Cub Cadet PRO HW 348 Operation Manual - Page 13

Note: This Operator's Manual covers several • models. Mower features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are applicable to all mower models and the mower depicted may differ from yours. WARNING Before performing any maintenance or repairs, disengage the PTO, engageg the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the key to prevent unintended starting. Post-Operation Mower Care After each operation of the mower, the following procedures should be implemented to extend the life of your mower and ensure safe operating conditions. • DANGER Failure to follow these recommendations may result in serious injury to yourself or others and may cause damage to the mower. Cleaning the Underside of the Deck Rinse grass clippings from the deck's underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals. WARNING Make certain the mower's discharge chute is directed AWAY from people, your house, garage, parked cars, etc. 1. Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake and stop the engine. 2. Use a hose to spray the underside of the deck. • Note: Make sure that the hose is not routed under the deck and is clear of all moving parts. 3. After cleaning your deck, return to the operator's position and engage the PTO. Keep the deck running for a minimum of two minutes, allowing the underside of the deck to thoroughly dry. Cleaning the Mower WARNING If the mower has been recently run, the engine, muffler and surrounding metal surfaces will be hot and can cause burns to the skin. Let the engine cool for at least five minutes Exercise caution to avoid burns. Your mower should be cleaned after each use and under certain conditions, i.e. dry conditions • and/or mulching situations, additional cleaning may be necessary. One of the best ways to keep your mower running efficiently and to reduce fire risk is to regularly remove debris buildup from the mower. • Follow the recommendations below and contact your authorized dealer with any questions. • Allow the machine to cool in an open area before cleaning. • Do not use water on any part of the • mower except the underside of the cutting deck. Doing so can cause damage to the mower's spindle bearings, electrical system and engine, leading to premature failures. The use of compressed air and/or leaf blower will help keep the mower clean. Clean around the exhaust manifold, fuses, all wiring and harnesses, muffler pipe, muffler shield, engine intake screens and cooling fins, etc. See Figure 4-1. Figure 4-1 Clean the top of the mower deck, under the spindle covers and belt area. See Figure 4-2. Figure 4-2 Clean around and near the transmission, axle and the fan area. See Figure 4-3. Wheel Not Shown For Clarity Figure 4-3 Debris can accumulate anywhere on the mower, especially on horizontal surfaces. Additional cleaning may be necessary when mowing in dry conditions or when mulching. Fuel leaks/spills, oil leaks/spills and excess lubrication can also become collections sites for debris. Immediate repair and cleaning up oil or fuel spills can help reduce fire hazards. In addition to cleaning the mower before operating and storing, do not attempt to mow unusually tall grass (10" or higher), dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry leaves. Dry grass or leaves may contact the engine exhaust and/or build up on the mower deck presenting a potential fire hazard. Storing the Mower • Allow the machine to cool in an open area before storing. • Do not park the mower near any flammable materials (wood, cloth or chemicals) or any open flames or other potential source of ignition (furnace, water heater or any other type of heater). • Remove all combustible materials from the mower before storing. Empty cargo boxes, grass catchers or containers. • Always shut off fuel flow when storing or transporting if mower is equipped with a fuel shutoff. • Check the fuel system (lines, tank, cap and fittings) frequently for cracks or leaks. Repair and clean as necessary. Maintenance Engine Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for all engine maintenance intervals, procedures, specifications and instructions. Changing the Engine Oil WARNING If the engine has been recently run, the engine, muffler and surrounding metal surfaces will be hot and can cause burns to the skin. Exercise caution to avoid burns. Maintain oil level as instructed in Engine Operator's Manual. Be careful not to spill oil on any of the belts. To complete an oil change, proceed as follows: 1. Run the engine for a short time to warm the engine oil. The oil will flow more freely and carry away more impurities. Use care to avoid burns from hot oil. 2. Locate the oil drain hose on the engine. See Figure 4-4. Figure 4-4 3. Route the free end of the oil drain hose toward an appropriate oil collection container with at least a 2.5 quart capacity, to collect the used oil. Note: Avoid getting oil on the muffler when draining. 4. While holding the free end of the oil drain hose over the oil collection container, unscrew the square-head hose plug from the end of the hose. See Figure 4-4. Drain the engine oil into the collection container. 5. Remove the oil filter to make sure all the oil is drained. Section 4 - Product Care 13