15
2. Insert the dipstick into the oil filler ne ck, but do not
screw it in.
3. If the level is low, slowly add oil to the upper limit on
the dipstick. See Figure 9-3 inset.
4. Tighten dipstick firmly before starti ng engine.
IMPORTANT: Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may
cause smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling, or oil
saturation of air cleaner.
Fuel Recommendations
Use automotive gasoline (unleaded or lowleaded to
minimize combustion chamber deposits) with a minimum
of 87 octane. Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol or 15%
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) can be used
Never use an oil/gasoline mixture or dirt y gasoline. Avoid
getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank.
WARNING: Gasoline is extremely fla m-
mable and is explosive under certain
conditions.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the
engine stopped. Do not smoke or allow
flames or sparks in the area where the
engine is refueled or where gasoline is
stored.
Do not overfill the fuel tank (there
should be no fuel in the filler neck) .
After refueling, make sure the tank cap
is closed properly and securely.
Be careful not to spill fuel when
refueling. Spilled fuel or fuel vapor
may ignite. If any fuel is spilled, make
sure the area is dry before startin g the
engine.
Avoid repeated or prolonged contact
with skin or breathing of vapor.
Check Fuel Level
1. Clean around fuel fill before removing cap to fuel.
2. Fill tank to approximately 2 cm below lowest portion
of neck to allow for fuel expansion. Be careful not to
overfill.
IMPORTANT: Before refueling, allow engine to cool 2
minutes.
Starting The Engine
WARNING: Always keep hands and
feet clear of equipment moving parts.
Do not use a pressurized starting fluid.
Vapors are flammable.
1. Move the choke lever on the left side of the upper
handle to START position. See Figure 9-4.
NOTE: Use of the choke may not necessary if the engine
is warm or the air temperature is high.
9
Operating
Your
Engine
WARNING
Always keep hands
and feet clear of equip-
ment moving parts. Do
not use a pressurized
starting fluid. Vapors
are flammable.
Figure 9-3
5PPER,EVEL
/IL&ILL#AP
$IPSTICK
Figure 9-4 IMPORTANT
Do not allow the starter
grip to snap back
against the engine.
Return it gently to
prevent damage to the
starter.
2. Standing behind the mower, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle.
3. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistan ce is felt,
then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent
kickback and start engine. Repeat if necessar y. See
Figure 9-4 .
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the starter grip to snap back
against the engine. Return it gently to prevent damage to
the starter.
4. When engine warms up, push in the choke knob .
Stopping The Engine
1. Release the blade control handle. See Figure 9 -4.
3
2
1
4