Aztec SIDEWINDER 24 Owner's Manual page 10

BEFORE OPERATION CHECKLIST
For your safety, to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and to maximize the service life
of your equipment, it is very important to take a few minutes before you operate this machine to check
its condition. Be sure to take care of any problem you find, or have your service dealer correct it before
you operate this machine.
problem before operation, may cause a malfunction and elevated emission levels. Always perform a
pre-operation inspection before each use, and correct any problem.
Before beginning your Before Operation Checklist, the machine and engine must be on a level surface,
with the engine switch in the OFF position, and the propane tank valve is in the CLOSED position.
Always check the following items before you start the engine:
A. READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL SAFETY MESSAGES
Carefully read and understand the SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS on pages 3-8.
B. CHECK THE GENERAL CONDITION OF THE MACHINE:
1.) Look around and underneath the machine and engine for signs of oil leaks.
2.) Remove any excessive dirt or debris, especially around the muffler and recoil starter.
3.) Look for signs of damage.
4.) Check that all shields and covers are in place, and all nuts, bolts and screws are tightened.
5.) Address all of the above issues before proceeding.
C. CHECK THE ENGINE:
1.) Check the engine oil level and filters. Running the engine with a low oil level can cause
engine damage. Your first oil change should be after the first 8 hours of use.
2.) Check the air filter element. A dirty air filter element will restrict air flow to the carburetor,
reducing engine performance and potentially increasing harmful engine emissions.
D. CHECK THE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
All machines are equipped with a multi-function maintenance meter. The functions include the
following: hour meter, service alert and tachometer. (See ENGINE MAINTENANCE METER
instructions on pg 15).
E. CHECK THE ENGINE OIL
Make sure the machine is level when checking the oil. Always take two (2) readings of the
dipstick before adding oil. If the oil level is below the full mark, add just enough oil to the engine
to bring the oil level up to the full mark. Never over fill. Check for foreign material on the dipstick.
04-2017
Improperly maintaining this machine and its engine, or failure to correct a
SIDEWINDER OWNER'S MANUAL PAGE 10