Replace a dirty, bent, or damaged element. Handle
new elements carefully; do not use if the rubber seal
is damaged.
4. Clean all air cleaner components of any accumulated
dirt or foreign material. Prevent any dirt from
entering the carburetor.
5. Install the air cleaner element with the pleated side
"out" and seat the rubber seal onto the edges of the
air cleaner base (Figure 29).
6. Reinstall the air cleaner cover and secure with the
two knobs (Figure 29).
Servicing the Engine Oil
Oil Type: Detergent oil (API service SG, SH, SJ, or
higher)
Crankcase Capacity: 1.6 qt (1.5 l) when the filter is
changed
Viscosity: See the table below.
Figure 30
Checking the Oil Level
Service Interval: Before each use or daily—Check the
engine oil level.
1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the
blade control switch, stop the engine, and remove
the key.
2. Make sure the engine is stopped, level, and is cool so
the oil has had time to drain into the sump.
3. To keep dirt, grass clippings, etc., out of the engine,
clean the area around the oil fill cap/dipstick before
removing it.
4. Pull and remove the oil fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil
off. Reinsert the dipstick and push firmly into place
(Figure 31).
1. Oil dipstick
2. Filler tube
5. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level.
(Figure 31).
The oil level should be up to, but not over, the F
mark on the dipstick.
6. If the level is low, add oil of the proper type, up to
the F mark on the dipstick. Always check the level
with the dipstick before adding more oil.
G005176
Note: To prevent extensive engine wear or damage,
always maintain the proper oil level in the crankcase.
Never operate the engine with the oil level below the
"L" mark or over the "F" mark on the dipstick.
Changing the Oil and the Filter
Service Interval: Every 100 hours—Change the engine
Refill with service class SG, SH, SJ or higher oil as
specified in the "Viscosity Grades" table.
Change the oil and filter while the engine is still warm.
The oil will flow more freely and carry away more
impurities. Make sure the engine is level when filling,
checking, or changing the oil.
Change the oil and oil filter as follows:
1. Start the engine and let it run until warm. This
warms the oil so it drains better.
29
1
1
F
3
3
L
Figure 31
3. Oil level
oil and filter.
2
2
2
G005068