Yes, you can learn how to use a Briggs and Stratton snow blower safely and well. The key is knowing the simple steps before you start, so you don’t get stuck or break your machine.
I see a lot of folks get their new blower and just pull the cord. That’s a good way to have a bad day. These machines are tough, but they need a little setup first.
I’ve used these blowers for years. The process is the same for most models. Once you know the basics, you’ll clear your driveway fast.
This guide will walk you through everything. We’ll cover starting, running, and storing your blower the right way.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
First, let’s talk about your machine. Not all Briggs and Stratton snow blowers are the same.
Some are single-stage, and some are two-stage. Single-stage is good for light snow. Two-stage is for deep, heavy snow.
Check your owner’s manual. It has the exact steps for your model. I know it’s boring, but it helps a lot.
You should also check the oil and gas. A dry engine will break fast. Always use fresh fuel, not stuff from last year.
Make sure the area is clear. Pick up rocks, toys, or newspapers. The blower will throw them hard and could break a window.
Dress warm and wear good boots. You’ll be outside for a while. Safety glasses are a smart idea too.
How to Start Your Briggs and Stratton Snow Blower
This is the part most people mess up. They pull and pull and get mad. Let’s do it right the first time.
First, find the fuel valve. Turn it to the “On” position. This lets gas flow to the engine.
Next, find the choke lever. Move it to “Full Choke” for a cold start. If the engine is warm, use “Half Choke” or “Run.”
Now, set the throttle control. Move it to the “Fast” position. A slow engine won’t start well.
Press the primer bulb three times. This pumps a little gas into the carburetor. Don’t press it too many times or you’ll flood it.
Grab the starter cord handle. Pull it slowly until you feel resistance. Then give it a quick, strong pull.
The engine should start. If it doesn’t, wait a minute and try again. Move the choke to “Half” after it starts and let it warm up.
How to Operate and Drive the Snow Blower
Okay, the engine is running. Now you need to make it move and throw snow.
To make it go forward, squeeze the drive control lever. It’s usually on the handle. Let go to stop moving.
To engage the auger, squeeze the auger control lever. This makes the spinning blades grab the snow. Always keep your hands clear.
Start with a slow speed. Get a feel for how the machine handles. You can go faster as you get used to it.
Overlap your passes a little. This makes sure you don’t leave strips of snow. Go back and forth like mowing a lawn.
For deep snow, take it in layers. Don’t try to blast through two feet at once. Take off the top six inches first.
If the blower gets clogged, turn it off first. Always use a stick to clear it, never your hands. The auger can start suddenly.
How to Adjust the Chute Direction
You don’t want to throw snow back on your path. Aiming the chute is a key part of how to use a Briggs and Stratton snow blower.
Find the chute crank or lever. It’s usually on the side of the chute housing. Turn it to point where you want the snow to go.
Plan your throwing direction. Aim away from the house, street, and neighbor’s yard. Wind can blow the snow back at you.
For distance, run the engine at full throttle. A slow engine won’t throw the snow very far. Keep the auger full of snow for the best throw.
If the snow is wet and heavy, it won’t go as far. That’s normal. Just point the chute straight ahead and take smaller bites.
Some models have a deflector on the chute top. This controls how high the snow flies. Lower it if you’re throwing near windows.
Practice turning the chute while the machine is off. You want to know how it moves before you’re in a storm.
How to Handle Different Snow Types
Not all snow is the same. Your technique changes with the weather. This is a big part of learning how to use a Briggs and Stratton snow blower well.
For light, fluffy snow, you can go fast. The machine will eat it up. You might not even need to adjust the skid shoes.
For wet, heavy snow, go slow. Take half-width passes. This keeps the machine from bogging down and getting clogged.
If there’s ice under the snow, be careful. The blower can slide on ice. Go slow and keep your footing solid.
For slush, let the water drain first if you can. Slush is the hardest to throw. It packs into the chute easily.
After a plow leaves a hard pack at the end of your driveway, attack it from the side. Don’t drive straight into the wall of snow.
According to the National Weather Service, knowing snow density helps. Light snow is easier to move than wet snow.
