SECTION 7: MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS
CHECKING THE OIL LEVEL
CAUTION: To prevent extensive engine wear and damage to the unit, always maintain the proper oil level in the crankcase. Never operate the unit with the oil level below the bottom of the dipstick.
The importance of checking and maintaining the proper oil level in the crankcase cannot be overemphasized. Check oil before each use:
1.Stop engine and allow oil to drain into the crankcase.
2.Place the unit on a flat, level surface to get a proper oil level reading.
3.Keep dirt, grass clippings, etc., out of the engine. Clean the area around the oil fill plug/dipstick before removing it.
4.Remove the oil fill plug/dipstick and wipe off oil. Reinsert it all the way back in.
5.Remove the oil fill plug/dipstick and check oil level. Oil should be up to the top of the dipstick (Fig. 27).
Oil Fill Plug/Dipstick
Full
Add
Top of Dipstick
Fig. 27
6.If the level is low, add a small amount of oil to the oil fill hole and recheck (Fig. 27). Repeat until the oil level reaches the top of the dipstick.
NOTE: Do not overfill the unit.
Oil Fill Plug/Dipstick 
Oil Fill Hole 
Fig. 28
NOTE: Make sure the
DANGER: OVERFILLING OIL CRANKCASE MAY CAUSE SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY! The importance of checking and maintaining the proper oil level in the crank case cannot be overemphasized. Check oil before each use and change as needed. See Changing the Oil below.
Fig. 29
CHANGING THE OIL
For a new engine, change the oil after the first 10 hours of operation. Change the oil while the engine is still warm. The oil will flow freely and carry away more impurities.
CAUTION: Wear gloves to prevent injury when handling the unit.
1.Unplug spark plug wire to eliminate starting.
2.Remove the oil fill plug/dipstick.
3.Pour the oil out of the oil fill hole and into a container by tipping the unit to a vertical position (Fig. 30). Allow ample time for complete drainage.
Fig. 30
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