Tecumseh OV490EA User manual

TECUMSEH
EngineOperator'sManual
OV490EA
Four-Cycle Engine • Vertical Crankshatt• Air-Cooled
IMPORTANT NOTICE! Safety Definitions ......................................... ii
I. General Safety Precautions ............................................................. 1
II. How to Get Service .......................................................................... 3
Ill. Oil and Fuel Specifications ............................................................... 4
IV. Before Starting Your Engine ............................................................. 4
V. Starting Your Engine ........................................................................ 6
VI. Stopping Your Engine and Short-Term Storage ............................. 10
VII. Maintenance .................................................................................. 10
VIII. Transporting Your Engine ............................................................... 13
IX. Stodng Your Engine ....................................................................... 13
X. Preventing Forest, Brush and Grass Fires ..................................... 15
Xl. Maintenance Intervals .................................................................... 16
California & US EPA Emission Control Warranty Statement .......... 20
Emission Control System Warranty ............................................... 21
Xll. Warranty Information ...................................................................... 22
181-887-14
(English) 02/01106

IMPORTANT NOTICE!
Safety Definitions
Statements inthis manual preceded bythe followingwords
and graphics are of special significance:
Or
WARNING indicatesa potentiallyhazardous situation
which ifNOT avoided, could resultin death or sarious
injury.
NOTE
Refers to importantinformationand is placed in italiclype.
It is recommendedthat you take special notice of all items
discussed on the next two pages and wear the appropriate
safety equipment.
Before operating this engine itisyour responsibilityto read
this Operator's Manual. Follow these basic rules for your
personal safety:
•Keep this manual handy at all times for future
reference.
•Read it carefully and familiarize yourself with
operating,maintenance, componentsand safety
instructions.
Notice Regarding Emissions
NOTE
Engines whichare certified to comply with Californiaand
U.S. EPA emission regulationsfor SORE (Small Off Road
Equipment), are certified tooperate on regular unleaded
gasoline, and may include the followingemission control
systems: (EM) Engine Modificationand (TH/C) Thrae-way
Catalyst (ifso equipped).
Tecumseh Contact Information
For engine adjustments, repairs or warranty service NOT
covered in this manual, consult your local Authorized
Tecumsah Servicing Dealer, call 1-800-558-5402, or go to
www.TecumsahPower.com for additional information.
¢Copydght 2O04
Tecumseh Power Company
All Rights Reserved
Page ii Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft • Air-Co_ed 181-887-14

I. General Safety Precautions
Read equipment manufacturer's manual and this
material thoroughly before using this engine. Failure to
do so can result in serious injuryor death. Consult your
localAuthorized Tecumseh ServicingDealer, call 1-800-
558-5402, or go to www.TecumsehPower.com for
additional information.
A. Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
All engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, adeadly
gas. Breathing carbon
monoxide can cause
headaches, dizziness,
drowsiness, nausea, confusion
and eventually death.
Carbon monoxide isa colodess, edodess, tasteless gas
which may be present even ifyou DO NOT see or smell
any engine exhaust. Deadly levels of carbon monoxidecan
collect rapidlyand you can quicklybe overcomeand
unable to save yourself.Also, deadly levels ofcarbon
monoxide can linger for hours or days in enclosed or
poody-ventUatedareas. If you expedence any symptoms of
carbon monoxide poisoning,leave the area immediately,
get fresh air, and SEEK MEDICAL TREATMENT.
To prevent serious injuryor death from carbon monoxide:
NEVER runengine indoors.Even if you tryto
ventilateengine exhaust withfens or openwindows
and doors,carbon monoxidecan rapidlyreach
dangerous levels.
•NEVER run engine in poorly-ventilated or partially
enclosed areas such as barns, garages,
basements, carports, under dwellings,or in pits.
•NEVER runengine outdoorswhere engine exhaust
can bedrawn intoa buildingthroughopeningssuch
as windows and doors.
B. Avoid Gasoline Fires
Gasoline (fuel) vapors are highlyflammable 4
and can explode. Fuel vapors can spread
and be ignitedbya spark or flame manyfeet
away from engine. To prevent injuryor death
from fuel fires, followthese instructions:
•NEVER store engine with fuel infuel
tank inside a buildingwith potential
sourcesof ignitionsuch as hotwater and space
heaters, clothesdryers, electric motors,etc.
NEVER remove fuel cap or add fuel when engine is
running.
NEVER startor operate the engine with the fuel fill
cap removed.
• Allow engine tocoolbefore refueling+
•NEVER fillfuel tank indoors.Fillfuel tank outdoors
in a well-ventilated area.
•DO NOT smokewhile refuelingtank.
Use onlyan approved red GASOLINE container to
store and dispensefuel. Tecumsehrecommends
purchasinggasolineincontainerswith a capacity of
2.5 gallonsor less. Small containersare easier to
handle and helpeliminate spillageduring refueling.
•DO NOT pourfuel from engine or siphonfuel by
mouth, Toemptythefuel tanksee "1.DrainingFuel"
instructionson page 14.
C. Adult Supervision of Operation, Refueling
and Maintenance
The manufacturer ofthe applicationmay provide
informationabout who isallowed to usethis engine (see
equipment manufacturer'smanual). NOT everyonewho is
allowed to use this engine iscapable of safely and
responsiblyoperating, maintaining and/orfueling it.
Tecumseh recommendsthe following:
• An adult shouldfuel this engine. NEVER allow
childrento refuelthis engine. See "C. FillingFuel
Tank"instructionson page 5.
An adultshouldperform maintenance on this
engine. See '_/11.Maintenance" instructionson
page 10. Only allowchildrento perform
maintenance if an adulthas determinedthey are
experienced and capable of suchoperation.
An adult shouldstartthe engine. See "G Avoid
Accidental Starts"instructionson page 2. Only
allow childrento startthe engine ifan adult has
determined they are experienced and capable of
such operation.
•To avoid unsupervisedoperation ofthe engine,
especially bychildren,NEVER leave it unattended
when it isrunning.
D. Stay Away from Rotating Parts
NEVER operate the engine with an
unguardedengine shaft.
The equipment manufacturermay
attacha sprocketand chain or pulley
and belt to the engine shaft. If these
parts are NOT properlyguarded, or if
you are NOT sure whether theyare
properlyguarded, DO NOT use your
engine; contact the equipment
manufacturer. Hands, feet, hair,
jewelry, clothing, etc. can become
entangled in rotatingparts, leadingto
sedousinjuryor death. To avoidserious injuryor death, be
sure the flywheel guard is inplace.
Sea Figure 1, on page 2.
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine •Vertical Crankshaft •Air-Cooled Page 1

