642B Maintance & Life Expectancy

[willyk]

I just got my dad's old machine to run! It had not been started in 6 years nor been in service for over 8 years. It only shows 380 hours on meter, what is the life expectancy of one of these gas powered machines? I assume I should grease it and replace the filters, any other suggestions for preventative measures after being idle this long?

 

[jerry]

Not sure if the chaincase on that machine is vented but if it is I would replace the oil in it because it will have condensed water in it. operators manual may have some tips for putting it back into service also.

 

[Bandit1047]

Not sure if the chaincase on that machine is vented but if it is I would replace the oil in it because it will have condensed water in it. operators manual may have some tips for putting it back into service also.

I would not start the machine until you change all the fluids that can be changed without starting it. If you can only change the oil and filter, do that and fill the oil filter as much as you can with oil prior to installing it. With new oil in the machine check for rodent nests in the air filter or any place else they could get in and clog the airway. Blow any dirt away from the plugs and remove them for easy cranking and inspection. Spray some oil into each cylinder to lubricate the rings. You now need to disconnect the coil wire so that you can crank the engine long enough to build oil pressure without it starting. This prevents a dry start (A dry start is where there is no oil on the bearing surfaces causing premature wear, gaulling or spinning a bearing)
This will also allow you to listen closely for any noise that should not be there or find that something hard stops the engine while cranking.
You should not crank longer than 30 seconds at a time, however it may take a few times to build oil pressure.
Make sure you have fresh gas B-4 starting the engine and don't over use starting fluid. Replace the plugs.
Once it starts let it idle slowly till it warms up. If it wants to run away, shut it down and check the choke.
Now go through the machine and change all the other fluids, filters and any hoses that are cracked as well as the belts.
Good luck!
Joe

 

[Tazza]

Not sure if the chaincase on that machine is vented but if it is I would replace the oil in it because it will have condensed water in it. operators manual may have some tips for putting it back into service also.

I agree with Jerry too, chain case, or at least run it and check the colour. If its white it needs changing.
I would also do all the filters, hydraulic oil, engine oil. Even some fuel additive to get any varnish that has built up out. Grease everything.
With hoses that are old, more so if it was in the sun can crack when they get used after sitting. You may need to replace the lift/tilt hoses shortly, but deal with that if it happens.