How to Troubleshoot a John Deere Sabre Model 1642
- 1). Verify there is sufficient fuel in the tank if the mower does not start. Before filling the tank, replace the fuel filter. Park the mower on a level surface. Lock the park brake and remove the key from the ignition. Allow the engine to cool. Open the hood and use the pliers to slide the hose-clamps away from the fuel filter. Disconnect the hoses from the filter and remove the filter. Connect the hoses to the new filter and install the clamps. Check for leaks. Close the hood.
- 2). Check that the mower is level if the grass is uneven after cutting. Park the tractor on a firm, level surface. Switch off the engine and remove the key from the ignition. Check the tire pressure with a pressure gauge. The front, 15-inch tires should read 14 psi. The rear, 20-inch tires should read 10 psi. Turn the blades so the front blade tips point forward. Measure from the front of each blade tip to the level surface. The front blade tips should be 6 to 9 mm lower than the rear blade tips or the blades will cut the grass twice.
- 3). Clean the battery terminals if the engine clicks, but will not start. Turn off the ignition and raise the mower seat. Remove the rubber strap that holds the battery in place. Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable first. Remove the red cover from the positive battery cable terminal. Remove the positive (+) battery cable from the battery. Remove the battery from the mower. Wash the battery with a solution of 4 tbsp. of baking soda and 1 gallon of water. Rinse the battery with clean water and allow to dry thoroughly. Use a wire brush to clean the battery terminals until they are shiny. Rub a small amount of petroleum jelly on the battery terminals to prevent corrosion. Reinstall the battery and cables.
- 4). Inspect and clean the spark plug if the engine is hard to start. Turn off the engine and set the park brake. Remove the key and lift the hood. Disconnect the spark plug wires and use the spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush. Inspect the plug for cracked porcelain and pitted electrodes. Replace the spark plug if necessary. Check the gap with the feeler gauge. The gap should be 0.76 mm. Reinstall and tighten the spark plug. Do not over-tighten because this could strip the thread. Connect the spark plug wires.
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