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Spark Plug Service
DO NOT check for spark with spark
plug removed. DO NOT crank engine with spark
plug removed.
Check the spark plug yearly or every 100 operating hours. To
ensure proper engine operation, the spark plug must be properly
gapped and free of deposits.
Remove the spark plug boot.1.
Clean the area around the spark plug.2.
Use a spark plug wrench to remove the plug. 3.
If the engine has been running, the
muffler, engine head and spark plug will be very hot.
Be careful not to touch any of these components
until they have cooled.
Visually inspect the spark plug. Discard the spark plug 4.
if there is apparent wear, or if the insulator is cracked or
chipped. Replace the plug if the electrodes are pitted,
burned or fouled with deposits.
Clean the spark plug with a wire brush if it is to be reused.5.
Measure the plug gap with a feeler gauge. Correct as 6.
necessary by bending side electrode. See Fig. 6-4. The gap
should be set to 0.030 in. (0.76mm).
Check that the spark plug washer is in good condition7.
Thread the spark plug in by hand to prevent cross-8.
threading.
After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a spark plug
wrench to compress the washer.
NOTE: When installing a new spark plug, tighten ⁄ turn
after the spark plug seats to compress the washer. When
reinstalling a used spark plug, tighten ⁄-⁄ turn after the
spark plug seats to compress the washer.
NOTE: The spark plug must be securely tightened. An
improperly tightened spark plug can become very hot and
may damage the engine.
Air Filter
NOTE: Not all engines have air filters, such as engines used for
snow throwers. Service the air filter if one is present.
Paper filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced once a year
or every 100 operating hours; more often if used in extremely
dusty conditions.
Never use gasoline or low flash point
solvents for cleaning the air cleaner element. A fire
or explosion could result.
NOTE: Never run the engines that have air filters without them.
Rapid engine wear can result.
Press the tab on the air filter cover and lift the cover, or 1.
un-thread the thumbscrews, depending on the model of
engine you have. See Fig. 6-5.
Replace paper element when dirty or damaged. Clean 2.
foam element or replace when damaged.
To clean foam element, separate it from the paper element 3.
and wash in liquid detergent and water. Allow to dry
thoroughly before using. Do not oil the foam element.
Adjustments
DO NOT make any engine adjustments. Factory settings are
satisfactory for most conditions. If adjustments are needed,
contact your Authorized MTD Servicing Dealer.
Carburetor
If you think you carburetor needs adjusting, see your nearest
Authorized MTD Servicing Dealer. Engine performance should
NOT be affected at altitudes up to 7,000 feet (2,134 meters). For
operation at higher elevations, contact your Authorized MTD
Servicing Dealer
0.06-0.03 in.
0.60-0.80 mm
se c t i O n 6 — Ma i n t e n a n c e