1. Perform the pre-maintenance procedures; refer toPreparing for Maintenance.2. Unscrew and open the air filter cover (Figure 18).Figure 181. Screw 3. Air filter element2. Air filter cover3. Replace the air filter element.4. Install the air filter cover.Changing the Engine OilService Interval: After the first 5 hoursEvery 50 hours/Yearly (whichevercomes first)Run the engine a few minutes before changing the oilto warm it. Warm oil flows better and carries morecontaminants.1. Perform the pre-maintenance procedures; refer toPreparing for Maintenance.2. Remove the dipstick (Figure 19).Figure 193. Tip the mower onto its side, with the air filter up,to drain the used oil out through the oil fill tube(Figure 20).Figure 204. Slowly pour oil into the oil fill tube until the oillevel reaches the Full line on the dipstick (Figure 19).Do not overfill. (Max. fill: 22 oz. (0.65 l), type:10W-30 or SAE 30 detergent oil with an API serviceclassification of SJ or higher.)Note: Each time you check the oil level, remove thedipstick and wipe it clean, insert it into the oil fillerneck (but do not screw it in), then remove it againand check the level (Figure 19).Note: If you overfill the engine, pour some oil outof it as directed in Changing the Engine Oil.5. Install the dipstick securely.6. Dispose of the used oil properly at a local recyclingcenter.Lubricating the Upper HandleService Interval: YearlyLubricate the left and right sides of the upper handlewith a low-viscosity silicone spray lubricant yearly or asneeded.1. Spray the outer plastic end of the inner handle(Figure 21).Figure 2112