This engine is certified to operate on gasoline. Exhaust Emission Control System: EM (Engine Modifications).

Do not use gasoline which contains Methanol. Do not mix oil with gasoline.Adding Fuel

Clean around fuel fill before removing cap. Fill tank to approximately 1-1/2 inches below top of neck to allow for fuel expansion. Be careful not to overfill.

WARNING

Before refueling, allow engine to cool 2 minutes.

STARTING

CAUTION: Some engines may be equipped with Oil Gard. The Oil Gard is intended to warn the operator that the engine is low on oil. Always check oil level before starting. Engine damage may occur if the oil level is not properly maintained and will void warranty coverage. If the engine will not start, has stopped running and/or a light flickers in the stop switch, add oil (see oil procedure Fig. 2).

Fig. 3 BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE1.Add oil and fuel as instructed in this manual.2.Move choke control Ê to CHOKE position.3.Move throttle control Ë to FAST position.4.Turn fuel shut-off valve Ì ON, if equipped.5.Move stop control Í to ON position, if equipped.

Note: OIL GARD light in rocker stop switch Í, if equipped, warns of low oil level. Light will flicker and engine will not start, or restart. Oil must be added. Fill to FULL mark on dipstick or overflowing at oil filler plug. Do not over fill. OIL GARD, however, will not stop a running engine if the engine runs low on oil.

Fig. 4 STARTING THE ENGINERewind Starter

1.Grasp rope handle Ê and pull slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull cord rapidly to overcome compression, prevent kickback and start engine.

2.Repeat if necessary with choke in RUN position and throttle in FAST. When engine starts, operate in FAST position.

WARNING

Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than you can let go.

Electric Starter

1.On engines equipped with 12 volt starting systems, turn key to START position Ë.

2.Repeat if necessary with throttle control in FAST position. When engine starts, operate in FAST position.

Note: If equipment manufacturer has supplied battery, charge it before trying to start engine, as equipment manufacturer recommends.

Note: Use short starting cycles (15 sec. per minute) to prolong starter life. Extended cranking can damage starter motor.

STOPPING

Fig. 5

1.Move throttle control lever to IDLE or SLOW position Ê, if equipped.2.Then move stop control to OFF position Ë or turn key to OFF Ì.3.Close fuel shut-off valve Í.

CAUTION: DO NOT move choke control to CHOKE position to stop engine. Backfire or engine damage may occur.

Note: Always remove key from switch when equipment is not in use or left unat- tended.

Note: When engine is transported, close fuel shut-off valve to prevent leakage.

MAINTENANCE

Fig. 6

WARNING

To prevent accidental starting, remove spark plug wire Ê and keep it away from spark plug before servicing.

Regular maintenance improves performance and extends engine life. More frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions.

WARNING

Do not strike the flywheel with hammer or hard object. If done, the flywheel may shatter during operation.

Do not tamper with links or other parts to increase engine speed.

Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur first. More frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions noted below.

First 5 HoursDChange oilEvery 8 Hours or DailyDCheck oil levelDClean around mufflerEvery 25 Hours or Every SeasonDChange oil if operating under heavy load or high ambient temperatureDService air cleaner pre-cleaner *Every 50 Hours or Every Season

DChange oil

DClean and inspect spark arrester, if equippedEvery 100 Hours or Every SeasonD Service oil foam air cleaner or cartridge* D Clean/replace spark plugD Change gear reduction oil, if equipped D Clean cooling system*Every SeasonD Check valve clearance

*Clean more often under dusty conditions, or when airborne debris is present or after prolonged operation cutting tall, dry grass.

Fig. 7 OIL SERVICECheck oil level regularly.

Be sure correct oil level is maintained. Check every 8 hours or daily, before starting engine. See oil filling procedure under Oil Recommendations Do not over-fill.

Changing Oil

Change oil after first 5 hours of operation. Change oil while engine is warm. Refill with new oil of recommended SAE viscosity grade. (see fig. 2)

Changing Oil in Gear Reduction, if equipped

Remove oil fill plug Ê and oil level plug Ë. Drain oil every 100 hours of operation or every season. To refill, pour SAE 30 oil into oil fill hole until it runs out level check hole. Replace both plugs. Oil fill plug has a vent hole Ì and must be installed on top of gear case cover.

Fig. 8 AIR CLEANER MAINTENANCEDual Element Air CleanersReplace pre-cleaner Ê and/or cartridge Ë if very dirty or damaged.

To service pre-cleaner, if equipped, wash in liquid detergent and water. Squeeze dry in a clean cloth and allow to dry thoroughly. DO NOT oil pre-cleaner.

To service cartridge, clean by tapping gently on a flat surface. DO NOT oil cartridge.

CAUTION:

Do not use pressurized air or solvents to clean. Pressurized air can damage filter; solvents will dissolve filter.

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