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STORAGE
CAUTION! Before storing the machine, the engine must be completely cooled.
• Never store equipment with gasoline in the tank in a building where vapors can reach an open
ame or spark.
• Allow engine to cool before storing in any case.
• Replace worn or damaged safety parts. Use only original spare parts
• If the fuel tank is to be drained, it must be done outdoors.
GUIDELINES FOR STORAGE OF YOUR ENGINE
CAUTION! Never store the engine near stoves, heaters with control lights, and other devices that
can produce sparks.
PREPARATION FOR STORAGE
Proper storage preparation is essential to keeping your engine running smoothly and looking good.
The following steps will help prevent rust and corrosion from degrading the function and appear-
ance of your engine and make it easier to start the engine when you use it again.
CLEANING
If the engine is running, let it cool for at least half an hour before cleaning. Clean all exterior surfac-
es, touch up any damaged paint, and cover other areas that may rust with a light coating of oil.
Note: Using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can force water into the air lter open-
ing or muer. Water in the air lter will soak the air lter, and water that passes through the air lter
or muer can enter the cylinder, causing damage.
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS
• If your engine will be stored with gasoline in the fuel tank and carburetor, it is important to reduce
the risk of gasoline vapor ignition. Choose a well-ventilated storage area away from any appliance
that uses a ame, such as a furnace, water heater or clothes dryer.
• Also avoid any area with an electric motor creating a spark or where power tools are used.
• If possible, avoid storage areas with high humidity as this leads to rust and corrosion.
• If there is gasoline in the tank, leave the fuel valve in the OFF position.
• Keep the motor level when storing. Tilting can cause fuel or oil to leak.
• When the engine and exhaust system have cooled, cover the engine to keep dust out. A hot en-
gine and exhaust system can ignite or melt some materials.
• Do not use plastic as a cover. A non-porous casing will trap moisture around the engine, leading
to rust and corrosion.
ADDING GASOLINE STABILIZER TO EXTEND SHELF LIFE
ON THE FUEL
To protect the engine, use a fuel stabilizer that is available at gas stations.
When adding gasoline stabilizer, ll the fuel tank with fresh gasoline. If it is only partially full, air in
the tank will increase fuel deterioration during storage. If you keep a tank of gasoline for refueling,
make sure it contains only fresh gasoline.
1. Add gasoline stabilizer following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. After adding gasoline stabilizer, run the engine outdoors for 10 minutes to ensure that the treated
gasoline has replaced the raw gasoline in the carburetor.
OUT OF SEASON STORAGE
If your engine will be stored with gasoline in the fuel tank and carburetor, the gasoline will oxidize
and deteriorate. Old gasoline will cause rough starting and leave bottom deposits that clog the
fuel system. If the gasoline in the engine deteriorates during storage, the carburetor and other fuel
system components may need to be serviced or replaced. Fuel should not be in the engine for
more than 14 days. Leaving it there longer can cause engine damage, such damage is not covered
under warranty. Adding a fuel stabilizer to gasoline can extend the life of the fuel.
The following steps should be taken to prepare the machine for storage.
1. Empty the fuel tank with a suction pump after the last job of the season.
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