E. DO NOT Modify Engine
To avoidserious injuryor death, DO NOT modifyengine in
any way. Tampering withthe governor setting can leadto a
runaway engine and cause itto operate at unsafe speeds.
NEVER tamper with factory settingof engine governor.
Use of this engine on fun-carts, go-karts, or mini-bikes
can resuit in serious injury or death. Tecumseh
manufactures the Power Sport line of engines for use in
such applications. Consult your local Authorized
Tecumseh Sewicing Dealer, call 1-800-558-5402, or go
towww.TecumsehPower.com for additional information.
\
Figure 1. Typical Flywheel Guard Location
F. Avoid Burns and Fire from Hot Surfaces
The mufflerand other engine parts become
extremely hot duringoperation and remain
hot after the engine has stopped.
Toavoid severe bums on contact,
NEVER operatethe engine without
the mufflerguardin place, and avoid
hot areas ofthe engine. m
To reduce the riskoffire keep all materials thatcan
bum,includinggrass and leaves, away from muffler
and rest of engine. DO NOT operate, idleor park
the engine applicationin long drygrass or otherdry
ground cover.
G. Avoid Accidental Starts
To prevent accidental startingwhen working on equipment
always:
•Carefully disconnectspark plugwire and keep it
away from spark plug. See Figures 2 and 3.
•Keep the disconnected spark plug wire
securelyaway from metalparts where arcing
could occur.
•Carefullyattach the spark plug wire tothe
groundingpost,if provided.
•Disconnectbattery at negative terminal first,if
engine is equippedwith an electricstarter.
•Turn offall engine switches.
•Remove ignitionkey, if provided.
H. Use Hearing Protection
Engine noise may cause hearing damage. Always wear
hearing protectionwhen operating an engine.
Figure 2. Typical Spark Plug Connection
Figure 3. DisconnectlnglConnectlng Spark Plug
Page 2 Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft *Air-Cooled 181-887-14

II. How to Get Service
For engine adjustments, repairsor warranty service NOT
covered in this manual, consult your localAuthorized
Tecumseh Servicing Dealer, call 1-800-558-5402, or go to
www.TecumsehPower.com for additional information.
A. Engine Identification Decal
A sample engine identificationdecal (See Figure4.)
indicates the engine's model number, specificationof
engine and the date of manufacture (D.OM,). Please look
at the decal on your engine and fillin this informationinthe
spaces providedfor future reference.
The engine identificationdecal also includesengine life
specificationsfor the emissions-relateduseful llfe peded of
your engine.This peded relates tothe emissioncompliance
life as certified by EPA and/orCARB. To findthe life peded
specificationfor your engine, please lookon yourengine's
decal and findthe letter enclosed by quotation marks
between the words MODERATE and LIFE PERIOD. Match
one of the followingletters withthe letter printedon your
decal. Forexample, OV models are designated as =C"250
hours,"B"500 hours,and "A"1000 hours.
B. Tecumseh Technician's Handbook
Ifyou have a general understandingof intemal combustion
engines and wish to repair and service your engine and/or
engine emission control systems yourself,a Technician's
Handbook is available from yourAuthorized Tecumseh
Servicing Dealer. Sea Figure 5. This handbookcovers
repairs and adjustments NOT covered within this
Operator's Manual, and it isintended for individualswho
have had adequate training, experience and who practice
proper toolusage. Service procedures shouldbe cleady
understoodand practiced when servicingTecumseh
Engines. Order as part no. 695244A for OV models.
Tecumseh manufactures and is responsibleonlyfor the
engine used on this powerequipment. Ifrepair or service is
needed for anythingother than the engine, contact the
service sourcerecommended bythe equipment
manufacturer.
ENGINE
MODEL:
SPEC:
D.O.M.:
Figure 4. Engine Identification Decal
TECUMSEIII
TECHNICIAN'SKAKOGOOK
4 ,.CYC/,.E
OVERHEADVALVE
E_C4NES m
I
/
Figure 5. Technician's Handbook
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine •Vertical Crankshaft •Air-Cooled Page 3

