Maintenance
3.7 LONG TERM STORAGE
It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in essential fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel hose or tank during storage. Also, experience indicates that
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer, as follows:
• Remove all gasoline from the fuel tank.
Drain fuel into approved container outdoors, away from open flame. Be sure engine is cool. Do not smoke near fuel.
•Start and run engine until engine stops from lack of fuel.
•Drain oil from crankcase after the engine cools down. Refill with recommended grade.
•Remove spark plug and pour about 1/2 ounce (15 ml) of engine oil into the cylinder. Cover spark plug hole with rag. Pull the recoil starter a couple times to lubricate the piston rings and cylinder bore.
nAvoid spray from spark plug hole when cranking engine.
•Install and tighten spark plug. Do not connect spark plug wire.
•Clean the generator outer surfaces. Check that cooling air slots and openings on generator are open and unobstructed.
•Store the unit in a clean, dry place.
3.8 OTHER STORAGE TIPS
•Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
•Replace the gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in the gasoline will cause problems with the carburetor and fuel system.
•If possible, store the unit indoors and cover it to give protection from dust and dirt. BE SURE TO EMPTY THE FUEL TANK.
•If it is not practical to empty the fuel tank and the unit is to be stored for some time, use a commercially available fuel stabilizer added to the gasoline to increase the life of the gasoline.
•Cover the unit with a suitable protective cover that does not retain moisture.
nNEVER cover the generator while engine and exhaust area are warm.
12