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Naio's avatar
Naio
Explorer II
Jul 22, 2015

Care and feeding of my ex650?

I got one of these nice purring little gennies used, and now I need to know what to do with it!

I have zero experience with small gas engines. Never had a gas lawnmower.

I dumped the gas out of it and ran it dry, on the suggestion of a friend. Now, should I get special ethanol-free gas for it? Or can I use regular? I suppose it predates unleaded regular...?

Should I add stabil? How much?

What do I need to do in terms of ongoing maintenance?

I think I can print out a manual, but I figure some of these aspects (like what fuel to run) will be outdated and I need to ask you guys.

I did get a gardening knee mat to put under it, on the advice of somebody here (smkettner?) but I don't have a rear rack for it yet.

21 Replies

  • First things first.... put some regular fuel in it, run it for about 10 minutes, and then drain the engine oil and replace with some good synthetic 5w-30 motor oil in the crankcase. Not sure if it takes 1/4 qt or about a 1/2 qt per oil change. Oil needs to be hot, hot hot and mixed up/homogenized from running before draining out and replacing.

    Additives to fuel... Stabil should be in the fuel, 1 oz per gallon, or get a 6 pack of Chevron Techroline at Costco. Needed to keep the jets unclogged if you don't use the generator regularly. Read the label for mix ratio.

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