Craftsman 316.29271 manual Checking the OIL Level, Changing the OIL, Handling the unit

MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS

CHECKING THE OIL LEVEL

CAUTION: To prevent extensive engine wear and

damage to the unit, always maintain the proper oil level in the crankcase. Never operate the unit with the oil level below the bottom of the dipstick.

The importance of checking and maintaining the proper oil level in the crankcase cannot be overemphasized. Check oil before each use:

1.Stop the engine and allow oil to drain into the crankcase.

2.Place the unit on a flat, level surface to get a proper oil level reading (Fig. 9).

3.Keep dirt, grass clippings and other debris out of the engine. Clean the area around the oil fill plug/dipstick before removing it.

4.Remove the oil fill plug/dipstick and wipe off oil. Reinsert it all the way back in.

5.Remove the oil fill plug/dipstick and check the oil level. Oil should be up to the top of the dipstick (Fig. 15).

Oil Fill Plug/Dipstick

O-Ring

Full

Add 1.4-1.5 Oz.

(41-44 ml)

Top of Dipstick

Fig. 15

6.If the level is low, add a small amount of oil to the oil fill hole and recheck (Fig. 16). Repeat this procedure until the oil level reaches the top of the dipstick.

NOTE: Do not overfill the unit.

O-Ring

Oil Fill Plug/Dipstick

Oil Fill Hole

Fig. 16

NOTE: Make sure the O-ring is in place on the oil fill plug/dipstick when checking and changing the oil (Fig. 16).

CHANGING THE OIL

For a new engine, change the oil after the first 10 hours of operation. Change the oil while the engine is still warm. The oil will flow freely and carry away more impurities.

CAUTION: Wear gloves to prevent injury when

handling the unit.

1.Unplug spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.

2.Remove the oil fill plug/dipstick.

3.Pour the oil out of the oil fill hole and into a container by tipping the unit to a vertical position (Fig. 17). Allow ample time for complete drainage.

Fig. 17

4.Wipe up any oil residue on the unit and clean up any oil that may have spilled. Dispose of the oil according to Federal, State and local regulations.

5.Refill the crankcase with 3.4 fluid ounce (100 ml) of SAE 30 SF, SG, SH oil.

NOTE: Use the bottle and spout saved from initial use to measure the correct amount of oil. Pour fresh fuel into the bottle and fill it to the top of the label. The top of the label on the bottle measures approximately 3.4 ounces (100 ml). Check the level with the dipstick. If the level is low, add a small amount of oil and recheck. Do not overfill (Fig. 18).

Fill Level

Fig. 18

6.Replace the oil fill plug/dipstick.

7.Reconnect the spark plug wire.

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