59Maintenance Instructions CHECKING/SERVICINGDrive BeltsRaise the body and inspect the condition of the three(3) drive belts after every 25 hours of operation --engine, PTO drive, and ground drive. If the beltsshow signs of cracking or deteriorating, the beltsshould be replaced. Refer to REPLACING/RE-PAIRING the Drive Belts in this section.Mower Deck Gearbox Oil SealsThe mower deck gearbox seals should be inspectedevery 25 hours for evidence of oil leaking; particu-larly the lower oil seal on the blade drive gearbox.This seal is protected by the trash guard on the bladehub and seal protector plate on the housing, but isstill vulnerable to seal damage due to operating inan adverse environment. The mower blade must beremoved for inspection of the seal, so it is recom-mended to inspect the gearbox seals when bladesare removed for sharpening. If an oil leak is not-ed, the seal should be replaced and the gearboxassembly relubricated. Refer to LUBRICATION forMower Deck Gearbox Lubrication in this section.Spark PlugEvery 100 hours, remove the spark plug, inspect,clean, and reset the gap (or replace with a newplug). Clean spark plug with a wire brush. If theelectrodes are burned short or pitted, replace theplug (refer to Specifications for the proper type ofreplacement plug). Check the spark plug gap witha wire-type feeler gauge and set the gap between0.028 and 0.032 in. (0.7 and 0.8 mm). Reinstall andtighten to 17 lb·ft (23 N·m).Breaker PointsThe Subaru engine is equipped with electronic igni-tion. No breaker points, maintenance, or adjust-ments are necessary with this system. Contact anauthorized Subaru engine dealer in case of ignitionfailure.Fuel Lines and ClampsEvery year, inspect the fuel line from the tank toengine for deterioration or damage. Also, inspectthe fuel line clamps for tightness. Good preven-tive maintenance calls for complete replacement offuel lines and clamps every two (2) years.Blade Brake ActionWARNINGIt is important to check and maintain bladebrake action for safe operation of the ma-chine.Check the function of the cutter blade brake (andblower brake on GHS models) by engaging the bladeclutch (PTO), operating the engine at full throttle,then disengaging the clutch and measuring howquickly the blades stop. Watch the rotation of theblade drive shaft and blower pulley as a visual indica-tion that movement has stopped. If the brake isworking properly, all rotation will stop five (5)seconds after disengagement of the clutch. If thebrake system malfunctions - blades do not stop infive (5) seconds - adjust or repair the brake beforeoperating the mower. Contact your Walker dealer forthis service or refer to the Walker Service Manual.