Storage - Toro 4573 Operator's Manual

Storage

1. Disengage the blades (PTO).
2. Set the parking brake.
3. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
4. Remove the ignition key.
5. Remove the grass collector and clean it; refer to
Grass Collector.
6. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from the
external parts of the entire machine, especially the
engine. Clean the dirt and chaff from the outside of
the engine cylinder head fins and blower housing.
Important: You can wash the machine with
a mild detergent and water. Do not use
pressurized liquids to wash the machine.
Pressurized liquids may damage the electrical
system or wash away necessary grease at the
friction points. Avoid using water excessively,
especially near the control panel, lights, engine,
and battery.
7. Check the brake; refer to Brake.
8. Service the air cleaner; refer to Servicing the Air
Cleaner.
9. Grease the chassis; refer to Greasing and Lubricating
the Machine.
10. Change the engine oil and filter; refer to Servicing
the Engine Oil.
11. Check the tire pressure; refer to Checking the Tire
Pressure.
12. When storing the machine over 30 days, prepare it
as follows:
A. Add a petroleum-based stabilizer/conditioner to
the fuel in the tank according to the instructions
from the stabilizer manufacturer. 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 the engine for 5 minutes to distribute the
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.
H. Close the fuel shut-off valve.
Important: Do not store stabilizer/conditioned
gasoline over 90 days.
13. 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.
14. 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). You can store
a fully charged battery during the winter without
recharging.
15. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair
or replace any part that is worn or damaged.
16. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces with paint
available from an Authorized Service Dealer.
17. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or storage
area. Remove the ignition and KeyChoice keys from
the mower and keep them in a memorable place.
Cover the machine to protect it and keep it clean.
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