Have a problem with your snow blower? There’s nothing worse than getting outside to plow away snow just to find out that you’re in need of snow blower repair. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of common snow blower problems and their solutions to help you when you’re stuck in a rut.
Common Snow Blower Problems
Sometimes your snow blower will have issues that regular maintenance or routine snow blower tune-ups just won’t be able to fix. But don’t say goodbye to that machine just yet, here are some frequent issues that arise with snow blowers and how to remedy them.
The Snow Blower Won't Start
What Happens:
If you’ve found yourself with a snow blower that doesn’t start, it could be the result of three common issues: a defective spark plug, old or no fuel, or a clogged carburetor.
How to Fix It:
Spark Plugs: Check the spark plugs in your snow blower for any cracks, damage, or deposits. You can use a spark tester, if you have it, to see if they’re working properly. If the plugs aren’t igniting a sizeable spark, it’s likely they need to be replaced.
Old or no fuel: Do you have old fuel from last season? It’s best to drain this so it doesn’t build up. To drain the fuel, disconnect the fuel line between the fuel tank and the carburetor.
Clogged Carburetor: This happens after you’ve left old fuel in the tank for too long. Fuel evaporation is a sticky, thick result that happens if you’ve left fuel in the snow blower, and this can clog the carburetor. First, clean the carburetor with the appropriate cleaner. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace it.
Expert or DIY:
If you’re comfortable checking and replacing spark plugs, fuel, and a carburetor, then this could be a DIY job. But if these are a bit over your head, consult with an expert like Powersports Company.
It Won't Blow Snow
What Happens:
So your snow blower starts, but it’s not doing the job it was designed to do. If this is happening it could be either a build-up of snow, a defective impeller, or worn scraper bar or paddles.
How to Fix It:
If it’s a build-up of snow: If it’s a particularly bad storm, snow build-up is a common problem for your machine. If this is the case, turn off the snow blower and clear out any snow from the chute. If the chute is clear check the augers and auger driver system.
If it’s a defective impeller: This is the part of the machine that churns snow through the chute. If it’s broken or damaged you’ll need to replace it.
If your scraper or paddles are worn: If you’ve got a single-stage snow blower, then you’ll likely have to eventually replace your scraper. These wear over time and don’t work as well. If the snow is blowing in and out of the machine, you may need to replace the paddles.
Expert or DIY:
If it’s a build-up of snow, you can easily unclog the snow from your machine. The other problems are a bit more complex and depending on your comfortability and level of knowledge, maybe best for an expert to handle, like Powersports Company.
The Auger is Clogged
What Happens:
If your auger isn’t working, then the snow can’t circulate through the machine properly. It could be either a broken shear pin, a defective cogged or V-belt, a damaged auger cable, or broken blades.
How to Fix It:
If your auger has a broken shear pin: These shear pins and bolts are designed to break if your snow blower hits a large rock or structure (maybe even a holiday decoration under all the snow). Check to see if a pin or bolt is broken, and if so, it will need to be replaced.
If you have a defective cogged or V-belt: If either one of these parts is damaged, your snow blower’s augers won’t turn. If either is broken, they’ll need to be replaced.
If your auger cables or blades are damaged: If either of these parts on the auger is damaged, you’ll have to replace them.
Expert or DIY:
You may be able to inspect the problems and then work with an expert, like Powersports Company, to remedy them or replace the broken parts.
The Wheels Don't Turn
If your snow blower is turning on and circulating snow, but the wheels aren’t moving, you won’t be able to get much plowing done.
What Happens:
Your snow blower’s wheels not turning could be the result of a flat tire, defective drive disk, or a broken cable. Here are the ways to fix these common issues.
How to Fix It:
If you’ve got a flat tire: This will be easily identifiable. If you’ve got a flat tire, replace it.
If you have a defective drive disk: If the drive disk is wet or greasy, then it won’t be able to turn your wheels. Check to see if there is anything wrong with the drive disk and clean it properly.
The control cable is broken: If this happens, your wheels won’t turn. Check to see if you need to oil the control cables or if they need replacing entirely.
Expert or DIY:
All of these common issues are generally easy and can be done at home.
It's Lurching Forward
What Happens:
General wear and tear will happen on your machine and its parts. If the cables that send power to your wheels need to be adjusted, then you may have difficulty maneuvering your snow blower or it can jolt forward.
How to Fix It:
Tighten the line if the drive handle on the snow blower lurches forward when you press down. You may have to adjust a few times to prevent the lurching forward. Add some lubricant to the cables to the joints and pivot parts after you’ve tightened the line.
Expert or DIY:
This is another relatively easy task that can be performed at home.
The Belt Breaks
What Happens:
If a belt snaps, it can impact the entire machine. The augers won’t turn and you won’t be able to plow and blow snow properly.
How to Fix It:
It’s best to routinely check the belt for cracks in between uses. But if it snaps while in use, then you’ll need to replace the belt entirely.
Expert or DIY:
Again, this depends on your knowledge and comfortability with handling the machine. If you’re comfortable changing the belt, go for it. If not, schedule a service appointment with us at Powersports Company to fix the issue.
It's Leaking Gasoline
What Happens:
Gas leaking from anything can be an alarming sight. You could notice a small leak or a substantial one. But no matter the size of the leak, addressing the problem promptly is a must.
How to Fix It:
You may need to either replace the carburetor gasket or fix it. If this isn’t the case, check your fuel filter and replace it, if needed. It’s recommended you don’t try to repair this if it’s cracked.
Expert or DIY:
Working with a team of experts like Powersports Company can be helpful to address a gas leak on your snow blower. They can also ensure protection for future leaks and provide helpful tips for maintenance.
More Snow Blower Maintenance Tips
The best way to prevent these common problems with your snow blower is to do routine maintenance on your machine.
- Change your spark plugs at the end of the season.
- Inspect your belts for general wear and tear.
- Check your auger and its parts for wear, as this is the hardest working part on your machine.
- Check your shear pins and bolts.
- Check your shave plate for wear and tear.
- Find more resources on maintenance on your snow blower here.
Get Your Snow Blower In Tip-Top Shape at Powersports Company
If you’re in need of some repairs on your snow blower, book an appointment with us to get started!