AIRFORCE F-15 Gen 3 User manual

Owner’s Manual
F-15
Issue: 08-01-2016
S/N Start: AF15-11430

©2015 Air Force Hover Mowers. All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America
Other Equipment from Seago
Air Force Hover Mowers: Air Force Hover Mowers come in two models,
the full size F-19 and the smaller, 2-stroke F-15.
Atom Edgers: The Atom Cart Path Edger is fastest walk-behind edger in the
world. Shaft drive and cross over blades for unmatched speed and safety.
The optional Wire Wheel Brush Blade is outstanding on asphalt paths.
BowDry: Quiet and incredibly efficient, the BowDry REMOVES water, it
doesn’t just move it. The large foam wrapped roller collects standing water
off any surface and then it is siphoned off into a 16 gallon rear holding tank.
Hover Trimmer: This dynamic attachment will turn any string trimmer into
a hovering trimmer for grass or brush. The shaped Quad-blade provides anti
-scalping float while the hood keep debris away from the operator.
Masport Mowers: Three models all featuring the commercial grade Briggs &
Stratton 850 Series engine and single handle height of cut adjustment.
Rotarola is a rear roller rotary mower that delivers an excellent cut and
dynamic stripe at a reasonable cost. The Rotarola provides look of
a reel cut with the low maintenance and convenience of a rotary.
M800ST SP is a 3-N-1 (rear bag, side discharge and mulch) 21” wide
steel deck mower with commercial grade, axle mounted gear box,
sturdy collection bag and adjustable handle.
M800 Utility is a bullet proof side discharge push mower. Extra heavy
duty deck, firm external frame and bearings on all wheels make a
rugged yet easy to use mower.
PortaPump and PortaPump Junior: An incredibly portable 33 GPM trash
pump powered by a 35cc Honda commercial engine. A one person pump
station that is perfect for draining bunkers, flooded areas, plugged drains and
irrigation breaks. The PortaPump Junior is a commercial grade 30 GPM
trash pump that mounts to your string trimmer or brush cutter instantly
converting it to a pump station.
Spyker Spreaders: Spyker offers various sized of walk-behind, tow-behind,
electric, drop and ride on spreaders. Spyker is competitively priced and
offers a lifetime warranty on its metal gears and superior components and
workmanship. Compare Spyker to other brands and see the difference in the
quality of the machine and the performance on your turf.
For more information or to locate the dealer near you, please call
800-780-9889 or visit www.seagousa.com.

Contents 3
Specifications 4
Introduction 5
Description of Intended Use 5
Foreseeable Misuse 5
Warranty 6
Safety Symbols 7
Safety Precautions 8
Residual Risk 8
Preparation 8-10
Transport 11
Maintenance & Storage 11
Machine Assembly 12
Before Starting the Machine 13
Prevent Engine Damage 13
Fuel Mixing Instructions 13
Fuel Level Check 13
Fuel Type 13
Air Filter Check 13
Operating the Machine 14-15
Starting the Machine 14
Cutting Flat Landscapes 14
Cutting Slopes and Banks 14
Stopping the Machine 15
Cutting Height Adjustment 15
Engine Care 16
Running the Engine 16
Stopping the Engine 16
Machine Maintenance 17-19
Cleaning the Air Cleaner 17
Servicing the Spark Plug 17
Keeping the Engine Clean 17
Deck Housing 17
Nuts and Bolts 18
Fuel Maintenance 18
Maintaining the cutting System 18
Sharpening the SS Blades 19
Mower Storage 19
Maintenance Schedule 20
Service Scheduling 20
Troubleshooting 21
Diagrams 22-25
Mower Diagram 22
Mower Parts List 23
Engine Diagram 24
Engine Parts List 25
Notes 26-27
Customer Information 28
Table of Contents
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Mower Model: F-15
Engine: JN-60
Engine Type: 2-stroke
Engine Size: 63.3cc
Engine Speed: 5,500 RPM
Fuel Type: 25:1
Fuel Capacity: 0.3 gallons
Engine Oil Type: 2-stroke oil
Cutting Width: 15 inches
Dry Weight: 22 pounds
Vibration Level: 21 m/s
2
Recorded Noise Level: 90 db(A)
Specifications
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Description of Intended Use
Foreseeable Misuse
Thank you for purchasing the Air Force Hover Mower. The following pages
are to give you information about maintenance, operation, safety and
specifications instructions regarding your new mower. We strongly
recommend reading the manual before your first use.
