7
safety precautions
PL3500
1.5
fuelINg (gAS eNgINe)
Gasoline is extremely flammable and is explosive
under certain conditions.
fuel SpecIfIcATIoNS
Use automotive gasoline that has a pump octane number of 86
or higher, or that has a research octane number of 91 or higher.
Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause persistent “pinging” or
heavy “spark knock” (a metallic rapping noise) which, if severe,
can lead to engine damage.
i
If “spark knock” or “pinging” occurs at a steady
engine speed under normal load, change brands
of gasoline. If spark knock or pinging persists,
consult an authorized dealer of the engine
manufacturer. Failure to do so is considered
misuse, and damage caused by misuse is not
covered by the engine manufacturer’s limited
warranty.
Occasionally you may experience light spark
knock while operating under heavy loads. This
is no cause for concern, it simply means your
engine is operating efficiently.
•
Unleaded fuel produces fewer engine and spark plug
deposits and extends the life of the exhaust system
components.
•
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline
mixture. Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank.
gASolINeS coNTAININg Alcohol
If you decide to use a gasoline containing alcohol (gasohol), be
sure its octane rating is at least as high as that recommended
by the engine manufacturer. There are two types of “gasohol”:
one containing ethanol, and the other containing methanol.
Do not use gasohol that contains more than 10% ethanol. Do
not use gasoline containing methanol (methyl or wood alcohol)
that does not also contain co-solvents and corrosion inhibitors
for methanol. Never use gasoline containing more than 5%
methanol, even if it has co-solvents and corrosion inhibitors.
i
Fuel system damage or engine performance
problems resulting from the use of fuels that
contain alcohol is not covered under the
warranty. The engine manufacturer cannot
endorse the use of fuels containing methanol
since evidence of their suitability is incomplete
at this time.
Before buying gasoline from an unfamiliar
station, try to find out if the gasoline contains
alcohol. If it does, confirm the type and
percentage of alcohol used. If you notice any
undesirable operating characteristics while using
a gasoline that contains alcohol, or one that you
think contains alcohol, switch to a gasoline that
you know does not contain alcohol.
