Storage

Storing Safety

c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Engine exhaust fumes can cause sickness or death. · If it is necessary to run an engine in an enclosed area, use an exhaust pipe extension to remove the fumes. Always try to work in a well ventilated area. · DO NOT store vehicle with fuel in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. · Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. · Remove the battery and store it in a cool dry place where it will not freeze, and where children cannot reach it.

Storing Engine

1. Add John Deere Gasoline Storage Stabilizer or equivalent to fuel tank. Follow directions on can.

2. Run engine 5 minutes so stabilizer reaches carburetor.

3. Change engine oil when engine is warm. (See Changing Engine Oil in Service section.)

4. Remove spark plug. (See Checking Spark Plug in Service Section.)

5. Put approximately 1 tablespoon of SAE 30 engine oil into cylinder.

6. Turn engine over a few seconds.

7. Install spark plug.

8. Remove battery. (See Removing and Installing the Battery in Service - Electrical Section.)

· Clean battery.

· Store in cool, dry place.

9. Clean engine and area around it.

10. Remove oil and dirt.

Storing Riding Mower

Repair worn or damaged parts.

Replace parts if necessary.

Tighten loose hardware.

Clean riding mower.

Clean underside of mower.

Sharpen or install new blade.

Clean belt area and top of deck.

Check condition of belts. Replace if needed.

Paint worn areas to prevent rust.

Lubricate:

· Front axle spindles.

· Rear axles (GX85).

Store in dry, protected place.

If you store riding mower outside, cover with waterproof cover. Order protective cover from your John Deere dealer.

To take weight off of tires: Put blocks or support stand under riding mower.

Reduce front tire pressure to 60 kPa (9 psi).

Reduce rear tire pressure to 40 kPa (6 psi).

Close fuel shut-off valve.

Removing Riding Mower From Storage

1. Check:

· ALL shields and guards are in place.

· Spark plug gap.

2. Lubricate:

· Front axle spindles.

3. Remove spark plug and block hole with rag. Crank engine 10-12 times.

4. Install spark plug and tighten to 25 N·m (221 lb-in.).

5. Turn fuel shut-off valve to ON position.

6. Check oil level.

7. GX85: Before you put engine under load, run engine 5 minutes with transmission in NEUTRAL and clutch DISENGAGED. Slowly drive unit in 3rd gear or less.

· SX85: Before you put engine under load, run engine 5 minutes.

8. Inflate tires:

· Front-100 kPa (14 psi)

· Rear-70 kPa (10 psi)