Ironton 170F User manual

208CC ENGINE
OWNER’S MANUAL
45751

Engine Specifications
170F
208CC
2.76in.(70mm)
2.12in.(54mm)
0.16gal.(0.6L)
34.71lb. (15.5kg)
Model
Displacement
Bore
Stroke
Oil Capacity
Net Weight
Thank you very much for choosing an Ironton product! For future reference, please complete the owner’s
record below:
Model: Purchase Date:
Save the receipt, warranty and these instructions. It is important that you read the entire manual to become
familiar with this product before you begin using it.
This Engine is designed for certain applications only. The distributor cannot be responsible for issues arising
from modification. We strongly recommend this Engine not be modified and/or used for any application other
than that for which it was designed. If you have any questions relative to a particular application, DO NOT
use the Engine until you have first contacted the distributor to determine if it can or should be performed on
the product.
For technical questions please call 1-800-222-5381.
1

Safety References SYMBOLS ASSOCIATED
WITH THIS ENGINE:
The safety alert symbol
is used to identify safety
information about hazards that can result in personal injury.
Asignal word (DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION) is
used with the alert symbol to indicate the likelihood and the
potential severity of injury. In addition,a hazard symbol may
be used to represent the type of hazard.
DANGER indicates a hazard which,if not
avoided,will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazard which,if not
avoided,could result in death or serious injury.
Fire
Explosion
Kickback
Hot Surface
Toxic Fumes
Read
Manual
Oil
Fuel
Fuel Shutoff
Hazardous
Chemical
CAUTION indicates a hazard which,if not
avoided,might result in minor or moderate injury.
Moving Parts
Choke
CAUTION when used without the alert
symbol,indicates a situation that could result in
damage to the engine.
This manual contains safety
information to make youaware of Shock
Slow
Stop
Fast
the hazards and risks associated with engines,and how
to avoid them. Because we do not necessarily know
what equipment this engine will power,it is important
that youread and understand these instructions and the
instructions for the equipment this engine powers.
WARNING
We do not approve or authorize the use of these engines
on 3-wheel All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), motor bikes,
fun/recreational go-karts, aircraft products or vehicles
intended for use in competitive events. Use of these
engines in such applications could result in property
damage, serious injury (including paralysis), or even
death.
2
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
CAUTION
This engine is shipped from us without oil. If you start
the engine without oil, the engine will be damaged
beyond repair and will not be covered under warranty.

Features and Controls
Compare the illustration with your engine to familiarize yourself with the location of various features and controls.
3
Air cleaner
Muffler
Spark plug
Throttle lever
Recoil starter
Starting handle
Fuel shutoff
Choke lever
Fuel filler cap
Fuel tank
Engine identification Dipstick
Drain plug
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L

Safety
CAUTION
This engine is shipped from us without oil. If you start
the engine without oil, the engine will be damaged
beyond repair and will not be covered under warranty.
WARNING
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely
flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or
death.
WHEN ADDING FUEL
• Turn engine OFF and let engine cool at least 2
WARNING
Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback)
will pull hand and arm toward engine
faster than you can let go.
Broken bones, fractures, bruises or
sprains could result.
• When starting engine, pull cord slowly until
resistance is felt, then pull rapidly.
• Direct coupled equipment components such as, but
not limited to, blades, impellers, pulleys, sprockets,
etc., must be securely attached.
WARNING
minutes before removing gas cap.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.
• Do not overfill fuel tank.
• Keep gasoline away from sparks, open flames, pilot
lights, heat, and other ignition sources.
• Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings
frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if
necessary.
WHEN STARTING ENGINE
• Make sure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air
cleaner are in place.
• Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before
starting engine.
• If engine floods, set choke to OPEN/RUN position,
place throttle in FAST and crank until
•
•
•
•
Rotating parts can contact or entangle hands,
feet, hair, clothing, or accessories. Traumatic
amputation or severe lacera
tion can result.
Operate equipment with guards in place. Keep
hands and feet away from rotating parts.
Tie up long hair and remove jewelry.
Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, dangling
drawstrings or items that could become caught.
WARNING
Engines give off carbon monoxide, an
odorless, colorless, poison gas.
engine starts.
WHEN OPERATING EQUIPMENT
•Do not choke carburetor to stop engine.
WHEN TRANSPORTING EQUIPMENT
•Transport with fuel tank EMPTY.
WHEN STORING GASOLINE OR EQUIP
MENT WITH FUEL IN TANK
•Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or
other appliances that have pilot light or other
ignition source because they can ignite gasoline
vapors.
WARNING
Starting engine creates sparking.
Sparking can ignite nearby flammable
gases.
Explosion and fire could result.
•If there is natural or LP gas leakage in area, do not
start engine.
• Do not use pressurized starting fluids because
vapors are flammable.
4
Breathing carbon monoxide can cause
nausea, fainting or death.
•Start and run engine outdoors.
• Do not start or run engine in enclosed area, even
if doors or windows are open.
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Engine
parts, especially muffler, become
extremely hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on
contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves,
grass, brush, etc. can catch fire.
• Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool
before touching.
• Remove accumulated debris from muffler area and
cylinder area.
• Install and maintain in working order a spark arrester
before using equipment on forest-covered, grass-
covered, brush-covered unimproved land. The state
of California requires this. Other states may
have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal
land.

