Chapter 2: Engine; Maintenance; Spark Plugs - MTD Cub Cadet 221 HP Manual

The 221HP comes equipped with a 179 cc engine and the 221 LHP comes equipped with a 208 cc engine. Some
of the maintenance procedures with be covered in this chapter. For detailed engine instructions, refer to the engine
shop manual form number 769-04015.

MAINTENANCE

As the saying goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". The same can be said about preventive
maintenance on outdoor power equipment. By changing the spark plug and oil at recommended intervals many fail-
ures can be avoided. Sometimes just clearing off ice or debris that has collected through use or storage can make
the difference between a properly running piece of equipment and the expensive inconvenience of unplanned
repairs.

Spark plugs

Figure 2.1

CHAPTER 2: ENGINE

To service the spark plug:
NOTE: The only approved for these engines are the
F6RTC (part # 951-10292). See Figure 2.1.
1. Remove the rear engine cover by following the proce-
dures described in the rear engine cover section of
this chapter.
2. Disconnect the high-tension lead from the spark plug
and ground it well away from the spark plug hole.
3. Remove the spark plug using a 13/16" or 21mm
wrench.
NOTE: A flexible coupling or "wobbly" extension may help.
NOTE: MTD does not recommend cleaning spark plugs.
Use of a wire brush may leave metal deposits on
the insulator that causes the spark plug to short
out and fail to spark. Use of abrasive blast for
cleaning may cause damage to ceramic insulator
or leave blast media in the recesses of the spark
plug. When the media comes loose during engine
operation, severe and non-warrantable engine
damage may result.
4. Install the spark plug by following the previous steps
in reverse order.
NOTE: Tighten the spark plug to a torque of 15 - 18 ft lbs
(20 - 25 Nm).
Engine
5