Craftsman 580.327141 - Manual (Page 15)

STORAGE
GENERAL
The generator should be started at least once every
seven days and allowed to run at least 30 minutes. If
this cannot be done and you must store the unit for
more than 30 days, use the following information as a
guide to prepare it for storage.
A WARNING! NEVER store engine with fuel in
tank indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated
areas where fumes may reach an open flame,
spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water heater,
clothes dryer or other gas appliance.
LONG TERM STORAGE
It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in
essential fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel
filter, fuel hose or tank during storage. Also,
experience indicates that alcohol-blended fuels (called
gasohol, ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture,
which leads to separation and formation of acids
during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Follow
these instructions:
Protect Fuel System
• Remove all gasoline from the fuel tank to prevent
gum deposits from forming on these parts and
causing possible malfunction of engine.
A WARNING! Drain fuel into approved container
outdoors, away from open flame. Be sure
engine is cool. Do Not smoke.
Run engine until engine stops from lack of fuel.
Change Oil
While engine is still warm, drain oil from crankcase.
Refill with recommended grade.
Oil Cylinder Bore
• Remove spark plug and pour about 1/2 ounce
(15ml) of engine oil into the cylinder. Cover spark
plug hole with rag. Crank slowly to distribute oil.
A CAUTION! Avoid spray from spark plug hole
when cranking engine slowly.
• Install spark plug. Do Not connect spark plug wire.
GENERATOR
• Clean the generator as outlined on page 12 (“To
Clean the Generator”).
• Check that cooling air slots and openings on
generator are open and unobstructed.
OTHER STORAGE TIPS
• Do Not store gasoline from one season to another.
• Replace the gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust
and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to
give protection from dust and dirt. BE SURE TO
EMPTY THE FUEL TANK.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that
does not retain moisture.
A DANGER! NEVER cover your generator while
engine and exhaust area are warm.
Store generator in clean, dry area.
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