Fix Your Snowblower Easily : Snowblower Troubleshooting

Snowblower Problem 1 – The Blower Fails to Start

The following are some of the common reasons as to why your snowblower may fail to start next winter:

• Defective spark plug. Evaluate the spark plug for any debris, cracks, or any form of damage. If you have a tester, check to determine whether the plug is still functional. You will see a string spark if the plug is still functional. That said, if it is damaged or not producing a quality spark, then it’s possible that a replacement is the best solution.

• Old fuel. Ensure that there is no stale fuel resting in the blower. If you want to drain any old fuel, then you can disconnect the fuel line between the tank and the carburetor. Also, you can then drain the gas from the tank and into a pan for later disposal. You should also drain any fuel that remains in the carburetor. Then, clean the bowl and perform a gasket replacement.

• Clogged carburetor – a clogged carburetor is a problem that occurs when you leave some fuel in the snowblower for long periods. Any old fuel in the blower can also lead to evaporation, which might leave behind a thick residue. That stick fuel can easily clog the carburetor, and stop the engine from operating. If you have a clogged carburetor, use a cleaner to remove the dirt. That said, if this process is ineffective, you might have to get the entire component replaced.

Snowblower Problem 2 – Not Blowing Snow

Is your snowblower running, but fails to scoop and throw the snow. Well, consider these top issues:

• Snow build up – any accumulated snow in the discharge chute is a common issue that faces most snowblowers today. Any build-up can compromise the machine, and you should shut it off when you notice any such problems. Once the chute is open, evaluate the augers for any system compromises or difficulties.

• Defective impeller – your snowblower has a component referred to as an impeller, which removes snow from a chute. If you have a jammed or broken impeller, then the machine won’t blow snow. However, if it is broken, get the component replaced.

• Worn scraper bar or paddles – this a big issue among single-stage snowblower users. A damaged scraper bar is less effective at removing snow, as when compared to a new one. If this is the case with your machine, then it’s time to perform a replacement. Also, if you notice that the machine removes snow through an unusual technique, then consider replacing the paddles. It would be best if you placed indicator holes in your machine to make it easy to track the wear. Even more, evaluate the wear indicator holes, and if the rubber paddles are worn, then consider a replacement.

Snowblower Problem 3 – Auger Fails to Turn 

• Damaged pin or bolt. The shear pin and bolt are components that you use to fasten augers to the drive shaft. These components will break if the auger makes contact with a big rock of large pieces of ice. It’s a mechanism that helps to protect the engine from damage. If the shear pin or bolt breaks, then the auger might not rotate. Evaluate the engine to determine whether the pin or bolt is broken, and perform a replacement.

• Damaged V or Cogged belt. Just as we previously mentioned, a V or Cogged belt is an essential component in the engine. If either component is broken, you will need to perform a replacement.

• Broken auger cable. If the auger cable on the machine is broken, then it won’t operate. Check the cable and perform a replacement if you come across any form of damage.

• Bad auger blades – evaluate the functionality of the blades on the blower. If you have bent or damaged blades, then consider performing a replacement.

Snow Blower Problem 4 – Leaking Gas

• Dried out or damaged carburetor gasket. A gasket is a form of material that sits in between the components on the carburetor. If it’s damaged or compromised by dirt, then it’s likely to require a replacement. More so, try replacing the gasket as soon as you see any leakages from the carburetor to avoid any further damage to the machine.

• Damaged fuel filter – the fuel filter is an essential component in the fuel supply system on your machine. Any damage to the filter is likely to affect the flow of fuel around the machine. Inspect it to determine if it has cracks or any other form of significant damage. Also, evaluate the pump and ensure that all the components are fully functional.

Snow Problem 5 – The Wheels are Not Turning

• Replace the wheel. Evaluate the wheels on the blower before each use. It might be possible that you have a flat tire, or perhaps dirt has clogged the interior sections.

• Damaged V or Cogged Belt – these are two crucial components in the engine of your snowblower. They make a connection between the gearbox and the engine. However, if the wheels fail to turn, then it might mean that snowblower needs maintenance.

• Defective drive disk. A drive disk features a rubber layer, which helps to grip and turn the plate. If the disk is damaged or greasy, then it might slip, and the plate won’t move. Thus, your snowblower wheels won’t move. Consider cleaning the disk if its wet or clogged with dirt.

• Broken cable control. Ensure that the cable control on the blower is fully functional. Also, ensure that the cable is free to move, and if not, apply some oil on it. If the lubricant is not useful, then perform a replacement.

Overall

A snowblower is a mechanical machine, and you need to keep it well maintained to ensure the best results. That said, learning about its functionality and performance is relatively simple. There are various key factors to consider when you want to maintain a snowblower. The list above consists of some of the common snowblower issues that you are likely to come across.

Learn about these common issues and their fixes to ensure you can have a reliable appliance for your needs.