To get the most out of any equipment, owners must set aside time for maintenance and check-ups; the same goes for John Deere machinery. If you are working with the John Deere Z700 Series ZTrak™ Mower, for example, you’ll want to perform routine maintenance to ensure that your mower continues operating smoothly for years to come. That said, two of the features you’ll want to keep an eye on most are the engine oil and oil filter.
Let’s take a look at some John Deere mower maintenance tips that can help keep your Z700 Series ZTrak Mower running as it should.
Lawn Mower Maintenance Checklist
- Recognize any safety information, understand the safety signals, and be familiar with your operator’s manual before you begin.
- Run the engine to warm the oil. Park the machine safely on a level surface and allow the engine to cool.
- Disconnect the battery.
- Prepare to drain the oil by positioning the drain pan under the machine.
- Clean around the dipstick, then loosen it.
- Remove the drain hose from the side of the engine and route it into the drain pan.
- Remove the oil drain cap and allow the oil to drain into the pan.
- Wipe around the oil filter to remove debris. Twist the oil filter anti-clockwise.
- Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the filter, if necessary.
- Drain any residual oil from the filter into the drain pan before disposal.
- Once you’re ready to install the new oil filter, apply a layer of clean engine oil.
- Wipe the surface of the engine oil filter mounting base clean.
- After the filter is in place, give it an additional half-turn to create a tight seal.
- Wipe the drain hose end clean and install the oil drain cap.
- Reposition the hose on the side of the engine.
- Remove the dipstick, and use a funnel to add oil.
- Fill the oil to the recommended level as outlined in your operator’s manual.
- Install the dipstick, and reconnect the battery.
- Check the dipstick to confirm there is enough oil to safely restart the engine.
- Run the engine for a few minutes to assess any leaks and re-check your oil level.
- To check your engine oil, use the dipstick and make sure that the oil is between the “full” and “add” marks.
- Remove the dipstick and wipe it off, then place it back in the tube, but do not screw it down.
- Pull it back out to read the oil level, then ensure the dipstick is replaced and tightened when you are finished.
If you have any questions about the John Deere Z700 Series ZTrak Mower, you can contact your local John Deere dealer.
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