How To Replace The Spark Plug - Figure 5
Check the gap (A, Figure 5) with a wire gauge (B). If necessary, reset the gap. Install and tighten the spark plug to the recommended torque. For gap setting or torque, see the Specifications section.
Note: In some areas, local law requires using a resistor spark plug to suppress ignition signals. If this engine was originally equipped with a resistor spark plug, use the same type for replacement.
Inspect Muffler And Spark Arrester - Figure 6
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Engine parts, especially muffler, become extremely hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush, etc. can catch fire.
Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool before touching.
Remove accumulated debris from muffler area and cylinder area.
It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section 4442, to use or operate the engine on any
Remove accumulated debris from muffler area and cylinder area. Inspect the muffler (A, Figure 6) for cracks, corrosion, or other damage. Remove the spark arrester (B), if equipped, and inspect for damage or carbon blockage. If damage is found, install replacement parts before operating.
WARNING: Replacement parts must be of the same design and installed in the same position as the original parts. Other parts may not perform as well, may damage the unit, and may result in injury.
How To Change The Oil - Figure 7
Used oil is a hazardous waste product and must be disposed of properly. Do not discard with household waste. Check with your local authorities, service center, or dealer for safe disposal/recycling facilities.
Remove Oil
1.With engine off but still warm, disconnect the spark plug wire (A) and keep it away from the spark plug (Figure 7).
2.Remove the oil drain plug (B). Drain the oil into an approved container.
3.After the oil has drained, install and tighten the oil drain plug.
3.Install and tighten the dipstick.
4.Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. It should be at the top of the full indicator (F) on the dipstick.
5.Install and tighten the dipstick.
How To Service The Air Filter - Figure 8 9
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
Never start or run the engine with the air cleaner assembly (if equipped) or the air filter (if equipped) removed.
NOTICE: Do not use pressurized air or solvents to clean the filter. Pressurized air can damage the filter and solvents will dissolve the filter.
The air filter system uses either a cyclonic air filter or a
Cyclonic Air Filter System
1.Open the latches (A) and remove the cover (B). See Figure 8.
2.Remove the air filter (C).
3.To loosen debris, gently tap the air filter on a hard surface. If the air filter is excessively dirty, replace with a new air filter.
4.The cyclonic air filter system also has a safety filter (D) (if equipped). See the Maintenance Chart for service requirements. To remove, carefully pull the safety filter away from air cleaner body (E) and discard. Make sure that dirt or debris do not enter the engine.
5.Install the new safety filter in the air cleaner body.
6.Install the air filter over the safety filter.
7.Install the cover and close the latches.
Low-Profile Air Filter System
1.Remove the knob (F) and the cover (G). See Figure 9.
2.Remove the nut (H) and the retainer (J).
3.Remove the air filter (K).
4.Remove the
5.To loosen debris, gently tap the air filter on a hard surface. If the air filter is excessively dirty, replace with a new air filter.
6.Wash the
7.Assemble the dry
8.Install the air filter and secure with retainer and nut.
9.Install the cover and secure with knob.
Change The Oil Filter
All models are equipped with an oil filter. For replacement intervals, see the Maintenance chart.
1.Drain the oil from the engine. See Remove Oil section.
2.Remove the oil filter (C, Figure 7) and dispose of properly.
3.Before installing the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the oil filter gasket with fresh, clean oil.
4.Install the oil filter by hand until the gasket contacts the oil filter adapter, then tighten the oil filter 1/2 to 3/4 turns.
5.Add oil. See Add Oil section.
6.Start and run the engine. As the engine warms up, check for oil leaks.
7.Stop the engine and check the oil level. It should be at the top of the full indicator (F) on the dipstick.
Add Oil
Place engine level.
Clean the oil fill area of any debris.
See the Specifications section for oil capacity.
1.Remove the dipstick (D, Figure 7) and wipe with a clean cloth.
2.Pour the oil slowly into the engine oil fill (E). Do not overfill. After adding oil, wait one minute and then check the oil level.
How To Clean The Air Cooling System - Figure 11 12
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Engine parts, especially muffler, become extremely hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush, etc. can catch fire.
Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool before touching.
Remove accumulated debris from muffler area and cylinder area.
NOTICE: Do not use water to clean the engine. Water could contaminate the fuel system. Use a brush or dry cloth to clean the engine.
This is an air cooled engine. Dirt or debris can restrict air flow and cause the engine to overheat, resulting in poor performance and reduced engine life.
Use a brush or dry cloth to remove debris from the finger guard (A, Figure 11). Keep linkage, springs and controls (B) clean. Keep the area around and behind the muffler (C) free of any combustible debris. Make sure that the oil cooler fins (D) are free of dirt and debris.
Clean the area under the panel (E, Figure 12). Loosen the two screws (F) until you hear a click. Remove the panel and clean the area of dirt and debris. Make sure the underside of the panel is also clean. Install the panel and tighten the screws until you hear a click.
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