18SERVICE AND M AINTENANCEFillbetweenhigh (H)and low (L)marksFigure 17Changing Engine OilNOTE: Change the engine oil after the first 5 hours of operation and once a seasonor every 50 hours thereafter.1. Drain fuel from tank by running engine until the fuel tank is empty. Be surefuel fill cap is secure.2. Place suitable oil collection container under oil drain plug.3. Remove oil drain plug. See Figure 18.ENGINE MAINTENANCEChecking Engine OilWARNINGBefore lubricating, repairing, or inspecting, disengage all controls and stopengine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop. Remove thesafety key to prevent unintended firing of the engine.NOTE: Check the oil level before each use to be sure correct oil level is maintained.When adding oil to the engine, refer to viscosity chart on page 19. Engine oilcapacity is approximately 37 ounces. Do not over-fill. Use a 4-stroke, or anequivalent high detergent, premium quality motor oil certified to meet or exceedU.S. automobile manufacturer’s requirements for service classification SG, SF. Motoroils classified SG, SF will show this designation on the container.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.NOTE: On some engines, a threaded screw cap will be present instead ofthe quarter turn locking cap. In the instance of a threaded oil cap/dipstick,DO NOT screw the cap/dipstick in to check. Check the oil by resting the cap/dipstick on the threads, but not screwing it in.3. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick. If level is low, slowly add oil until oil levelregisters between high (H) and low (L). See Figure 17.4. Replace and tighten cap/dipstick firmly before starting engine.Interval Item Service Service LogEach Use 1. Engine oil level2. Loose or missing hardware3. Unit and engine1. Check2. Tighten or replace3. Clean1st 5 - 8 hours 1. Engine oil 1. ChangeAnnually or 25 hours 1. Control linkages and pivots2. Spark plug1. Lube with light oil2. CheckAnnually or 50 hours 1. Engine oil 1. ChangeAnnually or 100 hours 1. Spark plug 1. Clean and re-gap, or else replace withnew plug.Before Storage 1. Fuel system 1. Run engine until it stops from lack of fuelor add a gasoline additive to the gas inthe tank.WARNINGBefore performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls and stop theengine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop. Remove the safetykey to prevent unintended starting. Always wear safety glasses during operation orwhile performing any adjustments or repairs.Follow the maintenance schedule given below. This chart describes serviceguidelines only. Use the Service Log column to keep track of completedmaintenance tasks. To locate the nearest Sears Service Center or to scheduleservice, call the following toll free number:1-888-331-4569.MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE