Things You'll Need
Hand-pump siphon
Gasoline
2-cycle oil
Gas can
Spark-plug wrench
Replacement spark plug
Starter switch boot
Test light
The Toro single-stage snowblower, or snowthrower, is a gas-powered lawn tool used to clear snow-covered driveways and sidewalks. Toro snowblowers are generally reliable machines. However, they do require repairs from time to time, especially if the machine has been unused all spring and summer. They also require routine maintenance. Some common problems may include issues with the electric starter and ignition system, and fuel problems. Many of these troubleshooting techniques and repairs can be done at home.
Step 1
Check the level in the fuel tank if the snowblower does not start, sputters or has trouble starting. If old fuel sat in the gas tank over the off season, drain it with a hand-pump siphon. Check your owner's manual to determine the oil-fuel ratio for your snowblower, as they vary with Toro models. 16:1 ratio engines require 8 ounces of oil to be mixed with one gallon of gasoline; 32:1 ratio engines require 4 ounces of oil per gallon of gas; and 50:1 ratio engines require 2.6 ounces of oil per gallon of gas. Mix the fuel and oil in a gas tank and add it to the fuel tank.
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Step 2
Check the Toro's spark plug if it will not start. Remove the Toro's spark plug wire, remove it with a spark-plug wrench and examine it. If it is corroded or appears to be fouled, replace it with a new spark plug.
Step 3
Check the electric starter switch if the snowblower will not start. First inspect the rubber boot on the switch. If it is worn, it may allow water in, and should be replaced. Remove the switch's electrical connector by hand. Press the leads of the test light to each of the starter switch's leads. There should be no continuity. If the test light lights up, showing continuity, change out the starter switch.
Step 4
Check the drive belt if the snowblower runs but does not throw snow. If the belt is worn, stretched or broken it should be replaced. To do this, turn the ignition key to the off position. Remove the cap screw, located on top of the drive cover, with a screwdriver. Also remove the drive cover screws with a screwdriver and pull the drive cover off. Move the idler pulley forward by hand and remove the belt, the engine pulley and the impeller pulley. Loop the new belt through the engine and impeller pulley and then over the idler pulley. Replace the drive cover and the cap screw.
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