17
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE
Generally, wash foam-type filters in
a dishwashing detergent and water
solution. Rinse and wring dry, then
saturate with oil and squeeze out
excess. Failure to re-oil this type
filter will ruin the engine.
Clean paper elements by tapping
lightly. Blowing with air will rupture
paper elements.
Use a flashlight to detect clogged
or torn paper elements – replace if
damaged in any way.
Dirt can also be
introduced into an engine
in dirty fuel from a
contaminated container.
Always use clean fresh
fuel from a clean
container to guard
against dirt, sludge and
water contamination.
Be aware that fuel
breaks down in
storage and forms
gummy compounds
which will block
carburetor passages.
Never use fuel more
than 3 months old.
Drain tank then run
the engine out of fuel
before storing during
the off-season.
Air is also needed to keep
your engine cool. Dirt, dust &
debris build up restricts and
clogs cooling air intake
screens and fins. Clean
screens and fins at frequent
intervals. The engine blower
housing and shrouds should
be removed at least once
each season or more often
under dry, dusty conditions
for a thorough cleaning of
fins.
Failure to keep external surfaces
clean not only presents fire
hazards, but causes overheating
and resulting engine damages
such as:
1. Distorted
valve
guides.
2. Sticking
Valves.
3. Scuffed,
scored
cylinder walls.
4. Over-speeding.
5.
Loss of power.
6. Complete
failure
of engine.
An engine must also have proper lubrication. All
engines use some oil. On 4-cycle engine, CHECK
OIL LEVEL BEFORE EACH START-UP. Wipe area
clean around the oil check plug or dipstick opening
to keep dirt from falling into the engine when
checking the oil. Always check with the machine on
a level surface. On engines with dipstick, keep the
level up to, but not over, the FULL mark. When
adding oil, allow time for all of the oil to flow down
the fill tube to prevent a false full reading when the
level could actually be low and result in engine
damage.