III. Oil and Fuel Specifications
A. Oil
To operate engine you need to use a clean, high quality,
detergent oil. For recommended engine oil, See Table 1.
NOTES
Be sure originalcontainer is marked A.P.I. Service "SL/SJ'.
Using multigrade oilabove 32"[: (O°C) willincrease oil
consumption. SAE10W40 isNO T recommended.
The oilsump capacity (includingoil filter) is 62 ounces
or 3-7/8 U.S. Pints (1.83 liters).
The oilsump capacity (withoutoil filter)is 55 ounces or
3-7/16 U.S. Pints (1.62 liters).
Tecumsehspacial-formulaled oils are available at your
Authorized TecumsehServicing Dealer.
B. Fuel
Use unleaded regular, unleaded premium or reformulated
automotive fuel only. You may use gasoline containing the
followingcomponents identifiedin Table 2.
•DO NOT use leaded fuel.
•Fuel mustbe fresh and clean. NEVER usefuel left
over from lastseason or stored for longpedods.
•NEVER mix oilwith fuel.
•DO NOT use fuel containing Methanol (Wood
Alcohol).
IV. Before Starting Your Engine
A. Checking Oil Level
To avoid engine damage, it is importantto:
• Check oil level before each use and every 5
operating hours when engine iswarm. Check oil
level more frequently during engine break-in.
•Keep oil level between "FULL• and =ADD"marks on
dipstick.See Figure 6.
•Be sure oilfillcap/plug istightened securely.
NOTES
DO NOT overfilloilfiller.Doing so may resultin oilcarry-
over to the air cleaner and equipment malfunction or
damage.
DO NOT allowoil level tofall below the "ADD"mark on
dipstick.Doing so may resultin equipment malfunctionor
damage.
Contactyour Authorized Tecumseh Servicing Dealer for
Tecumseh Oil.
Table 1. Recommended Oil Usage
Table 2. Recommended Fuel
Ethanol 10%
GrainAlcohol ('Gasohol') 10%
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) 15%
ETBE (Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) 15%
m-- rm
FULL
ADD
Fill Between "FULL"
jand "ADD" Marks
Figure 6. Engine OII Level
Page 4Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft • Air-Cooled 181-887-14

B. Filling Oil Sump
1. Be sure engine is uprightand level.
2. Unscrew oilfillcap from oil fillertube and wipe dipstick
clean. See Figure 7.
3. Screw oilfillcap back intooilfiller tube. ]3ghtan
securely,
4, Unscrew and remove oilfigcap from oilfillertube. Note
oil level. Ifoil reading on dipstickisbelow =ADD"mark,
slowlyadd oilto reach "FULL"level. See Figure 6, on
page 4. Afterward, continuereading instructionsbelow.
5. Screw oilfillcap back intooilfiller tube. "nghten
securely.
6. Wipe away any spilledoil.
C. Filling FueITank
An adult shouldfuel this engine.
NEVER allow childrento refuelthis
engine. Gasoline (fuel) vapors are highlyflammable and
can explode. Fuel vapors can spread and be ignitedbya
spark or flame many feet away from engine. To prevent
injuryor death from fuel fires, follow these instructions:
1. Stop engine and allow itto coolbefore refueling.
2. Be sure engine isoutdoors and in a well-ventilated
area.
3. Clean area around fuel fillcap and remove fuel fillcap.
.Using an approved red GASOLINE container,add fuel
slowly,being careful to avoid spilling.DO NOT overfill
fuel tank. Leave space in the tank to allowfuel to
expand without overflowing.
oReplace fuel fillcap securelyand wipe up spilledfuel
before startingengine. Iffuel isspilled DO NOT start
engine. Move machine away from area ofspillage.
Avoid creating any source of ignitionuntil fuel vapors
are gone.
4
3
2
1. Spark Plug
2. Spark Plug Cap
3. Spark Plug Wire
4, All' Intake Screen
5. Oil Fill Plug and Dipstick
6. OII Filter (Optional)
7. Carburetor
7 6
Figure 7. Engine with Oil Fill Dipstick
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine •Vertical Crankshaft •Air-Cooled Page 5

V. Starting Your Engine
An adult should startthe engine.
Only allow chUdrento startengine if
an adulthas determined they are experienced and capable
of such operation. If you are unable to startthis engine
after followinginstructionsin this
manual, contactyourAuthorized Tecumseh Servicing
Dealer. To avoidserious bum injuries or damage to your
engine, DO NOT attemptto startortroubleshootthisengine
in any otherway. For example:
• DO NOT use starting fluid.
•DO NOT spray flammable vapors intocarburetor or
ontoair cleaner.
•DO NOT put flammable liquids intocarburetor or
ontoair cleaner.
•DO NOT operate engine or pull on starterropewith
sparkplugremoved. Fuelcan spray fromsparkplug
hole and ignite.
This sectioncontains starting instructionsfor electricand
manual startengines. In order to locate the instructionsthat
applyto your engine, firstdetermine what type of starter
you have. Ifyou have an electric starter see •A. Engines
with ElectricStarters• instructions.If you have a manual
recoil starter sea "B. Engines with Recoil Starters"
instructionson page 8.
A. Engines with Electric StaRers
Only one ofthe followingtwo sections willapply toyour
engine. See Table 3.
I. Combined Speed and Choke Control
1. To avoidcarbon monoxide poisoning, besure engine is
outdoorsin a wall-ventilated area.
2. Move combined control to "CHOKE" or "START"posi-
tion(see equipment manufacturer's instructions).See
Figures 8 and 9.
NOTE
If restartingewarm engine after a shortshutdown, move
combinedcontrol to"FAS7"instead of "CHOKE" or "START,
position.See Figures 8 and 9.
3. Push starter button or turn ignitionswitch key (see
equipmentmanufacturer's instructions)to startengine.
NOTES
DO NOT operate anelectric starterfor more than5 seconds
each attempt.
If engine fails tostart after 3 attempts repeat steps 2thru3.
4. When engine starts:
a. Release starterbutton or ignitionswitchkey.
b. Next, move combined controlto "FAST" position.
c. Finally,move combined controlto desired speed in
"RUN" range.
Figure 8. Combined Speed and Choke Control
STOP SLOW RUN FAST CHOKE
Figure 9. Typical Engine Symbols
Table 3. Engine Sections with Electric StaRers
Combined
Speed and Choke Control
Independent
Speed and Choke Controls
NOTES
Ifengine starts, but falters when combinedcontrolismoved
to "FAST"position:
a. Momentarily move combinedcontrolback to
"CHOKE" position.
b. Next, movecombinedcontrolto'FAST,position.
c. Finally,move combined controlto desiredspeed in
"RUN" range.
If engine dies after combined controlis moved to "FAST"
position,repeat steps 2thin 4 to restartengine.
5. If engine fires but does NOT continue to run, move
combined control lever to "FAST"position and then
startengine.
.If engine fails to startafter 3 attemptswithcombined
control in "FAST" position, move combinedcontrol to
•CHOKE" position and pushbuttonor tum key to start
engine again.
.If engine does NOT start after followingstepsI thru 6,
contact yourAuthorized TecurnsehServicingDealer.
DO NOT attempt to startor troubleshootthisengine in
any other way.
Page 6 Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft •Air-Cooled 181-887-14