How to Start the Engine
WARNING
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
When Starting Engine
·Ensure that spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air cleaner are in place and secured.
· Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
· If engine floods, set choke to open/run position, move throttle to fast position
and crank until engine starts.
WARNING
Engines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless colorless, poison gas. Breathing carbon
monoxide can cause nausea, fainting or death.
· Start and run engine outdoors.
· Do not start or run engine in enclosed area, even if doors or windows are open.
1. Check the oil level. See the How toCheck/Add Oil section.
2. Move the fuel shutoff (I) to the ON position.
3. Move the choke lever (J) the choke position.
Note: Choke is usually unnecessary when restarting a warm engine.
4.
5.
6.
Move Throttle lever (D) away from MIN. position, about 1/3 of way toward MAX. position.
Turn the Engine switch (F) to the ON position.
Recoil Start:Firmly hold the starting handle (H). Pull the starter cord handle slowly until
resistance is felt, the pull rapidly.
WARNING:Rapid retraction of the starter cord (kickback) will pull your hand and arm toward
the engine faster than you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains could
result. When starting engine, pull the starter cord slowly until resistance is felt and then pull
rapidly to avoid kickback.
How to Stop the Engine
WARNING
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric shock.
Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement, traumatic amputation, or laceration.
Fire hazard
5

°°
bove 80 F
more frequently.
Below 40 F
( )
the use of SAE 30 will result in hard startin
g
.
A
(
27 C)the use of 10W-30 may cause increased oil consumption. Check oil level
1.
2.
3.
Move Throttle lever (D) to MIN. position. Turn
Engine switch (F) to the OFF position.
Turn Fuel shutoff (I) to the OFF position.
Troubleshooting
If Engine will not start
Out of fuel
.If engine is cold, ensure choke lever is set correctly. .
Add fuel
Engine flooded
. Set choke lever to open/run position
Dirty or faulty spark plug/engine fails to product spark
Remove spark plug and clean it. Check the spacing on the electrode and set the gap to the .correct
dimension. See Maintenance Section. If plug is damaged, replace with a new spark plug.
. Ensure the spark plug is installed and wire is connected.
Warning:
. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
Oil
Oil Recommendations
.We recommend the use of suitable oils for best performance. Other high-quality detergent oils are
acceptable if classified for service SF, SG, SH. SJ or higher.
. Do not use special additives.
. Outdoor temperatures determine the proper oil viscosity for the engine. Use the chart to select the best viscosity
for the outdoor temperature range expected.
Note:
°°
Before adding or checking the oil
· Place engine on a level surface.
· Clean the oil fill area of any debris.
6
4 C

How to Check/Add Oil
O
A
B
Figure 1
1. Remove the dipstick (O) and swipe with a clean cloth (Figure 1).
2. Insert the dipstick into the filler neck without screwing it in.
3. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. Make sure the oil is at the FULL mark (B) on the dipstick. 4. To add
oil, pour the oil slowly into the engine oil fill (A). Do not overfill. After adding oil, wait one minute and then recheck
the oil level.
4. Replace and tighten the dipstick.
Fuel Recommendations
Fuel must meet these requirements: ·
Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline.
· A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91 RON). High altitude use, see below.
·Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or up to 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.
Caution
Do not use unapproved Gasoline, such as E85. Do not mix oil in gasoline or modify the engine to run on alternate fuels.
This will damage the engine components and void the engine warranty.
To protect the fuel system from gum formation, mix a fuel stabilizer into the fuel. See Storage. All fuel is not the same. This engine is
certified to operate on gasoline. The emissions control system for this engine is EM (Engine Modifications).
High Altitude
At altitudes over 5,000 feet (1524 meters), a minimum 85 octane/85 AKI (89 RON) gasoline is acceptable. To remain
emissions compliant, high altitude adjustment is required. Operation without this adjustment will cause decreased
performance, increased fuel consumption, and increased emissions. See an authorized service center for high altitude
adjustment information.
Operation of the engine at altitudes below 2,500 feet (762 meters) with the high altitude kit is not recommended.
How to Add Fuel
WARNING
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
When Adding Fuel
· Turn engine off and let engine cool at least 2 minutes before removing the fuel cap.
· Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.
· Do not overfill fuel tank. Fill tank to approximately 1.5 inches (38 mm) below top of neck to allow for fuel
expansion.
7

