Once summer is over and you have to get your snowblowers out again, sometimes they tend to malfunction.
In the worst-case scenario, they might not even start. So, if your driveway is buried in snow and the snowblower just won't start, you are in the right place. Before heading to the repair shop, I suggest reading this guide and seeing if you can fix it yourself.
Let's quickly take a look!
1. Check The Gas Tank
As I have mentioned earlier, snowblowers often tend to malfunction when they sit idle during the summer months. If there's gas in the tank, the chances are that gummy residue has developed in the tank over time. When that happens, starting the device becomes pretty challenging.
To get rid of this problem, you will need to get your hands on a siphon pump and take the residual gasoline out. Once you are done doing that, refill fresh gasoline in the tank and try starting the device.
2. Check The Valves And Switches
All the snowblowers that I see on the market these days come with plenty of valves, buttons, and switches. When your snowblower refuses to start, check to see if all the switches and controls are in the position they should be in.
In case you are not sure about the positions, it is best that you go through the user manual in depth. Make sure all the buttons and valves are in the correct position for the snowblower to start without any glitches.
3. Consider Adding Fuel Stabilizer
Some people complain that their snowblowers do not start even after emptying the tank and checking the switches. Then, it is most likely the residue from the old gas clogging the carburetor.
To deal with this issue, you will have to get your hands on a fuel stabilizer. With the right fuel stabilizer, you will be able to liquefy the residue in no time. To add the stabilizer correctly, read the instructions mentioned on the package carefully. Once you are done adding it, try starting the machine.
If it does not start on the first try, do not lose heart! Keep pulling on the starter cord so that the fresh fuel and stabilizer work through the carburetor. In case the device still refuses to start, wait for a while.
Give it another two hours, and the stabilizer will dissolve the existing residue. After that, try starting it again!
4. Inspect The Fuel Line For Damage
If you have some idea about the workings of a snowblower, you would know that the fuel line which connects the tank to the carburetor should always be flexible. But with time, these lines tend to harden. At times, they even turn brittle, leading to unwanted leakage.
When there's a leak, it prevents proper functioning and stops the fuel from reaching the carburetor. The outcome? Your snowblower won't start, however hard you try. In case you notice the line is not in the best condition, I recommend that you get it replaced with a new one.
5. Taking Care Of The Carburetor
These steps that I have already mentioned should get your snowblower to function like it's new. However, if these troubleshooting tips do not help, pay attention to the carburetor. Try cleaning it to the best of your abilities to remove all forms of unwanted gunk and residue.
Removing the gunk from the carburetor is an absolute must, as a clogged carburetor is as good as a malfunctioning one. Now, the carburetor is mostly located beneath the air filter. However, if you find it challenging to locate it, you can always go through the product manual.
With that, my friend, it's a wrap!
I hope you enjoyed reading this guide, and now you have a better understanding of what to do if snowblower won’t start.
Just like any other tool, a snowblower also requires timely maintenance. Keep it clean and running for it to function correctly. That said, sometimes the devices refuse to start even after you follow all the troubleshooting tips. In that case, it is best that you take it to a professional technician to mend it.
Do not forget to keep a watch on this space for more exciting reads. Until next time, farewell!