Otis Singleton
If your snow blower's electric starter is malfunctioning, there could be a number of reasons. The first thing to do is to check your power outlet and power cord to ensure the starter is receiving sufficient power. If the outlet is functional, the next step is to check the starter gear and flywheel gear for any signs of damage. If the teeth on the gears are worn or broken, they will need to be replaced. If the teeth are intact, they may just need to be adjusted or realigned. Other potential issues include a clogged fuel line, a bad spark plug, or a damaged fuel tank vent. If the starter is not spinning, it may be locked up, and if it is making a grinding noise, it could be due to a loose or broken belt.
How to fix a snowblower electric starter
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Problem | Snowblower electric starter does not respond when the starter switch is engaged |
| Possible Causes | Broken starter switch or motor, clogged fuel line, bad spark plug, damaged auger blades, broken shear pins, worn auger belt, damaged gear case, engine problems, etc. |
| Solution | Check the power cord, switch, and motor for any damage. Remove and replace any damaged parts. Check the outlet and circuit breaker. Clean the cap to expose the vent. Check the starter gear for any damage and adjust or replace if needed. |
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What You'll Learn
Check the power cord and starter switch
If your snow blower electric starter does not respond when the starter switch is engaged, the switch or motor may be broken. Before jumping to any conclusions, it is important to check the power cord that connects to the starter to ensure that the starter is receiving sufficient power. If the power cord is plugged in and is not frayed or broken, there is likely a problem with the starter switch or motor itself.
To check the power cord, make sure the engine spins normally by pulling the recoil starter rope before replacing the starter. If the engine is locked up, the electric starter will not spin the engine. If the starter won't spin to start the engine when activated and is plugged into a working wall outlet, the electric starter may need to be replaced.
If the power cord is functioning properly, the problem likely lies with the starter switch or motor. You can remove the switch and motor by unscrewing them from their attachments to the frame. Once removed, take the cover off of the motor and inspect it for damage. Check for any signs of burning or melting wires, as this may indicate that the motor is burnt out and needs to be replaced.
If the motor appears to be in good condition, the starter switch is likely failing. Starter motors can overheat and become burnt out if the switch is held for too long when the engine will not turn over, forcing the motor to run continuously for an extended period. In this case, you may need to replace the starter switch to resolve the issue.
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Inspect the motor for damage
If your snow blower electric starter does not respond when the starter switch is engaged, the switch or motor may be broken. First, check the power cord that connects to the starter to ensure that the starter is receiving sufficient power. If the cord is plugged in and not frayed or broken, there is likely a problem with the starter switch or motor itself.
You can remove the switch and motor by unscrewing them from their attachments to the frame. Once removed, take the cover off of the motor and inspect it for damage. If there are any signs of burning or melting wires, the motor is burnt out and will need to be replaced. If the motor seems to be in good condition, the starter switch is likely failing. Starter motors can overheat and become burnt out if the switch is held for too long when the engine will not turn over, forcing the motor to run continuously.
If the engine is locked up, the electric starter won't spin the engine. If the starter won't spin to start the engine when activated and is plugged into a working outlet, replace the electric starter using the manufacturer-approved snowblower part.
If the starter motor and switch work, but the engine is not being engaged when you hit the starter switch, there is likely an issue with the connection between the starter gear and flywheel gear. The starter gear connects the electric starter motor to the flywheel gear with teeth that force it to rotate the flywheel when the starter is engaged. It is possible for the starter motor to come loose and wobble when the gear rotates, causing damage to the teeth on both the starter and flywheel gear. Check the starter gear, located on the side of the starter motor, for signs of damage. If the starter or flywheel gear teeth are worn or broken, the damaged gear will need to be replaced. If the teeth on each gear look to be intact, they are likely just loose and need to be adjusted or realigned to make a strong connection.
If the snow blower won't start and makes a whirring noise when using the electric start, it could be due to a loose or broken belt. Remove the starter and pull it apart. Clean the shaft where the gear sits and clean up the gear itself. Put it back together and avoid using heavy grease.