All references to the left and right side of the machine are as viewed from
behind the mower in the operator’s position.
This manual is written based on information available at the time of
publications. Air Force reserves the right to amend the product,
specifications, and information within the manual without prior notification.
The Air Force Hover Mower is designed for cutting grass and low-to-the-
ground vegetation. It consists of one JN-60 2-stroke engine, robust one-piece
injection molded cutting area and support frame; pivoting two-piece fixing
bracket and operators guide handle; pivot handle release foot lever; throttle
control cable, and engine break cable.
The Air Force Hover Mower should only be operated, repaired or serviced
by persons knowledgeable about the machine and familiar with the safety
features. Correct operation and maintenance will ensure the long service of
the machine.
The machine should only be used by trained personnel and outside in clear
weather conditions.
Any other use, other than the cutting of grass and low-lying vegetation, is
considered contrary to the intended use of the machine. Strict adherence and
compliance with the conditions of operation, repair, and service as stated in
this manual are required.
Do not operate the machine if you have not been trained. Do not climb, sit or
step on the deck, engine or handles of the machine. Do not start the machine
unless it is on flat ground in a safe area away from any debris that can fly
Introduction
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LIMITED WARRANTY
The manufacturer warrants to the original purchaser that this unit shall be
free from defect in material and workmanship under normal use and service
for a period of one year from the date of purchase. The manufacturer of the
engine furnishes their own warranty and services through their authorized
network. The manufacturer is not included in said network.
To qualify for the full benefit of the Air Force warranty, the warranty
registration card must be returned to the distributor. If your selling dealer
does not offer this service, please fill out and return the enclosed warranty
registration card. Subject to the conditions and exclusions noted in the
Limited Warranty, we shall at our option, repair or replace any warranty part
during the applicable period. If you are in doubt or experience any difficulty,
please consult your Authorized Dealer for clarification.
A 90-day warranty period applies to those items which are subject to normal
wear and tear: blade systems, cables, etc.
This warranty does not apply to any unit that has been tampered with,
altered, misused, abused or used for hire, and will become invalid if
non-genuine parts are fitted at any time. This warranty does not cover minor
mechanical adjustments unless they are due to defective material or
workmanship. Consult the Owner’s Manual or your Authorized Dealer for
assistance when making these adjustments.
To make a warranty claim, contact your Authorized Dealer with your proof
of purchase, which states the machine serial number and date of purchase.
The dealer will, at our option, repair or replace any warranty part within the
duration of the warranty period. If your dealer does not provide services,
please contact the distributor directly with your proof of purchase.
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights and is in addition to any
statutory rights to which you may be entitled; your statutory rights are not
affected by this warranty.
US / CANADA ONLY: Information regarding Authorized Dealers can be
obtained by contacting Seago International.
Web: www.seagousa.com
Phone: [phone]
Warranty
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Safety Symbols
Manual: Read the instruction manual before using machine.
Use the Manual: Refer to the manual when making any
adjustments or repairs to the machine.
Spark Plug: Disconnect the spark plug when doing any
work on the machine .
Hot Surface: Be aware of the hot surfaces of your machine
during and after use.
Protective Gear: Always wear protective ear and eye gear
when operating the machine.
Safe Distancing: Keep a safe distance of pedestrians and pets
while the machine is in operation due to flying debris.
Safe Footing: Be aware of your footing and wear the proper
footwear when operating the machine on an incline.
Warning: Always be alert of possible hazards and your work
environment.
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Safety Precautions
Your machine is perfectly safe if used correctly. Failure to observe the
following precautions may result in serious injury.
Residual Risks
Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Do not run the engine without
adequate ventilation, and never run the engine indoors.
The engine and exhaust become hot during use. Keep the engine 1 meter (3
feet) away from buildings and other equipment during operation. Use heat
resistant gloves when working with the engine block during or after use.
The engine uses flammable liquids. Keep fire elements away from the
machine and store flammable liquids safely.
