STORAGE PRECAUTIONS
If your mower will be stored withgasoline in the fuel tank and
carburetor, it is important toreduce the hazard of gasoline vapor
ignition. Select a well-ventilated storage area away from any
appliance that operates with a flame, such as afurnace, 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 withhigh humidi ty,because that
promotes rust and corrosion.
Unless all fuel has been drained from the fuel tank, turnthe fuel
valve to OFF to reducethe possibility of fuel leakage.
Place the mower with its wheelson a level surface. Tilting can
cause fuel or oil leakage.
The handlebar can be folded for compact storage (see page 44).
With the engine and exhaust system cool, cover themower to
keep out dust. A hotengine and exhaust system can ignite or
melt some materials. Do not use sheet plastic as a dustcover. A
nonporous cover will trap moisture around the mower,promoting
rust and corrosion.
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE
Check your mower as described in theBE FORE OPERATION
chapter of this manual.
If the fuel was drained during storage preparation, fillthe tank with
fresh gasoline. If you keep a container of gasolinefor refueling,
be sure that it contains only fresh gasoline. Gasoline oxidizes and
deteriorates over time, causing hard starting.
If the cylinder was coated withoil during storage preparation, the
engine will smoke briefly at startup. This is normal.
STORAGE
45