Craftsman ZT 7000 107.2777 Operator's Manual page 30

STO RAG E
Before you store your unit for the off-season, read the
Maintenance and Storage instructions in the Safety
Rules section, then perform the following steps:
• Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake, & remove
the key.
Check all fluid levels. Check all maintenance items.
WARNING
Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed,
poorly ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can
travel to an ignition source (such as a furnace,
water heater, etc.) and cause an explosion.
Fuel vapor is also toxic to humans and animals.
• Battery life will be increased if it is removed, put in a
cool, dry place and fully charged about once a
month. If the battery is left in the unit, disconnect the
negative cable.
It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in
the essential fuel system parts such as the carburetor,
fuel filter, fuel line, and fuel tank during storage. Also,
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which leads to the sepa-
ration and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine while in stor-
age.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Follow
these instructions;
1. Stop the engine, remove the key, and allow the
engine to cool.
2. Place a suitable container below the fuel filter (A,
Figure 39") to catch spilled fuel, and place a contain-
er suitable to hold the contents of the fuel tank next to
the unit.
3. Using locking pliers, clamp the fuel line between the
fuel filter (A) and fuel tank.
4. Spread the clamp on the fuel filter only far enough to
slide the clamp away from the filter.
5. Disconnect the fuel line from the fuel filter.
6. Route the fuel line into a suitable container, remove
the locking pliers, and drain the fuel tank.
7. Reconnect the fuel filter, and secure with the clamp.
8. Start and run the unit until all fuel is consumed.
Figure 39. Engine Compartment
A. Fuel Filter
WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the
engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not
allow open flame, smoking or matches in the area.
Avoid over-filling and wipe up any spills.
Before starting the unit after it has been stored:
Check all fluid levels. Check all maintenance items.
• Fill with FRESH fuel.
• After starting, allow the engine to warm before oper-
ating.
3O