Linamar ZX 170 User manual

PRINTED IN CANADA L965-0007 REV 1

Safety Precautions
Before operating the engine, read this manual and
become familiar with it and the equipment. Safe and
efficient operation can be achieved only if the
equipment is properly operated and maintained.
The following symbols, found throughout this manual,
alert you o potentially dangerous conditions to the
operator, service personnel, or the equipment.
DANGER This symbol warns of immediate
hazards which will result in severe personal injury
or death.
WARNING This symbol refers to a hazard or
unsafe practice which can result in severe personal
injury or death.
CAUTION This symbol refers to a hazard or
unsafe practice which can result in personal injury
or product or property damage.
Fuels, electrical equipment, batteries, exhaust gases and
moving parts present potential hazards that can result in
severe personal injury. Take care in following these
recommended procedures. All local, state and federal
codes should be consulted and complied with.
WARNING This engine is not designed or
intended for 'se in any type of aircraft. Use of this
engine in aircraft can result in engine failure and
cause severe personal injury 'r death.
GENERAL
•.Provide appropriate fire extinguishers and install
them in convenient locations. Use an extinguisher
rated ABC by NFPA.
•.Make sure that all fasteners on the engine are
secure and accurately torqued. Keep guards in
position over fans, driving belts, etc.
•.If it is necessary to make adjustments while the
engine is running, use extreme caution while close to
hot exhausts, moving parts, etc.
•.Used engine oils have been identified by some state
and federal agencies as causing cancer or
reproductive toxicity. When checking or changing
engine oil, take care not to ingest, breathe the
fumes, or contact used oil.
•.Do not work on this equipment when mentally or
physically fatigued, or after consuming any alcohol
or drug that makes the operation of equipment
unsafe.
BATTERIES
•.Before starting to work on the engine, disconnect
batteries to prevent inadvertent starting of the
engine. Disconnect negative (-) cable first.
•.DO NOT SMOKE while servicing batteries. Lead
acid batteries give off a highly explosive hydrogen
gas which can be ignited by flame, electrical arcing
or by smoking.
•.Verify battery polarity before connecting battery
cables. Connect negative (-) cable last.
PROTECT AGAINST MOVING PARTS
•Do not wear loose clothing in the vicinity of moving
parts, such as PTO shafts, flywheels, blowers,
couplings, fans. belts, etc.
•Keep your hands away from moving parts.
FUEL SYSTEM.
•DO NOT fill fuel tanks while engine is running.
•DO NOT smoke or use an open flame in the vicinity
of the
engine or fuel tank. Internal combustion engine fuels
are highly flammable
•Fuel line must be of steel piping, adequately secure,
and free from leaks. Piping at the engine should be
approved flexible line. Do not use copper piping for
flexible lines as copper will work harden and become
brittle enough to break.
•Be sure all fuel supplies have a positive shutoff
valve.
•Benzene and lead, found in some gasoline, have
been identified by some state and federal agencies
as causing cancer or reproductive toxicity. When
checking, draining or adding gasoline, take care not
to ingest, breathe the fumes, or contact the gasoline.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
•Exhaust products of any internal combustion engine
are toxic and can cause injury, or death if inhaled.
When operating the engine in a confined area, make
sure the ventilation system is operating properly.
•DO NOT use exhaust gases to heat a compartment.
•Make sure that your exhaust system is free of leaks.
Make sure that exhaust manifolds are secure and
are not warped by bolts unevenly torqued.
EXHAUST GAS IS DEADLY!
•Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a
poisonous gas that can cause unconsciousness and
death. It is an odorless and colorless gas formed
during combustion of hydrocarbon fuels. Symptoms
of carbon monoxide poisoning are:
•Dizziness. Muscular Twitching.
•Vomiting. Weakness and sleepiness
•Headache. Throbbing in Temples .
If you experience any of these symptoms, get out into
fresh air immediately, shut down the unit and do not use
it until it has been inspected.
The best protection against carbon monoxide inhalation
is proper installation and regular, frequent inspections of
the complete exhaust system. If you notice a change in
the sound or appearance of exhaust system, shut the
unit down immediately and have it inspected and
repaired by a competent mechanic.
KEEP THE UNIT AND SURROUNDING AREA CLEAN.
•Make sure that oily rags are not left on or near the
engine.
•Remove all unnecessary grease and oil from the
unit.
Accumulated grease and oil can cause overheating
and subsequent engine damage and prevent a
potential fire hazard.