I1. Independent Speed and Choke Controls
1. To avoidcarbon monoxidepoisoning,besum engine is
outdoors in a wen-ventilatedarea.
.Move independent speed controlto "FAST' position
and set independent choke controlto "FULL CHOKE"
position(see equipmentmanufacturer's instructions).
See Figures 9 thru 11.
NOTES
Generator and Water Pump applicationsmay have the
independent choke lever mounted on the engine. See
Figure 12.
Ifrestartinga warm engine after ashortshutdown,move
independent speed controlto"FAST"pos#ion and move
independent choke control to "NO CHOKE" position.
3. Push starter button or turnignitionswitch key (see
equipment manufacturer's instructions)to start engine.
NOTES
DO NOToperate an electricstarterformore than 5 seconds
each attempt.
If engine fails to startafter 3 aftempts repeat steps 2 thru3.
4. When engine starts:
a. Release starter buttonor ignitionswitch key.
b. Next, move independentchoke controlto "1/2
CHOKE" positionuntilengine runssmoothly.
c. Next, move independent choke control to "NO
CHOKE" position.
5. Finally,move independentspeed controlto desired
speed in "RUN" range.
NOTES
If engine starts, but falters when independent choke control
is moved to "NO CHOKE" position:
a. Momentarily move independent choke controlback
to "FULLCHOKE" position.
b. Next, move independent choke control to "1/2
CHOKE" position untilengine runssmoothly.
c. Finally, move independentchoke control to "NO
CHOKE" position.
If engine dies after independentchoke controlismoved to
"NO CHOKE" position, repeat steps2 thru5to restart
engine.
6. Ifengine fires but does NOT continueto run, move
independentchoke control lever to "NO CHOKE" posi-
tion and startengine.
7. Ifengine fails to start after 3 attempts in the "NO
CHOKE" position,move independentchoke controlto
"FULL CHOKE" positionand startengine.
.Ifengine does NOT start after followingsteps I thru 7,
contact yourAuthorized Tecumseh Servicing Dealer,
DO NOT attemptto startor troubleshootthis engine in
any otherway
Choke
Control
Speed
Control
Figure 10. Independent Speed and Choke Controls
1. "NO CHOKE" Position
2. "t12 CHOKE" Position
3. "FULL CHOKE" Position
2 3
Figure 11. Choke Control Positions
i i :::
' ....... ' 1 2
1. "NO CHOKE" Position
2. "112 CHOKE" Position
3. "FULL CHOKE" Position
Figure 12. Engine Mounted Choke Lever
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine * VerticalCrankshaft • Air-Cooled Page 7

B. Engines with Recoil Starters
If you have an electric starter see "A. Engines with Electric
Starters"instructionson page 6. Only one ofthe following
two sectionswill apply toyour engine. See Table 4.
Table 4. Engine Sections with Recoil Starters
Combined Section B.I
Speed and Choke Control
Independent SectionB.II
Speed and Choke Controls
Combined Speed and Choke Control
L
1.
.
To avoidcarbon monoxide poisoning,besure engine is
outdoorsin a well-ventilated area.
Move combined control to =CHOKE" or "START"posi-
tion, if present (see equipment manufacturer's instruc-
tions). See Figures 13 and 14.
NOTE
If restartinga warm engine after a shortshutdown, move
combinedcontrol to "FAS7"insteadof "CHOKE"or "START"
position. See Figures 13 and 14.
When pullingstarter rope, the rope
can unexpectedlyjerk back toward
engine causing serious injury. To avoidthis risk,carefully
follow these instructions:
3. Grasp starter cordhandle. See Figure 15.
a. Pull ropeout slowly untilyou feel drag.
b. W_hout allowing the rope to retract, continue
pullingrope with one rapid full arm stroke.
c. Retum rope slowlyto odginal position.
NOTES
Following the instructionslisted in the steps above avoids
potential damage to the recoil mechanism.
If engine fails tostart after 3 pulls repeat steps 2 thru3.
4. When engine starts:
a. Move combined control to "FAST" position.
b. Next, move combined control to desired speed in
"RUN" range.
NOTES
If engine starts,but falters when combined controlis moved
to "FAST"position:
a. Momentanly move combined control back to
"CHOKE" position.
Figure 13. Combined Speed and Choke Control
STOP SLOW RUN FAST CHOKE
Figure 14. Typical Engine Symbols
\
Figure 15. Recoil Starter
b. Next, movecombinedcontrelto "FAST'position.
c. Finally, move combinedcontroltodesired speed in
"RUN"range.
ff engine dies after combined control ismoved to "FAST"
position, repeat steps 2 thru4 torestart engine.
5. If engine fires but does NOT continue to run, move
combined control lever to "FAST"positionand pullthe
starter rope.
.
7.
If engine fails to start after 3 attemptswith combined
control in the "FAST" position, movecombined control
to "FULLCHOKE" positionand pullthe starter rope
again.
If engine does NOT startafterfollowingsteps I thru 6,
contact yourAuthorized TecumsehServicingDealer.
DO NOT attempt to startor troubleshootthis engine in
any other way.
Page 8 Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft •Air-Cooled 181-887-14

