Pull the starter cord firmly – that’s how to start a Craftsman snowblower. The key is knowing the right steps to follow before you pull, especially if it’s your first time or the machine is cold.
I’ve owned a few of these over the years. The process is pretty simple once you get the hang of it.
But if you skip a step, you’ll just be yanking on that cord for no reason. Let’s walk through it together so you can get clearing snow fast.
This guide covers everything from a cold start to dealing with common problems. You’ll be a pro in no time.
How to Start a Craftsman Snowblower the Right Way
Here’s the basic process for how to start a Craftsman snowblower. Follow these steps in order.
First, make sure the fuel valve is turned to the “On” position. This is a simple step people often forget.
Next, find the choke lever. Move it all the way to the “Full” or “Start” position. This helps the engine get the right mix of fuel and air when it’s cold.
Now, turn the ignition key to the “On” position if your model has one. Some older models just have a pull cord.
Finally, grasp the starter cord handle firmly. Pull it out smoothly and with a quick motion. Don’t yank it super hard.
The engine should cough to life. If it starts but then dies, you might need to adjust the choke. Move it to “Half” once it’s running.
Learning how to start a Craftsman snowblower is easy. Just take it one step at a time.
Pre-Start Checklist for Your Craftsman
Before you even try to start it, do a quick check. This saves you a lot of frustration.
First, check the oil level. Use the dipstick to make sure it’s full. Low oil can stop the engine from starting or damage it.
Next, look at the fuel. Is there fresh gas in the tank? Old gas from last season can cause big problems.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, using fresh fuel helps small engines run better. It also cuts down on harmful fumes.
Check the auger and drive controls. Make sure they are in the disengaged position. The machine shouldn’t try to move when you start it.
Clear any snow or debris from around the chute and auger. A clear path helps the engine breathe easier when it starts.
This quick check is part of how to start a Craftsman snowblower safely. It only takes a minute.
Starting a Cold Craftsman Snowblower
Cold starts are the most common. Your machine has been sitting in the garage or shed.
The choke is your best friend here. Always use the full choke setting for a cold engine. It gives the engine a richer fuel mix to get going.
You might need to prime it first. Look for a small rubber primer bulb on the engine. Press it 3 to 5 times to push fuel into the carburetor.
Now, pull the starter cord. Use a smooth, strong pull. Don’t just tug it a little bit.
If it doesn’t start on the first pull, wait a few seconds. Then try again. Sometimes it takes two or three pulls.
Once the engine sputters to life, let it run for a minute with the choke still on. Then slowly move the choke lever to the “Half” or “Run” position.
Knowing how to start a Craftsman snowblower in the cold makes winter mornings easier. The choke does most of the work for you.
Starting a Warm or Recently Used Snowblower
This is much easier. The engine is already warm from recent use.
You usually don’t need the choke for a warm start. Set the choke lever to the “Off” or “Run” position right away.
You also might not need to prime it. The fuel system is already primed from running before.
Just turn the key to “On” and pull the cord. It should start with one easy pull.
If it doesn’t start, try a half-choke setting. Sometimes a warm engine still needs a little help.
Give it a single, firm pull. It should fire right up. If it doesn’t, something else might be wrong.
Learning how to start a Craftsman snowblower when it’s warm is simple. It’s often just a one-pull job.
Using the Electric Start Feature (If Equipped)
Many newer Craftsman models have an electric start. This is a real back-saver.
First, plug the power cord into the engine. The other end goes into a standard outdoor outlet.
Make sure you’ve done all the pre-start checks. The fuel is on, and the choke is set for the engine temperature.
Now, just turn the key to the “Start” position. Hold it there for a second. The engine should crank and start on its own.
Once it’s running, let go of the key. It will spring back to the “On” position. You can then unplug the power cord.
If it cranks but doesn’t start, check your choke and fuel. The electric starter just turns the engine over. It doesn’t fix fuel problems.
This is the easiest way for how to start a Craftsman snowblower. No pulling required.
What to Do If Your Craftsman Won’t Start
Don’t panic if it doesn’t start. Let’s troubleshoot the common issues.
First, is there fuel in the tank? It sounds silly, but I’ve done it. Also, is the fuel valve turned to “On”?
Check the spark plug. A dirty or fouled plug won’t create a spark. You can clean it with a wire brush or replace it.