Table of Contents
i
TITLE......................................................................................................................................................PAGE
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS....................................................................................................Inside Front Cover
INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................................................................1
SPECIFICATIONS..........................................................................................................................................1
About This Manual..................................................................................................................................1
Model Identification.................................................................................................................................1
Fuel Recommendations ..................................................................................................................................2
Engine Oil Recommendations ................................................................................................................3
Starting Batteries....................................................................................................................................3
Exhaust System......................................................................................................................................3
OPERATION...................................................................................................................................................4
Pre-Start Checks....................................................................................................................................4
Starting...................................................................................................................................................4
Engine Break-In......................................................................................................................................5
Operation In Hot Weather.......................................................................................................................5
Operation In Cold Weather.....................................................................................................................5
Out-of-Service Protection .......................................................................................................................5
Returning The Engine To Service...........................................................................................................6
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE............................................................................................................................7
Daily (8 Hour) Maintenance....................................................................................................................8
Engine Oil Change .................................................................................................................................9
Air Cleaner Maintenance........................................................................................................................9
Cooling System Maintenance...............................................................................................................10
Fuel Filter Replacement........................................................................................................................10
Spark Plug Maintenance and Replacement..........................................................................................10
ADJUSTMENTS...........................................................................................................................................11
Carburetor Adjustments........................................................................................................................11
Governor and Speed Adjustments........................................................................................................11
TROUBLESHOOTING..................................................................................................................................12
INFORMATION FOR CALIFORNIA ENGINE USERS..................................................................................13
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer, birth
defects or other reproductive harm.

Introduction
1
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This Manual covers the operation and maintenance of le
horizontal shaft ZX series of engines. Each operator f the
power equipment should study this engine manual
carefully and observe all of its instructions and
precautions. Proper use and periodic maintenance are
responsibilities of the operator(s) and are essential for >p
engine performance.
MODEL IDENTIFICATION
Whenever contacting a Linamar/Onan dealer or
distributor for information, parts or service, always
provide the model and serial number marked on the
nameplate of the engine. (The serial number is in the >w
marked "SIN", just below the model number). Figure
illustrates a typical engine nameplate (top) and missions
label.
Genuine replacement parts obtained from a
LinamarlOnan dealer or distributor are recommended.
WARNING Improper service or parts
replacement can lead to personal injury or death and
damage to equipment and property. Service
personnel must be qualified to perform electrical and
mechanical service.
WARNING Unauthorized modifications or
replacement of fuel, exhaust, air intake or speed
control system components that affect engine
7Jissions are prohibited by law in the State of
California.
Specifications
MODEL ZX170 ZX280 ZX340
Engine Type 1-cylinder OHV 4 stroke gasoline engine
Cooling Air cooled
Bore 2.64 in. (67 mm) 3.11 in. (79 mm) 3.19 in (81 mm)
Stroke 1.89 in (48 mm) 2.20 in (56 mm) 2.60 in (66 mm)
Displacement 10.34 in3 (169 cc) 16.71 in3(274 cc) 20.75 in3 (340 cc)
Compression ratio 8.3:1 8.1:1 8.2:1
Oil capacity .63 quart* (0.6 L) .95 quart* (0.9 L) 1.27 quart* (1.2 L)
Intake valve slash .003” -.005” (.07 –0.12 mm) –cold engine
Exhaust valve lash .003” -.005” (.07 –0.12 mm) –cold engine
Ignition timing 218BTDC 258BTDC 238BTDC
Spark plug type NGK BPR6HS NGK BPR6ES
Spark plug gap .28 in (0.7 mm)
Spark plug Torque 20 lb-ft (26 N-m)
Fuel tank capacity 3.8 quart* (3.6 L) 6.3 quart* (6 L) 6.3 quart* (6 L)
* U. S. Quart. See Periodic Maintenance for oil filling instructions