II. Independent Speed and Choke Controls
1. Toavoid carbon monoxidepoisoning,be sure engine is
outdoorsin a well-ventilated area.
2, Move independent speed controlto "FAST" position
and set independent choke controlto "FULL CHOKE"
position(see equipment manufacturer's instructions).
See Figures 14, 16, and 17.
NOTES
Generator and Water Pump applications may have the
independent choke lever mounted on the engine. See
Figure 18.
If restarting awarm engine after a short shutdown, move
independent speed control to "FA$7" poe#ionand move
independent choke controlto "NO CHOKE" position.
When pullingstarter rope, the rope
can unexpectedlyjerk back toward
engine causing serious injury.To avoid this dsk, carefully
follow these instructions:
3. Grasp starter cordhandle. See Figure 15.
a. Pull ropeout slowlyuntil you feel drag.
b. Without allowingthe rope to retract,continue
pullingrope with one rapid fullarm stroke.
c. Return rope slowlyto originalposition.
NOTE
Following the instructionslistedin thesteps above avoids
potential damage to therecoil mechanism.
ff engine fails tostart after3 pulls repeat steps 2 thru3.
4. When engine starts:
a. Move independent choke control to "1/2 CHOKE"
positionuntil engine runs smoothly.
b. Next, move independentchoke control to "NO
CHOKE" position.
5. Finally,move independent speed control to desired
speed in "RUN" range.
NOTES
If engine startsbut falters when independent choke control
is moved to "NO CHOKE" position:
a. Momentarily move independent choke controlback
to "FULL CHOKE" position.
b. Next, move independent choke controlto
"1/2 CHOKE" position untilengine runs smoothly.
c. Finally, move independent choke controlto
"NO CHOKE "position.
If engine dies after independent choke controlis moved to
"NO CHOKE" position repeat steps 2 thru5 torestart
engine.
6. If engine fires but does NOT continue to run, move
independent choke controlto "NO CHOKE" position
and pullstarter ropeagain.
7. If engine failsto startafter 3 attempts inthe "NO
CHOKE" position, move independent choke controlto
"FULLCHOKE" positionand pullstader rope again.
Choke
Control
Control
Figure 16. Independent Speed and Choke Controls
1
1. "NO CHOKE" Position
2. "t/2 CHOKE" Position
3. "FULL CHOKE" Position
2 3
Figure 17. Choke Control Positions
.........' 1 2
1. "NO CHOKE" Position
2. "1/2 CHOKE" Position
3. "FULL CHOKE" Posttlon
,
Figure t8. Engine Mounted Choke Lever
If engine does NOT start afterfollowing steps I thru7,
contact yourAuthorized Tecumseh ServicingDealer.
DO NOT attemptto startor troubleshootthis engine in
any otherway.
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft •Air-Cooled Page 9

VI. Stopping Your Engine and
Short-Term Storage
Stop engine accordingto equipment manufacturer's
instructions. To avoid unsupervisedoperation of
an engine, especially by children,
NEVER leave itunattended when itis running.Always tum
offthe engine after use and remove ignitionkey,if provided.
NEVER store the engine withfuel in
the fuel tank insidea buildingwith
potentialsourcesof ignitionsuch as hot water and space
heaters, clothesdryers, electric motors, etc.
VII. Maintenance
An adultshouldperformmaintenance
on thisengine. Only allowchildrento
perform maintenance ifan adult has determined they are
expedenced and capable of such operation.
To prevent accidental startingwhen
working on equipment, always:
Figure 19. Oil Drain Plug Location
• Carefully disconnectspark plugwire and keep it
away from spark plug. See "G AvoidAccidental
Starts"instructionson page 2. Afterward,continue
reading instructionsbelow.
• Keep the disconnected spark plugwire securely
away from metal partswhere arcing could occur.
•Carefully attach the spark plugwire tothe
grounding post, if provided.
•Disconnect battery at negativeterminal first,
if engine is equipped with an electdc starter.
• Turn off all engine switches.
•Remove ignitionkey, if provided.
A. Checking and Changing Oil
To avoid engine damage, it is importantto:
Check oil level before each use and every 5
operating hours when engine iswarm. See "A.
Checking Oil Level" instructionson page 4.
Afterward, continue reading instructionsbelow.
Change oilafterfirst2 operating hoursand every 50
operating hoursthereafter;,more oftenif operated in
extremely dusty or dirtyconditions. Engine should
stillbe warm but NOT hotfrom recent usa.
1. Be sure you find the correct drain plug location, if
present. (See equipment manufacturer's instructions).
See Figure 19.
2. Carefullydisconnect spark plugwire and keep it away
from spark plug. See "G. Avoid AccidentalStarts"
instructionson page 2. Afterward, continue reading
instructionsbelow.
3. Be sure the gas cap is on and is tightenedsecurely.
4. Clean area around oil drain plug. See Figure 19.
Figure 20. Oil Filler Locations
.
NOTE
Used oilmust be disposedof at a proper
collection center.
6. Remove oil drain plug and drain oilinto
an approved container. See Figure 19.
7. Installoildrain plugand tighten securely.
8.
Place approved recyclable oilcontainer underoil drain
plug. (See equipment manufacturer'sinstructions).
Fill with recommended oil. See "ILLOil and Fuel Speci-
fications"instructionson page 4. See "Table 1. Recom-
mended Oil Usage" instructionson page 4.
See Figure20. Afterward, continue readinginstructions
below.
9. Wipe away any spilledoil.
10. Carefullydisconnectspark plug wire from grounding
post, if provided. See "G. AvoidAccidentalStarts"
instructionson page 2. See Figure25, on page 15.
Afterward, continue reading instructionsbelow.
11. Carefullyre-connect spark plugwire tospark plug.See
Figure26, on page 15. Afterward,continue reading
instructionsbelow.
NOTES
Theoilfilterifsoequipped,shouldbe changedevery 100
operatinghoursor at leastonce ayea_
Thefillershouldbe changedmore oftenif theengineis
operatedin extremelydustor dittyconditions.
Changingtheoilfilterrequiresthatadditionaloilbe addedtotill
the tilter.
ContactyourAuthorizedTecumsehServicingDealerfora
Tecumseh 011Filter.
Page 10 Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft • Air-Cooled 181-887-14

