MTD 11-096R000 - Manual (Page 10)

surface of the blade adapter with light oil. Lubric ating
the bolt holes, bolts and inner surface of the nuti; with
light oil is also recommended. A 4 oz. plastic bo:tle of
light oil lubricant is available. Order part nimber
737-0170. Engine oil may also be used.
When replacing the blade, be sure to install the olade
with the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (o- with
part number) facing the ground when the mowe' is in
the operating position.
Blade Mounting Torque
Center Bolt and Blade Adapter Bolts: 375 in. lb. min.,
450 in. lb. max.
To insure safe operation of your unit, all nuts anc bolts
must be checked periodically for correct tightn 3ss.
DECK
The underside of the mower deck should be cloaned
after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings,
leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is allov/ed to
accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may
prevent proper mulching.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).
ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for eigine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
Service air cieaner every 25 hours under norms 1 con­
ditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicates that the air cleaner should be ser­
viced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is rscorn-
mended at the start of each mowing season; check
engine manual for correct plug type anc gap
specifications.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean :o per­
mit proper air circulation which is essential to ongine
performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass,
dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.
OFF-SEASON STORAGE
The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn
mower for storage.
1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as de­
scribed in the lubrication instructions.
2. Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
3. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease
to prevent rusting.
4. Store mower in a dry, clean area.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventiiated or metai storage shed, care shouid be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a iight oii or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all
moving parts.
HANDLE STORAGE
The handle may be placed in an upright position for
storage. Press inward on the bottom of the lower han­
dle and push forward. The handle will lock in this
position.
To place the handle in the operating position, remove
the starter rope from the rope guide bolt. Grasp the
lower handle at the bottom, press inward slightly and
tip the handle backward. With the spark plug wire
disconnected and grounded, depress the blade con­
trol handle and pull the starter rope out from the engine.
Slip the starter rope into the rope guide bolt.
10