Maintenance Instructions KOHLER TIPS/LUBRICATION54Oil• Use only multi-viscosity oils as specified with theviscosity matching ambient temperatures for the en-gine operating conditions. This will aid starting incold weather and assure proper lubrication in hotweather.• Use only Kohler oil filters. Aftermarket filtersmay not seal properly and/or have the incorrectpressure relief valve for proper lubrication.LUBRICATIONProper lubrication is an important maintenance pro-cedure. It reduces wear and makes the machine qui-eter and easier to operate.Engine OilEngine Break-In OilNo special break-in oil is required. The engine isserviced with 10W-30, Service Class SG oil from thefactory. Change the oil after the initial engine break-in period of 5 hours. Thereafter, change oil afterevery 100 hours of operation (200 hour interval forMTL).Checking Engine Crankcase Oil LevelCheck the engine crankcase oil level before use andafter each 8 hours of continuous operation.IMPORTANT: The importance of checking andmaintaining the proper crankcase oil level cannot beoveremphasized. Check the oil level BEFOREEACH USE.1. Park the mower on a level surface with the en-gine stopped. Also, make sure the engine iscool and oil has had time to drain into the sump[allow at least five (5) minutes after stoppingthe engine].IMPORTANT: NEVER check or add oil with theengine running.2. Before removing the dipstick, clean the areaaround the dipstick to keep any dirt or debris outof the engine.3. Remove the dipstick, wipe off with a clean rag,then reinsert the dipstick into the tube and pressall the way down.4. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil lev-el on the dipstick. The oil level should be withinthe “Operating Range” on the dipstick (betweenthe “L” mark and the “F” mark).IMPORTANT: DO NOT operate engine withouta sufficient oil supply in the crankcase. DO NOToperate with the oil level below the “L” mark orabove the “F” mark on the dipstick.5. If additional oil is needed, refer to Specificationsfor proper crankcase lubricant. Fill up to, butnot above, the “F” mark on the dipstick.IMPORTANT: DO NOT overfill the crankcase(oil above “F” mark) as this CAN result in engineoverheating, loss of power, and possible en-gine damage.Dipstick Operating RangeWARNINGDO NOT attempt to lubricate the machinewith the engine running. Disengage thePTO clutch, shut off the machine, and re-move the ignition key.Full MarkLow Mark