Off-Season Storage - Craftsman PGT9000 Operator's Manual

PREPARINg THE ENgINE
IMPORTANT: Fuel left in the fuel tank during warm weather deterio-
rates and will cause serious starting problems.
To prevent gum deposits from forming inside the engine's carburetor
and causing possible malfunction of the engine, the fuel system must
be either completely emptied, or the gasoline must be treated with a
stabilizer to prevent deterioration.
If using a fuel stabilizer:
a. Read the product manufacturer's instructions and recom-
mendations.
b. Add to clean, fresh gasoline the correct amount of stabilizer
for the capacity of the fuel system.
c. Fill the fuel tank with treated fuel and run the engine for 2-3
minutes to get stabilized fuel into the carburetor.
If emptying the fuel system:
a. Do not drain fuel when the engine is hot. Allow the engine
adequate time to cool. Drain fuel into an approved container
outdoors, away from open flame.
b. Drain any large volume of fuel from the tank by disconnect-
ing the fuel line from the in-line fuel filter near the engine.
See To Drain the Fuel on page 28.
WARNINg
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can be explosive under certain
conditions. Drain gasoline before storing the equipment for extended
periods. Drain fuel only into an approved container outdoors, away
from an open flame. Allow engine to cool. Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition prior to draining fuel.
Store gasoline in an approved container in safe location.
c. Reconnect the fuel line and run the engine until it starts to
falter, then use the choke to keep the engine running until all
fuel in the carburetor has been exhausted.
d. Disconnect the fuel line and drain any remaining gasoline
from the system.
WARNINg
Gasoline is a toxic substance. Dispose of gasoline properly. Contact
your local authorities for approved disposal methods.
Remove the spark plug and pour one (1) ounce of engine oil through
the spark plug hole into the cylinder. Crank the engine several times to
distribute the oil. Replace the spark plug.

OFF-SEASOn STOrAGE

WARNINg
Never store garden tractor with fuel in tank indoors or in poorly
ventilated areas where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark,
or pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, or gas
appliance.
PREPARINg THE gARDEN TRACTOR
• Clean and lubricate tractor thoroughly as described in the
lubrication instructions.
• Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your
unit.
• Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
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