It will be easier to tighten the flywheel nut to the recommended torque once the engine has been reinstalled on the mower. Therefore, now is a good time to install the engine to the mower deck:
- Remove the three mounting bolts from the bottom of the engine. Position the engine on the mower deck and install these bolts finger tight. Then, use a socket wrench to tighten securely.
- Tighten the flywheel nut. Brace the flywheel against something solid and tighten the flywheel nut to the recommended torque (30-33 ft-lbs).
- Shroud/blower housing: Position and install using the proper bolts.
- Oil fill pipe: Put a little engine oil on the O-ring. Position the fill pipe into the oil hole in the base of the crankcase/oil sump cover. Make sure the O-ring seats inside the oil hole. Tighten the screw(s).
- Gas tank: Slip the gas tank into its mounts and tighten any screws. Connect the carburetor fuel hose to the gas tank.
- Trim pieces: Reinstall any trim pieces.
- Reattach any dead-man and throttle cables to the engine.
- Install any front wheel drive components - pulley to crankshaft (using proper key) and belt, or chain drive.
- Install the blade adapter and blade. Tighten to the recommended torque.
- ADD OIL!!! Add fresh engine oil to just below the top of the oil filler hole or just below FULL on the dipstick. This will be about 1-1/4 pints.
- Use the starter cord or electric starter to crank the engine a few times. This will help to distribute the oil.
- Add a small amount of gasoline to the fuel tank - say, a half a glass.