Yes, you can start a stubborn snow blower with a few simple checks. Learning how to start a stubborn snow blower is about fixing common problems that stop it from running.
We’ve all been there. A big storm is coming, and your machine just won’t turn over. It’s a frustrating feeling when you need it most.
I’ve fixed many snow blowers over the years. Most issues come down to a handful of simple things. You can check these yourself in minutes.
This guide will walk you through the steps. We’ll cover everything from fuel to spark plugs. You’ll get your machine running again.
Why Your Snow Blower Won’t Start
Let’s talk about the main reasons for failure. A stubborn engine usually has one of a few problems.
Old gas is the number one culprit. Fuel goes bad after about 30 days. It leaves gunk in the carburetor and fuel lines.
A dirty spark plug is another common issue. It can’t create the spark needed for ignition. You might see black carbon buildup on the tip.
The carburetor might be clogged with old fuel residue. This small part mixes air and fuel. When it’s dirty, the engine gets no fuel.
Sometimes, the problem is a clogged fuel filter. This part stops dirt from entering the engine. A blocked filter means no fuel flow.
You might have stale fuel in the tank from last season. Always use fresh gas for the best results. It makes a huge difference.
Learning how to start a stubborn snow blower means checking these items first. They cause most no-start situations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Stubborn Snow Blower
Follow these steps in order. They will help you learn how to start a stubborn snow blower the right way.
First, check the fuel shut-off valve. Make sure it’s in the “On” position. It’s an easy thing to miss.
Next, look at the fuel itself. Is it old or contaminated? Drain the old gas and put in fresh fuel.
Now, check the spark plug. Remove it and inspect the electrode. It should be a light tan color, not black or wet.
Clean the spark plug with a wire brush if it’s dirty. If it’s damaged, replace it with a new one. A good spark is key.
Prime the engine by pressing the primer bulb 3-5 times. This sends fuel into the carburetor. Don’t over-prime it.
Set the choke to the “Full” position for a cold start. This gives the engine a richer fuel mixture. It helps with ignition.
Now, pull the starter cord with a firm, quick motion. Don’t yank it slowly. A fast pull works best.
If it doesn’t start after 3-5 pulls, stop. You need to check other things. Don’t flood the engine.
This process is the core of how to start a stubborn snow blower. Master these steps first.
Fixing Common Fuel System Problems
The fuel system causes many headaches. Let’s break down how to fix it.
Start by draining all the old gasoline. Use a siphon pump or tilt the machine. Get every last drop out.
Add fresh, ethanol-free gasoline if you can find it. The U.S. Department of Energy notes ethanol attracts water. This can cause problems in small engines.
Check the fuel line for cracks or blockages. A cracked line will leak air. This stops fuel from reaching the carburetor.
Locate the carburetor bowl at the bottom of the carburetor. Unscrew it carefully. Look for gunk or varnish inside.
Clean the bowl and the small jet inside with carburetor cleaner. A can of spray cleaner works great. Let all parts dry completely.
Replace the fuel filter if your model has one. It’s a cheap part. It’s often located inside the fuel tank or in the fuel line.
Knowing how to start a stubborn snow blower often means cleaning the carburetor. It’s a simple but vital job.
Checking and Replacing the Spark Plug
A bad spark plug will stop any engine. Here’s what to do.
First, find the spark plug wire. Gently pull it off the plug. You might need to wiggle it a bit.
Use a spark plug socket to remove the plug. Turn it counter-clockwise. Be careful not to strip the threads.
Look at the electrode at the tip. Is it covered in black soot? That means the engine is running too rich.
Is the tip wet with gasoline or oil? This means the plug is fouled. It won’t create a good spark.
Check the gap between the center and side electrode. Use a feeler gauge. The correct gap is in your owner’s manual, usually around .030 inches.
If the plug is dirty, clean it with a wire brush. If it’s damaged or the gap is wrong, replace it. New plugs are inexpensive.
When you put the new plug in, hand-tighten it first. Then use the socket to give it a final snug turn. Don’t over-tighten.
Reconnect the spark plug wire firmly. You should hear a click. A good spark is essential to start a stubborn snow blower.
What to Do When the Carburetor is Clogged
A clogged carburetor is a common reason engines won’t start. Let’s clean it.
First, turn off the fuel valve. You don’t want gas flowing while you work. Safety first.
Remove the air cleaner cover and the foam or paper filter. This gives you access to the carburetor. Set the filter aside.
