STORAGE
PLACING IN STORAGE If your mower will be stored with gasoline in the fuel tank and
carburetor, it is important to reduce the hazard of gasoline vapor
ignition. Select a well-ventilated storage area away from any
appliance that operates with a flame, such as a furnace, water
heater, or clothes dryer. Also avoid any area with a spark-producing
electric motor, or where power tools are operated.
If possible, avoid storage areas with high humidity, because that
promotes rust and corrosion.
Unless all fuel has been drained from the fuel tank, turn the fuel valve
to the OFF position to close the fuel valve and reduce the possibility
of fuel leakage.
Place the mower with its wheels on a level surface. Tilting can cause
fuel or oil leakage.
The handlebar can be folded for compact storage (see page 75).
With the engine and exhaust system cool, cover the mower to keep
out dust. A hot engine and exhaust system can ignite or melt some
materials. Do not use sheet plastic as a dust cover. A nonporous
cover will trap moisture around the mower, promoting rust and corrosion.
REMOVING FROM STORAGE Check your mower as described in the BEFORE OPERATION
chapter of this manual.
If the fuel was drained during storage preparation, fill the tank with
fresh gasoline. If you keep a container of gasoline for refueling, be
sure that it contains only fresh gasoline. Gasoline oxidizes and
deteriorates over time, causing hard starting.
If the cylinder was coated with oil during storage preparation, the
engine will smoke briefly at startup. This is normal.
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