How to Do Basic Maintenance
If you take care of your blower, it will last for years. Maintenance is part of knowing how to use a Briggs and Stratton snow blower right.
Check the oil level every time you use it. Use the type of oil listed in your manual. Change the oil once a season or after 25 hours of use.
Use a fuel stabilizer if you store gas in the tank. This keeps the gas from going bad and gumming up the carburetor.
Check the auger shear pins. These are designed to break if you hit something hard. Replace them if they are broken.
Lubricate the chute crank and auger shaft at the start of the season. A little grease keeps things moving smoothly.
Inspect the belts for cracks or wear. A broken belt means the auger won’t turn. Replace worn belts before they fail.
Clean the machine after each use. Wipe off snow and salt to prevent rust. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says good upkeep prevents many problems.
How to Store Your Snow Blower for Summer
When winter ends, don’t just park it in the corner. Proper storage keeps it ready for next year.
Run the engine to use up the fuel in the carburetor. Or, add fuel stabilizer to a full tank and run it for five minutes.
Change the oil while the engine is warm. Old oil has acids that can damage engine parts over the summer.
Remove the spark plug. Put a teaspoon of oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord slowly to spread the oil, then put the plug back.
Clean the whole machine. Get all the caked-on snow and dirt off. This keeps mice from making a home in it.
Store it in a dry place. Cover it with a breathable cover, not a plastic tarp. Plastic traps moisture and causes rust.
Write the date on a tag and hang it on the handle. This reminds you what you did before you put it away.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made some of these myself. Learning how to use a Briggs and Stratton snow blower means avoiding these common errors.
Don’t use old gas. Gas goes bad in about 30 days. It forms a gunk that clogs the small fuel passages.
Don’t leave the choke on. Once the engine is warm, move the lever to “Run.” Running with the choke on wastes gas and can foul the spark plug.
Don’t force the machine. If the wheels are spinning, the auger is clogged, or the engine is bogging, stop. Figure out the problem instead of forcing it.
Don’t run it indoors. Even in an open garage, the fumes are dangerous. Carbon monoxide has no smell and can kill you.
Don’t wear loose clothing or scarves. They can get caught in the moving parts. Wear fitted clothes and tie back long hair.
Don’t forget to clear the area. A hidden garden hose or dog chain will wrap around the auger shaft fast. It’s a big repair job.
Safety Tips You Must Follow
Safety is the most important part of how to use a Briggs and Stratton snow blower. These machines are powerful tools.
Always turn off the engine before you unclog it. Wait for all moving parts to stop completely. Use a stick, not your hand.
Keep kids and pets far away. They might run up to see what you’re doing. The blower can throw objects with a lot of force.
Be careful on slopes. Go across a slope, not up and down. A blower can tip over if you go straight up a hill.
Watch for hidden obstacles under the snow. Curbs, lawn edges, and drainage grates can stop the machine suddenly and hurt you.
Wear ear protection. These engines are loud. Long exposure can hurt your hearing over time.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration says good practices prevent most injuries. Take your time and think ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start a Briggs and Stratton snow blower for the first time?
Check the oil and add gas first. Then set the choke, press the primer, and pull the cord. The manual has the exact steps for your model.
Why won’t my snow blower start?
Old gas is the most common reason. Drain the tank and carburetor and use fresh fuel. Also check the spark plug and oil level.
Can I use my snow blower on gravel?
You can, but adjust the skid shoes up high. This keeps the auger from hitting and picking up stones. It will still throw some gravel, so be careful.
How do I change the oil on my snow blower?
Run the engine to warm the oil. Then put a pan under the drain plug, remove the plug, and let it drain. Refill with the oil type listed in your manual.
What type of gas should I use?
Use regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Do not use gas with more than 10% ethanol, as it can damage engine parts.
How do I unclog the discharge chute?
Turn the engine off and wait. Use a long stick or broom handle to poke the clog loose from the outside. Never reach inside the chute with your hand.
Conclusion
So, how do you use a Briggs and Stratton snow blower? Start with the basics before the storm hits.
Check your fuel and oil. Learn the controls. Clear your path. Start slow and be safe. A little practice makes the job easy.
Remember, these machines are built to last. If you treat them right, they’ll clear your driveway
