Checking the Crankcase OilThe engine is shipped with oil in the crankcase;however, the oil level must be checked before andafter the engine is first started.1. Position the machine on a level surface.2. Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean cloth(Fig. 2). Insert the dipstick into the tube and makesure it is seated fully. Remove the dipstick andcheck the level of oil.Figure 21. Dipstick2. Filler cap3. If the oil level is low, remove the filler cap fromthe valve cover (next to the dipstick) and pour oilinto the opening until the oil level is up to the“FULL” mark on the dipstick; refer to Engine Oil,page 23 Add the oil slowly and check the leveloften during this process. Do not overfill.4. Install the dipstick firmly in place.Checking the Tire PressureCheck tire pressure every 8 hours or daily to assureproper levels. Air pressure range in front and reartires is 55–152 kPa (8–22 psi).The needed air pressure is determined by the payloadcarried. The lower the air pressure, the less thecompaction and tire marks are minimized. Lowerpressure should not be used for heavy payloads athigh speeds.Higher pressures should be used for heavier payloadsat higher speeds. Do not exceed the maximumpressure.Fuel TankRecommended GasolineUse fresh, clean, unleaded regular grade gasoline13Before OperatingIn certain conditions, gasoline is extremelyflammable and highly explosive. A fire or explosionfrom gasoline can burn you and others and candamage property.• Fill the fuel tank outdoors, in an open area,when the engine is cold. Wipe up any gasolinethat spills.• Do not fill the fuel tank completely full. Addgasoline to the fuel tank until the level is 25 mm(1 in.) below the bottom of the filler neck. Thisempty space in the tank allows gasoline toexpand.• Never smoke when handling gasoline, and stayaway from an open flame or where gasolinefumes may be ignited by a spark.• Store gasoline in an approved container andkeep it out of the reach of children. Never buymore than a 30-day supply of gasoline.• Always place gasoline containers on the groundaway from your vehicle before filling.• Do not fill gasoline containers inside a vehicleor on a truck or trailer bed because interiorcarpets or plastic truck bed liners may insulatethe container and slow the loss of any staticcharge.• When practical, remove gas- poweredequipment from the truck or trailer and refuelthe equipment with its wheels on the ground.• If this is not possible, then refuel suchequipment on a truck or trailer from a portablecontainer, rather than from a gasoline dispensernozzle.• If a gasoline dispenser nozzle must be used,keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of thefuel tank or container opening at all times untilfueling is complete.DANGER12