Inspect spark plug for damage, and clean with a wire
brush before reinstalling. If insulator is cracked or
chipped, spark plug should be replaced. For replacement
spark plug, see Product Specifications earlier in this
manual or the accompanying engine manual, if applicable.
Measure plug gap. The correct gap is 0.028−0.031 in.
(0.7-0.8 mm). To widen gap, if necessary, carefully bend
the ground (top) electrode. To lessen gap, gently tap
ground electrode on a hard surface.
Seat spark plug in position; thread in by hand to prevent
cross-threading.
Tighten with wrench to compress washer. If spark plug
is new, use 1/2 turn to compress washer appropriate
amount. If reusing old spark plug, use 1/8 to 1/4 turn for
proper washer compression.
NOTE: An improperly tightened spark plug will become
very hot and could damage the engine.
CLEANING THE EXHAUST PORT AND
MUFFLER
Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and amount of
lubricant used, and/or your operating conditions, the exhaust
port and muffler may become blocked with carbon deposits.
If you notice a power loss with your gas-powered products,
you may need to remove these deposits to restore perfor-
mance. We highly recommend that only qualified service
technicians perform this service.
SPARK ARRESTOR
See Figure 15.
Inspect the spark arrestor for breaks or holes. Replace
if necessary. To purchase a replacement spark arrestor
contact Homelite customer service at 1-800-242-4672.
Use a brush to remove carbon deposits from the spark
arrestor screen as needed.
DRAINING FUEL TANK/CARBURETOR
See Figures 16 - 17.
To help prevent gum deposits in the fuel system, drain the
fuel from the tank and carburetor before storing.
DRAINING THE FUEL TANK
Turn the engine switch OFF ( O ).
Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
Remove the fuel line from the petcock by squeezing the
ends of the retaining clip and sliding the fuel line off.
MAINTENANCE
Install one end of a drain line over the petcock, and place
the other end in a fuel container large enough to catch
the fuel being drained from the tank.
Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
When the fuel has drained from the tank, close the fuel
valve and reinstall fuel line securely on petcock.
DRAINING THE CARBURETOR
Turn the engine switch OFF ( O ).
Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
Position a suitable container under the carburetor drain
screw to catch fuel; loosen the screw.
Allow fuel to drain completely into container.
Retighten drain screw.
NOTE: Consult hazardous waste management guidelines in
your area for the proper way to dispose of used fuel.
REPLACING FUEL FILTER
See Figure 18.
Occasionally the fuel filter may become clogged and need
replacing. To purchase a replacement fuel filter contact
Homelite customer service at 1-800-242-4672.
NOTE: Fuel tank must be empty before replacing fuel filter.
Run unit until tank is empty, if needed, or inspect filter prior
to fill-up.
To replace:
Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
Remove the fuel line from both sides of the filter by
squeezing the ends of the retaining clip with pliers.
Slide the fuel line off.
Replace with new fuel filter.
Reinstall fuel lines to new fuel filter.
Pull on lines to make sure they are secured.
Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
TRANSPORTING
Turn engine switch OFF ( O ).
Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
Make sure engine and exhaust of unit is cool.
Empty the fuel tank.
Do not drop or strike unit or place under heavy objects.
Page 15 — English