Storage - HUSTLER raptor Operator's Manual

When storing the unit at the end of the mowing season, the
mower, engine, and battery should have the following items
serviced before storage.
If the mower has been stored for an extended period of
time, follow the new season preparation steps before begin-
ning operation.
General Mower Preparation For Storage
1. Remove all grass, dirt, and trash from mower and cut-
ting units.
IMPORTANT: Wash the machine with a mild detergent
and water. Do not pressure wash the machine. Avoid
excessive use of water, especially near the control
panel and engine.
2. Clean mower and deck and touch up all scrapes with
touch-up paint.
3. Install new air filter per Engine Owner's Manual.
4. Check thoroughly for any worn or damaged parts that
need replacing and order them from your dealer.
5. Thoroughly lubricate machine, according to the Main-
tenance section.
6. Block mower up so weight is off tires. Check tire pres-
sure and inflate to proper operating pressure.
NOTE: Do not deflate tires.
IMPORTANT: Do not store the mower with the deck in
the service (flipped-up) position.
7. Perform separate engine and battery preparation as
listed below.
8. Store mower in a clean, dry place.
Preparation Of Engine For Storage
When the engine is to be unused for long periods, proceed
as follows:
1. Run the engine for a minimum of 15 minutes.
2. Drain the oil from the crankcase while the engine is
still warm.
3. Refill with fresh oil of the proper viscosity.
4. Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops
from lack of fuel. Gasoline evaporates if left in the car-
buretor for long periods, forming gum and varnish
deposits in the carburetor. These deposits will cause
engine flooding and loss of power.
5. Remove and replace fuel filter if not done in previous
100 hours.
6. Remove the spark plugs and pour a tablespoon of
engine oil into each spark plug hole. Install plugs, but
do not reconnect plug leads.
7. Crank the engine with the starter at least a dozen revo-
lutions to distribute oil over the cylinder walls and
valve mechanism.
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STORAGE

8. Clean the exterior surface of the engine. Spread a light
film of oil over any exposed metal surfaces of the
engine that are subject to corrosion.
9. Clean dirt and chaff from the cylinders and fins, blower
housing and muffler.
10. Check the oil filler cap and fuel tank caps to make cer-
tain they are securely in place.
11. Refer to the engine manual for more information.
Preparation Of Battery For Storage
When the machine is to be unused for long periods, it is
best to disconnect the battery and remove it from the unit. At
this time perform the following battery maintenance:
1. Remove the battery from machine.
2. Clean the battery, terminals, and cable connectors.
3. Charge the battery, if necessary.
4. Store the battery in a cool, dry place (do not expose to
freezing temperatures).
5. Always keep the battery fully charged. Especially
important to prevent battery damage when the temper-
ature is below 32°F (0°C).
New Season Preparation
Before starting the mower following post season storage,
the following service is required:
1. Clean mower, removing trash and dirt accumulation.
2. Check engine oil and hydraulic oil levels.
3. Install fully charged battery and attach the battery
cables.
4. Fill fuel tank(s) with fresh fuel. Run machine at half
speed for 5 minutes, checking operation of steering
control lever. Stop engine and check for oil leaks,
loose fittings and so forth.
At start of new season always check that fresh oil
has been added to machine. If oil is drained at sea-
son's end and not replaced, engine damage will
result.
5. Tighten any bolts that have loosened and make sure
all hair pins, cotter pins and clevis pins are in place.
6. Install all safety shields and review safety precautions
listed in this manual.
7. Check and inflate tires to 8–12 psi (55–83 KPa).
8. Refer to engine manual for more information.
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