Lubrication
63
Oil type and quantity
MTD engines use oil with a SF/SG API rating or better is the recommended oil for this engine.
• The winter engines use SAE 5W-30 oil.
• The summer engines use SAE 10W-30 oil.
• The oil capacity for all of the 78/83/90 series engines is 37 fl.oz (1.1 liters).
• If the oil is noticeably thin, or smells of gasoline, a carburetor repair may be needed before the engine can
be run safely.
• Check the oil level frequently and change the oil more frequently in severe operating conditions such as
exceptionally deep snow falls.
• Synthetic oil is a suitable alternative, but it does not extend service intervals.
NOTE: MTD recommends the use of petroleum oil during the break in period to ensure the piston rings cor-
rectly break in.
Synthetic vs. Petroleum based oil: To simply look at synthetic oil and to compare it with Petroleum based oil there
is very little difference. However, when you look at the two through a microscope it is easy to see the difference. Syn
-
thetic is made up of smaller molecules. This allows the oil to get into areas that petroleum based oil cannot.
6$(
6$(
6$(:6$(:
6$(:
)
) ) ) ) ) )
&
&
&
& &
&
&
2LO&KDUW
CHAPTER 5: LUBRICATION
For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983
www.mymowerparts.com
