Cub Cadet RZT 50 Operator's Manual page 81

TRACTOR STORAGE
If your tractoris not goingto be operatedfor an
extended periodof time(thirtydaysto approximately
six months), the tractorshouldbe prepared for stor-
age.Store the tractorin a dryandprotected location.
If stored outside, c overthetractor(including t hetires)
to protectit fromthe elements. T heprocedures o ut-
linedbelowshould beperformed w henever thetractor
is placed in storage.
1. Changethe engineoil and filter followingthe
instructionsprovided in the engine manual
packed withthismanual.
_ WARNING:
N ever store the tractor with
fuel in the tank indoors or in poorly ven-
tilated enclosures, where fuel fumes may
reach an open flame, spark or pilot light
as on a furnace, water heater, clothes
dryer, etc.
_ ARNING: Fuel left in the fuel tank dete-
riorates and will cause serious starting
problems.
,
If storing the tractor for 30 days or more:
To prevent gum deposits from forming inside the
engine's carburetor and causing possible malfunc-
tion of the engine, the fuel system must be either
completely emptied, or the gasoline must be
treated with a stabilizer to prevent deterioration.
Using a fuel stabilizer:
• Read the product manufacturer's instructions
and recommendations.
• Add to clean, fresh gasoline the correct amount
of stabilizer for the capacity (approximately 3
gallons) of the fuel system.
• Fill the fuel tank with treated fuel and run the
engine for 2-3 minutes to get stabilized fuel into
the carburetor.
Emptying the fuel system:
• Prior to putting the tractor in storage, monitor
fuel consumption with the goal of running the
fuel tank empty.
• Run the engine until it begins to stall. Use the
choke to keep the engine running until all fuel in
the carburetor has been exhausted.
• Referring to the engine manual, drain the fuel
from the carburetor bowl.
3. Clean the engine and the entire tractor
thoroughly.
4. Fully charge the battery, then disconnect the neg-
ative cable at the battery to prevent possible
discharge. Recharge the battery periodically
when in storage.
NOTE: Remove the battery if exposed to prolonged
periods of sub-freezing temperatures. Store in a cool,
dry location where temperatures are above freezing.
5. Lubricate all lubrication points.
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of a pressure
washer or garden hose to clean your tractor. They may
cause damage to electrical components; spindles;
pulleys; bearings; or the engine. The use of water will
result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
REMOVING THE TRACTOR FROM STORAGE
• Check the engine oil.
• Fully charge the battery and inflate the tires to the
recommended pressure.
• If drained before storing, fill the fuel tank with
clean, fresh gasoline.
• Add clean, fresh fuel.
• Start the engine and allow to idle for a few
minutes to ensure engine is operating properly.
• Drive the tractor without a load to make certain all
the tractor systems are functioning properly.
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