Craftsman C459-52100 Operator's Manual page 14

5. After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a spark plug wrench to
compress the washer.
NOTE: When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1⁄2-turn after the
spark plug seats to compress the washer. When reinstalling a used
spark plug, tighten 1⁄8- to 1⁄4-turn after the spark plug seats to
compress the washer.
CAUTION
The spark plug must be tightened securely. A loose spark plug can
become very hot and can damage the engine.
Cleaning the Engine
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least half an hour
before cleaning. Periodically remove dirt build-up from engine. Before
servicing the engine, remove the carburetor cover and/or blower
housing. Clean the dirt and debris from the following areas:
• Cooling Fins
• Air Intake Screen or Recoil Starter/Flywheel Guard Areas
• Spark Plug Connection
• Levers
• Linkage Area
• Guards
• Carburetor
• Engine Head
Removing debris will insure adequate cooling, correct engine speed
and reduce the risk of fire.
CAUTION
Do not spray the engine with water to clean it because the water
could contaminate the fuel. Using a garden hose or pressure washing
equipment can also force water into the muffler opening. Water that
passes through the muffler can enter the engine cylinder and cause
damage.
WARNING
Accumulation of debris around the muffler could cause a fire. Inspect
and clean before every use.
LUBRICATION
Lubricate the pivot points on the control handle and the extension
spring at the end of the control cable with a light oil once every season
and before the snow thrower is put into storage at the end of the
season.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
ADJUSTMENTS
Shave Plate
To check the adjustment of the shave plate, place the machine on a
level surface. The wheels, shave plate and auger paddles should all
contact the level surface. Note that if the shave plate is adjusted too
high, snow may blow under the auger housing. If the shave plate wears
out excessively, or the snow thrower does not self-propel, the shave
plate may be too low to the ground and needs to be adjusted.
NOTE: On new snow throwers or machines with a new shave plate
installed, the auger paddles may be slightly off the ground.
To adjust the shave plate proceed as follows:
1. Run the snow thrower until the fuel tank is empty.
2. Pull the starter cord until resistance is felt. Then tip the snow
thrower back until it rests on the handles. To ensure that the snow
thrower does not tip forward, it may be necessary to secure the
handle to the ground with a block or other object.
3. Loosen the four flange lock nuts and carriage screws which secure
the shave plate to the housing. See Figure 14. Move the shave
plate to the appropriate position and retighten the nuts and screws
securely.
Reversible Shave Plate
4. Tip the snow thrower back to the operating position and pull the
starter handle a few times to see if it is difficult to pull.
5. If the starter is difficult to pull, remove the spark plug and pull the
handle several times to ensure that any oil trapped in the engine
head is removed.
Oil may come out of the spark plug hole when it is removed and the
starter handle is pulled.
6. Inspect the spark plug. If it is wet, clean off any oil before
re-installing.
14
Side View
Screw
Lock Nut
Figure 14
CAUTION