Typical Engine Features
2
FIGURE 2. TYPICAL ENGINE FEATURES FRONT VIEW
FIGURE 3. TYPICAL ENGINE FEATURES REAR VIEW
SPARK PLUG CHOKE LEVER
MUFFLER
OTIONAL 12V STARTER
DIPSTICK
* The oil watch system is designed to
prevent engine damage caused by
an insufficient amount of oil in the
crankcase. Before the oil level can
fall below a safe limit, the oil watch
system will automatically stop the
engine (the engine switch will remain
in the ON position). If the oil watch
system stops the engine, the oil
watch lamp will flash when the
starter is operated, and the engine
will not start. If this occurs, oil must
be added.
OI
L ORAIN (BOTH SIDES)

Operation
3
FUEL RECOMMENDATIONS
Use clean, unleaded gasoline having a
minimum octane rating (Anti-Knock index) of
87.
During some times of the year only mandated
“Oxygenated" gasolines may be available.
These are acceptable for use, but not -
preferable. Leaded gasoline may be used but
ill result in the extra maintenance required for
moving combustion chamber and spark plug
3posits. Do not use gasoline or gasoline
additives (de-icers) containing methanol
3cause methanol can be corrosive to fuel
system components.
CAUTION Do not use gasoline or
gasoline additives containing methanol
because methanol can be corrosive to fuel
system components.
Avoid using highly leaded gasolines and
!ead additives because of the extra engine
maintenance that will be required.
WARNING Gasoline is highly flammable
'1d can cause severe personal injury or
death. Do not smoke if you smell gasoline
or are near fuel tanks or gasoline-burning
equipment or are in an area sharing
ventilation with such equipment. Keep
flames, sparks, pilot lights, electrical arcs
and arc producing equipment and all
other sources of ignition away from
gasoline.
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS
Use premium quality motor oil. Look for the
API (American Petroleum Institute)
classification and use Class SG or SH oil
(also SG/CD, SG/CE, SH/CD or SH/CE) Also
look for the SAE (Society of Automotive
Engineers) viscosity grade. Referring to
Table 1, choose the viscosity grade
appropriate for the ambient temperatures
expected during the period of the engine will
be operated.
Single-grade SAE-30 oil is preferable when
temperatures are consistently above freezing.
Multigrade oils are better when wide
temperatures variations are expected.
TABLE 1. OIL VISCOSITY VS.
TEMPERATURE
EXPECTED AMBIENT
TEMPERATURES
SAE
VISCOSITY
RATING
328F (08C) and higher 30
108F to 1008F (-128to 388C)
15W-40
08F to 808F (-188to 278C) 10W-30
10W-40
-208F to 508F (-288to 108C) 5W-30
STARTING BATTERIES
An engine equipped with an electric starter
requires a 12 volt battery. Prompt starting
requires sufficient battery capacity and
battery cable size. Neither cranking
performance nor starter service life will be
satisfactory with an undersized battery.
Regular, monthly maintenance of batteries
may be required. See Periodic Maintenance
and any instructions available from the
equipment or battery manufacturer. It should
be noted that as long as the equipment is
operated regularly, the automatic battery
recharging system on the engine should be
able to maintain battery charge. See OUT-
OF-SERVICE PROTECTION under
Operation regarding battery care during
storage for prolonged periods.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
EXHAUST GAS IS DEADLY! Mobile engine-
powered equipment must never be operated
inside buildings or other enclosed spaces
without ample fresh air ventilation.
Stationary engine-powered equipment
installed inside buildings or other enclosed
spaces must be equipped with a leak-free
exhaust system that carries all exhaust gases
to the outside, well away from all windows,
doors, vents and other openings into the
building or enclosure.
It is the responsibility of the equipment
operator(s) to check for exhaust leaks on a
daily basis and to have all leaks repaired
before continuing to operate the equipment.

