How to Start a Craftsman Snowblower

Starting a Craftsman snow blower is not difficult. Make sure you have the ignition key in the snow blower. Check all the fluids such as oil and gasoline before attempting to start the snow blower. There are usually two ways to start the newer snow blowers; one is with the electric starter system if equipped, and the other is with the recoil starter.

Things You'll Need

• Craftsman snow blower
• Extension cord (high gauge, three pronged for ground)

Instructions

1. Ensure the ignition key is in the snow blower and make sure the spark plug wire is attached and secure.

2. Make sure the auger and drive controls are disengaged.

3. Place the choke key or knob to full choke position.

4. Lift the throttle lever to the fast position. Turn the valve on if equipped.

5. Push the primer plunger three or four times with your finger covering the center vent hole.

6. Plug the extension cord into the snow blower and then into the outlet if you're going to start it with the electric starter. Push down on the engine starter button (located on top) until the engine starts, but no longer than five seconds. If engine does not start, re-prime the plunger a couple more times. If you're going to start the snow blower using the recoil starter, skip this step and proceed to step 7.

7. Start the snow blower with recoil starter by first holding down the starter handle on the handle bar of the snow blower. Pull the rip cord with rapid, continuous, full arm strokes until the engine starts. Release the start handle when the engine engages. If the engine does not start, re-prime the plunger a couple more times and try again.

8. Once the engine engages (no matter which way you started the snow blower) adjust the choke slowly to off. Allow the engine time to warm up as you do this or you may kill the engine and have to restart it. Allow the engine a few minutes of running time after the choke is disengaged as it will not operate at full power until it reaches its proper operating temperature.