Engine Oil - MTD 2010 Shop Manual

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Engine oil

Currently there are four engines available for the MTD log splitter. A generic oil change procedure will be
described in this manual. For specific instructions, refer to the engine service manual.
Drain plug
Figure 8.1
Oil type and quantity
Use a quality SAE 10W30 motor oil certified to meet or exceed American Petroleum Institute (A.P.I.) require-
ments for service classification SM. Motor oils classified SM will show this designation on the container. Synthetic oil
is a suitable alternative, but it does not extend service intervals.
NOTE: MTD recommends the use of petroleum oil during the break in period to ensure the piston rings break
in correctly.
NOTE: Synthetic vs. Petroleum based oil: To simply look at synthetic oil and to compare it with Petroleum
based oil there is very little difference. However, when you look at the two through a microscope it is
easy to see the difference. Synthetic is made up of smaller molecules. This allows the oil to get into
areas that petroleum based oil cannot.
The engine oil capacities are listed in the chart below.:
Engine oil capacities:
Engine model number
1P70L0
170-L0
178-L0
GCV160LA0
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To change the oil:
1. Clean around the base of the engine.
2. Place a suitable container under the engine to catch
the oil.
3. Remove the drain plug. See Figure 8.1.
4. Remove the dip stick.
5. When the oil stops draining, install the drain plug.
6. Fill the engine with oil.
7. Install the dip stick.
8. Test run the log splitter before returning it to service
Oil capacity
20 oz (0.6 L)
20 oz (0.6 L)
30 oz (0.9 L)
19 oz (0.55 L)
Maintenance
63