Operation
4
WARNING EXHAUST GAS IS DEADLY
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas. Carbon monoxide
is poisonous and can cause unconsciousness and death. Symptoms of carbon monoxide
poisoning include:
•Dizziness.
•Nausea.
•Headache.
•Weakness and Sleepiness.
•Throbbing in Temples
•Muscular Twitching
•Vomiting
•Inability to Think Coherently
IF YOU OR ANYONE ELSE EXPERIENCE ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS, GET OUT INTO THE
FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY; If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. Shut down the
engine and do not operate it until it has been inspected and repaired.
Make certain the exhaust system is properly installed. Inspect it every time the engine is
started and after every eight hours of continuous operation.
PRE-START CHECKS
Before the first start of the day, and after
every eight hours of operation, perform the
maintenance instructed in DAILY (8
HOUR) MAINTENANCE under Periodic
Maintenance. Keep a log of maintenance
and the hours run and perform any
maintenance that may be due. Also, if the
equipment has been in storage, return the
engine to service as instructed under
RETURNING THE ENGINE TO SERVICE
in this section.
Always follow the equipment
manufacturer's operating instructions and
observe all precautions when operating
power equipment.
WARNING Moving parts can cause
severe personal injury or death. Hot
exhaust parts can cause severe burns.
Stay clear of hot or moving parts. Make
sure all protective shields are secure in
place before starting up the equipment
STARTING
1. Check the oil level if this is the first start
of the day and add oil as necessary.
CAUTION Starting the engine
without oil will cause severe engine
damage. Al-ways keep the oil level
between the Full and Add marks on
the dipstick.
2. Fill the fuel tank if necessary, and open
any fuel line shutoff valve.
3. Release the clutch if the engine is so
equipped.
4. Rotate the choke lever in towards engine.
Note: Try starting without the choke in
warm weather or when the engine is
warm.
5. Push the throttle knob or lever to the middle
of its speed range.
6. Rotate the engine switch to "on" position.
7. Pull the recoil starter handle to crank the
engine. If the engine is equipped with an
electric starter, turn the key to its start
position and hold it there until the engine
starts. Do not crank for more than 30
seconds at a time and wait at least one
minute between tries when cranking with an
electric starter. Engines equipped with the oil
watch system will not start if the crankcase oil
level is too low. See Figure 2.
8. After the engine starts, keep your hand on
the choke lever and slowly rotate it to the full-
open choke position, pulling back if
necessary to keep engine running smoothly.
The colder the weather is, the longer it will
take the engine to start running smoothly with
the choke fully open. Do not operate the
equipment until the engine has warmed up
sufficiently to run smoothly with the choke
open.

Operation
5
ENGINE BREAK-IN
Engine break-in during the first hours of
operation results in the ideal fitting of all
internal moving metal parts, which is
essential .top engine performance. For
controlled engine break-in:
1. Operate the equipment as it is intended
to be operated. However, for the first 1-
1/2 hours, if possible, operate the
engine at about half the available engine
power, occasionally operating at full
engine power for brief periods. Avoid
prolonged low-speed, low-power
operation during the engine break-in.
2. Proper engine oil is especially critical
during break-in because of the higher
engine temperatures that can be
expected. See RECOMMENDED
ENGINE OIL in Introduction. Change
the oil if it is not appropriate for the
ambient temperatures during the break-
in period. See Table 1.
3. Check the oil level twice a day or after
every 4 hours of operation during the
first 24 hours of operation.
4. Change the oil after the first 24 hours of
operation and have the valves
readjusted by a qualified mechanic.
OPERATION IN DUSTY CONDITIONS
1. Keep the engine cooling fins and
flywheel air inlet screen clean.
2. Perform air cleaner maintenance more
often than normal-as required. See table
2.
3. Change the oil more often than normal.
See table 2.
OPERATION IN HOT WEATHER
Pay particular attention to the following
items when operating the engine in
temperatures above 100° F (38°C):
1. Keep the flywheel air inlet screen and
cylinder cooling fins clean. See to it that
nothing obstructs the air flow to and
from the engine.
2. Check the oil level more frequently.
3. Change the oil more often than normal.
See Table 2.
4. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is
appropriate for the ambient
temperatures and change the oil if
necessary. See Table 1.
OPERATION IN COLD WEATHER
Pay particular attention to the following
items when operating the engine in
temperatures below freezing.
1. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is
appropriate for the ambient
temperatures and change the oil if
necessary. See Table1.lf the
temperature drops before you have the
chance to change the oil, warm up the
engine by moving the equipment into a
heated space before attempting to start
the engine or change oil.
WARNING EXHAUST GAS IS DEADLY!
Never operate mobile engine-powered
equipment indoors without ample fresh
air ventilation.
2. Use fresh fuel and fill the fuel tank after
each day's use to reduce problems with
condensation.
3. Keep the battery in a well-charged
condition.
4. After each use push the equipment
throttle knob or lever to the middle of its
speed range so that if ice forms on the
linkage during storage it will be easier to
start the engine.