Operators are to use safety gear at all times. The blade system can cause
injury if it comes in contact with the body, can expel sand, dirt, rocks, sticks,
etc. during use.
Training
Read the Owner’s Manual and other informational material that came with
your new mower. If the operator or mechanic cannot read English, it is the
owner’s responsibility to explain this material to them.
Become familiar with the safe operation of the mower, operator controls, and
safety signs.
All operators and mechanics should be trained. The owner is responsible for
training all users.
The owner/operator is responsible for and can prevent accidents or injuries
occurring to themselves, others and property by adhering to the safety
instructions in this manual.
Never let children or untrained people operate or service the mower. Local
regulations may restrict the age of the operator.
Preparation
While using the machine, always wear substantial protective footwear and
long pants. Do not operate the equipment when barefoot or wearing open-toe
shoes.
Wear appropriate clothing including hard hat, safety glasses and hearing
protection. Long hair, loose clothing or jewelry may get tangled in moving
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Safety Precautions
Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and attachments are
needed to properly and safely perform the job. Only use accessories and
attachments approved by Air Force.
Inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all objects
such as rocks, toys, and wire which can be thrown by the machine.
Use extra care when handling gasoline and other flammable fuels. Vapors are
explosive.
(a) Use only approved fuel containers
(b) Never remove fuel cap or add fuel when the engine is operating
(c) DO NOT SMOKE while operating the machine
(d) Never refuel or drain the machine indoors
(e) Always use fresh fuel. Stale fuel can block the carburetor and
cause leaks.
Check that the Operator Presence Control (OPC) and safety switches are
attached and functioning properly.
Keep all parts in good working condition and all hardware tightened.
Replace all worn or damaged decals.
Do not use near children or pets.
A damaged cutting device and/or impeller must be replaced. Before use,
always visually inspect the cutting system to ensure that it is in good
condition. Do not operate with an out-of-balance cutting system or impeller.
Operation
Do not operate the engine in an enclosed space where exhaust fumes (carbon
monoxide) can collect. Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while
refueling.
Do not operate the machine under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Always pull the starter cord slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull the cord
rapidly to avoid kickback and prevent hand or arm injury. Ensure that feet
are away from the cutting system.
Operate only in daylight or good artificial light, keeping away from holes
and hidden hazards.
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Safety Precautions
Avoid operating the machine in wet grass. Be sure of your footing while
using this product, especially when backing up. Reduced footing could cause
slipping.
Walk, never run when operating the Air Force Hover Mower.
Operate across the face of slopes, never up and down. Slow down and use
extra care when making turns or changing direction on slopes. Be sure to
travel in the recommended direction on slopes. Turf conditions can affect the
machine’s stability. Use caution while operating near drop-offs.
Never raise the deck with the blades in motion. Stop the engine before
moving the machine across areas other than grass.
Never operate without the safety guards in place.
Do not change the engine governor settings or over speed the engine.
Never touch the exhaust/exhaust guard or cooling fins with the engine is hot.
Stop engine and disconnect the park plug lead:
(1) Before clearing blockages
(2) Before cleaning, checking or working on the machine
(3) After striking a foreign object. Inspect the machine for damage
and ensure necessary repairs are made before re-starting
(4) If the machine starts to vibrate abnormally (check immediately).
An out of balance cutting device causes severe vibration.
Stop engine:
(1) Whenever you leave the machine
(2) Before refueling
Keep hands and feet away from the cutting system.
To start, machine should be on flat ground, clear of debris.
Do not start on tables, carts, vehicles, utility work spaces, etc.
Always use protective eye wear to protect from flying debris.
Always wear protective ear coverings to protect from excessive noise levels.
Noise levels recorded at the Operator’s position for this machine were 90 db
(A).
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Safety Precautions
Transport
To transport by hand, ensure footstop is securely in place, lift machine by the
upper bar of the lower handle and walk the machine. If transporting over
lawn, user may engage the engine and push the machine to the destination.
If transporting in a utility vehicle, ensure the engine is off and do not start
the engine until it is back on the lawn.
Maintenance & Storage
Disengage the drive, stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug. Wait for
all movement to stop before adjusting, cleaning or repairing. Keep hands and
feet away from moving parts.
