Cub Cadet ZTX4 54 Operation Manual - Page 24

TROUBLESHOOTING WARNING Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls and stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop. Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent unintended starting. Always wear safety glasses during operation or while performing any adjustments or repairs. This section addresses minor service issues. To locate the nearest authorized service center consult the separate supplement sheet for contact information. Problem Engine Fails to start Cause 1. PTO/Blade Engage knob engaged. 2. Parking brake not engaged. 3. Spark plug wire disconnected. 4. Throttle control lever not in correct starting position. 5. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel. 6. Blocked fuel line or fuel filter. 7. Faulty spark plug. 8. Engine flooded. 9. Fuse(s) blown. Remedy 1. Place knob in disengaged (OFF) position. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Connect wire to spark plug. 4. Place Throttle lever to FAST position. 5. Fill tank with clean, fresh (less than 30 days old) gas. 6. Replace fuel line. See a Sears or other qualified service dealer. Replace fuel filter. See the Service and Maintenance section. 7. Clean, adjust gap or replace plug. 8. Crank engine with throttle in FAST position. 9. Replace fuse. Engine runs erratically Engine overheats 1. Riding mower running with Choke activated. 2. Spark plug wire loose. 3. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel. 4. Vent in gas cap plugged. 5. Water or dirt in fuel system. 6. Dirty air cleaner. 1. Engine oil level low 2. Air flow restricted 1. Check that the electric choke is working. See a Sears or other qualified service dealer. 2. Connect and tighten spark plug wire. 3. Replace fuel line. See a Sears or other qualified service dealer. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline and replace fuel filter. See the Service and Maintenance section. 4. Clear vent or replace cap if damaged. 5. Drain fuel tank. Refill with clean, fresh gasoline. See the Service and Maintenance section. 6. Clean or replace air cleaner paper element or clean foam pre-cleaner. 1. Fill engine with proper amount and type of oil. 2. Clean grass clippings and debris from around the engine's cooling fins and blower housing. Engine hesitates at high RPMs 1. Spark plug gap set too close Engine idles poorly 1. Fouled spark plug 2. Dirty air cleaner Excessive vibration Uneven cut 1. Cutting blades loose or unbalanced 2. Damaged, dull, or bent cutting blade 1. Deck not leveled properly. 2. Dull blade. 3. Uneven tire pressure. 1. Remove spark plug and adjust gap. 1. Replace spark plug and adjust gap. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner element and/or clean pre-cleaner. 1. Tighten blade and spindle. Balance blade. 2. Replace blade. 1. Perform side-to-side deck adjustment. 2. Sharpen or replace blade. 3. Check tire pressure in all four tires. 24