MTD LT31CS - Manual (Page 19)

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NOTE: If exhaust gasket is torn or damaged, replace
with a new gasket before reassembling muffler.
4. Using a small flatblade screwdriver, carefully pry up
the spark arrestor from the recessed hole, Figure 41.
Remove the spark arrestor from the muffler.
5. Clean the spark arrestor with a wire brush. Replace
if it is damaged or unable to thoroughly clean,
Figure 41.
6. Reinstall the spark arrestor by pressing it into the
recessed hole on muffler's back side. Make sure it
fits tightly against the muffler and does not protrude.
Muffler - Back Side
Spark
Arrestor
Flatblade
Screwdriver
Spark Arrestor
7. Place the exhaust gasket against the muffler's back
side. Align exhaust gasket bolt holes with the bolt
holes in muffler. While holding the exhaust gasket in
place, insert bolts into muffler's front side, Figure 40.
8. Place muffler (with exhaust gasket in place and bolts
inserted), against the engine, aligning the bolt holes.
Tighten the bolts to secure muffler to the engine.
If using a torque wrench torque to:
80-90 in.•lb. (9-10.2 N•m)
WARNING: If muffler is not tightened
securely, it could fall off and cause damage to
the unit and possibly inflict serious personal
injury.
9. Reinstall the air filter/muffler cover.
Muffler - Front Side Muffler - Back Side
Bolts
Exhaust
Gasket
Spark
Arrestor
SPARK ARRESTOR MAINTENANCE
1. Remove air filter/muffler cover. Refer to Removing
the Air Filter/Muffler Cover.
2. Locate muffler front and the two (2) bolts securing it
to the engine, Figure 40. Remove the two (2) bolts
using a flatblade screwdriver or 5/16-inch socket or
nut driver. Pull muffler off of the engine.
3. Turn muffler over to the back side and locate the
exhaust gasket. Remove the muffler exhaust gasket
from the muffler, Figure 40.
FIGURE 40
FIGURE 41