18
Preparing Engine
NOTE: Refer to the engine manual for more detailed
information on preparing the snow thrower engine for
storage.
Short-Term Storage
It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in
essential fuel system parts of the engine such as the
carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose, or tank during short-term
storage (15-30 days). To prevent this, treat the fuel
system using a fuel stabilizer.
Fuel stabilizer (such as STA-BIL™ or ULTRA-FRESH™)
is an acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation
of fuel gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to
gasoline in fuel tank or storage container. Always follow
mix ratio found on stabilizer container. Run engine at least
10 minutes after adding stabilizer to allow it to reach the
carburetor.
WARNING: Never store snow thrower
with fuel in tank indoors or in poorly
ventilated areas, where fuel fumes may
reach an open flame, spark or pilot
light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer or
gas appliance.
CAUTION:
Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which
leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage.
Long-Term Storage
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage for 30 days or longer.
WARNING: Fuel left in engine during
warm weather deteriorates and will
cause serious starting problems.
1. Run the engine until the fuel tank is empty and it stops
due to lack of fuel. Do not attempt to pour fuel from the
engine.
WARNING: Never use engine or carbu-
retor cleaning products in the fuel tank
or permanent damage may occur.
2. Remove the spark plug and pour one (1) ounce of
engine oil through the spark plug hole into the cylinder.
Cover spark plug hole with a rag and crank the engine
several times to distribute the oil. Replace spark plug.
Off-Season
Storage
WARNING
Preparing Snow Thrower
• When storing the snow thrower in an unventilated or
metal storage shed, care should be taken to rustproof
the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the
equipment, especially any chains, springs, bearings
and cables.
• Remove all dirt from exterior of engine and equipment.
• Follow lubrication recommendations.
• Store equipment in a clean, dry area.
If the snow thrower will not be used for 30 days or longer, or if it is the end of the snow season when the last pos-
sibility of snow is gone, the equipment needs to be stored properly. Follow storage instructions below to ensure top
performance from the snow thrower for many more years.
Never store snow thrower
with fuel in tank indoors
or in poorly ventilated
areas, where fuel fumes
may reach an open flame,
spark or pilot light as on
a furnace, water heater,
clothes dryer or
gas appliance.
Fuel left in engine during
warm weather deteriorates
and will cause serious
starting problems.
Never use engine or carbu-
retor cleaning products in
the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