B. Removing Debris from Engine
Before each use, remove the air cleaner cover. Discard
grass clippings,dirtand debris from the followingareas:
Levers and Linkage
Cooling Fins
Air Intake Screen
Air Inlet
Guards
Removing debris will insure adequate cooling,correct
engine speed and reduce the riskof fire. See Figure 21.
NOTES
Before removing air cleaner cover see "IlL Filter RemovaY
Installation" instructions onpage 12. Special care shouldbe
taken toprevent damage when removing air cleaner cover
See Figure 21. Afterward, continue reading instructions
below.
DO NOT bend levers and linkage with fingers.
See Figure 22.
1. Remove air cleaner cover and filters. See Figure 21.
2. Remove debris from air inlet, air cleaner cover and air
intake screen.
3. Inspect filter(s)for discolorationor dirt accumulation.If
either ispresent, see "L Servicing Foam Pre-Filter"
instructionson page 12 or see "ILServicing Paper Fil-
ters" instructionson page 12. Afterward, continueread-
inginstructionsbelow.
4. Replace air cleaner cover and filters.
C. Spark Plug
Check spark plug yearly or every 100 operating hours.
1. Clean area around spark plug.
2. Remove and inspectspark plug.
3. Replace spark plug if porcelain iscracked or if elec-
trodes ara:
•Pitted
• Burned
• Fouled with Deposits
4. Check electrode gap with wire feeler gauge and set
gap to--.03O in. (0.76ram) if necessary. See Figure23.
5. Installspark plug and tighten securely.
NOTE
A resistorsparkplugmustbe usedforreplacement. Contact
your Authorized TecumsehServicing Dealer for a
Tecumseh Resistor Spark Plug.
1. Cooling Fins
2. Levers and Linkage
3. Air Inlet
4. Air Cleaner Cover
5. Air Intake Screen
Figure 21. Debris Locations
f"
Figure 22. Linkage and Lever Bending
2 3
1
t..030 in. (0.76mm) Gap
2. Electrodes
3. Porcelain
4
3
181-887-14
Figure 23. Spark Plug
Four-Cycle Engine • Vertical Crankshaft • Air-Cooled

D. CleaninglReplacing Air Cleaner
Your engine has an air cleaner which helps prevent
premature engine wear and failure. NEVER runengine
without complete air cleaner installedon engine. Your air
cleaner periodicallyneeds to be cleaned or replaced.
NOTES
ALWAYS inspectfilter(s) for discolorationor dirt
accumulation, ff either is present, see "1.Servicing Foam
Pra-Filter" instructions and/or see "11.Servicing Paper
Filters" instructions on thispage.
Contact yourAuthorized Tecumseh Servicing Dealer for a
Tecumseh Air Cleaner.
I. Servicing Foam Pre-Filter
Clean foam pre-filterevery 3 monthsor every25 operating
hours.Clean daily ifused in extremely dusty conditions.
After removingthe pre-filter,follow these cleaning
instructionsbelow:
1. Wash inwarm water and detergent solutionthen press
(DO NOT twist) untilall dirtis removed.
2. Rinse thoroughlyuntilwater isclear.
3. Wrap in a clean clothand press (DO NOT twist)until
completely dry.
NOTE
DO NOT oilfoam pre-filter.
4. Replace foam pre-filter onto paper filter.
II. Servicing Paper Filters
Paper filterscannot be cleaned and must be replaced once
a year or every 100 operating hours; more often if used in
extremely dusty conditions. Replacement filtersare
available at an Authorized Tecumseh Servicing Dealer.
NOTE
DO NOT put oil on or clean apeper filter.
III. Filter Removalllnstallation
1. Removewingnutsfromair cleanercover. See Figure24.
2. Remove air cleaner cover while lifting upward then
outward.
3. Remove fasteners.
4. Remove and inspectfiiter(s) for discolorationor dirt
accumulation. Ifeither is present, sea "1.Servicing
Foam Pre-Filter"instructionsor see "11.ServicingPaper
Filters"instructionson this page. Afterward, continue
reading instructionsbelow.
5. Clean insideof cover and bodythoroughly.
6. Installpaper filter (sea equipment manufacturer's
instructions).
7.
8.
Installfasteners.
Installfoam pre-filter(see equipment manufacturer's
instructions).
6
4
3
2
t
1. Body
2. Paper Filter
3. Fasteners
4. Foam Pre-Filter
5. Air Cleaner Cover
6. Wing Nuts
Figure 24. Air Cleaner Components
9. Installcover by pushingdown ontobody securely.
10. Installwings nuts and tighten securely.
E. Carburetor
Ifyou thinkyour carburetor needs adjusting,see your
nearest Authorized Tecumseh ServicingDealer. Engine
performance shouldNOT be affected at altitudes upto
7,000 feet (2,134 meters). For operationat higher
elevations,contact yourAuthorized Tecumseh Servicing
Dealer.
R Engine Speed
Toavoid sedous injuryor death, DO
NOT modifyengine in any way.
Tampering withthe govemor settingcan lead to a runaway
engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. NEVER
tamper with factory settingof engine governor.
Runningtheengine faster than the speed set at the factory
can be dangerous and will VOID THE ENGINE
WARRANTY.
G. Adjustments
DO NOT make any engine adjustments. Factorysettings
are satisfactoryfor most conditions. If adjustmentsare
needed, contact yourAuthorized Tecumseh Servicing
Dealer.
Page 12 Four-Cycle Engine •Vertical Crankshaft •Air-Cooled 181-887-14

