Engine maintenance, Fuel system, Servicing the fuel system – Cub Cadet U-Channel Beam Style User Manual
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2010 Log Splitters
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Engine maintenance
The recommended maintenance intervals listed in this manual are a guideline. They are adjustable for local con-
ditions.
* First oil change at 5 hours.
Please refer to the engine service manual for specific engine maintenance procedures.
Clean the engine
Air cooled engines cool better if they are clean. Check for nesting or signs of nesting especially after dormant
season storage.
Fuel system
What you should know about fuel.
Most of the fuel presently available in North America is oxygenated to some extent. This is commonly done
through the addition of ethanol. Most engines offered for sale on outdoor power equipment in the North American
markets are designed to tolerate no more than 10% ethanol by volume
Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs water. If left exposed to air, it will draw water out of the air.
Ethanol is an oxygenator, which means that it will oxidize (corrode) metal that it comes into contact with. Expo-
sure to air causes fuel to go bad quickly, leaving gum and varnish deposits.
Methanol is another type of alcohol that is used to oxygenate fuel. Fuel that contains 5% methanol can be used
as long as it also contains co-solvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Fuel with more than 5%
methanol will cause starting and/or performance problem. It will also cause damage to the metal, rubber and plastic
components of the fuel system.
Fuel used in MTD outdoor power equipment should be no more than 30 days old. Because it may already have
been stored at the refinery or gas station for a week or more, fuel should be purchased in small quantities and stored
in safety approved gas cans with the caps closed.
For storage, all fuel should be run out of the tank and engine. Anti-oxidation additives will help keep the fuel
fresher.
Servicing the fuel system
Inspect the fuel system every time the log splitter is operated. If dirty fuel is found in the fuel tank or fuel that does
not smell “right”, drain the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter
Refer to the engine service manual for the procedure to service the fuel system.
Maintenance items
Interval
Oil Change*
25 hrs
Replace the air filter
25 hrs
Spark plugs
100 hrs
Fuel filter
100 hrs
Clean the engine
25 hours
! CAUTION
! CAUTION
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Use common sense when working around
the fuel system. Avoid sparks, open flames or heat sources that can ignite the fuel vapors.