Turn the key and push the button – that’s the simple way to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower. You don’t need to pull a cord, which makes clearing your driveway a lot easier on a cold morning.
I’ve used these machines for years. The electric start is a huge help when your hands are cold.
But sometimes, it doesn’t work right away. A few simple checks can fix most problems.
This guide will walk you through the steps. I’ll also share tips I’ve learned from my own mistakes.
What You Need to Know First
Before you try to start it, you need to check a few things. This saves you time and frustration.
Always make sure the machine is on a flat, clear surface. You don’t want it to move while you’re starting it.
Check that the fuel shut-off valve is in the ‘On’ position. This is a common thing people forget.
Look at the fuel level in the tank. You need fresh gas, not gas that’s been sitting since last year.
Your battery needs to be charged. A weak battery is the top reason an electric start won’t work.
Finally, check that the auger control and drive control levers are disengaged. The machine needs to be in neutral to start safely.
Step-by-Step Starting Guide
Let’s walk through the exact steps to start your snow blower. Follow this order every time.
First, insert the ignition key into the switch. Turn it to the ‘On’ position. You should hear a faint click.
Next, find the primer bulb on the engine. Press it three to five times. This sends fuel to the carburetor.
Now, move the engine choke lever to the ‘Full’ position. Do this if the engine is cold. For a warm engine, use ‘Half’ choke.
Locate the electric start button. It’s usually a red button near the key. Press and hold it for a few seconds.
The engine should crank and then start running. Once it’s running, slowly move the choke lever back to the ‘Off’ position.
Let the engine warm up for a minute or two. This is how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower the right way every time.
If Your Electric Start Won’t Work
Don’t panic if the engine doesn’t crank. This happens to everyone at some point. We can fix it.
The first thing to check is the battery connection. Make sure the cables are tight and clean on the terminals.
Test the battery charge with a multimeter if you have one. You need at least 12.4 volts for a good start.
Listen for a clicking sound when you press the button. A click often means a weak or dead battery.
If there’s no sound at all, check the safety key. Some models have a separate plastic key for the electric start system.
Ensure the spark plug wire is firmly attached. A loose connection can stop the ignition system from working.
Remember, knowing how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower means knowing how to troubleshoot these simple issues.
Using the Manual Recoil Starter
Your machine has a backup pull cord. You should know how to use it for emergencies.
First, make sure the ignition key is in the ‘On’ position. The electric system still needs to be active.
Follow the same fuel and choke steps as before. Prime the bulb and set the choke to ‘Full’.
Grab the handle of the recoil starter rope firmly. Pull it out slowly until you feel resistance.
Then, give it a quick, strong pull straight back. Don’t yank it at an angle. Do this two or three times if needed.
Once the engine starts, let it run and adjust the choke. This method is handy when your battery dies.
It’s a key part of learning how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower when the main feature fails.
Essential Pre-Season Preparation
Getting your blower ready before winter is crucial. A little prep prevents most starting problems.
Drain all the old gas from the fuel tank and carburetor. Stale gas is the enemy of small engines.
Add fresh, ethanol-free gasoline if you can find it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, ethanol can attract moisture and cause issues.
Check the oil level using the dipstick. Change the oil if it’s dirty or if it’s been a year.
Inspect the spark plug. Clean off any carbon buildup or just replace it with a new one. It’s a cheap part.
Connect your battery to a trickle charger for 24 hours before you plan to use the blower. This ensures a full charge.
Doing this prep work is the best way to ensure you know how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower on the first try.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made some of these errors myself. Learn from them so you don’t have a cold, frustrating morning.
Never use starting fluid on this type of engine. It can damage the carburetor and is not recommended by the manufacturer.
Don’t press the electric start button for more than five seconds at a time. You could overheat the starter motor.
Avoid using the choke on a warm engine. This floods the engine with too much fuel and makes it harder to start.
Don’t forget to release the auger and drive controls after use. Leaving them engaged can strain the starting system.
Never try to start the blower indoors or in a closed garage. Always operate it in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide.
Following the correct procedure is how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower safely and without causing damage.
Cold Weather Starting Tips
Extreme cold makes everything harder. These tricks can help on the coldest days.
Store your snow blower in a shed or garage if possible. An engine that’s slightly warmer will start much easier.
If it’s been in the cold all night, press the primer bulb a few extra times. Cold fuel doesn’t vaporize as well.
You might need to hold the choke in the ‘Full’ position a bit longer. Let the engine run for a full three minutes to warm up.
Consider using a fuel stabilizer mixed with your gas all season. It helps prevent fuel line freeze, as noted by the Environmental Protection Agency in their small engine tips.
Keep your battery on a maintenance charger in very cold weather. Cold temperatures drain battery power faster.
Mastering how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower in deep cold is all about these small adjustments.
Battery Care and Maintenance
The battery is the heart of the electric start system. Take good care of it.
At the end of the season, disconnect the battery cables. Clean the terminals with a wire brush.
Store the battery indoors for the off-season. A cool, dry place like a basement shelf is perfect.
Connect it to a smart trickle charger once a month during storage. This keeps it from going dead.
If your battery is more than three years old, think about replacing it. Old batteries lose their ability to hold a charge.
When reconnecting, always attach the red (positive) cable first. Then attach the black (negative) cable. This prevents sparks.
Good battery care is a non-negotiable part of how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower reliably.
When to Call for Professional Help
Sometimes, the problem is bigger than a simple fix. Here’s when to get help.
If you’ve checked fuel, spark, and battery and it still won’t crank, the starter solenoid might be bad. This needs a pro.
A loud grinding noise when you press the start button points to a faulty starter motor gear. Don’t keep pressing it.
If the engine cranks but never actually starts running, the carburetor could be clogged. A mechanic can clean or rebuild it.
Check your owner’s manual for warranty information. Some repairs might be covered if your machine is new.
You can find certified service centers on the Craftsman website. They have the right tools and parts.
Knowing how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower also means knowing when the job is too big for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my Craftsman electric start snow blower start?
It’s usually a dead battery, bad gas, or a loose spark plug wire. Check these three things first. They fix most problems.
How do I start a Craftsman electric start snow blower with a dead battery?
Use the manual recoil starter pull cord. Make sure the key is on and use the choke. Pull the cord firmly to turn the engine over.
Can I jump-start my snow blower battery with my car?
No, you should not do this. A car’s electrical system is too powerful. It can damage the snow blower’s wiring. Use a proper battery charger instead.
How long should I hold the electric start button?
Hold it for three to five seconds at most. If it doesn’t start, wait 30 seconds and try again. Holding it too long can burn out the starter.
Where is the primer bulb on my Craftsman?
It’s a small, soft rubber button on the side of the engine. You’ll usually find it near the air filter cover. Press it to pump fuel.
What type of oil does my snow blower need?
Check your owner’s manual. Most use SAE 5W-30 for cold weather. The Federal Trade Commission advises keeping manuals for appliance care.
Conclusion
So, how to start a Craftsman electric start snow blower? It’s a simple process of key, fuel, choke, and button.
The real secret is in the preparation. Fresh gas, a charged battery, and knowing the manual backup method make you unstoppable.
Don’t let a snowy morning stress you out. Follow these steps, and your machine will roar to life. Now go clear that driveway.
