The JD engine manual for the L/C Kawasaki is not big on the "how to" stuff. It's a very straight forward task, however. IIRC it takes a 10mm socket, about a 3" long extension, and ratchet. The gasket is a neoprene like material, round, formed like the cover and sets in a recess in the composite cover. Try not to over tighten the capscrews. There should be a metal sleeve in each hole of the cover to prevent cover breakage. Make sure they don't accidently fall out. Only place I know to buy the gaskets would be a JD dealer.
If you want to remove the hood to make it easier, disconnect headlight wire near engine, looking up under the frame you should see a capscrew on each side, maybe a 13mm socket and 6" extension for those. Just loosen those 2-3 turns, no need to remove them. Then with a helper to steady the hood (open) remove the side capscrews. Slide hood off the frame and set it safely aside. They break oh so easily!
I recommend checking the valve lash clearance, and reset them, if necessary, while the covers are off. It would be nice to have an experienced friend to show you how to do that the first time, if you have not done it before. It's not difficult, just has to be done correctly. .006" clearance, intake and exhaust for the FD501V. Rocker locknut 79 inch pounds torque.
tommyhawk
