16
Oxygenated Fuels
Some gasoline are blended with alcohol or an ether compound to increase the octane. These
gasoline are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. Some areas of the United States use
oxygenated fuels to help meet clean air standards. If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure its
pump octane rating is 86 or higher.
Ethanol (ethyl or grain alcohol)
Gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol by volume may cause starting or performance
problems. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name “Gasohol".
Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol)
Gasoline containing methanol must contain cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the
fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or
performance problems and may damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.
MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether)
You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume. Before using an oxygenated
fuel, try to confirm the fuel’s contents. Some states (provinces in Canada) require this
information to be posted on the pump. If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms,
switch to a conventional unleaded gasoline. Fuel system damage or performance problems
resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel are not ours responsibility and are not covered
under warranty.
NOTICE
Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Be careful not to spill fuel when filling
your fuel tank. Damage caused by spilled fuel is not covered under warranty.
6. STARTING/STOPPING THE ENGINE
Starting the engine
1. Make sure that the AC circuit breaker is in the OFF position. The generator may be hard to
start if a load is connected.
2. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
3. Turn the choke lever or to the CLOSE position, or pull the choke rod out to the CLOSE
position.
4. Start the engine
• With recoil starter:
Turn the engine switch to the ON position.
Pull the starter grip until compression is felt, then pull briskly.
