30
3. Remove the spark plug(s) and metal washer.
m–5141
1
2
Figure 35
1. Spark plug wire 2. Spark plug
Checking the Spark Plug
1. Look at the center of the spark plug(s) (Fig. 36). If you
see light brown or gray on the insulator, the engine is
operating properly. A black coating on the insulator
usually means the air cleaner is dirty.
0.030 inch
(0.76 mm)
2
3
1
m–3215
Figure 36
1. Center electrode insulator
2. Side electrode
3. Air gap (not to scale)
Important Never clean the spark plug(s). Always
replace the spark plug(s) when it has a black coating,
worn electrodes, an oily film, or cracks.
2. Check the gap between the center and side electrodes
(Fig. 36). Bend the side electrode (Fig. 36) if the gap is
not correct.
Installing the Spark Plug(s)
1. Install the spark plug(s). Make sure that the air gap is
set correctly.
2. Tighten the spark plug(s) to 30 ft.-lb. (41 N⋅m).
3. Push the wire(s) onto the spark plug(s) (Fig. 35).
Draining the Fuel Tank
Danger
In certain conditions, gasoline is extremely
flammable and highly explosive. A fire or
explosion from gasoline can burn you and others
and can damage property.
• Drain gasoline from the fuel tank when the
engine is cold. Do this outdoors in an open area.
Wipe up any gasoline that spills.
• Never smoke when draining gasoline, and stay
away from an open flame or where a spark may
ignite the gasoline fumes.
1. Park the machine on a level surface, to ensure that the
fuel tank drains completely. Then disengage the PTO,
set the parking brake, stop the engine, and remove the
key.
2. Close the fuel shut-off valve located under the front of
the fuel tank.
3. Loosen the hose clamp at the fuel filter and slide it up
the fuel line away from the fuel filter (Fig. 37).
4. Pull the fuel line off of the fuel filter (Fig. 37).
5. Open the fuel shut-off valve. Allow gasoline to drain
into a gas can or drain pan.
m–6723
3
1
2
2
Figure 37
1. Fuel filter
2. Hose clamp
3. Fuel line
Note: Now is the best time to install a new fuel filter
because the fuel tank is empty.
6. Install the fuel line onto the fuel filter. Slide the hose
clamp close to the fuel filter to secure the fuel line
(Fig. 37).