Use and Care Manual

10 Section 6 — Maintenance
Intake
Manifold
Figure 6-7
8. Attach the air filter cover. See Figure 6-8.
Turn thumb screws clockwise a 1/4 turn
until snug. Check for any misalignment.
2
1
Air Filter
Cover
Figure 6-8
Spark Plug Service
WARNING: DO NOT check for
spark with spark plug removed.
DO NOT crank engine with spark
plug removed.
WARNING: If the engine has
been running, the muffler will be
very hot. Be careful not to touch
the muffler.
To ensure proper engine operation, the spark
plug must be properly gapped and free of
deposits.
1. Remove the spark plug boot and use a
spark plug wrench to remove the plug.
See Figure 6-9.
Spark Plug
Boot
Figure 6-9
2. Visually inspect the spark plug. Discard
the spark plug if there is apparent wear,
or if the insulator is cracked or chipped.
Clean the spark plug with a wire brush if
it is to be reused.
3. Measure the plug gap with a feeler
gauge. Correct as necessary by bending
electrode. See Figure 6-10. The gap
should be set to 0.024-0.031 in.
Electrode
0.024-0.031 in.
Figure 6-10
4. Check that the spark plug washer is in
good condition and thread the spark plug
in by hand to prevent cross-threading.
5. After the spark plug is seated, tighten
with a spark plug wrench to compress the
washer.
NOTE: When installing a new spark plug,
tighten 1/2 turn after the spark plug
seats to compress the washer. When
reinstalling a used spark plug, tighten
1/8-1/4 turn after the spark plug seats to
compress the washer.
IMPORTANT: The spark plug must be
securely tightened. An improperly
tightened spark plug can become very
hot and may damage the engine.
6. Repeat STEPS 1-5 to service the
remaining spark plug.