Check The Oil (Before Starting Engine); Fuel Recommendations; High Altitude - Craftsman C950-52301-0 Operator's Manual

Operation
CHECK THE OIL (BEFORE STARTING EN-
GINE)
NOTE: The engine was shipped from the factory filled with oil.
Check the level of the oil. Add oil as needed.
1. Make sure the unit is level. Use a high quality detergent oil
classified "For Service SF, SH, SJ, SL, or higher".
2. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick (A, Figure 6) and wipe with a
clean cloth.
3. Insert the oil fill cap/dipstick and turn clockwise to tighten.
4. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick and check the oil.
NOTE: Do not check the level of the oil while the engine runs.
5. If necessary, add oil until the oil reaches the FULL mark
on the oil fill cap/dipstick. Do not add too much oil.
6. Tighten the oil fill cap/dipstick securely each time you check
the oil level.
NOTE: For extreme cold operating conditions of 0°F (-18°C)
and below, use a synthetic 5W30 motor oil for easier starting.
NOTE: S.A.E. 5W30 motor oil may be used to make starting
easier in areas where the temperature is 20°F (-7°C) to 0°F
(-18°C). Synthetic 5W30 is acceptable for all temperatures.
DO NOT mix oil with gasoline. See Chart for oil recommenda-
tions.

FUEL RECOMMENDATIONS

Fuel must meet these requirements:
• Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline.
• A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91 RON). High altitude
use, see below.
• Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) is acceptable.
CAUTION: Do not use unapproved gasolines, such as E15 and
E85. Do not mix oil in gasoline or modify the engine to run on
alternate fuels. Use of unapproved fuels will damage the engine
components and void the engine warranty.
To protect the fuel system from gum formation, mix a fuel stabi-
lizer into the fuel. See Storage. All fuel is not the same. If start-
ing or performance problems occur, change fuel providers or
change brands. This engine is certified to operate on gasoline.
The emissions control system for this engine is EM (Engine
Modifications).
14
* Below 40°F (4°C) the use of SAE 30 will result in hard starting.
** Above 80°F (27°C) the use of 10W-30 may cause increased oil con-
sumption. Check oil level more frequently.
A

HIGH ALTITUDE

At altitudes over 5,000 feet (1524 meters), a minimum 85 oc-
tane/85 AKI (89 RON) gasoline is acceptable. To remain emis-
sions compliant, high altitude adjustment is required. Operation
without this adjustment will cause decreased performance, in-
creased fuel consumption, and increased emissions. See an
authorized Briggs & Stratton Dealer for high altitude adjustment
information.
Operation of the engine at altitudes below 2,500 feet (762 me-
ters) with high altitude adjustment is not recommended.
FULL
Figure 6