MTD 5DM Series Operator's Manual page 19

2. Insert the dipstick into the engine block, but do not
screw it in. See Figure 9-2.
3. If the level is low, slowly add oil to the upper limit on
the dipstick.
4. Tighten dipstick firmly before starting engine.
IMPORTANT: Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may
cause smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling, or oil
saturation of air cleaner.
Fuel Recommendations
Use automotive gasoline (unleaded or low leaded to
minimize combustion chamber deposits) with a minimum
of 87 octane. Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol or 15%
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) can be used. Never
use an oil/gasoline mixture or dirty gasoline. Avoid
getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank. DO NOT use
E85 gasoline.
WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flam-
mable and is explosive under certain
conditions.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine
stopped. Do not smoke or allow flames or sparks
in the area where the engine is refueled or where
gasoline is stored.
Do not overfill the fuel tank (there should be no fuel
in the filler neck). After refueling, make sure the tank
cap is closed properly and securely.
Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling. Spilled
fuel or fuel vapor may ignite. If any fuel is spilled,
make sure the area is dry before starting the engine.
Avoid repeated or prolonged contact with skin or
breathing of vapor.
Check Fuel Level
1. Clean around fuel fill before removing cap to fuel.
2. Fill tank to approximately one inch below lowest
portion of neck to allow for fuel expansion. Be careful
not to overfill.
IMPORTANT: Before refueling, allow engine to cool two
minutes.
Starting The Engine
WARNING: Always keep hands and
feet clear of equipment moving parts.
Do not use a pressurized starting fluid.
Vapors are flammable.
1. Check to make sure that cylinder is in the locked
position, engaging safety switch.
2. Pull out the choke knob located on the engine. See
Figure 9-3 inset.
Oil Fill Cap/
Dipstick
Upper Level
Figure 9-2: Checking the oil level.
Figure 9-3: Starting the log splitter.
NOTE: Use of the choke may not be necessary if the
engine is warm or the air temperature is high.
3. Turn engine switch to on.
4. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt,
then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent
kickback and start engine. See Figure 9-3. If engine
does not start after ten seconds of repeated pulls, wait
a few minutes and repeat.
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the starter grip to snap
back against the rope guide. Return it gently to prevent
damage to the starter.
5. When engine warms up, push in the choke knob.
Stopping The Engine
1. Turn off the engine switch.
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9
Operating
Your
Engine