10 WINTER EQUIPMENT STORAGE TIPS 1 ) Drain gas tank and crankcase oil. Remember it is important to recycle the oil properly. 2) Add the proper amount and grade of new motor oil. Remember to refer to owner’s manual. 3) Always purchase new fuel, do not keep leftover fuel in the tank. Make sure you treat the new fuel with a fuel stabilizer and fill tank. Fuel stabilizers help to prevent gumming in the fuel delivery system. 4) Make sure that you run the engine for a short time to circulate the additive through the carburetor. Engines with treated fuel can be stored for up to 18 months however, remember to refer to owner’s manual for your specific machine and to be honest you will have it out to throw snow long before that. 5) Remove the spark plug and pour about 1/2 ounce (15 ml) of engine oil into the cylinder. Slowly pull starter cord through several times to crank engine and distribute the oil within the cylinder. It is important to replace spark plug however, remember to store the unit with spark plug wire disconnected. 6) Now if your machine has an electric starter, with the spark plug wire disconnected, plug in electric starter and spin starter for 20 seconds to help eliminate internal moisture. 7) Lubricate all lubrication points as instructed in your owner’s manual. It is recommended to wipe the entire unit with a lightly oiled rag to protect surfaces.
Remember to refer to owner’s manual. 8) Store snow thrower or other pieces of winter equipment in a clean, dry area.
Remember to not store near a stove, furnace or water heater or any other item that uses a pilot light or any device that can create a spark. Plus remember to never store your winter equipment next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer. 9) Tires, especially pneumatic tires, should be isolated from concrete floors. This does not mean you have to have your winter machine on a jack like when storing your car in the winter, but by placing a rubber mat between the floor and the tire tread. 10 ) If your winter equipment has a battery; then remove it and make sure that it is fully charged and ready to be put back in the unit when the snow flies.
Well I hope this helps you out or at the very least will allow you to jump in on the next patio party conversation, just in case BBQ’s and Craft Beer are not your thing.
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MAY 2017 • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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