ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Engine Oil Level
Engine oil level must be checked at regular intervals to
ensure that engine oil is maintained at a level that will
provide for adequate lubrication of internal components.
Operating the engine with insufficient oil in the oil sump
will cause engine components to wear prematurely, and
prolonged use with low oil levels may cause engine over-
heating, permanent damage, and voiding of the engine
manufacturer’s warranty.
In addition to following the engine manufacturer’s instruc-
tions for checking oil level, the recommendations for oil
type and viscosity must also be followed. These recom-
mendations vary based on the season during which the
unit is being operated, and may require that the oil be
changed to suit different operating conditions.
The location of the oil level indicator and oil fill tube are
indicated in the engine manufacturer’s manual shipped
with each unit. In general, the oil fill tube is marked with
an oil can symbol or the word “OIL”, and is located next
to the engine to permit easy access (See Figures 1 and
2).
The engine oil fill tube is usually also the location of the
engine oil level dipstick, allowing oil level checks and fill-
ing to be performed using the same tube.
Engine Oil Filter
The engine oil filter should be changed in accordance
with the engine manufacturer’s recommendations, which
is generally every 50 hours of operation, or more fre-
quently when operating conditions are hot (over 85°), or
dusty.
The oil filter removes abrasive particles and other conta-
minants from the oil, keeping it clean for maximum lubri-
cation efficiency, and should only be replaced with the
type of filter recommended by the engine manufacturer.
The oil filter is located at the base of the engine, and is
removed by unscrewing the filter from the filter base
using an oil filter wrench (See Figures 1 and 2).
Engine Air Filter
The engine air filter filters out dust and dirt from the air
intake of the engine, and must be cleaned or replaced
every 25 hours of operation, or more frequently when
operating conditions are dusty.
Follow the engine manufacturer’s recommendations for
removal, cleaning, and replacement. See Figures 2-1
through 2-3 for air filter locations.
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