MTD 243-650 - Manual (Page 4)

PosiHon equipment so that engine is setting level.
Remove dip stick or oil filler plug (Figure 1). Pour
oil into oil filler tube from which dip stick was re­
moved and fill to FULL mark on dip stick. Do not over­
fill. After initial filling follow instructions on dip stick.
Be sure dip stick is screwed into filler opening as far
as it will go when measuring oil level.
During initial break-in period, oil level should be
watched closely See ENGINE MAINTENANCE.
Use MS classification oil. Do not use oils marked only
MM or ML or unmarked.
Above 32° use SAE 30; below 32° use SAE lOW These
recommendations must be followed for best perform­
ance and long life.
Change oil first two (2) hours of operation and check
oil level every five (5) operating hours or each time
equipment is used.
Change oil every twenty-five (25) operating hours or
sooner if equipment is operated in extremely dusty or
dirty conditions.
NOTE: Carburetors are preset at the factory. DO NOT
attempt to make adjustments at this time. See carbu­
retor instructions outlined under CARBURETOR AD­
JUSTMENT.
TO STOP ENGINE
1. Press shorting clip against end of spark plug (fig­
ure 4) and hold until engine stops running. If short­
ing clip is not present move carburetor control to
STOP position, if key starting is used, turn key to
OFF position.
2. Turn off gasoline shutoff valve at underside of tank,
if engine is so equipped. Some engines may have
two valves, one at each end of tank.
3. Remove high tension wire from spark plug to pre­
vent accidental slating by children while equip­
ment is unattended.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
To obtain long life and trouble-free service from
your engine, certain normal maintenance must be per­
formed as outlined below:
1. Change oil in crankcase after first two (2) hours of
operation. Then, follow instructions outlined at left.
CAUTION
NOTE: If engine is equipped wth 6:1 gear reduction
use the following recommended oil weights in the
gear box.
Above 32°F use EP 90 in gear box; below 32°F use
SAE low in gear box.
TO START ENGINE
CAUTION
If engine is used on lawnmower, be
sure to keep clear of mower blade at
all times.
1. Be sure shorting clip (figure 4) is away from spark
plug if engine is so equipped.
2. Be sure that fuel valve, if present, under fuel tank
is turned on or opened and that the spark plug
wire is properly attached.
Disconnect high tension wire at spark
plug to prevent accidental starting of
engine. Unscrew oil drain plug located
on side at bottom of engine (figure 4).
NOTE: Always tip engine toward oil drain hole. Be
sure oil drains completely.
Replace oil drain plug and refill with oil as directed
on page 5 or engine nameplate.
2. Check oil every five (5) operating hours or each
time equipment is used.
If engine has dip stick, keep oil level at mark indicated
by adding if necessary.
3. Cleaning engine—This is an aircooled engine which
operates most efficiently when the cooling fins ace
clean.
Clean cylinder fins and underside of tanjc or housing
thoroughly of all accumulated grass and debris.
3. If equipment is equipped with remote engine and
speed controls, set control in CHOKE or START po­
sition.
Some equipment may have the controls on the engine.
Set control on CHOKE or START.
4. Rewind starters—Use quick full arm stroke. Keep
firm grip on handle and return rope slowly.
Be sure equipment controls are in NEUTRAL and that
engine controls are set for starting. Stand clear of
mower and move release lever to START position.
After engine has started, move carburetor control off
CHOKE or STARTING position and on to RUN position.
4. Air Cleaners
a. Paper Type Element. Remove every 10 hours or
oftener if under dusty conditions. Tap to remove
loose dirt and/or blow from inside out with low
pressure air. Replace if torn or perforated or when
plugged to maintain proper carburetor setting (50
hours). DO NOT WASH IN ANY LIQUID AND DO
NOT OIL.
b. Oil Bath. Remove element. Clean element and bowl.
Using same oil used for engine, fill bowl to line.
Replace element.
CAUTION: Do not pour oil down center of bowl (fig­
ure 6).