VIII. Transporting Your Engine
NEVER transportthis engine inside
another vehicle or in any enclosed
space ifthere isany gasoline in the tank. Fuel vapor or
spilledfuel may ignite.If there isfuel in the fuel tank, close
the fuel shutoff valve, ifequipped,
and transportthe engine uprightinan openvehicle, suchas
an open trailer or open bed of a pickup track.
If you DO NOT have an open vehicle and have to transport
the engine uprightin a closed vehicle, followthese steps
for emptying the fuel tank before transporting:
1. Empty fuel tank by using a commerciallyavailable
suction device designed for use with gasoline.
DO NOT pour fuel from engine or
siphon fuel by mouth.
2. Drain fuel into an approved red GASOLINE container,
being careful to avoid spilling.
3. Run the engine untilremaining fuel is consumed.
NEVER leave the engine
unattended when it isrunningand
NEVER run engine in enclosed areas.
IX. Storing Your Engine
A. Short TermlSeasonal Storage
I. Clean Engine
Before servicingthe engine remove the air cleaner cover
and/or blower housing.Discard grass clippings,dirtand
debrisfrom the following areas:
CoolingFins
Air Intake Screen
Levers
Linkage
Guards
Carburetor
Head
Removing debdswillfacilitate adequate cooling,correct
engine speed and reducethe dskof tire.
II. Fuel Storage
NEVER store engine withfuel in fuel
tank insidea buildingwith potential
sourcesof ignitionsuch as hotwater and space heaters,
clothesdryers, electdc motors, etc. Failure to do so may
result in an explosionand result in death or sedousinjury.
NOTES
Ifengine fuel storedin thegas tank and/oran approvedgas
containeristo be unused w#hout gasolinestabilizer for
more than 15-30 days, prepare it for shortterm/seasonal
storage. See "IV Fuel Treatment"instructionson page 14.
Afterward, continuereading instructionsbelow.
If engine fuel is to be stored for more than one season,
without gasolinestabilizer,itwill gradually deteriorate.Also,
ifit isstored in the engine'sgas tank withoutgasoline
stabilizeritis likelythat your carburetor willhave gum
deposits,a dogged fuel system and will voidyourwarranty.
Prepare thefuel for extended storage. See "B. Extended
Storage"instructionsonpage 14. Afterward, continue
reading instructionsbelow.
Ifyou operate the engine during all 4 seasons, it isNOT
necessary to lubricate the cylinderbore.
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine • VerticalCrankshaft *Air-Cooled Page 13

III. FuelSystem
Toavoidstalegasandcarburetorproblems,treatthefuel
systeminthefollowingmethodbelow:
NOTES
Tecumsehrecommends using ULTRA-FRE$1.f TM or Fuel
Saver Plus GasolineStabilizer plus Fuel System Cleaner as
an acceptable method ofminimizing formation of fuel gum
depositsdudngstorage. Thisproductis available fromyour
Authorized TecumsehServicing Dealer.
Always follow mix ratio found on stabilizercontainer.Failure
todo so may resultin equipment damage.
It is NOT necessary to drain stabilized gas from carburetor.
IV. Fuel Treatment
1.
2.
Add fuel stabilizeraccording to manufacturer's
instructions.
Run engine at least 10 minutes alter adding stabilizer
to allow itto reach carburetor.
NEVER store the engine withfuel in
the fuel tank inside a buildingwith
potential sourcesof ignitionsuch as hot water and space
heaters, clothesdryers, electdc motors, etc.
NOTE
Instead of using a fuel preservative/stabilizer, you can
empty the fuel tank as described under "1.Draining Fuel"
instructions.
B. Extended Storage
I. Draining Fuel
NOTES
Clean debds from engine before drainingfuelfrom
carburetor.See "1.Clean Engine" instructionson page 13.
Afterward, continuereading instructionsbelow.
ff you haveprepared your fuel for shorttermstorageitis
NOT necessary to drain fuel that containsstabilizerfrem
your carburetor.See "A. Short Term/Seasonal Storage"
instructionson page 13. Afterward,continue reading
instructionsbelow.
siphonfuel by mouth.
1.
To avoid severe injuryor death,
DO NOT pour fuel from engineor
To prevent seriousinjuryfrom fuel fires,emptyfueltank
by runningengine until itstops from lack offuel DO
NOT attemptto pour fuel from engine.
2. Runthe engine while waiting untilthe remainingfuel is
consumed.
NEVER leave the engine
unattended when it is runningand
NEVER run engine in enclosed areas.
3. Begin servicingthe cylinderbore. See "11.Oil Cylinder
Bore"instructionson page 15.
Page 14 Four-Cycle Engine, VerticalCrankshaft, Air-Cooled 181-887-14 J

