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Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol)
Gasoline containing methanol must contain co-solvents 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 our responsibility and are not covered
under warranty.
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.
Running the engine with persistent spark knock or pinging can cause
engine damage. Running the engine with persistent spark knock or pinging
is misuse, and the Distributor’s Limited Warranty does not cover parts
damaged by misuse.
High Altitude Operation
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At high altitude, the standard carburetor air-fuel mixture will be excessively rich. Performance will
decrease, and fuel consumption will increase.
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High altitude performance can be improved by installing a smaller diameter main fuel jet in the carburetor
and readjusting the pilot screw. If you always operate the engine at altitudes higher than 5000 feet (1500
meters) above sea level, have an authorized pressure washer dealer perform this carburetor modification.
•
Even with suitable carburetor jetting, engine horsepower will decrease approximately 3.5% for each 1000
foot (300 meter) increase in altitude. The effect of altitude on horsepower will be greater than this if no
carburetor modification is made.
If a engine jetted for high altitude is used at a lower altitude, the lean air fuel
mixture will reduce performance and may over-heat and seriously damage
the engine.