Engine Maintenance
Air Filter
The air filter should be checked every month for dust and dirt
accumulation. Every 6 months the filter element should be removed
and cleaned. Clean the foam element with detergent and warm
water. Squeeze out excess water and let it dry. Before reinstalling
the filter element, soak it with engine oil, and squeeze out the
excess. Reinstall the filter. The engine will smoke upon startup if too
much oil is left in the filter element.
Oil level
The oil level should be checked before each use.
Oil Change
The oil should be changed in the first month, and then every 6
months (or 100 hours of operation). To drain the oil, run the engine
until warm. Turn off the engine, remove the oil drain plug, and let the
the oil drain into a pan. Reinstall the plug and fill with oil.
NOTICE: Dispose of used oil responsibly. DO NOT pour it down
drains, onto the ground or put it in the trash. Most communities have
collection points for used oil.
Spark Plug
The spark plug should be checked and cleaned every 6 months or
100 hours.
The spark plug should be replaced if it is damaged, or excessively
worn.
The spark plug is type BPR6ES (NGK) or equivalent. The plug gap
should be 0.030 in. (0.75 mm).
Engine Troubleshooting
If the engine won't start:
•
Check that there is gas in the tank
•
Make sure the fuel valve is ON and that the engine switch is ON
•
Make sure there is enough oil in the engine to reset the low-oil
sensor
•
Check that fuel is getting to the carburetor*
•
Check for spark at the spark plug*
* These checks to be done by persons with small-engine experience.
Extended Storage
If the pump will be stored for more than a month or two, follow the
steps below.
•
Drain Gasoline
•
Change oil
•
Squirt oil (or a chemical made for storing engines) in the spark
plug hole.
•
Rotate engine slowly until resistance is felt (this indicates that
both valves are closed).
•
Install spark plug
•
Cover engine
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