Poulan 961970005 owner manual Before Starting the Engine, Scraper BAR, To Start Engine

OPERATION

TO ADJUST SKID PLATES (See Fig. 19)

NOTE: The wrench provided in your parts bag may be used to adjust the skid plates.

Skid plates are located on each side of the auger housing and adjust the clearance between the scraper bar and the ground surface. Adjust skid plates evenly to proper height for current surface conditions. For removal of snow in normal conditions, such as a paved driveway or sidewalk, place skid plates in the highest position (lowest scraper clearance) to give a 1/8" clearance between the scraper bar and the ground. Use a middle position if the surface to be cleared is uneven.

NOTE: It is not recommended to operate the snow thrower over gravel or rocky surfaces. Objects such as gravel, rocks or other debris, can easily be picked up and thrown by the impeller, which can cause serious personal injury, property damage or damage to the snow thrower.

•If snow thrower must be operated over gravel surface, use extra caution and be sure skid plates are adjusted to lowest (highest scraper clearance) position.

1.Shut off engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.

2.Adjust skid plates by loosening the rear 1/2" hex nut only, then moving skid plate to desired position. Be sure both plates are adjusted evenly. Tighten securely.

HIGH POSITION (LOW GROUND CLEARANCE)

AUGER

HOUSING

SKID PLATE

1/2" HEX NUT

LOW POSITION (HIGH GROUND CLEARANCE)

FIG. 19

SCRAPER BAR

The scraper bar is not adjustable, but is reversible. After considerable use it may become worn. When it has worn almost to the edge of the housing, it can be reversed, providing additional service before requiring replacement. Replace a damaged or worn scraper bar.

WARNING: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can at- tract 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 of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

CHOKE CONTROL	THROTTLE PRIMER ENGINE OIL
	FILL CAP /
	DIPSTICK

SAFETY

IGNITION

KEY

	GASOLINE
	FILLER CAP
	FUEL SHUT-
	OFF VALVE
RECOIL	STARTER BUTTON
STARTER
HANDLE	POWER CORD PLUG

NOTE: ALL ITEMS ARE SHOWN IN THEIR TYPICAL LOCATION. ACTUAL LOCATION MAY VARY WITH ENGINE ON YOUR UNIT.

FIG. 20

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 20)

The engine on your snow thrower has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with oil.

1.Check engine oil with snow thrower on level ground.

2.Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw tight, wait for a few seconds, remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until “FULL” mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

•To change engine oil, see “TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL” in the Maintenance section of this manual.

ADD GASOLINE (See Fig. 20)

•Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not over- fill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30

days to assure fuel freshness. 12

TO START ENGINE

•Be sure fuel shut-off valve is in the OPEN position.

Your snow thrower engine is equipped with both a 120 Volt A.C. electric starter and a recoil starter. The electric starter is equipped with a three-wire power cord and plug and is designed to operate on 120 Volt A.C. household current.

•Be sure your house is a 120 Volt A.C. three-wire grounded system. If you are uncertain, consult a licensed electrician.

WARNING: Do not use the electric starter if your house is not a 120 Volt A.C. three-wire grounded system. Se- rious personal injury or damage to your snow thrower could result.