Service And Maintenance - Craftsman C459-36023 Operator's Manual

WARNING
Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all
controls and stop the engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to
a complete stop. Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against the
engine to prevent unintended starting.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
• Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.
• The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have
been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from warranty, operator must maintain the equipment as
instructed here.
• Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine warranty.
• All adjustments should be checked at least once each season.
• Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.
ENGINE
1. Refer to the separate engine manual for engine maintenance
instructions.
2. Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine manual
packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions carefully.
3. Under normal conditions service air cleaner as instructed in the
separate engine manual packed with your unit. Clean every few
hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance
and flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be
serviced.
4. The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset once a
season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of
each mowing season; check engine manual for correct plug type
and gap specifications.
NOTE: This spark ignition system meets all requirements of the
Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
5. Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the cooling
system (blower housing area) clean to permit proper air circulation
which is essential to engine performance and life. Be certain to
remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.
LubRICATION
1. Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle at least once
a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both
directions. See Figure 11.
2. If your mower is equipped with ball bearing wheels, lubricate at
least once a season with a light oil, all other types require no
lubrication. However, if the wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light automotive oil.
3. Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point periodically with light oil
to prevent rust. See Figure 11.
4. Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrication schedule
and instruction.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

DECk CARE
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent build-up
of grass clippings or other debris. Follow steps below for this job.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn mower or
place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side with the air
cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.
Never tip the mower more than 90º in any direction and do not leave
the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper
part of the engine causing a starting problem.
3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool. Do
not spray with water.
IMPORTANT: Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean
your unit. These may cause damage to bearings, or the engine. The
use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you had put
plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to remove it now.
12
Figure 11
WARNING