Troy-Bilt 90 Automobile Parts User Manual


 
Introduction
7
Oil type and capacity
MTD engines use oil with a SF/SG API rating or better is the recommended oil for this engine. The winter
engines use SAE 5W-30 oil and the summer engines use SAE 10W-30 oil. The oil capacity for all of the 78/83/90
series engines is 37 fl.oz (1.1 liters).
Check the oil level frequently and change the oil more frequently in severe operating conditions such as
exceptionally deep snow falls.
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 cor-
rectly break in.
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 petro-
leum based oil cannot.
No oil additives or viscosity modifiers are recommended. The performance of a good oil meeting the API
specifications will not be improved by oil additives.
NOTE: Some oil additives may cause severe and non warrantable engine damage, constituting a lubrication
failure.
NOTE: If the oil is noticeably thin, or smells of gasoline, a carburetor repair may be needed before the engine
can be run safely.
NOTE: There are two types of dip sticks that can be found
on MTD engines; a threaded dip stick that was
used on older engines and a quarter turn dip stick
that is used on engines currently being produced.
See Figure 1.4.
Figure 1.4
1/4 turn
Threaded
For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983
www.mymowerparts.com