Craftsman C459-62206-1 Operator's Manual page 19

1. Remove the spark plug boot and use a spark plug wrench to
remove the plug. See Figure 22.
Spark Plug
2. Visually inspect the spark plug. Discard the spark plug if there is
apparent wear, or if the insulator is cracked or chipped. Clean the
spark plug with a wire brush if it is to be reused.
3. Measure the plug gap with a feeler gauge. Correct as necessary
by bending side electrode. See Figure 23. The gap should be set
to 0.030 in.
Electrode
0.02-0.03 in.
0.60-0.80 mm
4. Check that the spark plug washer is in good condition and thread
the spark plug in by hand to prevent cross-threading.
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 1⁄8-1⁄4 turn after the spark plug seats to compress
the washer.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Spark Plug
Boot
Figure 22
Figure 23
Servicing the Air Cleaner
Never use gasoline or low flash point solvents for cleaning the air
cleaner element. A fire or explosion could result.
The air cleaner prevents damaging dirt, dust, etc., from entering the
carburetor and being forced into the engine and is important to engine
life and performance. Never run the engine without an air cleaner
completely assembled. Check the air cleaner before each use.
Paper filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced once a year
or every 100 operating hours; more often if used in extremely dusty
conditions.
1. Press the tab on the air filter cover, lift the cover and remove the
air filter. See Figure 24.
Air Filter
Cover
Air
Filter
2. Discard old air filter.
3. Install new air filter.
4. Close the cover.
NOTE: If the filter is torn or damaged in any way, replace it.
Cleaning the Engine
Do not spray engine with water to clean because water could
contaminate fuel. Using a garden hose or pressure washing equip-
ment can also force water into the muffler opening. Water that passes
through the muffler can enter the cylinder, causing damage.
Accumulation of debris around muffler could cause a fire. Inspect and
clean before every use.
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least half an hour
before cleaning. Periodically remove dirt build-up from the engine.
Clean around the muffler. Clean with a brush or compressed air.
19
WARNING
Foam
Element
Figure 24
CAUTION
WARNING