USING THE RIGHT OIL
Use a high-quality SAE 30 weight oil. DO NOT use dirty oil. Failure
to use clean oil of the correct type can cause premature engine
wear and failure.
ADDING OIL: INITIAL USE
WARNING:
OVERFILLING THE CRANKCASE MAY
CAUSE SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY. Check the oil level
before each use. The importance of maintaining the proper
oil level cannot be overemphasized. Change the oil
according to the Maintenance Schedule.
NOTE: This unit was shipped without oil in the crankcase. Oil must
be added before starting the unit.
NOTE: This unit comes with a 2.37 fluid oz. (70 ml) container of oil.
1. Set the unit on a flat, level surface.
2. Unscrew the oil fill plug (Fig. 16).
3. Pour the entire container of oil into the oil fill hole (Fig. 16). DO
NOT overfill. Refer to Checking the Oil Level.
NOTE: Never add oil to the fuel tank. This unit has a four-cycle
engine. DO NOT mix oil with gasoline.
4. Wipe up any oil that may have spilled.
5. Make sure the O-ring is in place on the oil fill plug (Fig. 16).
6. Reinstall the oil fill plug.
USING THE RIGHT FUEL
The use of old fuel is the most common cause of performance
problems. Use only fresh, clean unleaded gasoline.
NOTE: This unit has a four-cycle engine. DO NOT mix oil with gasoline.
Definition of Blended Fuels
Today's fuels are often a blend of gasoline and oxygenates such as
ethanol, methanol or MTBE (ether). Alcohol-blended fuel absorbs
water. As little as 1% water in the fuel can make fuel and oil
separate, forming acids when stored. ALWAYS use fresh fuel (less
than 30 days old).
NOTE: Dispose of old fuel according to federal, state and local
regulations.
Using Blended Fuels
If using a blended fuel:
•
Always use fresh unleaded gasoline
•
Use the fuel additive STA-BIL
CAUTION:
DO NOT USE E85 FUEL IN THIS UNIT.
It has been proven that fuel containing greater than 10%
ethanol will likely damage this engine and void the warranty.
Using Fuel Additives
Use a fuel additive, such as STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer or an
equivalent, to inhibit corrosion and minimize gum deposits. Add 0.8
oz. (23 ml) of fuel additive per gallon of fuel, according to the
instructions on the container. NEVER add fuel additives directly to
the unit's fuel tank.
OIL AND FUEL
®
or an equivalent
Oil Fill Plug
O-Ring
Oil Fill Hole
FUELING THE UNIT
WARNING:
Gasoline is extremely flammable. Ignited
vapors may explode. Always stop the engine and allow it
to cool before filling the fuel tank. Do not smoke while
filling the tank. Keep sparks and open flames at a distance
from the area.
WARNING:
Remove the fuel cap slowly to avoid injury
from fuel spray. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap
securely in place.
WARNING:
Add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor
area. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately. Avoid creating
a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the engine
until fuel vapors dissipate.
1. Position the unit with the fuel cap facing up.
2. Slowly remove the fuel cap.
3. Place the fuel container spout into the fuel tank fill hole and fill
the tank.
NOTE: Do not overfill the tank.
4. Wipe up any fuel that may have spilled.
5. Reinstall the fuel cap.
6. Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fuel container and
the fueling site before starting the engine.
13
Fig. 16