Cub Cadet 3186 - Manual (Page 27)

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Before checking the oil level, clean the
area around the oil level dipstick to
prevent debris from entering the
crankcase. See Figure 24. Always
keep the oil level between the “FULL”
and the “ADD” marks on the dipstick.
See Figure 23.
When checking the oil level, the
engine must be cold, the dipstick must
be withdrawn and wiped clean, then
inserted (screw in if necessary) all the
way into the tube before being
withdrawn for a true reading.
Check the oil level only while the
engine is stopped and the tractor is
level.
Adding Engine Oil
Figure 24
WARNING: Never overfill the
engine crankcase. The
engine may overheat and/or
damage may result if the
crankcase is below the
“ADD” mark or over the
“FULL” mark on the dipstick.
For best results, fill to the
“FULL” mark on the dipstick
as opposed to adding a given
quantity of oil. Always check
the level on the dipstick
before adding more oil.
Refer to Figure 25 for information
regarding the proper type of oil to add
to the crankcase.
• Place the tractor on a level surface
and engage the parking brake. Stop
the tractor engine and remove the
ignition key.
• Clean the area around the oil filler
cap to prevent debris from entering
the crankcase. See Figure 24.
• Remove the oil filler cap from the
left valve cover and SLOWLY pour
in oil. Fill the crankcase until the oil
level reaches the “FULL” mark on
the dipstick. See Figure 23.
• Reinstall the oil filler cap by
screwing it securely into the valve
cover.
WARNING: The oil filler cap
must be tightened securely
into the valve cover at all
times when the engine is
operating. Severe engine
damage could result from
failure to do so.
Changing Engine Oil
WARNING: If the tractor has
recently been operated, the
engine and surrounding
areas may be hot. Use cau-
tion not to burn yourself
when removing the side pan-
els, draining the oil from the
crankcase, and changing the
oil filter.
The oil filter should be changed at
every oil change interval. The filters
can be obtained through your Cub
Cadet dealer. See the Quick
Reference Chart on page 40 for the
correct part number. Refer to the
MAINTENANCE CHART on page 17
and the SPECIFICATIONS TABLE on
page 35 for information regarding the
frequency of required oil changes and
the quantity of oil needed.
Dipstick Oil Fill Cap