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Check the starter gear
If your snow blower's starter motor and switch seem to work, but the engine is not being engaged when you hit the starter switch, there is likely an issue with the connection between the starter gear and the flywheel gear. The starter gear is located on the side of the starter motor and connects the electric starter motor to the flywheel gear with teeth that force it to rotate the flywheel when the starter is engaged.
If the teeth on the starter gear are worn or broken, the damaged gear will need to be replaced. If the teeth on each gear look to be intact, they are likely just loose and need to be adjusted or realigned to make a strong connection. You can also try cleaning the shaft where the gear sits and cleaning the gear itself.
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Ensure the engine spins normally
If the snowblower's electric starter is not working, there are a few things you can check to ensure the engine spins normally.
Firstly, check the power cord that connects to the starter to ensure it is receiving power. If the cord is plugged in and not damaged, the issue could be with the starter switch or motor itself. Remove the switch and motor by unscrewing them and inspect the motor for any signs of damage, such as burnt or melted wires. If the motor is burnt out, it will need to be replaced.
If the motor appears to be in good condition, the problem may be with the connection between the starter gear and the flywheel gear. The starter gear connects the electric starter motor to the flywheel gear, forcing it to rotate when the starter is engaged. Check the starter gear for any signs of damage, such as worn or broken teeth. If the teeth are damaged, the gear will need to be replaced. If the teeth appear intact, they may just be loose and need to be adjusted or realigned.
Another potential issue could be with the recoil starter. If the recoil starter rope is stuck and cannot be pulled, the engine may be locked up. In this case, do not try to force the engine to turn as you may cause further damage. Instead, consider seeking professional assistance or consulting a repair guide for further troubleshooting steps.
It is important to note that repairing power equipment can be hazardous, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions when attempting any repairs.
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Check the spark plug
If your snow blower won't start, a bad spark plug connection could be the reason. A damaged or excessively dirty spark plug can cause issues with the engine. A misfire may occur if the plug is not properly connected, or if it is not fitted correctly.
To check the spark plug, first, take it out and examine it for any cracks or signs of carbon buildup. If the plug is cracked or seems too old, it's best to replace it with a new one. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions to gap the plug. Even if the spark plug was pre-gapped, it is still a good idea to inspect the gap.
If the spark plug seems fine, the next step is to prime the engine. Priming the engine moves fuel from the fuel lines to the carburetor. However, it is recommended to attempt to start the snowblower before priming it, as sometimes it is not necessary.
If the snowblower still won't start, there may be an issue with the starter gear. Check the starter gear, located on the side of the starter motor, for any signs of damage. If the teeth on the starter gear or flywheel gear are worn or broken, the gear will need to be replaced. If the teeth appear intact, they may just need to be adjusted or realigned to make a strong connection.
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Frequently asked questions
First, check the power cord that connects to the starter to ensure it is receiving sufficient power. If the cord is plugged in and not frayed or broken, there may be a problem with the starter switch or motor. Remove the switch and motor by unscrewing them, then take the cover off the motor and inspect it for damage. If there are signs of burning or melting wires, the motor is burnt out and will need to be replaced.
There is likely an issue with the connection between the starter gear and flywheel gear. Check the starter gear for signs of damage. If the teeth on the starter or flywheel gear are worn or broken, the gear will need to be replaced. If the teeth look intact, they may just be loose and need to be adjusted or realigned.
A grinding noise could be caused by a loose or broken belt. It could also be due to the flywheel and recoil starter cup not turning over when you push the starter. In this case, the starter gear may not be engaging the flywheel, or the engine may be locked up and grinding into the flywheel. Try to turn the engine over with a pull cord. If it turns over by hand, you may need to wrap a rope around the part where the recoil starter engages.
There are several potential causes for a snowblower not starting, including a clogged fuel line, bad spark plug, or engine problems. Check for a dirty or damaged spark plug and replace it if necessary. If the spark plug looks intact, try cleaning the shaft where the gear sits and cleaning the gear itself. You should also check that your outlet is working and that your fuel tank vent is not blocked.