· Keep gasoline away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat, and other ignition sources. Check fuel lines,
tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary. If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates
before starting engine.
1.
2.
Clean the fuel cap area of dirt and debris. Remove the fuel cap.
Fill the fuel tank with gasoline. To allow for expansion of the gasoline, do not fill above the bottom of the fuel
tank neck.
Reinstall the fuel cap.
Maintenance
Use only original equipment replacement parts. Other parts may not perform as well,
may damage the unit, and may result in injury. In addition, use of other parts may void your warranty.
We recommend that you use an authorized service center for all maintenance and service of the engine and engine
parts.
CAUTION: All the components used to build this engine must remain in place for proper operation.
WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric shock.
Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement, traumatic amputation, or laceration.
Fire hazard
Before performing adjustments or repairs: ·Disconnect the spark plug wire and
keep it away from the spark plug.
· Use only correct tools.
· Do not tamper with governor spring, links or other parts to increase engine speed.
· Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the same position as the original parts.
· Do not strike the flywheel with a hammer or hard object because the flywheel may later shatter during
operation.
When testing for spark:
· Use approved spark plug tester.
· Do not choke for spark with spark plug removed.
Maintenance Chart
Carburetor Adjustment
Never make adjustments to the carburetor. The carburetor was set at the factory to operate efficiently under most
conditions. However, if adjustments are required, see any our Authorized Dealer for service.
CAUTION: The manufacturer of the equipment on which this engine is installed specifies the top speed at which
the engine will be operated. Do not exceed this speed.
8
F irst 5Hours
Change oil
E very 8Hours Daily
C heck engine oil level
E very 50Hours or Annually
Change engine oil
C heck muff l er and muffler guard and spark Arrester (If applicable)
Annually
Replace spark plug
Check valve clearance
3.

How to Replace the Spark Plug
Check the gap (A) with a wire gauge (B). If necessary, reset the gap. Install and tighten the spark plug to the
recommended torque. For gap setting or torque, see the Specifications section.
Note: In some areas, local law requires using a resistor spark plug to suppress ignition signals. If this engine was
originally equipped with a resistor spark plug, use the same type for replacement.
Inspect Muffler and Spark Arrester
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Engine parts, especially muffler, become
extremely hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush, etc. can catch fire.
.Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool before touching.
· Remove accumulated debris from muffler area and cylinder area.
WARNING: Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the same position as the original parts or
fire could result.
How to Service the Air Filter (see figure 3)
1. Remove the air cleaner outside cover (A). Be careful to prevent dirt and debris from falling into the air cleaner
assembly.
2. Separate the Air Filter (A) from the Air Filter Housing (B).
3. Inspect the air filter. Clean dirty air filter with warm water and mild soap. Allow air filter to dry thoroughly before
re-installation
4. Install the air filter assembly onto the carburetor and secure with screw.
Note: Do not use pressurized air or solvents to clean the filter. Pressurized air can damage the filter and solvents
will dissolve the filter.
A
B
C
D
Figure 4
Figure 3
9

