When winter storms hit, a malfunctioning snow blower can leave you stranded. Don’t let a stubborn machine keep you from clearing your driveway. With the right troubleshooting techniques, you can often get your snow blower back up and running without calling a repair service.
Snow blowers can encounter various issues, from clogged chutes to engine problems. Identifying the root cause is key to finding a solution. You’ll learn how to diagnose common problems and apply quick fixes that can save you time and money.
By mastering basic snow blower maintenance and troubleshooting, you’ll be prepared to tackle winter weather with confidence. Let’s dive into the most frequent snow blower issues and how to resolve them efficiently.
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1. Engine Won’t Start
Check your fuel supply first. Make sure your snow blower’s tank has fresh gasoline. Stale fuel can prevent the engine from starting, so drain old gas and refill with new if necessary.
Next, examine the spark plug. A dirty or damaged plug can cause starting issues. Remove it, clean off any debris, and check the gap. Replace the spark plug if it’s worn or corroded.
Don’t forget about the choke position. Set it to “Full” or “Closed” when starting a cold engine. Once the engine warms up, gradually move the choke to “Open.”
Inspect the fuel line for cracks or blockages. A clogged or damaged line can restrict gas flow to the engine. Clear any obstructions or replace the line if needed.
Consider the primer bulb. Press it 3-5 times before attempting to start the engine. This action pumps fuel into the carburetor, aiding in ignition.
Lastly, check the oil level. Low oil can trigger a safety switch that prevents the engine from starting. Top up if necessary, using the manufacturer’s recommended oil type.
2. Poor Snow Throwing Performance
Is your snow blower not tossing snow as far as it used to? Several factors can cause this issue. First, check the auger and impeller for damage or wear. Look for bent or broken blades that need replacing.
Next, inspect the chute for clogs or obstructions. Ice and compacted snow can build up, reducing throwing distance. Clear any blockages you find. Adjust the chute deflector angle for optimal snow trajectory.
Examine the drive belt for signs of wear or slipping. A loose or damaged belt won’t transfer power effectively. Tighten or replace the belt if needed. Don’t forget to check the engine’s RPM – low power output leads to poor performance.
Lastly, consider the type of snow you’re dealing with. Wet, heavy snow is harder to throw than light, powdery snow. You may need to adjust your technique or make multiple passes for best results.
3. Auger Not Turning
Is your snow blower’s auger refusing to budge? This common issue can bring your snow-clearing efforts to a screeching halt. First, check if the auger is jammed with ice or debris. Clear any obstructions you find and try again.
Next, inspect the shear pins. These small, breakable pins are designed to snap if the auger hits something hard, protecting the gearbox. If they’re broken, replace them with new ones. Don’t use regular bolts as substitutes—they won’t break when needed.
If the auger still won’t turn, the problem might be with the drive belt. Look for signs of wear, fraying, or breakage. A loose or damaged belt won’t transfer power effectively from the engine to the auger. You’ll need to tighten or replace the belt to get your snow blower back in action.
4. Drive System Problems
Is your snow blower not moving when engaged? The drive system might be the culprit. Check the drive belt for wear or damage. If it’s loose or frayed, you’ll need to replace it.
Don’t forget to inspect the friction wheel. This rubber-coated disc transfers power from the engine to the drive system. If it’s worn or cracked, it won’t grip properly, causing your snow blower to stay put.
Lubrication is key. Apply grease to the drive chain and gears as recommended in your owner’s manual. This simple step can prevent many drive system issues and keep your machine running smoothly.
Here’s a quick checklist for drive system troubleshooting:
- Examine drive belt for wear
- Inspect friction wheel for damage
- Lubricate chain and gears
- Check auger engagement cable tension
- Verify transmission fluid levels (if applicable)
If these steps don’t solve the problem, you might be dealing with a more complex issue. Consider consulting a professional technician for a thorough diagnosis and repair.
5. Clogged Discharge Chute
A clogged discharge chute can quickly bring your snow clearing efforts to a halt. Wet, heavy snow is often the culprit, sticking to the chute’s sides and building up over time. Don’t attempt to clear the blockage while the snow blower is running.
First, turn off the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop completely. Disconnect the spark plug wire as an extra safety precaution. Use the clearing tool that came with your snow blower to remove the packed snow. If you don’t have the tool, a broom handle or wooden dowel can work in a pinch.
Spray the inside of the chute with a silicone-based lubricant before each use. This will help prevent snow from sticking and reduce the likelihood of future clogs. For stubborn blockages, you may need to disassemble the chute for a thorough cleaning.
Remember to check the auger and impeller for any obstructions as well. Sometimes, foreign objects like newspapers or branches can cause clogs further up the system. Regular maintenance and proper storage can significantly reduce the chances of dealing with a clogged discharge chute.
6. Excessive Vibration
Excessive vibration in your snow blower can be a sign of several issues. Check the auger and impeller for damage or debris. Bent or unbalanced components are often the culprits. Inspect the auger blades and impeller fan for cracks, dents, or missing pieces.
Loose or worn bearings can also cause vibrations. Examine the auger bearings and impeller bearings for signs of wear. Replace them if necessary. Don’t forget to check the engine mounts. Loose or damaged mounts can transmit engine vibrations to the entire machine.
Imbalanced tires might be the source of your problem. Ensure both tires are properly inflated to the same pressure. If you’ve recently replaced a tire, make sure it’s the correct size and type for your model. Uneven tire wear can also lead to vibrations, so inspect the tread carefully.
7. Fuel-Related Issues
Stale fuel can wreak havoc on your snow blower’s performance. If you’ve left gas in the tank for more than 30 days, it’s time for a fresh start. Drain the old fuel and replace it with new, high-quality gasoline.
Check your fuel lines for cracks or leaks. Even tiny holes can cause big problems. Replace any damaged lines immediately to prevent further issues.
Don’t forget about the fuel filter. A clogged filter restricts gas flow, leading to poor engine performance. Clean or replace it as needed.
Mixing fuel ratios incorrectly can also cause trouble. For two-stroke engines, use the manufacturer’s recommended oil-to-gas ratio. Four-stroke engines don’t require oil in the fuel, so stick to straight gasoline.
Carburetor problems often stem from fuel issues. If you’re experiencing sputtering or stalling, try cleaning the carburetor with a specialized cleaner. In severe cases, you might need to rebuild or replace it.