8
Check Oil Level
The importance of checking and maintaining the proper
oil level in the crankcase cannot be overemphasized.
Check oil BEFORE EACH USE as follows:
1. Make sure the engine is stopped, level, and is
cool so the oil has had time to drain into the sump.
2. To keep dirt, grass clippings, etc., out of the
engine, clean the area around the oil fill cap or
dipstick before removing it.
3. Remove the dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the
dipstick and push it all the way down into the tube.
4. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level.
The oil level should be up to, but not over, the F
mark on the dipstick. See Figure 5.
Operating
Range
F Mark
Figure 5. Oil Level Dipstick.
5. If the level is low, add oil of the proper type, up to
the F mark on the dipstick. (Refer to Oil Type
on page 4.) Always check the level with the
dipstick before adding more oil.
NOTE: To prevent extensive engine wear or
damage, always maintain the proper oil
level in the crankcase. Never operate the
engine with the oil level below the L
mark or over the F mark on the dipstick.
Oil Sentry
Some engines are equipped with an optional Oil
Sentry oil pressure switch. If the oil pressure
decreases below an acceptable level, the Oil Sentry
will either shut off the engine or activate a warning
signal, depending on the application.
NOTE: Make sure the oil level is checked BEFORE
EACH USE and is maintained up to the F
mark on the dipstick. This includes engines
equipped with Oil Sentry.
Change Oil and Oil Filter
Change Oil
For a new engine, change oil after the first 5 hours of
operation. Thereafter, change oil as shown in the "Oil
Change Intervals" table.
Oil Change Intervals
Oil Type Engine Type Interval
Temperature ABOVE 32° F (0° C)
With Filter 50 Hours*
Without Filter 25 Hours
SAE 30
With Filter 25 Hours
Without Filter 25 Hours
Multiviscosity
With Filter 50 Hours
Without Filter 25 Hours
Multiviscosity
*NOTE: 25 hours for continuous and/or heavy duty
operation.
Change the oil while the engine is still warm. The oil
will flow freely and carry away more impurities. Make
sure the engine is level when filling, checking, or
changing the oil.
Change the oil as follows:
1. Remove the oil drain plug and oil fill cap. Tilt the
engine slightly towards the oil drain to obtain
better drainage.
2. Reinstall the drain plug. Make sure it is tightened
securely.
3. Fill with new oil of the proper type to the "F" mark
on the dipstick. Always check the level on the
dipstick before adding more oil.
NOTE: To prevent extensive engine wear or
damage, always maintain the proper oil
level in the crankcase. Never operate the
engine with the oil level below the L
mark or over the F mark on the dipstick.
4. Reinstall the oil fill cap. Make sure it is tightened
securely.
Temperature BELOW 32° F (0° C)