5
OIL AND FUEL INFORMATION
WARNING:
OVERFILLING OIL CRANKCASE MAY CAUSE
SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY. Check and maintain the proper oil
level in the crank case; it is important and cannot be
overemphasized. Check the oil before each use and change it as
needed. See Changing the Oil.
RECOMMENDED OIL TYPE
Using the proper type and weight of oil
in the crankcase is extremely important.
Check the oil before each use and change the
oil regularly. Failure to use the correct oil, or
using dirty oil, can cause premature engine
wear and failure.
Use a high-quality SAE 30 weight oil of API
(American Petroleum Institute) service class SF,
SG, SH.
ADDING OIL TO CRANKCASE: INITIAL USE
NOTE: This unit is shipped without oil. In order to
avoid damage to the unit, put oil in the
crankcase before you attempt to start the unit.
Your unit is supplied with one 3.04 fluid oz. (90
ml) bottle of SAE 30 SF, SG, SH oil (Fig. 3).
NOTE: Save the bottle of oil. It can be used to
measure the correct amount during future oil
changes. See Changing the Oil.
1. Unscrew the top of the bottle of oil and
remove the paper seal covering the
opening. Replace the top. Next, cut the tip
off the funnel spout (Fig. 3).
2. Tip unit so that the back of the engine is
facing up in a vertical position.
3. Remove the oil fill plug from the crankcase
(Fig. 5).
4. Pour the entire bottle of oil into the oil fill hole (Fig. 5).
NOTE: Never add oil to the fuel or fuel tank.
5. Wipe up any oil that may have spilled and reinstall the oil fill plug.
Check oil before each use and change as needed. Refer to Checking the Oil Level.
RECOMMENDED FUEL TYPE
Old fuel is the primary reason for improper unit performance. Be sure to use
fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline.
NOTE: This is a four cycle engine. In order to avoid damage to the unit, 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 or form acids when stored.
Use fresh fuel (less than 30 days old), when using alcohol-blended fuel.
Using Blended Fuels
If you choose to use a blended fuel, or its use is unavoidable, follow
recommended precautions:
• Always use fresh unleaded gasoline
• Use the fuel additive STA-BIL® or an equivalent
• Drain tank and run the engine dry before storing unit
Using Fuel Additives
The use of fuel additives, such as STA-BIL® Gas Stabilizer or an equivalent,
will inhibit corrosion and minimize the formation of gum deposits. Using a
fuel additive can keep fuel from forming harmful deposits in the carburetor
for up to six (6) months. 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 gas tank.
WARNING:
Add fuel in a clean, well ventilated outdoor area. Wipe
up any spilled fuel immediately. Avoid creating a source of ignition for
spilt fuel. Do not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.
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:
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.
FUELING THE UNIT
1. Remove the fuel cap (Fig. 6).
2. Place the gas container’s spout into the fill hole on the fuel tank (Fig. 6)
and fill the tank.
NOTE: Do not overfill the tank.
3. Wipe up any gasoline that may have spilled.
4. Reinstall the fuel cap.
5. Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site
before starting the engine.
NOTE: Dispose of the old gasoline in accordance
with federal, state and local regulations.
WARNING:
Remove fuel cap slowly to avoid injury from fuel
spray. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.
Fig. 3
Fig. 5
Funnel
Spout
Oil Fill Plug
O-Ring
Oil Fill Hole
Fig. 6
Gas Can Spout
Fuel Tank
Fuel Cap
Fig. 4