Maintenance / care, Cleaning the engine checking the oil – WEN 56173 173 cc 6 HP OHV Vertical Shaft Gas Engine-CARB User Manual
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MAINTENANCE / CARE
Proper routine maintenance of your engine will help prolong the life of your machine. Please 
perform maintenance checks and operations according the schedule below. 
 
If you have questions about any of the maintenance procedures listed in this manual, please
call (800) 232-1195 M-F 8-5 CST. 
 
CAUTION: Never perform maintenance operations while the engine is running.
 
 
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
each use
first month
then every
20 hrs
every 3
months or
50 hrs
every 6
months or
100 hrs
every year
or 300 hrs
Engine oil 
  
check level
x
replace
x
x
Air cleaner 
  
check
x
clean
x
fuel filter 
cup 
clean
x
spark plug
check/ clean
x
fuel tank 
  
check fuel level
x
clean
x
Recommended maintenance schedule
 
Cleaning the Engine 
 
Never clean the engine when it is running! Never clean with a bucket of water or a hose. Water 
can get inside the working parts of the engine and cause a short circuit or corrosion. 
Always try to use the engine in a cool, dry place. If the engine becomes dirty, clean the exterior 
with a damp cloth, a soft brush, vacuum or pressurized air. 
 
Checking the Oil 
 
Check the oil level of the engine according to the Recommended Maintenance Schedule in Figure 
7. The engine is equipped with an automatic shutoff to protect it from running with low oil 
pressure. The engine should be checked before each use for proper oil level. This is a critical step 
for proper engine starting. 
To check or add oil, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the engine is on a level surface. Clean around oil fill. 
2. Remove the oil filler/dipstick cap and check oil level. 
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