MAINTENANCE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30, etc.) improve starting in cold weather, they will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil.

Change the engine oil after the first five hours of operation, and every 50 hours thereafter. Change the oil every 25 hours of operation if the engine is operated under heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.

To Drain Oil

Drain the oil while the engine is warm. Follow the instructions given below.

1.Remove the drain plug on the engine and drain the oil into a suitable container.

2.When the engine is drained of all oil, replace the drain plug and refill with approximately 20 oz. of fresh oil. Refer to Gas And Oil

Fill-up in the OPERATION section.

Service Air Cleaner

The air cleaner prevents damaging dirt, dust, etc., from entering the carburetor and being forced into the engine and is important to engine life and performance.

WARNING

Never run the engine without an air cleaner completely assembled.

Service the cartridge every 25 operating hours or every season. Service the cartridge more often under dusty conditions.

To Service Air Filter

1.Loosen the air cleaner cover screw, but do not remove the screw from the cover. Swing the cover down to remove from the hinge.

2.Inspect the filter for discoloration or dirt accumulation. If either is present, proceed as follows:

a.Clean the inside of body and cover thoroughly and remove the cartridge.

b.Reassemble the new cartridge in the body. Swing the cover down and tighten the screw loosened earlier.

WARNING

Temperature of muffler and nearby areas may exceed 150˚ F(65˚C). Avoid these areas.

Service Spark Plug

• Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to .030” at least once a

season or every 50 hours of operation.

•Clean the area around the spark plug. Remove and inspect the spark plug.

•Replace the spark plug if the electrodes are pitted, burned or the porcelain is cracked.

•Check the electrode gap with a wire feeler gauge and reset the gap to .030 inches. See Figure 5-3.

NOTE: Do not sand the spark plug. The spark plug should be cleaned with a wire brush and a commercial solvent.

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3

 

1

1. .030 (.76 mm) Gap

2.Electrodes

3.Porcelain

Figure 5-3

Clean Engine

•Clean the engine periodically, by removing dirt and debris with a cloth or brush.

NOTE: Cleaning with a forceful spray of water is not recommended as water could contaminate the fuel system.

•To ensure smooth operation of the engine, keep the governor linkage, springs and controls free of debris.

•Every 100 hours of operation, remove combustion deposits from top of cylinder, head, top of piston and around valves.

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