Snowblower not Starting After Summer (Reason, Maintenance and Storage Practices)

You might have fallen victim to a snowblower not starting after summer; how did you go about it? Visit your mechanic? If that is the case, keep reading to learn the possible causes of a snowblower not starting after summer and how to fix that.

During winter, almost every homestead uses a snowblower to clear their paths. But, they may fail to start after several ignitions. As this is a common problem several people may find themselves in, you don't need to first visit the engine repair shop because it might be a simple problem that requires a quick fix. In any case, where will you pass? Just kidding. Here are simple hacks to diagnose and fix a snowblower that is not starting after summer for smooth functioning.

Table Of Contents

Why Snowblower Won’t Start After Summer?

On several occasions, snowblowers fail to start due to fuel system contamination. Such contamination may result from simple reasons like lack of fuel, clogged fuel, or a clogged carburetor. Here are some reasons snowblowers won't start after sitting and hacks to fix that.

Lack of fuel: Fuel level should be the first to check before proceeding to the rest. A low fuel level is never enough to start your snowblower; the sad thing is that gasoline can break down and clog the fuel system, thus preventing the engine from running smoothly. Also, fuel left in the tank over a long period may go stale due to contamination from water or debris and thus may not start the machine. Ensure there’s enough fresh fuel when you want to start it.
Low oil levels can cause a total breakdown or a snowblower not starting after summer. To start it smoothly, check the oil level and add if needed. Remember to always use the correct type of oil as recommended by the manufacturer in the owner's manual.
Clogged fuel filter: old oil may become thick, thus clogging the filter. Drain any oil left in the gas tank before storing it to prevent clogging.
Ignition system problems: armatures play a crucial role in firing the plug; if the spark plug does not ignite, provided the control switch is working, replace it. Also, clean or replace a dirty spark plug. A dry spark plug indicates a clogged carburetor.
Carburetor problems: stale gas can congeal, thus clogging and, at times, damaging the carburetor. As a result, blocking the snowblower from starting.
Old or lousy gasoline: Gasoline goes has a short shelf-life. When left to sit for a long period, it becomes thick and gunky, causing clogging. Consider changing it for the smooth functioning of the snowblower.
Stuck open valve: Once the valve of a snowblower that has been sitting for a longer time is opened, it’s likely to corrode on the stem, thus partially closing. Take off the cam cover and push it on the valve spring to free the corrosion.

How to Diagnose a Snowblower's Fuel System?

As indicated earlier, contaminated fuel is the common reason for a snowblower not starting after summer. Fortunately, diagnosing and fixing fuel or ignition system problems is simple. Firstly, you should clear the carburetor and refill it with fresh gas.

Try igniting the engine, and if it starts, your issue is resolved; however, if that doesn't work, it's likely to be one of the problems discussed above. You can as well perform a gas shot test or do the following:

For snowblowers with a fitted gas tap, you must first turn off the tap or press the gas line gently with a clamp for those without a gas tap.
At the base of the carburetor, locate the gas bowl.
Take off the bolt fastening the gas bowl, and check to confirm if it's corroded.
If so, use a tiny pin to clean the bowl jet fastener.
Then fix it back.

Common Maintenance and Storage Practices to Keep Snowblower Running

Engines require regular maintenance and storage practices to maintain their effectiveness. For a snowblower, the following measures are crucial;

1. Fuel System Cleaning

Draining the gas tank and cleaning the gas bowl can resolve the issue. However, you may be required to extend the cleaning to the carburetor to fix the issue. You should therefore clean or replace the gas filter after draining the gas tank and gas bowl then you clean the carburetor. You need to have a carburetor cleaner and a carb-cleaning kit.

2. Storing snowblowers Properly

You’ll definitely use a snowblower this winter; it is ideal to store it properly at the end of the season for use in the next one. The storage procedure is simple and is never time-consuming. You may be forced to buy snowblower maintenance tools, but it's worth it.

3. Use Gas Stabilizer

Blended gas has a short shelf-life. It may thicken and damage the carburetor if left to sit for long. Besides, ethanol damages the plastic and rubber components of the fuel system. To prevent these, add a gas stabilizer to keep the gas fresh for longer since it purifies any impurities in the oil. Pro Tip!

Gas stabilizers are only added to fresh oil; they won't make any good if added to old oil.

4. Close Valves

When storing a snowblower over a long period, ensure the valves are closed since they can let in corrosion into the cylinder if left open. Here are step-by-step procedures to close them:

Remove the spark plug.
Pour some engine oil into the cylinder.
Using a blunt non-metallic object, insert it into the cylinder and turn the engine by hand until the object appears at the top of the cylinder closing the valves.
After it’s closed, place back the spark plug.

5. Clean Body and Protect

Using water, detergent, brush, and cloth, thoroughly clean the machine, let it dry, and apply a coat to prevent moisture, rust, and damage.

6. Use Breathable Covers

Breathable covers do not trap moisture. They are thus recommended over the common plastic sheet with which most people are used to covering the machine. Unbeknownst to them, plastic sheets trap moisture which may corrode the machine.

FAQs

How do I tell if a carburetor is blocked?

To tell if your carburetor is clogged, monitor the performance of the snowblower. You may notice slow performance power; it may release black smoke, stall under load, and have difficulty starting.

Should I run my snowblower out of gas?

Yes. Small engine power equipment, snowblowers included, may be damaged if left with gas while sitting for long periods. It's advisable to drain the gas or ensure it completely runs out to avoid that.

Can old gas start a snowblower after sitting?

No, always use fresh fuel to start your snowblower. Old fuel becomes thick and thus may clog the filter or carburetor.

Bottom Line

Snowblowers are only functional during winter; for the rest of the seasons, they are sitting and are likely to fail. Proper maintenance and storage of the snowblowers should be a routine practice in each homestead after every winter season. However, if you find yourself in such a situation, the above guideline on how to fix a snowblower, not starting after summer, will guide you diagnose and bringing your snowblower back to life. If none of the above works, you should consider visiting your mechanic.