Service Tips

Fuel

  • Find ethanol free fuel near you at pure-gas.org
  • Use ethanol free fuel whenever possible
  • Never run anything with a higher ethanol content than E10 fuels (will void most mfg warranties)
  • Use 93 octane fuel whenever possible (higher resistance to detonation)
  • Remember to use a fuel stabilizer designed for ethanol blended fuels whenever possible.
  • Never leave a fuel container open and/or exposed to the elements
  • Dispose of fuel after a period of 30 days (most fuel has a shelf life no longer than 30 days)
  • Keep fuel container and fuel tank as full as possible
  • Do not use the last bit of fuel left in a container (when phase separation occurs water settles at the bottom)
  • Store machine with fuel and a stabilizer, rather than drain the fuel (hard to remove all traces of fuel)
  • Run your equipment as much as possible

Oil

  • Use engine oil designed for outdoor power equipment (contains additives designed to protect in extreme conditions)
  • SAE 30 is used by most OEMs, however Kohler uses 10W-30 in their engines with hydraulic valve lifters
  • Kawasaki now recommends SAE 20W-50 in higher ambient temperatures
  • Remember the engine's oil is a key part of an air cooled engine's cooling process
  • Keep it clean and at proper level (vital for cooling)
  • Check for the presence of fuel in oil. Change if needed
  • Only use JASO FC, FD and ISO L-EGD rated oils in air cooled two stroke engines (unless stated otherwise by mfg.)
  • Most quality two stroke oils contain friction modifiers, detergents and fuel stabilizers
  • "Bargain brand" two stroke oils can lead to poor engine performance and possibly engine failure
  • Always mix two stroke oils at proper ratio

Cooling

  • Air cooled engines use cylinder fins, flywheel fans, and engine oil to keep engines at their proper operating temperature
  • Remove blower housing and clean cylinder fins regularly
  • Make sure flywheel fan blades and cylinder fins are not damaged
  • Once again, make sure oil is clean and at proper level
  • Make sure engine is not run too close to an object for an extended period of time
  • Check mufflers on machine with high hours. Make sure baffles are still in place
  • Make certain coolant is mixed properly, at proper level, and free of contaminants (Liquid cooled)
  • Have cooling system flushed or changed at mfg's recommended intervals
  • Make sure radiator fins are not damaged and clean
  • For all engines, make sure to run proper heat range spark plug (Critical in newer two stroke engines)

These are just some pointers to help you keep your equipment in good running condition. For any service related questions or tips email Harrison Price at [email protected]


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