Cub Cadet PRO Z 972S KW Operation Manual - Page 20

• 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 tractor, 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 tractor 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 Tractor • Allow the machine to cool in an open area before storing. • Do not park the tractor 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 tractor before storing. Empty cargo boxes, grass catchers or containers. • Always shut off fuel flow when storing or transporting if tractor 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. 20 Section 4- Product Care 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. Remove the hose from the clip securing it to the frame. 4. 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. 5. 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. 6. Remove the oil filter to make sure all the oil is drained. 7. After draining the oil, wipe any residual oil from the oil drain hose. Thread the square head plug into the drain hose fitting and fully tighten the plug. 8. Replace the oil filter and refill the engine with new oil as instructed in the engine operator's manual. Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for information regarding the volume and weight of engine oil. 9. Place the hose back into the clip securing it to the frame. Lubrication Periodically lubricate all pivot points with a quality lubricating oil. Tires Check the tire air pressure after every 50 hours of operation or weekly. Keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressures. Improper inflation will shorten the tire service life and produce an uneven cut. See the tire side wall for proper inflation pressures. Observe the following guidelines: • Do not inflate a tire above the maximum pressure shown on the sidewall of the tire. • Do not reinflate a tire that has been run flat or seriously under inflated. Have it inspected and serviced by a qualified tire mechanic. 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 generated 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. Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may emit explosive gases. Use extreme caution when handling batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach of children. Battery Maintenance • The battery is filled with battery acid and then sealed at the factory. However, even a "maintenance free" battery requires some maintenance to ensure its proper life cycle. • Spray the terminals and exposed wire with a battery terminal sealer, or coat the terminals with a thin coat of grease or petroleum jelly, to protect against corrosion. • Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free of corrosion. • Avoid tipping. Even a sealed battery will leak electrolyte when tipped. WARNING Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may emit explosive gases. Use extreme caution when handling batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach of children. Battery Storage 1. When storing the tractor for extended periods, disconnect the negative battery cable. It is not necessary to remove the battery. 2. All batteries discharge during storage. Keep the exterior of the battery clean, especially the top. A dirty battery will discharge more rapidly. 3. The battery must be stored with a full charge. A discharged battery can freeze sooner than a charged battery. A fully charged battery will store longer in cold temperatures than hot. 4. Recharge the battery before returning to service. Although the tractor may start, the engine charging system may not fully recharge the battery.