion reservoir does not
need to be checked and no additional oil is needed. If checking the reservoir oil level,
proceed as follows:
1. Pivot the operator's seat forward and clean the reservoir cap and the area around
the cap to prevent debris from contaminating the transmission oil.
2. Turn the reservoir cap counterclockwise to remove, then check the oil level in the
reservoir. Oil should be visible at the bottom of the cup, but the oil level must NOT
be above the "FULL COLD" line (Figure 41). DO NOT FILL THE RESERVOIR.
3. If necessary to add oil because of some type of leakage, add only enough oil to
bring the level to the "FULL COLD" line. Reinstall the cap and fully tighten.
NOTE: Prior to the initial operation of the mower, the oil level in the reservoir may
be slightly higher than the maximum due to air in the oil lines. Operation of the
mower will eventually purge the air from the lines and the oil level will settle to
the maximum.
To change the transmission oil:
1. Remove the cap from the transmission oil expansion reservoir.
2. Place a suitable container under the oil filter cover (a) on the transmission.
Remove the oil filter cover from the transmission to drain the oil (Figure 42).
Remove and discard the O-ring.
a
3. Once oil has drained, use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a magnet to remove
oil filter.
4. Replace new filter and fit new O-ring onto filter cover (a) (Figure 42).
5. Reinstall filter cover (torque to 480-580 in-lbs).
6. Fill the transmission through the expansion reservoir slowly until the "FULL
COLD" line. Allow the transmission oil to move through the system and top off
as necessary.
7. Replace the cap and fully tighten.
PRODUCT CARE
Figure 41
Figure 42
Mower Storage
If your mower is not going to be operated for an extended period of time (30 days
to approximately six months), the mower should be prepared for storage. Store the
mower in a dry and protected location. If stored outside, cover the mower (including
the tires) to protect it from the elements. The procedures outlined below should be
performed whenever the mower is placed in storage.
1. Change the engine oil and filter following the instructions provided in the Engine
Operator's Manual packed with this manual.
Never store the mower with fuel in the tank indoors or in poorly ventilated
enclosures, where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark, or pilot light
as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, etc.
a. To prevent gum deposits from forming inside the engine's carburetor and
causing possible malfunction of the engine, use a fuel stabilizer or completely
empty the fuel system for storage between 30 and 90 days:
Fuel left in the fuel tank deteriorates and will cause serious
starting problems.
• Read the product manufacturer's instructions and recommendations.
• Add to clean, fresh gasoline the correct amount of stabilizer for the capacity
of the fuel system.
• Fill the fuel tank with treated fuel and run the engine for 2-3 minutes to get
stabilized fuel into the carburetor.
b. Emptying the fuel system for storage of more than 90 days:
• Prior to putting the mower in storage, monitor fuel consumption with the
goal of running the fuel tank empty.
• Run the engine until it begins to stall. Use the choke to keep the engine
running until all fuel in the carburetor has been exhausted.
• Referring to the Engine Operator's Manual, drain the fuel from the
carburetor bowl.
2. Clean the engine and the entire mower thoroughly.
3. Fully charge the battery, then disconnect the negative cable at the battery to
prevent possible discharge. Recharge the battery periodically when in storage.
NOTE: Remove the battery if exposed to prolonged periods of sub-freezing
temperatures. Store in a cool, dry location where temperatures are
above freezing.
4. Lubricate all lubrication points.
NOTE: Using a pressure washer or garden hose is not recommended for cleaning
your mower. It may cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys,
bearings or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and
reduce serviceability.
Removing the Mower from Storage
1. Check the engine oil.
2. Fully charge the battery and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure.
3. Fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Start the engine and allow to idle for a few minutes to ensure engine is
operating properly.
5. Drive the mower without a load to make certain all the mower systems are
functioning properly.
31
WARNING
WARNING