14

FUEL SYSTEM

Refueling

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump
octane rating of 86 or higher.
We recommend refueling after each use to minimize the air present in
the fuel tank.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. If the engine
has been running, allow it to cool first. Never refuel the engine inside a
building where gasoline fumes may reach flames or sparks.
You may use regular unleaded gasoline containing no more than 10%
ethanol (E10) or 5% methanol by volume. In addition, methanol must
contain cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors. Use of fuels with content
of ethanol or methanol greater than shown above may cause starting
and/or performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and
plastic parts of the fuel system. In addition, ethanol is hygroscopic,
which means it attracts and retains water in the fuel system. Engine
damage or performance problems that result from using a fuel with
percentages of ethanol or methanol greater than shown above are not
covered by warranty.
If your equipment will be used on an infrequent or intermittent basis,
(more than 4 weeks before next use) please refer to the fuel section of
the STORAGE chapter (page 15) for additional information regarding
fuel deterioration.
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture.
Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.

Adding Fuel

1. Remove the fuel tank cap.
2. Add fuel to the bottom of the red fuel level gauge in the neck of the
fuel tank. Do not overfill. Wipe up spilled fuel before starting the
engine.
3. Tighten the fuel tank cap until it clicks.
Move the mower at least 3 meters (10 feet) away from the fueling
source and site before starting the engine.
NOTICE
Fuel can damage paint and plastic. Be careful not to spill fuel when
filling your fuel tank. Damage caused by spilled fuel is not covered by
the DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED WARRANTY (page20).

Fuel Storage Container

Store your gasoline in a clean, plastic, sealed container approved for
fuel storage. Close the vent (if equipped) when not in use, and store
the container away from direct sunlight. If it will take more than 3
months to use the fuel in the container, we suggest adding a fuel
stabilizer to the fuel when you fill the container.
If you have some fuel left in your storage container at the end of the
season, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends
adding the gasoline to your vehicle's gas tank
(http://epa.gov/reg5oair/mobile/winter.html).
TRANSPORTING
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes
before loading the mower on the transport vehicle. A hot engine and
exhaust system can burn you and can ignite some materials.
1. Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position. This will prevent carburetor
flooding and reduce the possibility of fuel leakage.
2. If installed, remove the grass bag.
If a suitable loading ramp is not available, two people should lift the
mower on and off the transport vehicle while holding the mower level.
Position the mower so all four wheels are on the bed of the transport
vehicle. Tie the mower down with rope or straps, and block the
wheels. Keep the tie-down rope or straps away from the controls,
adjustment levers, cables, and the carburetor.
Fold the handlebar so the mower will take up less space (page 15).
STORAGE

PREPARING FOR STORAGE

Proper storage preparation is essential for keeping your lawn mower
trouble free and looking good. The following steps will help to keep
rust and corrosion from impairing your lawn mower’s function and
appearance, and will make the engine easier to start when you use
the lawn mower again.

Cleaning

Engine

Wash the engine by hand, and be careful to prevent water from
entering the air cleaner.
NOTICE
Using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can force water
into the air cleaner. Water in the air cleaner will soak the paper
element and can enter the carburetor or engine cylinder, causing
damage.
Water contacting a hot engine can cause damage. If the engine has
been running, allow it to cool for at least half an hour before washing.

Mower Deck

Before washing the underside of the mower deck, be sure the fuel
valve is in the OFF position. Disconnect the spark plug cap. Rest the
mower on its right side, so the carburetor side is up. This will help to
prevent fuel leakage and hard starting due to carburetor flooding.
Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands from the blade(s).
Wash the lawn mower, including the underside of the mower deck.
If using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment to clean the
mower deck, be careful to avoid getting water into controls and
cables, or anywhere near the engine air cleaner or muffler opening.

Grass Bag (HRR)

Remove the bag from the mower, and wash it with a garden hose or
pressure washing equipment. Allow the bag to dry completely before
storage.
B WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.
You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.
• Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
• Handle fuel only outdoors.
• Wipe up spills immediately.
MAXIMUM FUEL
LEVEL
FUEL LEVEL
GAUGE