Cub Cadet Z-Force 54-KH Operator's Manual page 23

Maintenance
WARNING!
Before performing any maintenance or
repairs, disengage the PTO, move the drive control
levers fully outward in the neutral position, engage
the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the
key to prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Refer to the Kohler Owner's Manual for all engine maintenance
intervals, procedures, specifications and instructions.
Changing the Engine Oil
WARNING
! If the engine has been recently run, the
engine, muffler and surrounding metal surfaces will
be hot and can cause burns to the skin. Exercise
caution to avoid burns.
To complete an oil change, proceed as follows:
1. Run the engine for a short time to warm the engine oil. The
oil will flow more freely and carry away more impurities.
Use care to avoid burns from hot oil.
2. Locate the oil drain hose or the oil-drain valve on the
engine.
3. Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil drain
valve to expose the drain port (A). See Fig 6-1.
Square-Head
Hose Plug
Figure 6-1
4. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick from the oil fill tube.
5. Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual) onto the
oil drain port (B). Route the opposite end of the hose into
an appropriate oil collection container with at least a 2.5
quart capacity, to collect the used oil.
6. Turn the oil drain valve 1⁄4-turn (C), then pull outward to
begin draining oil (D). After the oil has finished draining,
push the end of the oil drain valve back in and turn 1⁄4-turn
to secure it back in place. Re-cap the end of the oil drain
valve to keep debris from entering the drain port.
7. Replace the oil filter as instructed in the Kohler Owner's
Manual.
8. Refill the engine with new oil. Refer to the Kohler Owner's
Manual for information regarding the volume and weight
of engine oil
Air Cleaner
Service the pre-cleaner and cartridge/air cleaner element as
instructed in the Kohler Owner's Manual.
Spark Plug
The spark plugs should be cleaned and the gap reset once a
season. Refer to the Kohler Owner's Manual for correct plug type
and gap specifications.
Hydrostatic Transmission
The zero turn tractor is equipped with dual integrated
hydrostatic pumps/transaxles that are sealed and are
maintenance-free. Fluid levels in the transaxles cannot be
checked and fluid cannot be added or changed. The fluid level
in the expansion reservoir must be maintained at 1⁄2" to 1" above
the bottom of the tank.
NOTE: If a pump fails or proper level in the expansion reservoir
is not maintained, contact your Cub Cadet dealer. Do not
disassemble the pump/motors.
General Battery Information
WARNING!
• Should battery acid accidentally splatter into
the eyes or onto the skin, rinse the affected area
immediately with clean cold water. If there is any
further discomfort, seek prompt medical attention.
• If acid spills on clothing, first dilute it with
clean water, then neutralize with a solution of
ammonia/water or baking soda/water.
• NEVER connect (or disconnect) battery
charger clips to the battery while the charger is
turned on, as it can cause sparks.
• Keep all sources of ignition (cigarettes,
matches, lighters) away from the battery. The gas
generated during charging can be combustible.
• As a further precaution, only charge the
battery in a well ventilated area.
• Always shield eyes and protect skin and
clothing when working near batteries.
• Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may
emit explosive gases. Use extreme caution when
handling batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach
of children.
s 6 — M
ectiOn
& a
aintenance djustMents
23