6
OUT-OF SERVICE-PROTECTION
Protect an engine that will be out of service
for more than 30 days as follows:
1. Run the engine until it reaches normal
operating temperature, shut off the fuel
supply and let the engine run until it stops.
Also, if the equipment will not be operated
for more than 120 days, add a fuel
stabilizer to the equipment fuel tank
(gasoline engines only). Follow the
instructions on the container label. Unless
a preservative (stabilizer) is added, the
gasoline will deteriorate causing fuel
system corrosion, gum formation and
varnish-like deposits which can lead to
hard starting and rough operation.
WARNING Gasoline preservatives
(stabilizers) are toxic. Follow the
instructions on the container label. Avoid
skin contact. Wash your hands with soap
and water after dispensing the fluid.
2. Drain the oil from the engine while it is still
warm. Refill with fresh oil and attach a tag
stating the viscosity of the oil used.
3. Remove the spark plugs and squirt 1/2
ounce (1 tablespoon) of rust inhibitor or
SAE 30 oil into each cylinder. Crank the
engine over a few times and reinstall the
spark plug.
4. Perform air cleaner maintenance as
instructed in Periodic Maintenance.
5. Clean the governor linkage and wrap it
with a clean cloth for protection.
6. Plug the exhaust outlet to prevent
moisture, dirt, bugs, etc. from entering.
7. Provide a suitable cover for the entire unit.
8. If so equipped, disconnect the battery
(negative [-] cable first) and follow the
battery or equipment manufacturer's
storage instructions.
RETURNING THE ENGINE TO SERVICE
1. Remove the cover and all protective
wrapping and the plug from the exhaust
outlet.
2. Check the tag on the oil base. Change the
oil if the viscosity is not appropriate for the
expected ambient temperatures. See
Table 1
3. Check the fuel filter and fuel lines to make
sure they are secure and have no cracks
or leaks.
4. Check to see that the choke, throttle and
governor linkages move freely.
5. If so equipped, clean and check the
battery according to the battery or
equipment manufacturer's instructions
and connect the cables (positive [+] cable
first).
6. Start the engine. The initial startup may
be slow and there may be smoke and
rough operation for a few minutes until the
oil in the cylinder burns off. If the engine
does not start, clean or replace the spark
plugs as they may have been fouled by
the oil added to the cylinder when the
equipment was stored.

Periodic Maintenance
7
Periodic Maintenance is essential to top
performance. Use Table 2 as a guide for
normal periodic maintenance. Under hot or
dusty operating conditions, some main-
tenance operations should be performed
more frequently, as indicated by the footnotes
in the table. Keep a log of maintenance
performed and the hours run. Recording
maintenance will help you maintain a regular
schedule and provide a basis for supporting
warranty claims. Maintenance, replacement
or repair of emission control devices and
systems may be performed by any engine
repair establishment or individual. However,
warranty work must be completed by an
authorized Linamar/Onan dealer or distributor
.
TABLE 2. PERIODIC ENGINE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE OPERATION
Every Day
or every 8
Hours
Every 50
Hours Every Month Every 100 Hours Every 200 Hours Every 400 Hours
Inspect Engine X1
Check Oil Level X
Service Air Cleaner Element X 3.7
Cleaner Cylinder Cooling Fins X 3
Check Starting Battery (if so equipped) X 5
Change Engine Oil X 2,3,4
Replace Fuel Filter (if so equipped) X
Adjust Engine Valve Clearance X 2,6
Inspect, Clean and Re-Gap Spark Plug X
Replace Spark Plug X
1. Check for oil, fuel and exhaust leaks, loose parts and unusual noises and vibrations,
2. Perform after the first 24 hours of operation as a part of engine break-in.
3. Perform more often when operating in dusty conditions.
4. Perform more often when operating in hot conditions.
5. See instructions for battery care provided by the equipment or battery manufacturer.
6. Must be performed by a qualified mechanic.
7. Replace after a maximum of 6 cleanings, or yearly, whichever occurs first.

