Homelite HG3550 Operator's Manual page 13

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983
CHECKING/ADDING FUEL
See Figure 4.
 Check the fuel level gauge. If fuel is needed, continue
with the next step.
 Remove the fuel cap.
 Fill the fuel tank to 1 in. below the top of the fuel neck.
 Replace and secure the fuel cap.
NOTE: Always use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane
rating of 86 or higher. Never use old, stale, or contaminated
gasoline, and do not use an oil/gas mixture. Do not allow
dirt or water into the fuel tank.
USING FUEL STABILIZER
Fuel gets old, oxidizes, and breaks down over time. Add-
ing a fuel stabilizer extends the usable life of fuel and helps
prevent deposits from forming that can clog the fuel system.
Follow fuel stabilizer manufacturer's directions for correct
ratio of stabilizer to fuel.
 Add stabilizer to fuel tank, then fill with gasoline following
previous instructions.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer and gasoline can be mixed prior
to filling the tank by using a gas can or other approved
fuel container and shaking gently to combine.
 Replace and secure the fuel tank cap.
 Start and run the engine for at least 5 minutes to allow
stabilizer to treat the entire fuel system.
OXYGENATED FUELS
Some conventional gasolines are blended with alcohol or an
ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred
to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some
areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels
to help reduce emissions.
If using an oxygenated fuel, make sure it is unleaded and
meets the minimum octane rating requirements. Before using
an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some
states/provinces require this information to be posted on the
pump. The following are the EPA approved percentages of
oxygenates:
Ethanol (ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% by volume. You
may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume.
Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the
name "Gasohol."
OPERATION
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MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) 15% by volume. You
may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.
Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) 5% by volume. You
may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume
as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibi-
tors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more
than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or
performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber,
and plastic parts of the generator or your fuel system.
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another
service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.
NOTE: Fuel system damage or performance problems
resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more
than the percentages of oxygenates stated previously are
not covered under warranty.
FUEL LEVEL
GAUGE
FUEL TANK
FUEL CAP
Fig. 4