Storage - Craftsman 580.327203 Operator's Manual

GENERAL
The generator should be started at least once every
seven days and allowed to run at least 30 minutes. If
this cannot be done and you must store the unit for
more than 30 days, use the following information as a
guide to prepare it for storage.
DANGER!
NEVER store engine with fuel in
tank indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated
areas where fumes may reach an open flame,
spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water
heater, clothes dryer or other gas appliance.
LONG TERM STORAGE
It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in
essential fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel
hose or tank during storage. Also, experience
indicates that alcohol-blended fuels (called gasohol,
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture, which leads
to separation and formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer, as
follows:
• Remove all gasoline from the fuel tank.
DANGER!
Drain fuel into approved container
outdoors, away from open flame. Be sure
engine is cool. Do not smoke.
• Start and run engine until engine stops from lack of
fuel.

STORAGE

• Disconnect negative battery cable from battery.
• While engine is still warm, drain oil from crankcase.
Refill with recommended grade.
• Remove spark plug and pour about 1/2 ounce
(15 ml) of engine oil into the cylinder. Cover spark
plug hole with rag. Pull recoil starter slowly to
distribute oil.
CAUTION
when cranking engine.
• Install and tighten spark plug. Do not connect spark
plug wire.
• Clean the generator outer surfaces. Check that
cooling air slots and openings on generator are
open and unobstructed.
• Store the unit in a clean, dry place.
OTHER STORAGE TIPS:
• Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.
Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause
problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to
give protection from dust and dirt. BE SURE TO
EMPTY THE FUEL TANK.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that
does not retain moisture.
DANGER
engine and exhaust area are warm.
17
! Avoid spray from spark plug hole
! NEVER cover your generator while