Operator's Manual
Viper® 173cc 4-Cycle Engine
14
Check for parts online at
www.ardisam.com
or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-5
WARNING
FUEL IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND MUST BE HANDLED
WITH CARE. NEVER FILL THE TANK WHEN THE ENGINE
IS HOT OR RUNNING. ALWAYS MOVE OUTDOORS TO
FILL FUEL TANK.
FUEL FILTER
Cleaning Or Replacing Fuel Filter
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Remove spark
plug.
2. Drain fuel from tank before attempting to clean/replace filter.
3. Remove hose clamp closest to gas tank.
4. Pull filter out from end of hose.
5. Filter may be washed with kerosene or similar solvent.
6. If filter is extremely dirty or torn, replace with new filter.
7. Reassemble with clean or new filter, and fill with clean, fresh
gasoline. Check for leaks prior to starting engine.
CARBURETOR
• Never tamper with factory setting of the carburetor.
• Contact your service provider or Viper® if adjustment is needed.
TRANSPORTING ENGINE
1. Never transport engine inside an enclosed space or vehicle.
Fuel or fuel vapors may ignite causing serious injury or death.
2. If fuel is present in the fuel tank remove fuel or transport with
an open vehicle in an upright position.
3. If an enclosed vehicle must be used, remove fuel into an
approved red fuel container. DO NOT siphon by mouth.
4. Run engine or drain to use up the fuel in the carburetor and
fuel tank. Always run engine in a well ventilated area.
5. Wipe away any spilled fuel from engine. Allow to dry.
STEPS FOR LONG-TERM STORAGE
(30 DAYS OR MORE WITHOUT USE)
1. Add fuel stabilizer according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Run engine for 10-15 minutes to ensure that the stabilizer
reaches the carburetor.
a) Start engine and run until engine runs itself out of any
residual fuel left in carb bowl and fuel lines. (It is normal for
the engine to run two to three minutes before the fuel is
completely out of system.)
3. Remove the remainder of the fuel from the fuel tank into an
approved fuel container.
4. Store engine in its upright position.
5. Remove all debris from engine.
6. Pull the starter handle slowly and return the handle to its
original position when resistance is felt. This operation will
prevent outside moisture from entering the combustion
chamber.
WARNING
FAILURE TO FOLLOW MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
CAN CAUSE DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
DO NOT REMOVE FUEL WHILE SMOKING, NEAR OPEN
FLAME, OR WHEN IN PROXIMITY TO OTHER POTEN-
TIAL HAZARDS.
AVOID INJURY! NEVER STORE ENGINE WITH FUEL IN
THE TANK INSIDE A BUILDING. POTENTIAL SPARKS
MAY BE PRESENT CAUSING IGNITION OF FUEL AND
FUEL VAPORS.
WARNING
AVOID INJURY! TO AVOID INJURY OR DEATH, NEVER
SIPHON FUEL BY MOUTH.
AVOID INJURY! CHECK ENGINE OFTEN FOR LOOSE
NUTS AND BOLTS. KEEP THESE ITEMS TIGHTENED.
