BETCO Optima QT E12317-00, Operator'S Manual

5

TANK USE AND STORAGE

Propane Tank Use

We use the Worthington gas cylinders designed for vapor withdrawal. The fuel lock offs, regulators, and engines are also 
designed for vapor withdrawal.

•  We recommend that you use the OPD (Overfl ow Protection Device) vapor withdrawal type cylinder. These style 

tanks have a triangle shaped valve handle.

•  Do not overfi ll - the best gauge is a scale - never allow tank to weigh over 

36 pounds

 for an aluminum tank and 

43 pounds

 for a steel tank.

•  Connect fuel cylinder to machine in a well ventilated place.
•  Be aware of possible leaks of propane gas if odor is present.
•  Use propane tanks designed for vertical use only.

Propane Tank Storage

•  Store tanks outside in a well-ventilated area.
•  Never store fuel cylinders in a vehicle, building, or area where they may exposed to high temperature.
•  If the machine is stored inside a building, remove the fuel cylinder and store properly outside.
•  Secure fuel cylinders when being transported.
•  If tank is left attached to the machine then valve should be OFF.
•  Store tanks in the upright position (valves up).
•  Be aware of possible leaks of propane gas if odor is present.
•  New tanks must be purged of air at fi rst fi ll.

STARTING AND STOPPING

THE KAWASAKI ENGINE

Starting The Kawasaki Engine

The Kawasaki engine is equipped with a 12 volt starter and a key switch start.

1. Place propane tank into handle assembly and close propane tank strap clamp to secure tank.
2. Attach propane hose coupling and fully tighten.
3. Tilt machine back so that pad is off the fl oor.
4. Open propane tank valve (turn counterclockwise) and check for any leaks.
5. Put throttle cable into the “slow” position. (Note: If starting is diffi cult, you can place throttle in the fast” position).
6. Turn the ignition - start switch to the “start” position and hold it there until the engine starts. Do not crank for 

more than 20 seconds at a time and wait at least one minute between tries when cranking. See troubleshooting 
guide if the engine does not start after several tries.

7. After engine starts, set throttle to a slow operating speed until the motor warms up. Engine speed may be 

increased after 3 to 5 minutes.

8. Check for frost on the regulator and fuel line. Frost will indicate that the machine is drawing liquid propane from 

an overfi lled or incorrect tank.

Stopping The Kawasaki Engine 

1. Turn propane tank valve to the closed position (turn clockwise) and allow the engine to continue running until it 

runs out of fuel.

2. Turn key to the off position. (In an emergency, turn the key to the off position. Backfi ring may occur when using 

this method).