Off-Season Storage

Engines stored over 30 days need to be drained of fuel to prevent deterioration and gum from forming in the fuel system or on essential carburetor parts. If the gasoline in your engine deteriorates during storage, you may need to have the carburetor, and other fuel system components, serviced or replaced.

1.Remove all fuel from the tank by running the engine until it stops.

NOTE: A fuel stabilizer (such as STA-BIL™ or ULTRA-FRESH™) is an acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container. Always follow mix ratio found on stabilizer container. Run engine at least

10 minutes after adding stabilizer to allow it to reach the carburetor.

2.Change the engine oil.

3.Remove the spark plug and pour one (1) ounce (30 ml) of clean engine oil through the spark plug hole and into the cylinder. Cover spark plug hole with a rag and crank the engine several times to distribute the oil. Replace spark plug.

4.Clean debris from around the engine, and under, around, and behind the muffler. Apply a light film of oil on any areas that are susceptible to rust.

5.Store in a clean, dry and well ventilated area away from any appliance that operates with a flame or pilot light, such as a furnace, water heater or clothes dryer. Avoid any area with a spark producing electric motor, or where power tools are operated.

6.If possible, avoid storage areas with high humidity.

7.Keep the engine level in storage. Tilting the engine can cause fuel or oil leakage.

22Section 7— Engine Maintenance