Clean the cutting system, drive, muffler and engine of any grass or debris to
prevent fires. Clean up any fuel/oil spills.
Never store machine with gasoline in the tank within an enclosed area where
fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
Park the machine on level ground. Never allow untrained persons to service
the machine.
Remove the spark plug before attempting any repairs. Never check for a
spark when the spark plug is removed. Use an approved tester.
Keep all parts in good working condition and all hardware tightened.
Replace all worn or damaged decals. Always replace worn or faulty parts
with genuine Air Force Hover Mower parts.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosures. To reduce the risk
of fire hazard, keep the engine and the surrounding deck area free of grass,
leaves, and excessive grease.
Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. Do not store fuel near flames or
drain indoors.
If the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done outdoors and when the
engine is cool.
Wear strong work gloves when removing and reassembling the cutting
device.
Never replace the cutting mechanisms with metal parts and only use cutting
mechanisms which are suitable for use at the operating speed of the machine.
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Arrival Checklist
Remove the machine from its packaging and make sure you’ve received all
of the following parts to ensure your mower is correctly assembled:
(5) Throttle Securing Bolt
(6) Brake Securing Bolt
(8) Handle Securing Kit
(10) Footstop Securing Kit
(11) Deck/Handle Kit
(**) Cable Ties (not shown)
[If any pieces are missing, contact your dealer.]
Assembling the Machine
Step One: Lower Handlebar Assembly
To fit the lower handle to both sides, align the holes (footstop assembly on
the right side) and insert the sleeves, bushes, bolts, washers and nuts as
shown. (Uses Kit # 11 – Deck Handle Kit)
Step Two: Upper Handle Assembly
To fit the upper handle on both sides, align the holes and fit the bolts,
washers, and nuts. (Uses Kit #8 – Handle Securing Kit)
Step Three: Throttle & OPC Cable Assembly
Attach the throttle assembly to the outside right handle bar using the #5
Throttle Securing Bolt & washer. (Secure the cable to the upper and lower
handle using the provided ties.) Attach the OPC Cable in the front of the
right handle using the #6 Brake Securing Bolt through the back of the
handle.
Step Four: Footstop Assembly
To fit the footstop to the lower handle, align holes to the outside right lower
handle and fit the sleeve, bolt and nut from the inside to the outside of the
handle, and fit the nut to the outside of the handle. (Uses Kit #10 – Footstop
Securing Kit).
Machine Assembly
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Before Starting the Machine
Prevent Engine Damage
To prevent damage to the engine, the machine is shipped without any fluids.
The engine must be filled with the correct grade of oil and fuel mix before
starting the engine.
Fuel Mixing Instructions
When operating the Air Force Hover Mower, always use a ration of 25:1 to
ensure the highest quality performance. To prolong the life of your engine,
change the oil mix after the first five hours of use.
Fuel Level Check
When filling the fuel tank, the fuel mix should fill the tank up to the base of
the neck to allow for fuel expansion. Do not overfill the fuel tank.
Fuel Type
Always use clean, unleaded fuel and 2-stroke oil to mix. Purchase these
liquids in a 30-day quantity to keep fresh fuel on hand.
Air Filter Check
To ensure proper air flow and maximum engine performance, check and
clean the air filter often. Use gasoline to clean the filter. Once debris is
cleared, dip the filter in oil and wring out. Place filter back in the case and
close the air filter cover.
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Starting the Machine
Ensure that the Brake Handle moves freely and returns to its resting position
when released.
Starting the Machine
Step One:
Push the mower throttle control lever into the open position. Pump the
primer bulb behind the fuel tank to release fuel. Close the engine choke
lever. If the engine is warm, the choke may not be needed.
Step Two:
Release the handlebar from the footstop. Hold the Brake Handle to the upper
handle, place your foot on the right side or on the rear of the deck. Pull the
recoil starter rope lightly until you feel resistance, then pull with a slow and
steady motion. Return the starter grip gently.
Note: DO NOT YANK or pull sharply on the starter as it will greatly
reduce the life of the starter line and starter mechanism. It is much better to
use a steady pull just hard enough to overcome the resistance of the engine
compression.
