Fuel System Maintenance; Draining The Fuel Tank; Replacing The Fuel Filter - Toro 74408TE Operator's Manual

Checking the Spark Plugs
1. Look at the center of the spark plugs
(Figure 36). If you see light brown or gray on
the insulator, the engine is operating properly.
A black coating on the insulator usually means
that the air cleaner is dirty.
2. If needed, clean the spark plug with a wire
brush to remove carbon deposits.
Figure 36
1. Center electrode insulator
2. Side electrode
Important: Always replace the spark
plugs when it has a black coating, worn
electrodes, an oily film, or cracks.
3. Check the gap between the center and side
electrodes (Figure 36). Bend the side electrode
(Figure 36) if the gap is not correct.
Installing the Spark Plugs
1. Install the spark plugs and the metal washer.
Ensure that the air gap is set correctly.
2. Tighten the spark plugs to 16 ft-lb (22 N•m).
3. Connect the wires to the spark plugs
(Figure 35).
3. Air gap (not to scale)
Fuel System
Maintenance

Draining the Fuel Tank

In certain conditions, gasoline is extremely
flammable and highly explosive. A fire or
explosion from gasoline can burn you and
others and can damage property.
• Drain gasoline from the fuel tank when
the engine is cold. Do this outdoors in
an open area. Wipe up any gasoline that
spills.
• Never smoke when draining gasoline,
and stay away from an open flame or
where a spark may ignite the gasoline
fumes.
1. Park the machine on a level surface, to ensure
that the fuel tank drains completely.
2. Disengage the blade control switch and move
the control levers to the neutral locked position
and apply the parking brake.
3. Stop the engine, remove the key, and wait for
all moving parts to stop before leaving the
operating position.
4. Close the fuel shut-off valve located near the
fuel filter.
5. Loosen the hose clamp at the fuel filter and
slide it up the fuel line away from the fuel filter
(Figure 37).
Note: A small amount of fuel may drain from
the fuel lines. Place a drain pan under the fuel
lines to collect the fuel. Wipe up any spilled
fuel.
6. Pull the fuel line off of the fuel filter (Figure 37).
7. Open the fuel shut-off valve. Allow gasoline to
drain into a gas can or drain pan.
Note: Now is the best time to install a new
fuel filter because the fuel tank is empty.

Replacing the Fuel Filter

Replace the fuel filter after every 200 operating
hours or yearly, whichever occurs first.
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