Storage
Storage Safety
•
Let the engine cool before storing the machine.
•
Do not store the machine or fuel near flames or
drain the fuel indoors.
Storing the Machine
1.
Park the machine on a level surface.
2.
Engage the parking brake.
3.
Shut off the engine and remove the key.
4.
Clean the dirt and grime from the entire machine,
including the outside of the cylinder-head fins of
the engine and blower housing.
Important:
You can wash the machine
with mild detergent and water. Do not use
power-washing equipment to wash the
machine. Pressure washing the machine
may damage the electrical system or wash
away necessary grease at friction points.
Avoid excessive use of water near the control
panel, lights, engine, and the battery.
5.
Inspect the brakes; refer to
.
6.
Service the air cleaner; refer to
.
7.
Grease the machine; refer to
.
8.
Change the engine oil; refer to
Engine Oil (page 38)
.
9.
Check the tire pressure; refer to
Tire Pressure (page 16)
.
10.
For storage over 30 days, prepare the fuel
system as follows:
A.
Add a petroleum based fuel
stabilizer/conditioner to fuel in the
tank.
Important:
Do not store
stabilizer/conditioned fuel over 90
days.
Follow mixing instructions from fuel
stabilizer manufacturer—29.5 ml (1 fl oz per
gallon).
Important:
Do not use an alcohol-based
fuel stabilizer (ethanol or methanol).
Note:
The use of fuel stabilizer/conditioner
is most effective when mixed with fresh
gasoline and used at all times.
B.
Run the engine to distribute conditioned fuel
through the fuel system (5 minutes).
C.
Shut off the engine, allow the engine to
cool, and drain the fuel tank.
Note:
Dispose of fuel properly. Recycle as
according to local codes.
D.
Start the engine again and run it until it
stops.
E.
Choke the engine.
F.
Start and run the engine until it does not
start again.
11.
Remove the spark plug and check their
condition; refer to
(page 38)
.
12.
With the spark plugs removed from the engine,
pour 2 tablespoons of engine oil into the spark
plug hole.
13.
Use the electric starter to crank the engine and
distribute the oil inside the cylinder.
14.
Install the spark plug(s) and tighten it to
recommended torque; refer to
Replacing the Spark Plug (page 38)
.
Note:
Do not install the wire on the spark
plug(s).
15.
Remove the battery from the chassis, and
charge it fully; refer to
(page 42)
.
Note:
Do not connect the battery cables to the
battery posts during storage.
Important:
The battery must be fully
charged to prevent it from freezing and being
damaged at temperatures below 0°C (32°F).
A fully charged battery maintains its charge
for about 50 days at temperatures lower than
4°C (40°F).
16.
Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws.
Repair or replace any part that is damaged.
17.
Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces.
Note:
Paint is available from your Authorized
Service Dealer.
18.
Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or
storage area.
19.
Remove the key from the key switch and put it in
a safe place out of the reach of children.
20.
Cover the machine to protect it and keep it clean.
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