Storage - Toro 71253 Operator's Manual

Storage

1. Disengage the blade control (PTO) and set the
parking brake.
2. Stop the engine, remove the key, and wait for all
moving parts to stop before leaving the operating
position.
3. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from the
external parts of the entire tractor, especially the
engine. Clean dirt and chaff from the outside of the
engine cylinder head fins and blower housing.
Important: You can wash the tractor with a
mild detergent and water. Do not use a pressure
washer to wash the tractor. Pressure washing
may damage the electrical system or wash away
necessary grease at friction points. Avoid using
water excessively, especially near the control
panel, lights, engine, and battery.
4. Check the parking brake; refer to Checking the
Parking Brake.
5. Service the air cleaner; refer to Servicing the Air
Cleaner.
6. Grease the chassis; refer to Greasing and Lubricating
the Tractor.
7. Change the crankcase oil and filter; refer to Servicing
the Engine Oil.
8. Check the tire pressure; refer to Checking the Tire
Pressure.
9. When storing the tractor for over 30 days, prepare it
as follows:
A. Add a petroleum based stabilizer/conditioner
to fuel in the tank according to the instructions
from stabilizer manufacture. Do not use an
alcohol based stabilizer (ethanol or methanol).
Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most
effective when mixed with fresh gasoline and
used at all times.
B. Run engine for 5 minutes to distribute
conditioned fuel through the fuel system.
C. Stop the engine, allow it to cool, and drain the
fuel tank; refer to Draining the Fuel Tank.
D. Start the engine and run it until it stops.
E. Choke or prime the engine.
F. Start and run the engine until it will not start
again.
G. Recycle the old fuel according to local codes.
Important: Do not store
stabilizer/conditioned gasoline over 90
days.
10. Remove and inspect the spark plug; refer to Servicing
the Spark Plug. With the spark plug removed from
the engine, pour 2 tablespoons of engine oil into the
spark plug hole. Use the electric starter to crank
the engine and distribute the oil inside the cylinder.
Install the spark plug, but do not connect the wire to
the spark plug.
11. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Clean the
battery and battery terminals. Check the electrolyte
level and charge it fully; refer to Servicing the Battery.
Leave the negative battery cable disconnected from
the battery during storage.
Important: The battery must be fully charged
to prevent it from freezing and being damaged at
temperatures below 32°F (0°C). A fully charged
battery can be stored during the winter without
recharging.
12. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair
or replace any part that is worn or damaged.
13. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces with paint
available from an Authorized Service Dealer.
14. Store the tractor in a clean, dry garage or storage
area. Remove the ignition and KeyChoice keys from
the tractor and keep them in a memorable place.
Cover the tractor to protect it and keep it clean.
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