MTD 312-980I000 - Manual (Page 17)

Friction Wheel If unit is to be stored over 30 days, prepare for stor­
age as follows:
1. Remove all gasoline from carburetor and fuel
tank to prevent gum deposits from forming on
these parts and causing possible malfunction of
engine.
a. Run engine until fuel tank is empty and engine
stops due to lack of fuel.
b. Drain carburetor by pressing upward on bowl
drain, located below the carburetor cover.
A
FIGURE 37.
WARNING: Drain fuel into approved con­
tainer outdoors, away from open flame.
Be certain engine is cool. Do not smoke.
Fuel left in engine during warm weather
deteriorates and will cause serious start­
ing problems.
8. Replace the rear cover.
A WARNING: Check engine and snow
thrower frequently for loose nuts, bolts,
etc. and keep these items tightened.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer (such as STA-BIL) is anaccept-
able alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to gaso­
line 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 carburetor. Do not drain carburetor if using fuel
stabilizer.
OFF-SEASON STORAGE
▲
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, clothes dryer or
other gas appliance.
2. 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.
3. Remove all dirt from exterior of engine and equip­
ment.
4. Follow lubrication recommendations on page 13.
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.
17