Cub Cadet RZT 42 - Manual (Page 23)

23
Clean Engine Cooling Areas
To ensure proper cooling, make sure the grass
screen, cooling fins, and other external surfaces of
the engine are kept clean at all times.
Annually or every 100 hours of operation (more often
under extremely dusty, dirty conditions), remove the
blower housing and cooling shrouds. Clean the cool-
ing fins and external surfaces as necessary. Make
sure the cooling shrouds are reinstalled. Torque the
blower housing screws to 65 in. lb.(7.5 N·m ).
IMPORTANT: Operating the engine with a blocked
grass screen, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or
cooling shrouds removed, will cause engine damage
due to overheating.
Service Engine Spark Plug
Every 2 years or 200 hours of operation, remove the
spark plug, check condition, and reset the gap or
replace with a new plug as necessary. Spark plug
replacement is recommended at 500 hours.
• Before removing the spark plug, clean the area
around the base of the plug to keep dirt and
debris out of the engine. Due to the deep recess
around the spark plug, blowing out the cavity with
compressed air is usually the most effective
method for cleaning. The spark plug is most
accessible when the blower housing is removed
for cleaning.
• Remove the plug and check its condition.
Replace the plug if worn or reuse is questionable.
NOTE: Do not clean the spark plug in a machine
using abrasive grit. Some grit could remain in the
spark plug and enter the engine causing
extensive wear and damage.
• Check the gap using a wire feeler gauge. Adjust
the plug gap to 0.030 in. (0.76 mm) by carefully
bending the ground electrode. See Figure 27.
Figure 27
• Reinstall the spark plug into the cylinder head.
Torque spark plug to 18-22 ft. lb. (24-30 N·m).
• Reconnect the spark plug lead and reinstall the
blower housing, if removed previously. Torque
the blower housing screws to 7.5 N·m (65 in. lb.).
Service Engine Fuel Filter
WARNING: Do not replace the fuel filter
when engine is hot.
The engine is equipped with an inline fuel filter.
Visually inspect the filter periodically for a build-up of
residue inside the filter body, and for a dirty element
which can be indicated by discoloration. Replace the
fuel filter when dirty.
Carburetor
The carburetor’s main fuel jet is calibrated at the frac-
tory and is not adjustable. The idle fuel needle is
adjusted at the factory and has a limiter cap. All car-
buretor service should be performed by your Cub
Cadet dealer.
If engine troubles are experienced that appear to be
fuel system related, first make sure the fuel tank is
filled with clean fresh fuel; the fuel tank cap vent is
not blocked; the fuel lines are not resricted; and the
fuel filter is clean and unobstructed. If the problem
persists, have the carburetor and fuel pump checked.
HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION MAINTENANCE
The zero turn tractor is equipped with dual integrated
hydrostatic pumps, motors, and transaxles that are
sealed and do not require regular maintenance.
All service work on the hydrostatic transmissions
should be performed by your Cub Cadet dealer.
GENERAL BATTERY INFORMATION
WARNING:
• Should battery acid accidentally splatter into the
eyes or onto the skin, rinse the affected area
immediately with clean cold water. If there is any
further discomfort, seek prompt medical attention.
• If acid spills on clothing, first dilute it with clean
water, then neutralize with a solution of ammonia/
water or baking soda/water.
• NEVER connect (or disconnect) battery charger
clips to the battery while the charger is turned on,
as it can cause sparks.
• Keep all sources of ignition (cigarettes, matches,
lighters) away from the battery. The gas gener-
ated during charging can be combustible.
• As a further precaution, only charge the battery in
a well ventilated area.
• Always shield eyes and protect skin and clothing
when working near batteries.
WARNING: Batteries contain sulfuric acid
and may emit explosive gases. Use
extreme caution when handling batteries.
Keep batteries out of the reach of children.
.030 in. gap