63Maintenance Instructions CHECKING/SERVICINGSpark PlugsEvery 200 hours of operation, remove the sparkplugs, inspect, clean, and reset the gap (or replacewith new plugs). Before removing the spark plugs,clean the area around the base of the plugs to keepdirt and debris out of the engine. Clean spark plugswith a wire brush. DO NOT use an abrasive grittype cleaner. If the electrodes are burned short orpitted, replace the plug (refer to Specifications for theproper type of replacement plug). Check spark pluggap with a wiretype feeler gauge and set the gap to0.030 in. (0.76 mm). Reinstall and tighten to 20 lb·ft(27 N·m). Both spark plugs should be replacedyearly.Ignition WiresGood preventive maintenance calls for complete re-placement of spark plug wires every two (2) years.Fuel Lines and ClampsNOTE: The engine fuel injection system is pressurized and should only be serviced by a Walker dealeror authorized Briggs & Stratton service dealer.Every year, inspect the fuel supply lines from thetank(s) to engine for deterioration or damage. Also,inspect the fuel line clamps for tightness. Goodpreventive maintenance calls for complete replace-ment of fuel lines and clamps every two (2) years.Engine StarterYearly or every 500 hours disassemble and cleanthe solenoid shift starter. Refer to the Briggs &Stratton Service Manual for this procedure or contact an authorized Briggs & Stratton engine dealerto perform this service.Transmission Control SettingOn a yearly interval or when an outofadjustmentcondition is observed, check the transmission control for proper function as follows:Neutral-ParkWith the mower parked on level ground, start andrun the engine, first at idle and then normal operating speeds. With the FSC in the NEUTRAL-PARKposition, there should be no movement of eitherdrive tire. If the tire(s) are “creeping” forward or reverse, refer to ADJUSTMENTS for the NeutralFunction Adjustment - Step 3 in this section.Straight Ground TrackingCheck for straight ground track by driving on asmooth, level surface with hands off the steering levers. Set the FSC at different speeds and observeif the mower moves in a straight line (use a cementjoint or other line on the ground for reference). If themachine is drifting to the right or left, refer toADJUSTMENTS for Straight Tracking Adjustment -Step 5 in this section.Blade Brake ActionWARNINGIt is important to check and maintainblade brake action for safe operation ofthe ma chine.Check the function of the cutter blade brake by engaging the blade clutch (PTO), operating the engineat full throttle, then disengaging the clutch and measuring how quickly the blades stop. Watch the rotation of the blade drive shaft as a visual indication thatmovement has stopped. If the brake is workingproperly, all rotation will stop five (5) secondsafter disengagement of the clutch. If the brake system malfunctions blades do not stop in five (5) seconds adjust or repair the brake before operatingthe mower. Refer to ADJUSTMENTS for ClutchDisengagement/Brake Action, Step 2 - Blade BrakeBand Adjustment on page 77.PTO U-JointsThe PTO Ujoints should be inspected yearly forlooseness and wear. If either is noticed, the respective shaft or tube should be replaced. A worn Ujointcan cause vibration and extensive damage to thePTO and the whole machine.