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FUEL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
When maintained properly, your Honda trimmer should provide years of trouble-free operation. This includes the fuel system. However,
gasoline can quickly deteriorate, causing starting or running problems and, in some cases, damage to the fuel system. Most fuel-related
problems can be avoided by following the precautions listed below. Fuel system damage and engine performance problems resulting from
deteriorated fuel are not covered by the Distributor’s Limited Warranty (see page 30).
During the Normal Trimming Season
3 to 4 Weeks Before Next Use
1 to 3 Months Before Next Use
More Than 3 Months Before Next Use
Action Reason
Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol. A high level of ethanol in gasoline attracts water and can corrode
or damage the fuel system and cause performance problems.
Store gasoline in a clean, plastic, sealed container approved for
fuel storage.
Store your fuel supply container away from direct sunlight; if the
container has a vent, keep it closed.
A clean plastic container will prevent rust and metallic
contaminants from entering the fuel system.
Gasoline will deteriorate faster when exposed to air and sunlight.
Purchase only enough gasoline to last for 30 to 60 days.
If you purchase enough gasoline to last for more than 60 days,
add a fuel stabilizer to your storage tank when you fill it.
Gasoline deteriorates with age, so try to avoid storing it for long
periods, especially in summer heat.
Fuel stabilizer will extend the shelf life of gasoline, but it will not
reconstitute stale fuel.
When you finish trimming, completely fill the trimmer’s fuel tank. If the fuel tank is only partially filled, air in the tank will promote
fuel deterioration.
Action Reason
Completely fill the trimmer’s fuel tank. If the fuel tank is only partially filled, air in the tank will promote
fuel deterioration.
Action Reason
If you did not add fuel stabilizer to your fuel storage tank when
you filled it up, fill your trimmer’s fuel tank with fresh gasoline.
If the fuel tank is only partially filled, air in the tank will promote
fuel deterioration.
Add fuel stabilizer to the trimmer’s tank according to the stabilizer
manufacturer’s instructions.
Fuel stabilizer will extend the life of gasoline, but it will not
reconstitute stale gasoline.
Run the engine outdoors for 10 minutes. To make sure treated gasoline has replaced untreated gasoline
throughout the fuel system.
Action Reason
Drain the fuel tank into an approved container and then run the
engine until the engine stops. Do not allow gasoline to remain in
your trimmer for more than 3 months of inactivity.
All fuel stabilizers have a shelf life. It is good practice to empty
the fuel system for long term inactivity.
If you have fuel left in your storage container at the end of the season, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommends
adding the gasoline to your car’s gas tank (http://epa.gov/reg5oair/mobile/winter.html), provided your car’s gas tank is fairly full.