61Maintenance Instructions CHECKING/SERVICINGCheck the coolant level in the coolant recovery tankand maintain the coolant level between the FULLand LOW marks on the recovery tank. When theengine is cold, the coolant level should be at orslightly above the LOW mark on the recovery tank.If the coolant level is low, remove the radiator capand fill to the overflow port level and then fill the re-covery tank above the LOW mark. Use a pre-mixed50/50 solution of antifreeze (ethylene glycol) anddistilled water to fill the cooling system.IMPORTANT: The coolant solution of antifreezeand distilled water must be thoroughly pre-mixed be-fore putting it in the engine (adding pure antifreezeinto the radiator may cause damage to the engine bycausing overheating).Fan Belt TensionCheck and adjust the fan belt tension to avoid en-gine overheating and insufficient battery charg-ing. Push on the belt in the middle of the spanbetween the alternator and crankshaft. If properlytensioned, it should deflect about 0.4 in. (10 mm).Also check the belt for cracks or deterioration.Fan Belt TensionSecurity of Air Filtration ComponentsNOTE: The following inspection is only an exter-nal inspection and should be done without “dis-turbing” the filtration components.On a daily basis, visually inspect the external condi-tion of the complete air cleaner system. The follow-ing items should be inspected:1. Check the Donaldson Radialseal™ air cleanercanister for damage. Make sure the cover is inplace and the cover latches are secure - do notrun the engine without the air cleaner cover inplace and secure.2. Inspect the air intake hose for cracks, nicks,cuts, etc., and check the hose clamps for tight-ness.BatteryNOTE: For initial battery service during setup, re-fer to Battery Service in Assembly Instructions.IMPORTANT: Make sure battery is securely mount-ed in the frame. A loose battery may cause damageto the case resulting in acid leakage and severe dam-age to the machine. A hazard may be created bydamage to critical working parts and safety systems.Electrolyte LevelThe battery electrolyte level should be checked af-ter every 25 hours of operation. To check electro-lyte level:1. Remove battery cell filler caps.2. Check the electrolyte level. If the level is belowthe bottom of the vent well, fill with drinking wa-ter to the bottom of the vent wells [1/4 to 1/2 in.(6 to 13 mm) above the plates].3. Replace filler caps.IMPORTANT: DO NOT overfill the battery.Electrolyte will overflow through the vented capsonto parts of the machine and WILL result in se-vere corrosion.Cleaning the TerminalsIf battery terminals are corroded, remove batteryfrom the mower. Using a wire brush, remove corro-sion with a solution of one part baking soda andfour parts water. Rinse with clean water. Coat theterminals with petroleum jelly or terminal protectorspray to retard further corrosion.0.4 in. (10 mm)DeflectionFan Belt