Cub Cadet Z-Force SX 54 Operation Manual - Page 17

Maintenance WARNING Before performing any maintenance or repairs, disengage the PTO, move the drive control levers fully outward in the neutral position engaging the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the key to prevent unintended starting. Engine Refer to the engine operator's manual for all engine maintenance procedures and instructions. Note: Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems which are being done at owner's expense may be performed by any engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an authorized service dealer. 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. 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 (a) on the right side of the engine. See Figure 4-1. (b) (d) (a) (c) Cleaning & Lubricating the Spindle Pulleys Once a month remove the belt covers to remove any accumulation of grass clippings from around the spindle pulleys and V-belt. Clean more often when mowing tall, dry grass. Every 25 hours, lubricate the deck spindles. Locate the spindle lube fitting and using a grease gun, lubricate the spindles. The spindle holds 2.3 ounces of grease. See Figure 4-2. Figure 4-2 Lubrication WARNING! Before lubricating, repairing, or inspecting, always disengage PTO, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting. Pivot Points & Linkage Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system, parking brake and lift linkage at least once a season with light oil. Front Wheels Each of the front wheel axles and rims is equipped with grease fittings. See Figure 4-3. Lubricate with a No. 2 multi-purpose grease applied with a grease gun after every 25 hours of tractor operation. Figure 4-1 3. Route the free end of the oil drain hose (a) toward an appropriate oil collection container with at least a 2.5 quart capacity, to collect the used oil. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick (b) from the oil fill tube. 4. While holding the free end of the oil drain hose (a) over the oil collection container, unscrew the square head hose plug (c) from the end of the oil drain hose (a) . See Figure 4-1. Drain the engine oil into the collection container. 5. After draining the oil, wipe any residual oil from the oil drain hose (a). Thread the square head hose plug (c) into the oil drain hose (b) fitting and fully tighten the square head hose plug (c). 6. Replace the oil filter (d), and refill the engine with new oil as instructed in the Engine Operator's Manual. Figure 4-3 Cleaning the Transmission Cooling Slots Keep both sides of transmission cooling slots on the frame between the engine and the seat box clear of grass clippings and leaves. 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. 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. 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. 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 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. Section 4 - Product Care 17