8
DAILY (8 HOUR) MAINTENANCE
The operator should check the following before
the first start of the day and after every eight
hours of operation:
1. Inspect fuel lines and fittings for leaks.
Repair leaks immediately.
2. Look and listen for exhaust system leaks
while the engine is running. Look for cracks
and severe rusting in the muffler and
tailpipe. Have all leaks repaired before
continuing to operate the equipment.
WARNING Hot exhaust parts can cause
severe burns. Allow the engine time to
cool before servicing the exhaust
system.
3. Check the engine for dirt and debris and
clean the flywheel air inlet screen and
cylinder cooling fins as necessary.
CAUTION A clogged flywheel air inlet
screen or dirty cooling fins can cause
overheating and engine damage. Keep
the cooling fins and air inlet screen
clean.
4. Check the engine oil level. The equipment
must be parked on a level surface and the
engine stopped. To get an accurate
reading, wait a minute or so to allow the oil
to settle in the crankcase if the engine has
been running.
WARNING Crankcase pressure can blow
hot engine oil out of the fill tube causing
severe burns. Always stop the engine
before removing the oil fill cap.
FIGURE 4. ENGINE OIL LEVEL
If the oil level is low, add API Class SG or SH
oil (also SG/CD, SG/CE, SH/CD or SH/CE)
having an SAE viscosity grade appropriate
for the expected temperatures, as indicated
by Table 1. Refer to Figure 4 for the correct
oil level.
CAUTION Too much oil can cause high
oil consumption, high operating tem-
peratures and oil foaming. Too little oil
can cause severe engine damage. Keep
the oil level between the Full and Add
marks on the dipstick.

9
ENGINE OIL CHANGE
WARNING State and federal agencies
have determined that contact with used
engine oil can cause cancer or
reproductive toxicity. Take care to limit
skin contact and breathing of vapors as
much as possible. Use rubber gloves and
wash exposed skin.
Refer to Table 2 for scheduled oil change and
filter replacement. See Figures 2 and 3 (Page
2) for oil drain locations.
1.
Run the engine until it is warm. Stop the
engine and disconnect the spark plug and, if
so equipped, the battery (negative [-] cable) .
WARNING Accidental starting of the
engine can result in severe personal
injury or death. Always disconnect the
spark plug and the battery (negative [-1
cable) before changing oil.
2.
Remove the oil fill cap.
WARNING Crankcase pressure can blow
hot engine oil out the fill opening, causing
severe burns. Always stop the engine before
removing the oil fill cap.
3.
Place a pan under the oil drain opening
and remove the oil drain plug. Reinstall the
plug securely after the oil has drained
completely.
4. Drain and discard the oil according to
local regulations.
5. Refill with API Class S/G oil (also
SG/CD, SG/CE, SH/CD or SG/CE) having an
SAE viscosity grade appropriate for the
expected ambient temperatures, as indicated
by Table 1. See Specifications for the oil
capacity. Refer to Figure 4 for the correct oil
level. Reinstall the oil drain plug and the
WARING Too much oil can cause high
oil consumption, high operating
temperatures and oil foaming. Too little oil
can cause severe engine damage. Keep
the oil level between the Full and Add
marks on the dipstick.
6. Reconnect the spark plug and battery (if
equipped).
7. Start the engine and run it for a short
time while checking for oil leaks around the
drain plug. Do not overtighten: tighten only as
necessary to eliminate leaks.
8. Used oil is harmful to the environment.
Pour the used oil into a sealed container and
deliver it to the nearest recycling center
AIR CLEANER MAINTENANCE
The ZX170 is equipped with a single-stage
pleated paper element. The ZX280 and
ZX340 are equipped dual stage air cleaners
consisting of pleated paper element and a
foam pre-cleaner element. Refer to Table 2
for scheduled maintenance intervals.
Single stage air cleaner (ZX170)
To prevent dust from entering the carburetor,
close the choke. Remove the pleated
element and tap on a flat surface or carefully
blow compressed air from the inside to
remove the dust. Never wash the element,
and do not soak with oil. Replace the
element after a maximum of 6 cleanings, or
yearly, whichever comes first.
Wipe off dust and debris from the air cleaner
cavity, and reinstall the element in its original
position, ensuring it is properly seated.
Reinstall the cover.
Dual Stage Air Cleaners (ZX280 &ZX340)
To prevent dust from entering the
carburetor, close the choke.
Remove the foam wrapper and wash it with
water and detergent. Do not soak with oil.
Allow it to dry. Replace the element after a
maximum of 6 cleanings, or yearly,
whichever occurs first. Remove and inspect
the pleated paper element. If dirty, tap the
element on a flat surface or carefully blow
compressed air from the inside to remove
the dirt. Never wash the element, and do
not soak with oil. Replace the element
after a maximum of 6 cleanings, or yearly,
whichever occurs first.
Wipe off the dust and debris from the air
cleaner cavity, and reinstall the elements in
their original positions. Ensure elements are
properly seated. Reinstall the cover

