SPARK PLUG
Recommended Spark Plug:
The recommended spark plug has the correct heat range for
normal engine operating temperatures.
Incorrect spark plugs can cause engine damage.
If the engine has been running, let it cool before servicing the spark plugs.
For good performance, the spark plugs must be properly gapped
and free of deposits.
1. Disconnect the spark plug caps, and remove any dirt from
around the spark plug area.
2. Remove the spark plugs with a 13/16-inch spark plug wrench.
SPARK PLUG CAP
3. Inspect the spark plugs.
Replace them if damaged,
badly fouled, if the sealing
washer is in poor condition, or
if the electrode is worn.
4. Measure the spark plug
electrode gaps with a wire-
type feeler gauge. Correct the
gap, if necessary, by carefully
bending the side electrode.
The gap should be:
0.7–0.8 mm
(0.028–0.031 in)
5. Install the spark plugs
carefully, by hand, to avoid
cross-threading.
6. After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a 13/16-inch
spark plug wrench to compress the sealing washer.
When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the
spark plug seats to compress the washer.
When reinstalling a used spark plug, tighten 1/8–1/4 turn
after the spark plug seats to compress the washer.
TORQUE: 18.0 N∙m (1.8 kgf∙m, 13 lbf∙ft)
A loose spark plug can overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening the spark plug can damage the threads in the
cylinder head.
7. Attach the spark plug caps to the spark plugs.
BPR5ES (NGK)
SPARK PLUG WRENCH
SIDE ELECTRODE
0.7–0.8 mm
(0.028–0.031 in)
SEALING
WASHER
HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS
STORING YOUR ENGINE
Storage Preparation
Proper storage preparation is essential for keeping your engine
trouble-free and looking good. The following steps will help to
keep rust and corrosion from impairing your engine's function
and appearance, and will make the engine easier to start when
you use it again.
Cleaning
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least half an
hour before cleaning. Clean all exterior surfaces, touch up any
damaged paint, and coat other areas that may rust with a light
film of oil.
Using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can force
water into the air cleaner or muffler opening. Water in the air
cleaner will soak the air filter, and water that passes through the
air filter or muffler can enter the cylinder, causing damage.
Fuel
Depending on the region where you operate your equipment, fuel
formulations may deteriorate and oxidize rapidly. Fuel
deterioration and oxidation can occur in as little as 30 days and
may cause damage to the FI system. Please check with your
servicing dealer for local storage recommendations.
Gasoline will oxidize and deteriorate in storage. Deteriorated
gasoline will cause hard starting, and it leaves gum deposits that
clog the FI system. If the gasoline in your engine deteriorates
during storage, you may need to have the FI system components
serviced or replaced.
The length of time that gasoline can be left in your fuel tank
without causing functional problems will vary with such factors
as gasoline blend, your storage temperatures, and whether the
fuel tank is partially or completely filled. The air in a partially filled
fuel tank promotes fuel deterioration. Very warm storage
temperatures accelerate fuel deterioration. Fuel deterioration
problems may occur within a few months, or even less if the
gasoline was not fresh when you filled the fuel tank.
FI system damage or engine performance problems resulting from
neglected storage preparation are not covered under the
Distributor's Limited Warranty.
You can extend fuel storage life by adding a gasoline stabilizer
that is formulated for that purpose, or you can avoid fuel
deterioration problems by draining the fuel tank.
Adding a Gasoline Stabilizer to Extend Fuel Storage Life
When adding a gasoline stabilizer, fill the fuel tank with fresh
gasoline. If only partially filled, air in the tank will promote fuel
deterioration during storage. If you keep a container of gasoline
for refueling, be sure that it contains only fresh gasoline.
1. Add gasoline stabilizer following the manufacturer's
instructions.
2. After adding a gasoline stabilizer, run the engine outdoors.
3. Stop the engine, and if the fuel tank is equipped with a fuel
valve, move the fuel valve to the CLOSED or OFF position.
ENGLISH
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