Hoses:
You can use a flat hose on the discharge port, BUT make sure you use a solid walled hose on the suction port.
This stops the hose collapsing and interfering with the performance of the pump.

Strainer:
Never run the pump without the strainer attached. The strainer stops some of the worst debris from entering the hose/pump.

Oil:
Check the oil before each use.
Never check the oil while the engine is running.
To check: Put pump on level surface, unscrew the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully then remove it once more to get an accurate reading.
When topping up: Use the recommended oil for the engine (as detailed in the owners manual).

Refuelling:
Never refuel in close proximity to naked flames, sparks or cigarettes.
Allow engine to cool before refueling.
Avoid fuel spillage if possible, if not wipe up the spillage immediately.
Move pump away from refuelling area before re-starting.
Most trash pumps are 4 stroke engines - Use only clean, fresh fuel - DO NOT MIX OIL WITH PETROL.

Priming:
All pumps need to be primed before operation.
Failure to prime can result in pump damage.
Failure to prime can result in zero water being pumped.
Submersible pumps prime naturally by virtue of the fact that they're sitting in the water.
Petrol pumps have a "priming opening" that is easy to unscrew and fill with water.
Make sure strainer is in the water before starting pump.
For best results get as much water into the suction hose as possible before starting the pump.

Starting:
Set fuel supply switch to ON.
Open the throttle lever a little.
Close the choke if pump engine is cold.
Set engine switch to ON.
Pull the recoil handle and (while still holding it) let it return slowly to the pump.
Once engine is running re-open the choke.
Increase throttle speed to desired level.

Idling:
When pump is not in use, decrease throttle to minimum or turn engine off.

Stopping temporarily:
Return throttle to idle setting and let run for a couple of minutes.
Set fuel switch to OFF.
Set engine switch to OFF.

Stopping and storing:
Return throttle to idle setting and let run for a couple of minutes.
Set fuel switch to OFF.
Let engine run until it cuts out (and clears any fuel in the line).
Set engine switch to OFF.

Emergency stop:
Set engine switch to OFF.

After first 20 hours:
Change oil

After every 50 hours:
Change oil, clean air filter, clean spark plug