How to Remove Oil
Caution:Used oil is a hazardous waste product and must be disposed of properly. Do not discard
with household waste. Check with your local authorities, service center, or dealer for safe
disposal/recycling facilities.
Removing Oil
The oil must be drained from the Oil Drain Plug (See figure 4)
1.
2.
3.
4.
Remove the dipstick (C)
Please an approved container below the oil drain plug.
Remove the Oil drain plug (D) and allow oil to the drain into the approved container. Install
Oil drain plug (D) and wrench tighten.
WARNING:When you drain the oil from the oil drain plug, the fuel tank must be empty or fuel
can leak out and result in fire or explosion. To empty the fuel tank, run engine until it stops from
lack of fuel.
How to Service the Fuse-see figure 6 (if applicable)
WARNING:
Never use a fuse with a rating greater than the one originally equipped with the engine.
Serious damage to the electrical system or a fire could result.
1.
2.
3.
Remove the 6x12mm screw from the rear cover of the engine switch box.
Remove the fuse cover, then pull out and inspect the fuse.
Reinstall the rear cover. Install the 6x12mm screw and tighten.
How to Service the Battery -see figure 7 (if applicable)
WARNING: Be careful not to connect the battery in reverse polarity, as this will short circuit the battery
charging system.
Note: Use a 12-volt battery with an ampere-hour rating of at least 18 Ah.
Connect the positive (+) cable to the starter solenoid terminal.
Connect the negative (-) cable to an engine mounting bolt or other good engine ground
connection.
Connect the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal.
Connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal.
figure6 figure 7
Storage
WARNING:
When storing fuel or equipment with fuel in tank:
• Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters, or other appliances that have a pilot light
or other ignition source because they can ignite vapors.
When Transporting Equipment:
• Transport with fuel tank EMPTY or with fuel shut-off valve OFF.
10
1.
2.
3.
4.

The following precautions should be taken if storing your engine for a period exceeding 30 days, or for seasonal storage.
• While engine is still warm, change oil.
• Clean engine of surface debris, chaff or grass.
• Drain all fuel from fuel tank into proper receptacle for storage.
• Remove spark plug. Place 1 teaspoon or 5 ml. of oil into spark plug hole.
• Pull starter rope slowly 8-10 times to properly coat the cylinder bore and piston for storage.
Replace spark plug and tighten. Any residual oil may burn off in subsequent starts. This may result in white smoke emission
from muffler.
Note: Storing or transporting with the spark plug down will result in hard starting and/or engine smoking.
• Store in a clean dry area.
• When removing unit from storage, only use fresh gasoline. Perform operation checks (see maintenance schedule)
before starting engine.
11
** Engine power will decrease 3.5% for each 1,000 feet (300 meters) above sea level and 1% for each 10°F (5.6°C) above
77°F (25°C). The engine will operate satisfactorily at an angle up to 15°. Refer to the equipment operator’s manual for safe
allowable operating limits on slopes.
We recommend that you see an authorized service center for all maintenance and service of the engine and engine parts. Use
only our genuine parts.

U.S EPA EMISSIONS CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT
YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS
The U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Northern Tool and Equipment
Company Inc. are pleased to explain the emissions control system warranty on your
2015 and later small None-Road Spark Ignition (NRSI) engines. Northern Tool and
Equipment Company Inc. must warrant the emissions control system on your NRSI
engines for the periods of time listed below provided there has been no abuse,
neglect or improper maintenance of your NRSI engines.
Your emission control system may include parts such as the carburetor, fuel tanks,
fuel caps, fuel lines, the ignition system, and catalytic converter. Also included may
be hoses, belts, S clamps, connectors and other emission-related assemblies.
Where a warrantable condition exists, Northern Tool and Equipment Company Inc. will
repair your small off-road engine at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts and
labor.
MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY COVERAGE
The emissions control system is warranted for two years. If any emissions-related part
on your engine is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by Northern Tool
and Equipment Company Inc.
OWNER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES
-As the NRSI ENGINE owner, you are responsible for the performance of the required
maintenance listed in your owner's manual. Northern Tool and Equipment Company
Inc. recommends that you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your NRSI
ENGINE, but Northern Tool and Equipment Company Inc. can not deny warranty
solely for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance of all
scheduled maintenance.
-As the NRSI ENGINE owner, you should however be aware that Northern Tool and
Equipment Company Inc. may deny your warranty coverage if your NRSI ENGINE
or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance or unapproved
modifications.
-You are responsible for presenting your NRSI ENGINE to distribution center or
service center authorized by Northern Tool and Equipment Company Inc. as soon as
the problem exists. The warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable
amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.
12

