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How to start a snowblower that’s been sitting idle for a long time

When the weather forecast calls for the season’s first snowfall, you don’t want to be caught off guard. If your snowblower has been stored in your garage all summer, starting it up before the snow flies will ensure you’re ready for the snowy season to come. Here’s how to start a snowblower that’s been sitting idle since last winter.

Common snowblower problems

If your snowblower hasn’t been used in several months, you may encounter the following problems.

Stale gas. Gasoline loses its volatility and begins to degrade after 30 days. You’ll have problems starting the engine if the gas is old, and it can also gum up the carburetor and fuel injector.

Faulty spark plugs. Be sure to check your spark plug for dirt buildup and cracks. Replacing a spark plug is an inexpensive and simple fix.

Poor A-to-F mixture. The air-to-fuel ratio in your engine requires oxygen to ignite the gasoline. The choke controls the amount of air mixing in with the gas. Machines sitting for a long time tend to need the choke to start.

Before trying to start your snowblower for the first time, it’s good to get it checked by a professional technician for a maintenance tune-up, including an oil change and lubrication of all the joints and fittings.

Starting your snowblower

Follow these steps in order when you’re ready to start up your lawn mower:

  • 1. Set the choke to full
  • 2. Move the throttle to the fast position
  • 3. Open the fuel valve
  • 4. Flip the ignition switch to on
  • 5. Insert the safety ignition key
  • 6. Press the carburetor primer bulb two or three times
  • 7. Pull the starter cable or press the electronic ignition switch
  • 8. Move the choke to the off, or run, position after ignition
  • 9. Run out all the stale gas

You may have to let your snowblower run for about an hour, depending on how much stale gas is in the tank. While the engine is running, look for oil and fuel leaks or any other problems. Fill the tank with fresh fuel, so you’re ready to move some snow.

Your snowblower and snow plow dealers in the GTA

At Hitch City, we carry single-stage and two-stage snowblowers for every need and budget, plus a wide variety of commercial-grade snow plows. We also provide repair and maintenance services for outdoor equipment. Contact us today in Barrie, Mississauga and Scarborough and speak to one of our helpful staff.

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