OFF-SEASON STORAGE
If the snow thrower will not be used for 30 days or longer, or at the end of the snow season when the last possibility of snow is gone, the equipment needs to be stored properly. Follow storage instructions below to ensure top performance from the snow thrower for many more years.
Preparing Engine
WARNING: Never store snow thrower with fuel in tank indoors or in poorly ventilated areas, where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer or gas appliance.
It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in essential fuel system parts of the engine such as the carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose or tank during storage.
Also experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage for 30 days or longer. Follow these instructions to prepare your snow thrower for storage:
•Remove all gasoline from the carburetor and the fuel tank to prevent gum deposits from forming on these parts and harming the engine.
Carburetor
Bowl
Drain
Figure 36
WARNING: Drain fuel into approved container outdoors, away from any open flame. Be certain engine is cool. Do not smoke.
Fuel left in engine during warm weather deteriorates and will cause serious starting problems.
•Run the engine until the fuel tank is empty and it stops due to lack of fuel.
•Drain carburetor by pressing upward on bowl drain, located below the carburetor cover. See Figure 36.
WARNING: Do not drain carburetor if using fuel stabilizer. Never use engine or carburetor cleaning products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer (such as
•Remove the spark plug and pour one (1) ounce of engine oil through the spark plug hole into the cylinder. Cover spark plug hole with a rag and crank the engine several times to distribute the oil. Replace spark plug.
Preparing Snow Thrower
•When storing the snow thrower in an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to rustproof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the equipment, especially any chains, springs, bearings and cables.
•Remove all dirt from exterior of engine and equipment.
•We do not recommend the use of pressure washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may cause damage to electric components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
•Follow lubrication recommendations on page 17.
•Store in a clean, dry area.
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