II. OII Cylinder Bore
When lubricatingcylinderbore, fuel
may spray from spark plug hole. To
prevent sedous injuryfrom fuel fires, followthese
instructions:
1. Carefully disconnectspark plugwire and keep it away
from spark plug. See "G.Avoid Accidental Starts"
instructionson page 2. See Figures25 and 26. After-
ward, continue readinginstructionsbelow.
•Keep the disconnected spark plug wire
securelyaway from metal partswhere arcing
couldoccur.
2,
3.
•Carefully attachthe spark plug wire tothe
groundingpost, if provided.
•Disconnectbattery at negative terminal first,if
engine is equipped with an electricstarter.
•Tum off all engine switches.
•Remove ignitionkey, if provided.
Remove spark plug.
Squirt 1oz. (3Oml)ofclean engine oil intospark plug
hole.
4. Cover spark plug holewith rag toprevent fuel from
spraying from spark plug hole when starter ropeis
pulled. NOTES
For engines equipped with recoil startersproceed toStep 5.
For engines equipped withelectricstartersproceed toStep
6.
5. Grasp starter cord handle and pullout slowlyusing a
fullarm stroke. Repeat once. (This willdistributeoil
throughoutthe cylinderto prevent corrosion dudng
storage.)
6. Install spark plug.
7. Carefully disconnectspark plug wire from grounding
post, if provided.
8. Carefully re-connect spark plug wire before attempting
to startengine. See Figures25 and 26.
III. Oil
Change oil if NOT changed within the last 3 months. See
"A. Checking and ChangingOil" instructions on page 10.
IV. Battery
See equipment manufacturer's instructionsfor proper
battery storage, if present.
Figure 25°Typical Spark Plug Connection
++
Figure 26. DisconnectinglConnecUng Spark Plug
X. Preventing Forest, Brush and Grass
Fires
Local, state and federal laws may require useof a spark
arrester to preventfires. For example, it is a violationof
California Public Resources Code (section4442) to use or
operate engine on any forest-covered, brush-coveredor
unimprovedgrass-coveredland unlessengine isequipped
with a spark arrester. Spark arrester mustbe maintainedin
effective workingorder by owner and/oroperator.
To determine ifyourengine has a spark arrester, locatethe
muffleron your engine. For example, the mufflerdischarge
willhave a spark arrester cover that reads "Tecumseh
Screen Type 36085".
If your engine does NOT have a spark arrester, you may
purchase one from yourAuthorized Tecumseh Servicing
Dealer. In some cases the mufflermay need to be replaced
to allowthe spark arrester to be installed.
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine • VerticalCrankshaft • Air-Cooled Page 15

XI. Maintenance Intervals
Maintenance is one of the most _mportant things that you
can do to extend the life of your Tecumseh Engine If you
are unable to perform maintenance intervals yourself,
consult your local Authonzed Tecumseh Servicing Dealer,
call 1-800-558-5402, or go to www TecumsehPower.com
for additional information
ALWAYS promptly follow maintenance Jntervals listed in
this manual See Table 5
Table 5. Maintenance Intervals
:__ Pi'ocedd_ =-:._ -'._: --,.'._-:-:'-"-'_'_:-_.'I_ i_:_,_ _ -_:--:.
=-..............
Change After First 2 hrs.
Oil When Engine is Warm
L_,_e_ :--_. _---"_-"t-':-:- _:-Sefo,#e:Eab_TU_"6:_-"-- :
Clean
Cooling
Fins
Change
Oil
5 hrs.
Or
Before Each Use
50 hrs.
Or
3mos.
Check
Spark
Plug
100 hrs.
Or
Seasonally
_'._0_-_0 d-_is_,_;'___,_ ::
First Scheduled Maintenance
After First 2 Hours When Engine is Warm
t. Change Oil
Date Owner/Dealer
Page 16 Four-Cycle Engine •Vertical Crankshaft •Air-Cooled 181-887-14

BeforeEachUseScheduledMaintenance
Every5HoursorBeforeEachUse
1. CheckOilLevel
2. CleanCoolingFins
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
Date OwnedDealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Deater
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date OwnedDealer
Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Every 25 Hours or 3 Months Scheduled Maintenance
1. Clean Foam Pre-Filter
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
181-887-14 Four-Cycle Engine •Vertical Crankshaft •Air-Cooled Page 17

Every50Hoursor3 MonthsScheduledMaintenance
1. ChangeOil
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date OwnedDealer
Date Owner/Dealer
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Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Date Owner/Dealer
Every 100 Hours or Seasonally
1. Replace Paper Filter
2. Replace Oil Filter
3. Check Spark Plug
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Every 200 Hours or Seasonally
t. Replace Spark Plug
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Owner/Dealer
Owner/Dealer
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Page 18 Four-Cycle Engine •VerticalCrankshaft •Air-Cooled 181-887-14