Stewardship Tip Nov 16th, 2010- Tune Your Four Stroke Ice Auger
Tuning a four stroke ice auger is similar to tuning a two stroke auger. You can easily perform most of the basic tuning/maintenance procedures yourself. Some procedures, however, might require the services of a professional.
Replace the engine oil: Make sure to change the oil within the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance interval. For most four stroke engines, this is 50 hours, however, check your manual to make sure. If you are using a single grade oil, use the proper weight for the ambient temperature in which you will be operating your auger. Multi grade oils, such as 10W 30, will perform well in a variety of temperatures.
Check your engine oil regularly and make sure to top it off to the proper level.
Clean/Replace the fuel filter: Remove the fuel filter from the fuel line and clean it using kerosene. If the filter is exceptionally dirty, replace it.
Also check the fuel line, and replace it immediately if you find leaks. Check your fuel line throughout the season and replace it every year.
Replace the spark plug: Replace your spark plug with the type recommended by the manufacturer or use an acceptable substitute. Check and set the electrode gap in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification before you install the spark plug. Check the plug throughout the season and replace it if you find pitting, fouling, carbon buildup, or burning. Also, check the porcelain and replace the plug if it is cracked.
Replace the air filter: A clean air filter will help your engine perform well and many manufacturers recommend cleaning them on a regular basis.
On a regular basis: Check and adjust the armature air gap. Adjust the carburetor. Adjust the valve clearance on OHV style engines. Finally, adjust the engine rpm/governor controls as required.
Also, test your auger before you go out, make sure that the fuel cap is secure and that all hoses are in working order. Set your auger on its side and make sure that there are no leaks.
If you take these steps now, before you get on the ice, your two stroke auger will burn fuel efficiently. That’s important for our fish.
Now, discuss the Stewardship Tip online!
Have questions about the Stewardship Tip?
First-hand experience?
Want to add to what’s been said here?
Now, you can!
Join us at the Recycled Fish Conservation Forum hosted by Big Fish Tackle for discussions on the Stewardship Tip and other issues relating to the future of our fisheries.
This week’s sponsor-partner:Grabber warmers
Going outside as temperatures drop means keeping warm. Grabber’s new line of Warmers represents the most complete and highest quality brand in the industry. They will keep you warm in the coldest of conditions.
Recycled Fish members can order Grabber Warmers for hands, toes, pockets and body at a 15% Discount with this code: FISH2010
Rising demand for our weekly Stewardship Tip and a new partnership with Fly Cast America now makes the Stewardship Tip available in Spanish. Ahora, reciba el Stewardship Tip en español. Gentileza de Fly Cast America.
To read the weekly Stewardship Tip in Spanish, click here Simplemente haga click aquí si desea recibir el Stewardship tip en Español.
Would you like to get the Stewardship Tip e-mailed to you weekly? Please visit our Stewardship Tips Sign Up page or use the form located at the top right portion of this page.
