Preparing Engine; Preparing Snow Thrower - Craftsman 247.888500 Owner's Manual

Ifyoursnowthrower i sleftunused for30daysor
longer, it needs to beprepared f orstorage. Also,at
theendofthesnowseason, youshould follow the
samesetofinstructions a ndstorethesnowthrower
properly fortheoff-season. Proper s torage ensures
longer l ifeofthesnowthrower.
Preparing Engine
WARNING: Never store snow th rower with
fuel in tank indoors or in poorly ventilated
areas, where fuel fumes may reach an open
flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace,
water heater, clothes dryer or gas
appliance.
It is important to prevent gum deposits from
forming in essential fuel system parts of the
engine such as the carburetor, fuel fiIter,
fuel hose or tank during storage.
Also experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuet system of an engine while
in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system shouldbe
emptied before storage for 30 days or longer. Follow
these instructions to prepare your snow thrower for
storage:
• Remove all gasoline from the carburetor and the
fuel tank to prevent gum deposits from forming
on these parts and causing possible malfunction
of the engine.
WARNING: Drain fuel into approved
container outdoors, away from any open
flame. Be certain engine is cool. Do not
smoke.
Fuel left inengine during warm weather
deteriorates and will cause serious starting
problems.
Run the engine until the fuel tank is empty and it
stops due to lack of fuel.
Drain carburetor by pressing upward on bowl
drain, located below the carburetor cover. See
Figure 29.
WARNING: Do not drain carburetor if using
fueI stabilizer. Never use engine or
carburetor cleaning products in the fuel tank
or permanent damage may occur.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer (such as STA-BIL) is an
acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation of
fue! gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to
gasoline in fuel tank or storage container. Always
follow mix ratio found on stabilizer container. Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer to
allow it to reach the carburetor. Do not drain
carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
Remove the spark plug and pour one (1) ounce
of engine oil through the spark plug hole into the
cylinder. Crankthe engine several times to
distribute the oil. Replace spark plug.
Preparing Snow Thrower
When storing the snow thrower in an
unventilated or metal storage shed, care should
be taken to rustproof the equipment. Using a
light oil or silicone, coat the equipment,
especially any chains, springs, bearings and
cables.
Remove all dirt from exterior of engine and
equipment.
Follow lubrication recommendations on
page 17.
Store in a clean, dry area.
Bowl Drain
Figure 29
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