Storage - HUSTLER FasTrak 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.
7. Perform separate engine and battery preparation as
listed below.
8. Store mower in a clean, dry place.
Preparation of Engine for Storage
If the mower is to be unused for an extended period of time
(30 days or more), the engine will need to be prepared for
storage. Use the following procedures before storing the
mower.
IMPORTANT: Refer to the Fuel Handling Precautions sec-
tion of this manual for important safety information before
proceeding.
1. Add a Hustler approved fuel stabilizer to the fuel sys-
®
tem. Refer to the instructions shown on the fuel stabi-
lizer bottle for proper usage. For detailed information
consult with your Dealer.
2. Fill the fuel tank(s) with fresh fuel.
Use non-ethanol fuel if possible.
NOTE:
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, operate the
engine in a well ventilated area only.
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STORAGE

3. Run the engine for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Allow the engine to cool before changing the
engine oil. Use caution when changing the engine
oil as it will be very hot. You should wear the
appropriate protective gear to avoid being burned
or exposed to engine oil.
4. Drain the oil from the crankcase while the engine is
still warm.
5. Replace the engine oil filter.
6. Refill with fresh oil of the proper viscosity.
7. Close the fuel shut-off valve (if equipped).
8. Check the oil filler cap and fuel tank cap(s) to make
certain they are securely in place.
9. 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 tem-
perature is below 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.
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