10
COOLING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Refer to Table 2 for scheduled cleaning of the
cylinder cooling fins. Use compressed air or a
pressure washer to clean the cylinder cooling
fins. Take the following precautions.
1. Wear safety glasses.
WARNING Always wear safety glasses
when using compressed air or a pressure
washer to avoid severe eye damage.
2. Let the engine cool, especially when using
a pressure washer. The temperature
stresses caused by cleaning a hot engine
can crack the cylinder.
3. Observe all of the manufacturer's
instructions and precautions when using a
pressure washer.
FUEL FILTER REPLACEMENT
Refer to Table 2 for scheduled fuel filter
replacement and Figure 3 for the location of
the fuel filter (if so equipped). Also refer to the
equipment Operator's Manual regarding any
supplemental fuel filters that may have been
provided and the recommended frequency for
their replacement.
Take care not to spill fuel when disconnecting
the fuel line from the filter. Allow the engine to
cool before disconnecting the fuel line so that
it cannot ignite any fuel that may be spilled.
Close any shutoff valve that may be provided
in the fuel line. If the filter is of the in-line
type, it is usually removable by loosening the
inlet and outlet hose clamps.
WARNING Gasoline is highly flammable
and cause severe personal injury or
death.
Let the engine cool and close any fuel line
shutoff valve before disconnecting the
fuel line from the filter.
Do not smoke if you smell gasoline or are
near fuel tanks or gasoline-burning
equipment or are in an area sharing
ventilation with such equipment. Keep
flames, sparks, pilot lights, electrical arcs
and arc-producing equipment and all
other sources of ignition well away from
gasoline.
SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE AND
REPLACEMENT
Refer to Table 2 for scheduled spark plug
inspection and replacement and to
Specifications for gap specifications.
To prevent crossthreading the spark plug
always thread it in by hand until it seats. If the
sparkplug is being reused, turn it with a
wrench an additional 1/4 turn. If the spark
plug is new, turn it with a wrench 3/8 to 1/2
turn. If you have a torque wrench, tighten the
spark plug to 20 Ibs-ft (26N-m)-:

