Vanguard BIG BLOCK M540000, Repair Manual

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Maintenance Schedule
After First 5 Hours
• Change Engine Oil +
Every 8 Hours or Daily
• Check Engine Oil Level +
• Clean Area Around Muffler and Controls
Every 100 Hours or Annually
• Change Engine Oil and Replace Oil
• Clean or Replace Air Filter † ‡
• Clean/Gap/Replace Spark Plugs
• Clean/Inspect Muffler and Spark Arrester, if equipped
Every 250 Hours or Annually
• Check/Adjust Valve Clearance
Every 400 Hours or Annually
• Replace Air Filter ‡
• Replace Fuel Filter
• Clean Air Cooling System †
Every 500 Hours or Annually
• Change Engine Oil and Replace Oil Filter ÷
Every 600 Hours
• Replace Safety Filter *
+ Engines not equipped with the Vanguard Oil Guard System.
÷ Engines equipped with the Vanguard Oil Guard System.
† Clean more often in dusty conditions or when airborne
debris is present.
‡ All engines.
* If equipped, replace the safety filter every 600 hours or
every third air filter replacement.
Preliminary Instructions
Prior to starting any repair or maintenance operation.
Make sure you are familiar with ALL safety warnings and
procedures as outlined in SECTION 1 - SAFETY AND
GENERAL INFORMATION - Safety Information .
ALWAYS wear safety glasses and gloves while performing
any maintenance and repair operation.
Check Engine Oil Level/Change Engine Oil/Replace
Oil Filter
1. Place engine on a flat, level surface.
2. Remove spark plug wires from spark plug terminals.
Secure spark plug wires to prevent unintentional contact
with spark plug terminals.
3. Remove all dirt and debris from around the dipstick tube.
4. Remove dipstick ( A , Figure 3) and wipe with a clean, lint
free cloth.
3
NOTE: Proceed to step 12 if only checking engine oil
level.
5. Remove oil fill cap ( B ) from valve cover.
6. Remove oil drain plug(s) ( C ) at base of engine and drain
oil into an approved container.
7. If equipped, inspect drain plug O-rings ( D ) for damage or
general deterioration. Replace if necessary.
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