Murray 42541B Parts Manual

To change the oil, first, run the engine for a few minutes to warm it up. Turn off the engine and locate the oil drain plug under the tractor. Place an oil pan underneath, remove the plug, and allow the old oil to drain completely. Replace the drain plug and refill with the recommended oil type.
Check the battery connections to ensure they are clean and tight. Verify that the fuel tank is full, and the fuel filter is not clogged. Inspect the spark plug for wear or damage and replace if necessary. Ensure the safety switches are engaged properly.
Blades should be sharpened after every 25 hours of use or at the beginning of each mowing season. Check for any nicks or damage during regular maintenance and sharpen as needed to maintain cutting efficiency.
To replace the drive belt, disengage the mower blades and set the parking brake. Remove the mower deck by detaching the pins and clips. Release the tension on the belt, remove the old belt from the pulleys, and install the new belt. Reattach the mower deck and ensure the belt is correctly aligned.
Use regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. Avoid using fuels with more than 10% ethanol content as they can damage small engines. Always use fresh fuel to prevent engine issues.
Remove the air filter cover and take out the filter. If it's a paper filter, tap it gently to remove dirt or replace it if excessively dirty. For foam filters, wash with soapy water, rinse, and let it dry completely before reinstalling.
Ensure the PTO (Power Take-Off) switch is engaged. Check the belt tension and condition, replacing it if worn or broken. Inspect the PTO clutch and wiring connections for any signs of damage or disconnection.
Regularly sharpen the blades and ensure they are balanced. Maintain the correct tire pressure to avoid an uneven cut. Adjust the cutting height to suit the grass type and conditions. Mow when the grass is dry and avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
Clean the mower deck and remove any grass clippings or debris. Change the oil and replace the oil filter. Stabilize the fuel or empty the fuel tank to prevent gumming. Store the tractor in a dry, sheltered place and disconnect the battery to prevent drain.
Check the tire pressure to ensure all tires are equally inflated. Inspect the mower deck to ensure it is level. Verify that the blades are sharp and not damaged. Adjust the cutting height and mow at a slower speed if necessary for a more even cut.