Remove the fuel tank cap.
Place a plastic sandwich bag over the fuel tank opening and reinstall the fuel tank cap to prevent gasoline from leaking out through the fuel cap vent.
Tilt the mower back to lift the front wheels then secure the mower handle to your work table to hold the mower steady as you remove bottom-mounting screws.
Remove the bottom drive cover mounting screws.
Release the mower handle from the work table and carefully lower the mower to the upright position.
Remove the top drive cover mounting screws.
Release the height adjuster lever and pull the drive cover off.