HONDA HS520A - Manual (Page 10)

10
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
ENGINE OIL
Oil Level Check
Check the engine oil level with the
snowthrower stopped and in a level
position.
1. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick
and wipe it clean.
2. Insert and remove the dipstick
without screwing it into the filler
neck.
3. If the level is low, fill to the edge of
the oil filler hole with the
recommended oil (page 10).
4. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick.
NOTICE
Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine
damage.
Engine Oil Change
Drain the oil while the
engine is still warm to
assure rapid and
complete draining.
1. Place the
snowthrower on a
level surface.
2. Place a suitable
container below the
drain bolt to catch
the used oil, then
remove the oil filler
cap/dipstick and the
drain plug.
3. Allow the used oil to drain completely, then reinstall the drain plug,
and tighten it securely.
NOTICE
Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmful to the
environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of used
motor oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a
recycling center. Do not throw it in the trash; do not pour it on the
ground or down a drain.
4. With the engine in a level position, fill to the outer edge of the oil
filler hole with the recommended oil (page 10).
NOTICE
Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine
damage. This type of damage is not covered under the
DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED WARRANTY.
5. Screw in the oil filler cap/dipstick securely.
Engine Oil Recommendations
Oil is a major factor affecting performance and service life. Use a
high quality 4-stroke automotive detergent oil.
SAE 5W-30 is
recommended for
general use. Other
viscosities shown in the
chart may be used when
the average temperature
in your area is within the
indicated range. The SAE
oil viscosity and service
classification are on the
API label on the oil
container. Honda recommends that you use API SERVICE category
SJ (or later) oil or equivalent with the “starburst” certification mark
displayed on the container.
SPARK PLUG SERVICE
To ensure proper engine operation, the spark plug must be properly
gapped and free of deposits.
1. Open the spark plug
access panel, then
remove the spark plug
cap. Use a commercially
available spark plug
wrench or socket to
remove the spark plug.
2. Inspect the spark plug.
Replace it if the
electrodes are worn or if
the insulator is cracked,
chipped, or fouled with
deposits. Make sure that
the spark plug washer is
in good condition.
NOTICE
Use only the recommended spark plugs or equivalent. Spark
plugs which have an improper heat range may cause engine
damage.
A replacement spark plug may be purchased from a servicing Honda
snowthrower dealer. See page 17 for a part number list.
SPARK PLUG: BPR5ES (NGK) or W16EPR-U (DENSO)
3. Measure the plug gap with a
feeler gauge. Correct as
necessary by bending the
side electrode.
PLUG GAP: 0.028 ~
0.031 inch
(0.70 ~ 0.80 mm)
4. Thread the spark plug in by hand to prevent cross-threading.
5. After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a spark plug wrench to
compress the washer.
If installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark plug
seats to compress the washer. If reinstalling a used spark plug,
tighten 1/8 to 1/4 turn after the spark plug seats.
NOTICE
The spark plug must be securely tightened. An improperly
tightened spark plug can become hot and may damage the
engine.
6. Connect the spark plug cap.
7. Close the spark plug access panel.
UPPER LIMIT
DRAIN PLUG &
WASHER
0W-30
5W-30
SAE
5W-30
AP
I SE
RVICE S
J
EN
ER
GY C
ONSER
VI
NG
I
I
0.028 ~ 0.031 in
(0.70 ~ 0.80 mm)