17/01/2018
Keeping Your Snow Blower Running Smoothly This Winter
Winter can bring challenging weather, making snow removal a frequent task. While snow blowers are invaluable for clearing snow quickly and efficiently, unexpected equipment problems can halt your progress, leaving you battling the elements. The two most common issues homeowners face with their snow blowers are starting difficulties and clogged chutes. Fortunately, with the right maintenance and tools, both can be resolved. This guide offers troubleshooting tips to ensure your snow blower is ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way.
Tackling Starting Troubles
After spending the warmer months in storage, your snow blower might need a little persuasion to get going at the start of the snow season. The first crucial step is to empty any old fuel from the tank. Residual fuel from the previous winter can degrade and cause starting problems. Replace it with clean, fresh fuel to ensure optimal combustion.
Next, it's essential to check the oil level. Locate the dipstick and ensure there is adequate oil. Running your snow blower with insufficient oil can lead to significant engine damage, a costly repair that's easily avoidable.
For snow blowers equipped with a choke and primer bulb, remember to set the choke correctly and push the primer bulb a few times before attempting to start. This helps deliver the right fuel-air mixture to the engine. Some modern models, such as the Storm™ 2665, feature a convenient push-button electric start, eliminating the need for manual pull-starting.
Finally, inspect the spark plug. Check if it's unplugged, corroded, or has any carbon buildup. If you notice any of these issues, cleaning or replacing the spark plug, following the instructions in your owner's manual, can often resolve starting problems. A clean spark plug is vital for a strong ignition.
Clearing Those Pesky Chute Clogs
Chute clogs are a common frustration, especially when dealing with heavy, wet snow or when small objects inadvertently get picked up. Many snow blowers, like the Storm™ 2410, feature adjustable chutes that allow you to control the direction and pitch of the thrown snow. However, even with these features, blockages can occur.
If you encounter a clogged chute, safety is paramount. First, release both the auger control and drive control. Then, shut off the engine completely. It's crucial to remain behind the handles until all moving parts of the snow blower have come to a complete stop. Never attempt to clear a clog with the engine running.
Most snow blowers come with a specialized tool for clearing the chute, often a shovel-shaped device. Use this tool to carefully break down and remove any snow and ice obstructing the chute assembly. For many Troy-Bilt snow blowers, this chute clean-out tool is conveniently attached to the rear of the auger housing with a mounting clip. Once the chute is clear, reattach the tool to its clip.
After ensuring all tools are put away safely, reinsert the ignition key and start your snow blower. While standing in the operator's position (behind the machine), engage the auger control for a few seconds. This will help clear any residual snow and ice from the chute assembly, ensuring a smooth discharge.
Essential Maintenance Checklist
Regular maintenance is key to a long-lasting and reliable snow blower. Here's a checklist to keep your machine in peak condition:
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Check Fuel Level | Before each use | Use fresh, clean fuel. |
| Check Oil Level | Before each use | Prevents engine damage. |
| Inspect Spark Plug | Annually / As needed | Clean or replace if fouled. |
| Clear Chute | As needed | Always with the engine off. |
| Lubricate Moving Parts | Annually | Refer to owner's manual. |
| Inspect Belts | Annually | Check for wear and tear. |
| Change Engine Oil | Annually | After the snow season is best. |
| Inspect Shear Pins | As needed | Replace if broken. |
Addressing Drive System Issues
If your snow blower fails to drive even with the drive clutch engaged, and adjusting the clutch control cable doesn't resolve the issue, the friction wheel may need replacement. This component is crucial for transmitting power to the wheels. Before attempting any work on the drive system, it's vital to remove all fuel from the tank by running the engine until it stops, ensuring there's no risk of spillage during maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: My snow blower won't start. What are the most common reasons?
Common culprits include old or stale fuel, a fouled spark plug, low oil levels, or issues with the choke or primer. Always start by checking the fuel and spark plug.
Q2: How often should I change the engine oil in my snow blower?
It's generally recommended to change the engine oil annually, ideally at the end of the snow season to prepare it for storage. However, always consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Q3: What is the purpose of shear pins?
Shear pins are safety devices designed to break when the auger encounters a significant obstruction, such as a rock or thick ice. This prevents damage to the auger and drive system. If a shear pin breaks, it must be replaced before using the snow blower again.
Q4: Can I use regular gasoline in my snow blower?
Most snow blowers are designed for standard unleaded gasoline. However, it's crucial to use fresh fuel and avoid E10 (gasoline with 10% ethanol) if your owner's manual advises against it, as ethanol can degrade fuel lines and components over time.
Q5: What safety precautions should I take when maintaining my snow blower?
Always disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance to prevent accidental starting. Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection. Never use your hands to clear a clogged chute; always use the provided tool.
Conclusion
By incorporating regular maintenance into your routine, you can significantly extend the life of your snow blower and ensure it's ready to perform when you need it most. Addressing starting issues and chute clogs promptly, along with a commitment to the essential maintenance checklist, will keep your machine running efficiently and reliably, saving you time and effort during those harsh winter months. Always remember to consult your owner's manual for model-specific instructions and prioritize safety in all maintenance tasks.
If you want to read more articles similar to Snow Blower Maintenance: Beat Winter's Worst, you can visit the Automotive category.