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. Remove the dipstick and clean it.
2. Reinsert the dipstick into the Oil filling hole without screwing it and check Oil level.
3. If the Oil level is too low, add the recommended engine oil up to the oil upper level.
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 gaped. Refer to Recommended Maintenance Schedule. To inspect the spark plug:
1. Remove spark plug boot. Be careful not to tear insulation or wire.
2. Unscrew the spark plug from the engine using the spark plug wrench provided. There is limited space for
the wrench to turn. Use both rows of holes in the spark plug wrench to gain leverage to loosen the plug.
3. Visually inspect the spark plug for cracks or excessive electrode wear. Replace as necessary.
4. Measure the plug gap with a wire gauge. The gap should be 0.028-0.031 inch.
5. If re-using the spark plug, use a wire brush to clean any dirt from around the spark plug base then re-gap the
spark plug.
16