SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE
See Figure 17.
The spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits
in order to ensure proper engine operation. To check:
Remove the spark plug cap.
Clean any dirt from around base of spark plug.
Remove spark plug using wrench (not included).
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 Production Specifications earlier in this
manual or the accompaning 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.
Reinstall the spark plug cap.
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.
MAINTENANCE
SPARK ARRESTOR
See Figure 18.
Inspect the spark arrestor for breaks or holes. Clean or
replace if necessary.
Use a brush (not provided) to remove carbon deposits
from the spark arrestor screen as needed.
DRAINING FUEL TANK/CARBURETOR
See Figures 19 - 21.
To help prevent gum deposits in the fuel system, drain the
fuel from the tank and carburetor before storing.
DRAINING THE FUEL TANK
Turn off the generator.
Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
Push the fuel valve knob through the generator housing
and pull down slightly to gain access to the hose barb.
Remove the fuel line from the hose barb by squeezing
the ends of the retaining clip and sliding the fuel line off.
Install one end of a drain line over the hose barb, 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 hose barb.
Reinstall fuel valve knob in generator housing. Push for-
ward until knob snaps securely into position.
DRAINING THE CARBURETOR
Turn off the generator.
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.
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