Sears 247.88557 - Manual (Page 18)

OFF-SEASON STORAGE
A WARNING; Never store engine with fuel in
tank indoors or in poorly ventilated areas,
where fuel fumes may reach an open flame,
spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water
heater, ciothes dryer or gas appliances.
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 or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation and forma­
tion 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 emp­
tied before storage for 30 days or longer. Follow these
Instructions to prepare your snow thrower for storage:
• Remove all gasoline from carburetor and fuel tank
to prevent gum deposits from forming on these
parts and causing possible malfunction of engine.
• Run engine until fuel tank is empty and engine
stops due to lack of fuel.
• Drain carburetor by pressing upward on bowl
drain, located below the carburetor cover. See
figure 27.
NOTE: Do not drain carburetor if using fuei stabiiizer.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaning products in
the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
WARNING: Drain fuel into approved con-
A tainer outdoors, away from open flame. Be
certain engine is cool. Do not smoke.
Fuel left in engine during warm weather deteri­
orates and will cause serious starting problems.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer (such as STA-BIL) is an accept­
able alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel gum
deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in
fuel tank or storage container. Always follow mix ratio
found on stabilizer container. Run engine at least 10
minutes after adding stabilizer to allow it to reach car­
buretor. Do not drain carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
• Remove spark plug and pour one (1) ounce of
engine oil through spark plug hole into cylinder.
Crank engine several times to distribute oil.
Replace spark plug.
• Remove all dirt from exterior of engine and equipment.
• Follow lubrication recommendations on pages 15
and 16.
• Store in a clean, dry area.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially any chains,
springs, bearings and cables.
FIGURE 27
20