Storage - Toro 71202 Operator's Manual

Maintenance

Storage

1. Clean dirt and chaff from the outside of the
engine's cylinder head fins and blower housing.
Also remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime
from the external parts of the entire machine,
especially the engine, shrouding, and the top of
the mower.
IMPORTANT: You can wash the machine
with mild detergent and water. Do not
pressure wash the machine. Avoid excessive
use of water, especially near the control panel,
lights, engine, and the battery.
2. Scrape heavy buildup of grass and dirt from the
underside of the mower. Then wash the mower
with a garden hose.
3. Check the condition of the blade(s); refer to
Cutting Blade, page 32.
4. Check the condition of the blade drive belt.
5. Check the brake; refer to Brake, page 19.
6. Service the air cleaner; refer to Air Cleaner,
page 28.
7. Grease the chassis; refer to Greasing and
Lubrication, page 18.
8. Change the crankcase oil; refer to Engine Oil,
page 30.
9. Remove the spark plug and check its condition;
refer to Spark Plug, page 24. With the spark plug
removed from the engine, pour two tablespoons
of engine oil into the spark plug hole. Now use
the electric starter to crank the engine and
distribute the oil inside the cylinder. Install the
spark plug and tighten it to 15 ft–lb (20.4 Nm).
Do not install the wire on the spark plug.
10. Remove the battery from the chassis, check the
electrolyte level, and charge it fully; refer to
Battery, page 22. Do not connect the battery
cables to the battery posts during storage.
42
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 maintains its charge for
about 50 days at temperatures lower than
40 F (4 C). If the temperatures will be above
40 F (4 C), check the water level in the
battery and charge it every 30 days.
11. Check the tire pressure; refer to Tire Pressure,
page 19.
12. During long-term storage, either drain gasoline
from the fuel tank (step A) or add a fuel additive
to a full tank of gasoline (step B).
A. Drain gasoline from the fuel tank; refer to
Fuel Tank, page 25. After fuel is drained,
start the engine and let it idle until all
gasoline is consumed and the engine stops.
This eliminates gum-like buildup in the fuel
system, which causes hard starting. Try to
start the engine two more times to assure
that no gasoline is in the fuel system.
B. Add the correct amount of Toro
Stabilizer/Conditioner or an
isopropyl-based stabilizer/conditioner to a
full tank of gasoline.
Note: Stabilizer/conditioners normally
preserve gasoline for six to eight
months.
13. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws.
Repair or replace any part that is damaged or
defective.
14. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paint
is available from you Authorized Service Dealer.
15. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or
storage area. Remove the key from the ignition
switch and keep it in a memorable place. Cover
the machine to protect it and keep it clean.