If you have any questions regarding your warranty coverage or how to locate a
service center, you should contact Northern Tool and Equipment Company Inc. at:
Tell: 1-877-234-6869
Email: [email protected]
DEFECTS WARRANTY COVERAGE
Northern Tool and Equipment Company Inc. warrants to the ultimate purchaser and
each subsequent purchaser that the small off-road engine (NRSI ENGINE) (1) has
been designed, built and equipped so as to conform with all applicable regulations;
and (2) is free from defects in materials and workmanship that cause the failure of a
warranted part to conform with those regulations as may be applicable to the terms
and conditions stated below.
(1) The warranty period begins on the date the engine is delivered to an ultimate
purchaser or first placed into service. The warranty period is two years.
(2) Subject to certain conditions and exclusions as stated below, the warranty on
emissions related parts is as follows:
(a) Any warranted part that is not scheduled for replacement as required
maintenance in your Owner’s Manual is warranted for the warranty period stated
above. If the part fails during the period of warranty coverage, the part will be
repaired or replaced by Northern Tool and Equipment Company Inc. according to
Subsection (d) below. Any such part repaired or replaced under warranty will be
warranted for the remainder of the period.
(b) Any warranted part that is scheduled only for regular inspection in your Owner’s
Manual is warranted for the warranty period stated above. Any such part
repaired or replaced under warranty will be warranted for the remaining warranty
period.
(c) Any warranted part that is scheduled for replacement as required maintenance in
your Owner’s Manual is warranted for the period of time before the first
scheduled replacement date for that part. If the part fails before the first
scheduled replacement, the part will be repaired or replaced by Northern Tool
and Equipment Company Inc. according to Subsection (d) below. Any such part
repaired or replaced under warranty will be warranted for the remainder of the
period prior to the first scheduled replacement point for the part.
(d) Repair or replacement of any warranted part under the warranty provisions
herein must be performed at a warranty station at no charge to the owner.
13

(e) Notwithstanding the provisions herein, warranty services or repair will be
provided at all of our distribution centers that are franchised to service the subject
engines.
(f) The engine owner must not be charged for diagnostic labor that leads to the
determination that a warranted part is in fact defective, provided that such
diagnostic work is performed at a warranty station.
(g) Northern Tool and Equipment Company Inc. is liable for damages to other engine
components proximately caused by a failure under warranty of any warranted
part.
(h) Throughout the engine warranty period stated above, Northern Tool and
Equipment Company Inc. will maintain a supply of warranted parts sufficient to
meet the expected demand for such parts.
(i) Any replacement part may be used in the performance of any warranty
maintenance or repairs and must be provided without charge to the owner. Such
use will not reduce the warranty obligations of Northern Tool and Equipment
Company Inc.
(j) Add-on or modified parts that are not exempted by the U.S EPA may not be used.
The use of any non-exempted add-on or modified parts by the ultimate purchaser
will be grounds for disallowing a warranty claims. Northern Tool and Equipment
Company Inc. will not be liable to warrant failures of warranted parts caused by
the use of a non-exempted add-on or modified part.
(k) The manufacturer issuing the warranty shall provide any documents that
describe that manufacturer's warranty procedures or policies within five working
days of request by the U.S EPA.
EMISSION WARRANTY PARTS LIST
The repair or replacement of any warranted part otherwise eligible for warranty
coverage may be excluded from such warranty coverage if Northern Tool and
Equipment Company Inc. demonstrates that the engine has been abused, neglected,
or improperly maintained, and that such abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance
was the direct cause of the need for repair or replacement of the part. That
notwithstanding, any adjustment of a component that has a factory installed, and
properly operating, adjustment limiting device is still eligible for warranty coverage.
The following emissions warranty parts for each engine family list is covered.
14

(1) Fuel Metering System:
(a) Gasoline carburetor assembly and its internal components
(b) Carburetor gaskets
(c) Fuel tank
(d) Fuel Line
(e) Fuel Line Fittings
(f) Clamps
(2) Air Induction System including:
(a) Intake pipe/manifold
(b) Air cleaner
(3) Ignition System including:
(a) Spark plug
(b) Ignition coil
(4) Catalytic Muffler Assembly including:
(a) Muffler gasket
(b) Exhaust manifold
(c) Catalytic converter
(5) Crankcase Breather Assembly including:
(a) Breather connection tube.
(6) Fuel tank evaporative emissions control system including:
(a) Purge Valves
(b) Carbon Canister
(c) Canister Mounting Brackets
(d) Fuel Cap
(7) Miscellaneous items Used in Above Systems including:
(a) Switches
(b) Hoses, belts, connectors, and assemblies.
(8) Air injection system
(a) Pulse valve
15

The distributor shall warranty any piece of equipment manufactured, or parts of equipment manufactured,
to be free from defects in material or workmanship for aperiod of 90 days for noncommercial/nonrental
use.
This warranty applies to the original purchaser of the equipment and is non transferable.
Verification of purchase is the responsibility of the buyer. Parts will be replaced or repaired at no charge,
except when the equipment has failed due to lack of proper maintenance. Any misuse, abuse, alteration or
improper installation or operation will void warranty. Determining whether apart is to be replaced or
repaired is the sole decision of the Distributor.