Note : When pulling on the starter, try to keep a low angle so that the rope
comes out of the starter case at an even and level angle. This is greatly
reduce wear and tear on the starter and increase the longevity of this part.
Note : The Brake Handle must be held firmly against the handlebar to start
and keep the engine running. If it is released, the engine and blade system
will stop.
Step Three:
Once started, move the throttle lever to the closed position and allow the
engine to warm up.
To prevent damage, never pull the recoil starter handle while the engine is
running.
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Operating the Machine
Cutting Flat Landscapes
Begin at the edge of the lawn and mow in a straight line back and forth as
you would with a regular walk behind machine.
Cutting Slopes and Banks
Begin at the top and swing the machine from side to side while carefully and
slowly moving down the slope. Keep the machine moving to reduce strain
on the engine.
Caution: Never stand below or beside the machine while mowing an
embankment. Always stand higher on the slope than the machine.
Stopping the Machine
Release the Engine Brake Handle to stop the machine. If the engine fails to
stop, pull the black rubber cover on the front of the engine to release the
spark plug lead from the engine.
Cutting Height Adjustment
Your machine is shipped with the cutting disc in the highest position. Follow
these steps to adjust to the desired height of cut:
(1) Disconnect the spark plug.
(2) Tilt the machine onto its left side, keeping the carburetor up.
(3) Wearing protective hand gear, remove the Disc Securing Bolt
with holding the cutting system.
(4) Remove the three spacers and the cutting system.
(5) Reposition the spacers and cutting system for desired height of
cut.
(6) Fit the Disc Securing Bolt back to the machine. Bolt should be installed
to 18ft pounds of torque.
Note: Large spacer must be positioned directly below the impeller at all
times.
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Operating the Machine
Prevent An Accident
Inspect the cutting area before using the mower. Any objects other than grass
and leaves should be removed to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
Inspect for hidden obstructions, which would cause health and safety risks
when coming in contact with the cutting system. Make note of the
obstructions and mow around them.
Running the Engine
When first starting the engine, allow the engine to run 1-2 minutes at a low
speed to warm it up. Once the engine is ready, adjust the throttle as needed
and begin mowing.
Do not accelerate abruptly. Avoid idling the machine at a fast speed. This
not only shortens the engine life but can cause internal damage of the
machine and void the warranty.
Stopping the Engine
Reduce the engine speed to the lowest setting and idle for 1-2 minutes.
Release the Engine Brake Handle to shut the engine down.
If the engine shows signs of distress during use, refer to the Troubleshooting
section for help.
Engine Care

Machine Maintenance
To prevent accidents, disconnect the spark plug whenever you are
performing any maintenance procedures on the machine.
Cleaning the Air Cleaner
Remove the air cleaner cover (1) by releasing the catch behind the fuel tank
(2) and tilting away from the engine body until it’s released. Remove the air
cleaner (3) and bath the foam in fuel and oil or soap and water. If it’s too
dirty or damaged, replace. To clean the filter base, tap on a hard surface or
blow out with air.
After cleaning the air cleaner, return it back to the case and insert the cover
on the left side, pushing the cover towards the engine body until the catches
hold in place.
Servicing the Spark Plug
Use only an approved spark plug tester. Replace the spark plug every 100
hours or every season (whichever occurs first).
Check the spark plug gap with a feeler gauge and calibrate at 0.5 – 0.7mm.
Keeping the Engine Clean
Remove all debris and grass from the engine, including the exhaust and
exhaust guard, air ways in the top cowl, and surrounding deck areas on a
daily basis or after each use. Do not pressure-wash the machine during
cleaning. Water can contaminate the fuel. Always clean with a brush or
compressed air.
Grass and debris may clog the engine’s air cooling system especially after
prolonged operation or cutting tall, dry grass. The internal cooling fans and
surfaces may require cleaning to prevent the engine from overheating.
Deck Housing
Remove debris and grass from both sides of the deck immediately after each
use.
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Page| 18
Machine Maintenance
Nuts and Bolts
Check all securing nuts and bolts regularly to ensure they remain tight.
Replace missing or damaged items immediately.
