Use and Care Manual

17
CHECKING THE OIL
The oil capacity of the engine crankcase is 16.9 fl. oz.
Check the oil level of the engine according to the Recommended Maintenance Schedule.
The lawn mower should be checked before each use for proper oil level. This is a critical step for proper
engine starting.
To check the oil level:
1. Make sure the lawn mower is on a level surface.
2. Clean around oil fill. Remove dipstick and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Insert the dipstick into
the oil fill opening without screwing in. Remove the dipstick to check the oil mark. Add oil if the oil
mark covers less than one half of the dipstick.
3. Slowly add more oil and repeat step 2 until the oil mark reaches to the top of dipstick. Do not over fill
the crankcase.
4. Reinstall oil dipstick.
CHANGING/ADDING OIL
Change the oil according to the Recommended Maintenance Schedule. Change the oil when the engine is
warm. This will allow for complete drainage. Change oil more often if operating under heavy load or high
ambient temperatures. It is also necessary to drain the oil from the crankcase if it has become
contaminated with water or dirt. The oil capacity of the engine is 16.9 fl.oz. Add oil when the oil level is
low. For proper type and weight of oil refer to “GAS AND OIL FILL-UP” portion of the “OPERATION”
section.
To refill the crankcase with oil, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the lawn mower is on a level surface. Tilting the lawn mower to assist in filling will cause
oil to flow into engine areas and will cause damage. Keep lawn mower level!
2. Remove the dipstick from the engine.
3. Using a funnel or appropriate dispenser, add the correct amount of oil (16.9 fl.oz) into the crankcase.
4. Reinstall dipstick.
NOTE: Never dispose of used motor oil in the trash or down a drain. Please call a local recycling center
or auto garage to arrange oil disposal.
AIR CLEANER MAINTENANCE
Routine maintenance of the air cleaner helps maintain proper airflow to the carburetor. Occasionally
check that the air cleaner is free of excessive dirt. Refer to Recommended Maintenance Schedule. For air
cleaner detail:
1. Open the air cleaner cover.
2. Remove the sponge-like element from the casing.
3. Wipe the dirt from inside the empty air cleaner casing.
4. Wash the sponge-like element in household detergent and warm water. Small amount of oil in the
element is normal and necessary for the engine to work properly.
5. If necessary, replace the paper element.
6. Reinstall the sponge-like element in the air cleaner casing and reinstall the cover.
CAUTION: running the engine with dirty, damaged or missing air cleaner element will cause the engine
to wear out prematurely.
SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE
The spark plug is important for proper engine operation. A good spark plug should be intact, free of
deposits, and properly gapped. Refer to Recommended Maintenance Schedule. To inspect the spark plug:
1. Remove spark plug boot. Be careful not to tear insulation or wire.