15
MAINTENANCE
REPLACING AND CLEANING AIR FILTER
See Figure 14.
A wet or dirty air filter can affect the way the engine starts,
performs, and wears.
The air filter should be checked and
cleaned after 8 hours of operation.
For best performance, the air filter should be replaced once
each year.
To clean the air filter:
n
Loosen the knob on the air filter cover.
n
Remove the cover.
n
Lift the edge of the air filter carefully and peel it out.
n
Wash the air filter with warm, soapy water.
n
Rinse and squeeze to dry.
n
Reinstall the air filter.
NOTE:
Make sure the filter is seated properly inside the
cover. Installing the filter incorrectly will allow dirt to enter
the engine, causing rapid engine wear.
n
Reinstall the cover.
n
Tighten knob to secure.
SPARK ARRESTOR
The muffler is equipped with a spark arrestor screen inside
muffler body. After extended use the screen can become
dirty, and you may need to have the screen replaced by an
authorized servicing dealer.
WARNING:
To avoid a fire hazard, never run the blower without the
spark arrestor in place.
CLEANING THE EXHAUST PORT AND MUFFLER
Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and amount of
oil used, and/or your operating conditions, the exhaust port,
muffler, and/or spark arrestor screen may become blocked
with carbon deposits. If you notice a power loss with your
gas powered tool, you may need to remove these deposits
to restore performance. We highly recommend that only
qualified service technicians perform this service.
VACUUM BAG
A dirty bag will reduce performance. To clean the bag, turn
it inside out and shake. Wash the bag in soapy water at
least once a year. If the bag has deteriorated from normal
use, to obtain a replacement bag, consult your replacemnt
parts list.
FUEL CAP
The fuel cap contains a non-serviceable filter and a check
valve. A clogged fuel filter will cause poor engine per-
formance. If performance improves when the fuel cap is
loosened, the check valve may be faulty or filter clogged.
Replace the fuel cap if required.
WARNING:
A leaking fuel cap is a fire hazard and must be replaced
immediately.
SPARK PLUG
This engine uses a Champion RCJ4 with 0.63 mm
(0.025 in.) electrode gap. Use an exact replacement spark
plug and replace annually.
STORAGE (1 MONTH OR LONGER)
n
Drain all fuel from the tank into a container approved for
gasoline. Run engine until it stops.
n
Clean all foreign material from the blower. Store it in a
well-ventilated place that is inaccessible to children. Keep
away from corrosive agents such as garden chemicals
and de-icing salts.
n
Abide by all Federal and local regulations for the safe
storage and handling of gasoline. Excess fuel should be
used up in other 2-cycle engine powered equipment.
Fig. 14
AIR FILTER
AIR FILTER
COVER
KNOB
