Qualcast 16/18 - Manual (Page 8)

Fault Finding
The following table gives checks and actions that you can perform if your machine does not operate
correctly. If these do not identify/remedy the problem contact your Qualcast approved service agent.
Warning - switch engine off and remove spark plug before investigating fault.
Symptom Possible Cause Remedy
Engine will not start Out of fuel Fill petrol tank
Engine not primed See Starting the Engine
Engine flooded with fuel Leave for 10-15 minutes; restart
without priming
Spark plug lead disconnected Connect lead
Spark plug dirty/worn See engine maintenance manual
Machine has been incorrectly See Under-deck Access
tipped on its side
Engine stops Out of fuel Fill petrol tank
Cutting blade obstructed Switch off engine and clear
obstruction
Engine speed to low for conditions Move throttle
(Mowers with throttle control)
Mower leaves ragged finish Height of cut too low Increase height of cut
Cutting blade blunt Replace blade
Underside of machine badly Clean mower (see After Mowing/
clogged Storage)
Blade fitted upside down Refit blade correctly
Land drive does not engage Drive belt damaged Contact a Qualcast Approved
(Self propelled models) Service Agent
Excessive vibration/noise Blade nut/bolt loose Tighten blade nut/bolt
Cutting blade damaged Replace blade
4. Tighten the blade bolt to a torque of 40Nm
(29lb ft).
Engine Maintenance
Perform the following operations at the specified
periods to ensure long and reliable service from your
mower engine.
1. Change engine oil - refer to engine manual for
details.
2. Check starter cord - extend the starter cord and
check for wear.
3. Clean/change air filter - refer to engine manual
for details.
4. Change spark plug - refer to engine manual for
details.
Under-deck Access
Caution: Oil and/or petrol spillage and hard starting
may occur unless the following procedure is used
when access is required to the underside of the
machine.
1. Ensure that the petrol tank is empty or nearly
empty.
2. For models fitted with Briggs and Stratton
engines:
Remove wing nut and bolt and lower the
handle to rest on the floor Fig 10.
Stand the machine on its back Fig 10. Do not tip
the mower on its side.
Blade Maintenance
Stand the machine on its back, or its side (see Under-
deck Access). Inspect the blade Fig 11A and check
that the blade bolt Fig 11B is tight. If the blade is
blunt or damaged, fit a new blade.
Use the following procedure to remove and replace
the blade.
1. Hold the blade (using gloves or a piece of
cloth). Using and referring to Fig 11, remove the
bolt Fig 11B and items C to D.
2. Clean all components and check for damage;
renew as necessary.
3. Assemble items A-D as shown, ensuring that the
coned washer D and the blade A are the
correct way up.