Cleaning And Storage - Toro 71233 Operator's Manual

Cleaning and Storage

1. Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake, stop the
engine, and remove the ignition key.
2. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from the
external parts of the entire machine, especially the
engine. Clean dirt and chaff from the outside of the
engine cylinder head fins and blower housing.
Important
You can wash the machine with mild
detergent and water. Do not use a pressure washer to
wash the machine. Pressure washing may damage the
electrical system or wash away necessary grease at friction
points. Avoid excessive use of water, especially near the
control panel, lights, engine, and the battery.
3. Check the brake; refer to Brake, page 21.
4. Service the air cleaner; refer to Air Cleaner, page 22.
5. Grease the chassis; refer to Greasing and Lubrication,
page 22.
6. Change the crankcase oil and filter; refer to Engine Oil,
page 18.
7. Check the tire pressure; refer to Tire Pressure, page 22.
8. Prepare the machine for storage when non-use occurs
over 30 days. Prepare machine for storage as follows.
A. Add a petroleum based stabilizer/conditioner to the
fuel in the tank. Follow the mixing instructions from
the stabilizer manufacturer (1 oz. per gallon). 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 to distribute conditioned fuel
through the fuel system (5 minutes).
C. Stop the engine, allow it to cool, and drain the fuel
tank; refer to Draining the Fuel Tank, page 25.
D. Restart the engine and run it until it stops.
E. Choke or prime the engine. Start and run the engine
until it will not start. Operate the primer, if equipped
on the machine, several times to ensure that no fuel
remains in the primer system.
F. Dispose of fuel properly. Recycle as per local codes.
Important Do not store stabilizer/conditioned gasoline
over 90 days.
9. Remove the spark plug(s) and check its condition; refer
to Spark Plug, page 24. With the spark plug(s) removed
from the engine, pour two tablespoons of engine oil into
the spark plug hole. Use the starter to crank the engine
and distribute the oil inside the cylinder. Install the
spark plug(s); refer to Spark Plug, page 24. Do not
install the wire on the spark plug(s).
10. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Clean the battery
and battery terminals. Check the electrolyte level and
charge it fully; refer to Battery, page 19. 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 one
winter season without recharging.
11. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair or
replace any part that is damaged.
12. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paint is
available from your Authorized Service Dealer.
13. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or storage area.
Remove the ignition and KeyChoice keys from the
switches and keep them in a memorable place. Cover
the machine to protect it and keep it clean.
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