Storage - Toro RP-500 Operator's Manual

Important: Replace a cracked, fouled, or dirty
spark plug. Do not clean the electrodes because
grit entering the cylinder can damage the engine.
5. Set the gap on the plug to 0.030 inch (0.76 mm) (Figure
24).
Figure 24
1. Center electrode insulator
2. Side electrode
3. Air gap (not to scale)
6. Carefully install the spark plug by hand (to avoid cross
threading) until it is hand tight.
7. Tighten the spark plug an additional 1/2 turn if it is
new; otherwise, tighten it an additional 1/8 to 1/4 turn.
Important: A loose spark plug can become very
hot and can damage the engine; overtightening a
spark plug may damage the threads in the cylinder
head.
8. Connect the wire to the spark plug.

Storage

1. Stop the engine, and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Remove dirt and grime from the machine.
Important: You can wash the machine with mild
detergent and water. Do not pressure wash the
machine. Avoid excessive use of water, especially
near the engine.
3. Service the air cleaner; refer to (page ).
4. Change the engine oil; refer to Checking the Engine
Oil Level (page 9).
5. For storage over 30 days, prepare the unit as follows:
A. Add a petroleum based stabilizer/conditioner to
fuel in the tank. Follow mixing instructions from
stabilizer manufacturer (1 oz. per gallon). Do
not use an alcohol based stabilizer (ethanol
or methanol).
Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most
effective when mixed with fresh gasoline and used
at all times.
B. Run the engine until it stops from running out
of fuel.
C. Choke the engine.
D. Start and run the engine until it will not start again.
E. Dispose of fuel properly. Recycle as per local
codes.
Important: Do not store stabilizer/conditioned
gasoline over 90 days.
6. Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair or
replace any part that is damaged.
7. Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paint is
available from your Authorized Service Dealer.
8. Store the machine in a clean, dry garage or storage area.
9. Cover the machine to protect it and keep it clean.
17