Fuel Maintenance
Before each use, check the fuel level and ensure that a correct level is
maintained. Refer to the “Before Starting the Machine” section for
instructions. The proper ratio of fuel to oil is 25:1.
Change the fuel after the initial first five hours of use. Follow the
maintenance schedule thereafter.
Maintaining the Cutting System
The condition of the cutting system and supporting mounting system should
be checked regularly for signs of wear or damage. A damaged cutting system
will become out of balance and cause the machine to vibrate excessively.
The cutting
system could damage the deck, impeller and other pieces under the deck and
lead to damage to engine or operator.
DO NOT use a damaged / unbalanced cutting system. Replace the cutting
system every two years or as wear and damage demand.
Regularly ensure the Disc Securing Bolt is tightened. Do not start machine
on tables, carts, utility work spaces, vehicles, etc.
Prevent An Accident
Never work on the mower unless the spark plug lead has been removed.
ALWAYS wear strong gloves to protect your hands. ALWAYS use genuine
parts.

To replace the cutting system:
(1) Drain the fuel by running the engine dry (engine will stop).
(2) Remove the spark plug lead and allow the engine to cool.
(3) Turn the machine on its left-hand side (carburetor up).
If you only need to replace the blades or the blade securing kit, you would
not need to remove the cutting disc from the machine. If you need to replace
the entire cutting disc or the spacers, the disc will need to be removed by
first removing the Disc Securing Bolt.
Sharpening the Stainless Steel Blades
Our stainless steel blades are reversible and can be sharpened. For best
results, use both sides until they need to be sharpened, and then sharpen both
sides at the same time. Blades should be sharpened every 25 hours or as
needed. Sharpen with a flat file.
Prevent An Accident
Remove the cutting blades from the cutting system before sharpening. Use
strong gloves while handling the blades.
Mower Storage
To prevent engine damage, engines must be drained of fuel when being
stored in excess of 30 days. Removing the fuel prevents gum from forming
in the fuel system and essential carburetor parts. By following our storage
procedure and referring to the engine manual as needed, your machine will
remain in good working order.
(1) Drain the fuel by running the engine dry (engine will stop).
(2) Disconnect the spark plug lead.
(3) Remove the engine spark plug, pour 5ml of engine oil into the
Spark plug hole.
(4) Slowly pull the recoil starter rope, turning the crankcase, to distribute
oil and prevent engine corrosion.
(5) Clean all debris and grass from the engine cylinder, cooling fans, under
top cowl, and around and behind the exhaust / exhaust guard.
(6) Lubricate the machine.
(7) Treat metal parts with a water-repellant, anti-corrosion product.
(8) Cover the machine with a protective sheet and store it in a dry,
ventilated area.
Machine Maintenance
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Page| 20
Maintenance Schedule
Service Schedule Maintenance
Before Each Use
(1) Check the fuel level and look for leaks
(2) Check blade system and tighten any loose bolts
(3) Check air filter – ensure it is dry
(4) Remove debris from the cutting system, impeller,
and air intake area of engine
After the First 5 Hours (1) Change the engine fuel (first fuel change)
Every 5 Hours (1) Tighten/replace any loose/damaged bolts, blades or
cutting disc
Every 25 Hours (1) Check and clean the air and fuel filters.
Every 50 Hours
(1) Clean combustion chamber, cylinder, and muffler
exhausts.
(2) Clean/replace air and fuel filters
(3) Sharpen/replace blades
(4) Clean spark plug and recalibrate
(5) Check for any leaks or deteriorations in the fuel
system and hoses
Every 100 Hours
(1) Inspect the spark plug
(2) Clean/replace air cleaner
(3) Clean the cooling system (fins/starter area)
Every 150 Hours (1)Replace air filter
(2) Replace spark plug
Storage Over 30 Days
and Winterized Storage
(1) Empty fuel tank
(2) Turn off fuel valve
(3) Disconnect the spark plug
(4) Add 5ml of fresh oil to the cylinder and pull starter
once to distribute oil
(5) Treat metal parts with water-repellant, anti-
corrosion product.
(6) Store in dry, ventilated area
This is a suggested maintenance schedule. Depending on terrain, the schedule
may need to be adjusted for dusty/rough conditions.