Craftsman 247.888700 Operator's Manual

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16OPERATIONClean-Out ToolWARNINGNever use your hands to clear a clogged chute assembly. Shut OFF engineand remain behind handles until all moving parts have stopped beforeusing the clean-out tool to clear the chute assembly.The chute clean-out tool is conveniently fastened to the rear of the auger housingwith a mounting clip. Should snow and ice become lodged in the chute assemblyduring operation, proceed as follows to safely clean the chute assembly and chuteopening:1. Release both the auger control and the drive control.2. Stop the engine by removing the safety key or position the throttle to theSTOP position.3. Remove the clean-out tool from the clip which secures it to the rear of theauger housing.4. Use the shovel-shaped end of the clean-out tool to dislodge and scoop anysnow and ice which has formed in and near the chute assembly.5. Refasten the clean-out tool to the mounting clip on the rear of the augerhousing, reinsert the ignition key and start the snow thrower’s engine.6. While standing in the operator’s position (behind the snow thrower), engagethe auger control for a few seconds to clear any remaining snow and ice fromthe chute assembly.Before Starting EngineWARNINGRead, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on themachine and in this manual before operating.OilThe unit was shipped with oil in the engine. Check oil level before each operation toensure adequate oil in the engine.NOTE: Be sure to check the engine on a level surface with the engine stopped.1. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and wipe the dipstick clean.2. Insert the cap/dipstick into the oil filler neck, but do NOT screw it in.3. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick. If the level is low, slowly add oil (5W-30,with a minimum classification of SF/SG) until oil level registers between high(H) and low (L).NOTE: Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may result in engine smoking, hardstarting or spark plug fouling.4. Replace and tighten cap/dipstick firmly before starting engine.GasolineUse automotive gasoline (unleaded or low leaded to minimize combustion chamberdeposits) with a minimum of 87 octane. Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol or 15%MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) can be used. Never use an oil/gasoline mixtureor dirty gasoline. Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank. DO NOT use E85gasoline.• Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. Do not smoke orallow flames or sparks in the area where the engine is refueled or wheregasoline is stored.• Do not overfill the fuel tank. After refueling, make sure the tank cap is closedproperly and securely.• Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling. Spilled fuel or fuel vapor mayignite. If any fuel is spilled, make sure the area is dry before starting theengine.• Avoid repeated or prolonged contact with skin or breathing of vapor.WARNINGUse extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremelyflammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors orwhile the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes andother sources of ignition.1. Clean around fuel fill before removing cap to fuel.2. Fill tank until fuel reaches 1⁄2 inch below the bottom of the filler neck toallow space for fuel expansion. Be careful not to overfill.Starting EngineWARNINGAlways keep hands and feet clear of moving parts. Do not use a pressurizedstarting fluid. Vapors are flammable.NOTE: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes after starting. The engine willnot develop full power until it reaches operating temperatures.1. Make certain both the auger control and drive control are in the disengaged(released) position.2. Insert saety key into slot. Make sure it snaps into place. Do not attempt toturn the safety key.NOTE: The engine cannot start without the safety key fully inserted into theignition switch.Electric StarterWARNINGThe electric starter is equipped with a grounded three-wire power plug,and is designed to operate on 120V AC household current. It must be usedwith a properly grounded three-prong receptacle at all times to avoidthe possibility of electric shock. Follow all instructions carefully prior tooperating the electric starter. DO NOT use electric starter in the rain.Determine that your home’s wiring is a three-wire grounded system. Ask a licensedelectrician if you are not certain.If you have a grounded three-prong receptacle, proceed as follows. If you do nothave the proper house wiring, DO NOT use the electric starter under any conditions.1. Plug an extension cord into the outlet located on the engine’s surface. Plugthe other end of extension cord into a three-prong 120V, grounded, AC outletin a well-ventilated area.CAUTIONThe extension cord can be any length, but must be rated for 15A at 125V,grounded and rated for outdoor use.