According to Consumer Reports, a bad spark plug is a top reason small engines fail to start. It’s a cheap and easy fix.
Listen when you pull. Does it sound like it’s trying to start? Or does the cord pull too easily?
If the cord pulls too easy, the engine might not be engaging. This could be a more serious recoil starter problem.
Old gas is a huge culprit. Gasoline can go bad in as little as 30 days. Drain the old fuel and try fresh gas.
Figuring out how to start a Craftsman snowblower often means solving a simple puzzle. Start with the easy stuff first.
Safety Tips Before You Start and Operate
Safety always comes first. A snowblower is a powerful tool.
Never try to start it in an enclosed space like a garage with the door closed. The engine gives off carbon monoxide.
Clear the area around the snowblower of kids, pets, and debris. You need a clear circle to work in.
Wear proper footwear. I always wear boots with good grip. Ice and snow make for slippery conditions.
Keep your hands and feet away from the auger and chute. Never, ever reach into these areas while the engine is running.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration stresses clearing hazards before using powered equipment. A minute of checking prevents accidents.
Knowing how to start a Craftsman snowblower safely is just as important as getting it running. Protect yourself first.
Seasonal Starting: First Use of the Season
The first start of winter is special. Your machine has been sitting for months.
I always change the oil before the first start. Old oil breaks down over time. Fresh oil protects the engine.
Drain any old fuel from the tank and the carburetor. Stale fuel is the number one cause of hard starting.
Add fresh, clean gasoline. Using a fuel stabilizer in your fresh gas is a smart move. It keeps the gas good for longer.
Check all the cables and controls. Make sure they move freely and aren’t frozen or stuck.
Now, follow the cold start procedure. Use full choke and be ready for a few pulls. It might take a little coaxing after its long nap.
Learning how to start a Craftsman snowblower for the first time each year is a ritual. A little prep makes it smooth.
Regular Maintenance for Easier Starts
Good maintenance means easy starts every time. Here’s what to do.
Change the oil once a season, or as your manual says. Clean oil is the lifeblood of the engine.
Use a fuel stabilizer every time you fill the tank. This keeps the gas from going bad between uses.
Check the air filter often. A dirty air filter chokes the engine. It can’t get the air it needs to start and run well.
Keep the underside of the machine clean. Caked-on snow and ice can freeze controls and make starting hard.
At the end of the season, run the engine dry of fuel or use a fuel stabilizer for storage. This prevents gunk in the carburetor.
Following these tips is part of how to start a Craftsman snowblower reliably. A cared-for machine starts right up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start a Craftsman snowblower that has been sitting?
Check the fuel first. Drain any old gas and put in fresh fuel. Use the full choke setting and be ready to pull a few times. It might need a moment to get fuel flowing again.
Why does my Craftsman snowblower start but then die?
This often means the choke needs adjusting. If it starts with full choke, try moving the lever to half-choke once it’s running. It could also be a clogged fuel line or carburetor jet from old gas.
How to start a Craftsman snowblower with a flooded engine?
If you smell strong gas, it might be flooded. Turn the fuel valve to “Off” and move the choke to “Off.” Pull the starter cord several times to clear the excess fuel. Then, turn the fuel back on and try a normal start.
Can I use starting fluid on my Craftsman snowblower?
I don’t recommend it. Starting fluid can damage small engines. It’s better to fix the real problem, like bad gas or a dirty spark plug. The Arizona State University Engineering School notes that ether-based starters can cause engine damage.
How to start a Craftsman snowblower with a weak pull cord?
The recoil spring might be worn or broken. This is a common repair. You can often find a repair kit. It’s also a sign to check if the engine is seized, which is more serious.
Where is the choke on a Craftsman snowblower?
Look for a lever on the engine, near the air filter or carburetor. It’s often labeled “Choke” with settings for “Start,” “Run,” and “Off.” On some models, it’s a knob you pull out.
Conclusion
So, how to start a Craftsman snowblower? It’s all about the sequence. Check your fuel and oil, set the choke, and pull smoothly.
Remember, fresh gas is your best friend. Old gas causes most starting headaches. A little maintenance goes a long way to make every start easy.
Don’t be afraid of that pull cord. With this guide, you have the steps. Now go clear that driveway.
