Check the Spark Plugs
WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric shock.
Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement, traumatic
amputation, or laceration.
When testing for spark:
• Use approved spark plug tester.
• Do not check for spark with spark plug removed.
NOTICE
Spark plugs have different heat ranges. It is important that
the correct spark plug is used, otherwise, engine damage can
occur.
Clean Spark Plug
Clean with wire brush and sturdy knife. Do NOT use abrasives.
Check Spark Plug Gap
Use a spark plug feeler gauge (A, Figure 11) to check the gap
between the two electrodes. When the gap is correct, the gauge
will drag slightly as you pull it through the gap.
If necessary, use the spark plug gauge to adjust the gap by
gently bending the curved electrode without touching the center
electrode or the porcelain.
Install Spark Plug
Finger tighten, then tighten with wrench as shown in Figure 12.
• 180 in-lbs (20 Nm), OR
• 1/2 turn when reinstalling the original spark plug. 1/4 turn
when installing a new spark plug.
Push the Tractor by Hand
To push the tractor, perform the following:
1. Disengage the Power Take-Off (PTO) (A, Figure 13).
2. Turn the engine off.
3. Pull the transmission release to lock into the released
position.
4. The tractor can be pushed by hand
WARNING
Towing the unit will cause transmission damage. Do not use
another vehicle to push or pull this machine. Do not actuate
the transmission release lever while engine is running.
Towed Equipment
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for
towing.
2. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.
3. Follow the recommendations for weight limit for towed
equipment and towing on slopes as listed below.
• Gross weight (trailer and load) of 400 pounds.
• Maximum of 20 pound foot up or down on the tongue.
• Go from a 10 degree limit to a 5 degree limit on any
slope.
4. Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.
5. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause
loss of traction and loss of control.
6. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
7. Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
Storage
WARNING
Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed, unventilated
structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an ignition source (such
as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause an explosion.
• Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters, or other
appliances that have pilot lights or other ignition sources
because they can ignite fuel vapors.
Equipment
Disengage the Power Take-Off (PTO), set the parking brake,
and remove the starter insert.
Allow the machine to cool.
Battery life will be increased if it is removed. Put in a cool, dry
place and keep fully charged during storage. If the battery is
left in the unit, disconnect the negative cable.
Fuel System
Fuel can become stale when stored over 30 days. Stale fuel
causes acid and gum deposits to form in the fuel system or on
essential carburetor parts. To keep fuel fresh, use Briggs &
Stratton® Advanced Formula Fuel Treatment & Stabilizer,
available wherever Briggs & Stratton genuine service parts are
sold.
There is no need to drain gasoline from the engine if a fuel
stabilizer is added according to instructions. Run the engine for
2 minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the fuel system
before storage. If gasoline in the engine has not been treated
with a fuel stabilizer, it must be drained into an approved
container. Run the engine until it stops from lack of fuel. The
use of a fuel stabilizer in the storage container is recommended
to maintain freshness.
Engine Oil
While the engine is still warm, change the engine oil.
Before starting the machine after it has been stored:
• Check all fluid levels. Check all maintenance items.
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