Columbia 31A-2M1A897, Operator'S Manual

Page: 8 / 32

8
Before Starting
IMPORTANT: For complete and detailed engine
starting, stopping and storing instructions, it is
recommended that you read the engine manual also
included with this unit.
1. The spark plug wire was disconnected for safety.
Attach spark plug wire to spark plug before starting.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Check oil and gasoline level and add if necessary.
Follow related instructions in the separate engine
manual packed with your snow thrower.
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors
are explosive. Never fuel the machine
indoors or while the engine is hot or
running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars,
pipes and other sources of ignition.
To Start Engine
1. Insert ignition key into slot. See Figure 5-1.
NOTE: Do NOT attempt to turn the key.
MPORTANT: Do not pull the starter handle with engine
running.
2. Move choke to the ON position (cold engine start). If
engine is warm, place choke in OFF position.
3. Push primer three to five (5-7) times, making sure
to cover vent hole when pushing. If engine is warm,
push primer only once. Always cover vent hole when
pushing. Cool weather may require priming to be
repeated.
4. Pull gently on the starter handle until it begins to
resist, then let the rope rewind slowly.
5. Pull the starter handle rapidly. Do not release the
handle and allow it to snap back. Return rope
SLOWLY to original position. If required, repeat this
step.
6. As the engine warms, slowly rotate the choke control
to OFF position. If the engine falters, restart engine
and run with choke at half-choke position for a short
period of time, and then slowly rotate the choke into
OFF position.
5
Operation
Stopping the Engine
1. Run engine for a few minutes before stopping to help
dry off any moisture on the engine.
2. Remove the ignition key. Removing the key will reduce
the possibility of unauthorized starting of the engine
while equipment is not in use.
Keep the key in a safe
place. The engine cannot start without the ignition
key.
3. Wipe all snow and moisture from the area around the
engine as well as the area in and around the drive
control and auger control. Also, engage and release
both controls several times.
To Engage Augers
1. To engage the augers and start throwing snow,
squeeze the auger control against the handle. Release
to stop the augers.
Engaging the Drive
1. Lifting up on the handle will allow the rubber on the
augers to propel the snow thrower forward. Pushing
downward on the handle will raise the augers off the
ground and stop forward motion.
NOTE: Excessive upward pressure on the handle will
result in premature wear on the rubber auger blades
which would not be covered by warranty.
WARNING
Read, understand,
and follow all instruc-
tions and warnings
on the machine and
in this manual before
operating.
Use extreme care
when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive.
Never fuel
the machine indoors
or while the engine
is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes and
other sources of
ignition.
Muffler, engine and
surrounding areas
become hot and
can cause a burn.
Do not touch.
Figure 5-1