Changing the Oil
To avoid engine damage, it is important to:
Check oil level before each use and every 5 operating hours when
the engine is warm. See Checking Oil Level/Adding Oil on page
5.
Change the oil after the first 5 operating hours and every 50
operating hours thereafter. Engine should still be warm but NOT
HOT from recent use.
WARNING
If the engine has been running the muffler, engine head
and spark plug will be very hot. Be careful not to touch
any of these components until they have cooled.
WARNING
Before tipping engine or equipment to drain oil, drain
fuel from tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.
1. Carefully disconnect the spark plug wire (a) and keep it away
from the spark plug (b). Refer to Figure 11 for spark plug
location.
IMPORTANT: Keep the disconnected spark plug wire securely
away from the metal parts where arcing could occur.
NOTE: Carefully attach the spark plug wire to the grounding
post, if provided.
a
Figure 11
2. Ensure the fuel cap is on and securely tightened.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
b
3. Clean area around the oil drain plug (a) (Figure 12).
4. Place an approved recyclable oil container under the oil drain
plug.
5. Remove the oil drain plug (Figure 12).
Used engine oil may cause skin cancer if repeatedly left
in contact with the skin for prolonged periods. Although
this is unlikely unless you handle used oil on a daily
basis, it is still advisable to thoroughly wash your hands
with soap and water as soon as possible after handling
used oil.
6. Tip engine to position the oil flow so it will drain from the
lowest point on the engine.
7. Drain the oil into an approved recyclable oil container.
NOTE: Please dispose of used engine oil in a manner that is
compatible with the environment. We suggest you take it in
a sealed container to your local service station or auto parts
store for recycling. Do not throw it in the trash or pour it on
the ground.
8. Install the oil drain plug and tighten securely.
9. Clean area around the oil drain plug.
10. Fill with the recommended oil. See Oil Recommendations and
Checking Oil Level/Adding Oil on page 5.
11. Carefully disconnect spark plug wire from grounding post,
if present.
12. Carefully reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
NOTE: It is advisable to recheck the oil level after you have
operated the engine for a short while and the normal engine
operating temperature has been achieved.
13
a
Figure 12
WARNING