Solving the Headache: A Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshoot Snow Blower Starting Issues

When faced with snow blower starting problems, it’s important to troubleshoot and get it running again quickly. Depending on the size of your area and the severity of the winter conditions, there are three types of snowblowers to consider: two-stage gas blowers, single-stage gas blowers and electric snow blowers. Whichever type you choose, issues with starting are generally caused by neglect of the machine’s basic maintenance requirements, including regular oil and filter changes, and adding a stabilizer to the fuel to keep it fresh and function properly.

The first step in troubleshooting problems and getting a snow blower running again is to check both the throttle and choke positions. The throttle should be switched to the ‘fast’ position when you start the engine, while the choke should be open for engines that are hot and closed for those that are cold.

If the engine still won’t start, it may have something to do with fuel supply. Firstly, check that the fuel valve is switched on, and if this isn’t the problem you may have gunk in the carburetor sediment cup or air filter. If dirt, grime and lumps of snow have built up in either, you should clean or replace the components as required.

It’s also beneficial to look at how long the fuel has been sitting inside your snow blower. If it’s been a while, consider emptying the old fuel and replacing it with fresh, top-quality fuel and add a stabilizer for better protection against gummy deposits over the off-season.

Finally, take a closer look at the spark plug to ensure it’s still in one piece and not corroded. If it appears dirty, clean the plug and make sure the gap is set correctly. If that doesn’t work, replace it.

In summary, there are several steps you can take when it comes to troubleshooting snow blower starting problems. Check the throttle and choke positions, make sure the engine is receiving fuel, assess how long the fuel has been sitting inside, and also look at the spark plug for signs of damage or debris. It is also important to perform regular maintenance on your snow blower, such as checking and changing the oil and fuel filters, and adding a stabiliser to the fuel. That way, you can be confident your snow blower will work properly when you need it most.