You’ll see the carburetor body with linkage connected. Take a picture of the linkage before you disconnect anything. This helps with reassembly.
Spray carburetor cleaner into the carburetor throat. Do this with the choke and throttle in different positions. It helps clean the internal passages.
If you’re handy, you can remove the carburetor for a deeper clean. Disconnect the fuel line and the linkage. Soak the carburetor in cleaner overnight.
Use a small wire or a guitar string to clear the main jet. This tiny hole is often the culprit. Be very gentle.
Reassemble everything in the reverse order. Refer to your photo. Reconnect the fuel line and linkage correctly.
Learning how to start a stubborn snow blower often involves this task. A clean carburetor makes all the difference.
Using Starting Fluid as a Last Resort
Starting fluid can help diagnose a problem. Use it carefully.
Only use a small amount of starting fluid. Remove the air filter first. Spray a one-second burst into the carburetor intake.
Quickly try to start the engine. If it starts and runs for a few seconds, you have a fuel delivery problem. The carburetor or fuel line is likely clogged.
If it doesn’t start at all with fluid, you likely have a spark or compression issue. Check the spark plug and engine compression next.
Never use starting fluid as a regular solution. It’s very dry and can damage engine parts. It’s only for testing.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission advises care with flammable aerosols. Use in a well-ventilated area away from sparks.
This trick can show you how to start a stubborn snow blower by finding the root cause. It points you in the right direction.
Remember, starting fluid is a diagnostic tool, not a fix. Find and repair the real problem after you use it.
Preventative Maintenance to Avoid Future Problems
The best way to start a stubborn snow blower is to not let it get stubborn. Do regular upkeep.
Always use a fuel stabilizer in your gasoline. Add it to every can. It keeps gas fresh for months.
At the end of the season, run the engine until it’s out of gas. This drains the carburetor bowl. Storing it dry prevents gumming.
Change the engine oil at least once a season. Old oil gets dirty and loses its lubricating power. Check your manual for the right type.
Check and clean the spark plug annually. A quick wire-brush cleaning takes two minutes. It ensures a hot spark.
Inspect the auger and scraper bar for wear. A worn scraper bar won’t clear snow to the pavement. Replace it if it’s thin.
Lubricate all moving parts like the auger shaft and wheel axles. Use a grease gun or spray lubricant. This prevents rust and seizing.
Store your snow blower in a dry place. A damp shed can cause rust and corrosion. A cover helps keep dust off.
This routine is the real secret of how to start a stubborn snow blower. Prevent the problem before it happens.
When to Call a Professional for Help
Some problems are best left to experts. Know your limits.
If you’ve checked fuel, spark, and air and it still won’t start, the issue might be internal. Low engine compression is a serious problem.
You can test compression with a gauge. Screw it into the spark plug hole and pull the cord. It should read over 90 PSI.
A very low reading means worn piston rings or a damaged cylinder. This requires an engine rebuild. That’s a job for a small engine repair shop.
If you see gasoline in the engine oil, that’s a bad sign. It means the carburetor float is stuck. Fuel is leaking into the crankcase.
This can ruin the engine. You need to drain the oil, fix the carburetor, and add new oil. A pro can do this quickly.
Strange noises like knocking or grinding mean internal damage. Stop trying to start it. Continuing can cause more expensive damage.
Look for a local small engine repair shop. They have the tools and knowledge. Sometimes, paying for a tune-up is worth it.
Knowing how to start a stubborn snow blower also means knowing when to stop. Don’t make a simple problem worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my snow blower start after summer storage?
Old gas is almost always the reason. Gasoline breaks down and gums up the carburetor. Drain the old fuel and clean the carburetor.
How do I start a stubborn snow blower that has been sitting for years?
You’ll need to do a full service. Drain all old gas, clean the carburetor and fuel tank, replace the spark plug, and change the oil. Then try starting it.
My snow blower starts but then dies. What’s wrong?
This usually means a clogged carburetor jet or a dirty fuel filter. The engine gets enough fuel to start but not enough to keep running. Clean the carburetor and replace the filter.
Can bad oil cause a snow blower not to start?
Yes, if the oil is very old or the level is wrong. Many engines have a low-oil safety switch. It won’t let the engine start if the oil is too low. Check and change the oil.
How many pulls should it take to start a snow blower?
A well-maintained snow blower should start in 1-3 pulls when cold. If it takes more than 5-6 pulls, something is wrong. You need to troubleshoot the fuel or spark system.