Adjustments
11
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS
These engines have precision-manufactured
carburetors which are not adjustable.
Governor and speed adjustments
1. Loosen tightening screw (3) at the lower
end of the governor lever (1 ).
2. Pushing the throttle valve to the fully open
position with the governor lever, turn the
groove on the governor lever shaft (2)
fully clockwise with a screwdriver, then
tighten the screw in that position.
3. Start the engine, and adjust the high
speed adjusting screw (4) until the engine
reaches a speed of 3900 to 4000 RPM
with the speed control lever (5) in the
maximum speed position. Some
equipment manufacturers may specify a
lower engine speed -check the equipment
Operator's Manual.
4. Set the low idle speed to 1400-1500 RPM
by adjusting the low idle screw (6). Some
equipment manufacturers may specify a
different low idle speed -check the
equipment Operator's Manual.
FIGURE 5. GOVERNOR ADJUSTMENT
TABLE 5. GOVERNOR LEVER SCREW
TORQUE
Model Governor lever Screw (3) torque
ZX170 8-10 lb-ft (11-14 N-m)
ZX280 &
ZX340 14-18 lb-ft (19-24 N-m)

Troubleshooting
12
Table 3 provides basic troubleshooting guidance.
If you fail to resolve the problem after taking the
corrective actions suggested, contact the
equipment or a Linamar/Onan dealer.
WARNING Many troubleshooting pro-
cedures present hazards that can result in
severe personal injury or death. Only qualified
service personnel with knowledge
of fuels, electricity, and machinery hazards
should perform service procedures. Review
the safety precautions on the inside cover
page.
WARNING Hot engine parts can cause
severe burns. Always allow the engine time to
cool before performing any maintenance or
service.
TABLE 3. TROUBLESHOOTING
1. The engine fails to crank
(electric start engines) a. Release the clutch (if so equipped).
b. Clean and tighten the positive (+) and negative -) battery
cable connections to the battery and the engine.
c. Recharge the battery. Refer to the equipment or battery
manufacturer's recommendations
2. The engine cranks slowly
(electric start) or the recoil
starter is hard to pull
a. Release the clutch (if so equipped)
b. If electric start, clean and tighten the positive (+) and
negative (-) battery cable connections to the battery and
the engine.
c. If electric start, recharge the battery. Refer to the
equipment or battery manufacturer's recommendations
d. Change the engine oil to oil having the proper viscosity
for the ambient temperature. See table 1
3. The engine cranks but fails
to start a. Check the fuel tank and fill if necessary.
b. Open any closed fuel shutoff valve
c. Check engine oil level and add oil as necessary.
d. Ensure spark plug lead is connected
e. Service air cleaner.
f. Replace the fuel filter.
g. Inspect and clean or replace the spark plug and re-gap
it.
4. The engine runs then stops a. Check the fuel tank and fill if necessary.
b. Check engine oil level and add oil as necessary.
5. Then engine exhausts back
smoke. a. Service air cleaner
b. Ensure choke is open

Important Information
for California Engine Users
13
These engines meet 2000 carb regulations
for SI SORE (spark ignition small off-road
engines)
As a California user of these engines, please
be aware that unauthorized modifications or
replacement of fuel, exhaust, air intake, or
speed control system components that affect
engine emissions are prohibited.
Unauthorized modification, removal or
replacement of the engine label is prohibited.
You should carefully review Operator
(Owner) Installation and other manuals and
information you receive with your engine or
equipment. If you are unsure that the
installation, use, maintenance or service of
your engine or equipment is authorized, you
should seek assistance from an approved
Linamar/Onan engine dealer or an approved
dealer for your equipment.
California engine users may use Table 4 as an
aid in locating information related to the
California Air Resources Board requirements
for emissions control.
TABLE 4. EMISSIONS CONTROL INFORMATION
Engine Warranty Information The California emissions control warranty statements is
located in the same pocket of information as this manual
when the engine is shipped from the factory.
Engine Valve Lash See Specifications.
Engine Ignition Timing See Specifications
Engine Fuel Requirements The engine is certified to operate on unleaded gas.
See Fuel Recommendations in Introduction.
Engine Lubricating Oil
Requirement See Engine Oil Recommendations in Introduction.
Engine Fuel Mixture Adjustments These engines have precision-manufactured carburettor
which are not adjustable.
Engine Adjustment See Adjustments
Engine Emission Control System The engine emission control system consists of internal
engine modifications.