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a. Turbine and cutter
The engine output is used to power the hydrostat that provides the drive movement and
also to power the turbine and the cutter. That is why it is logical to first check the condi-
tion of the turbine and cutter.
b. Slipping belt transmission
You may also notice the engine losing power as a result of losing traction on the caterpil-
lar tracks or that the cutter and turbine lose power. The reason for this could be that one
of the drive belts is slipping. (See § 11.4.3.4).
c. Sparkplugs
This model of snow clearer uses a 4-stroke/2-cylinder engine. Both cylinders have their
own sparkplug which ensures there is ignition for each rotation of the crankshaft. This
characteristic ensures that the engine is very responsive and stays up to speed even
under loading. If one of the sparkplugs is defective, all of the work will be carried out by
one piston and there will be just one ignition per two rotations. This equates to a 50%
reduction in power. (See § 11.4.1.7 Checking or replacing sparkplugs).
d. Overheating
Effective cooling of both petrol and hydraulic systems is vital for optimum functioning. The
petrol engine in particular produces a great deal of heat so it is important that there is a
good flow of cool air through the engine and within the machine. Loss of power could lead
to a lack of cooling. Check the flow of cool air (see § 11.3.3 Cleaning ventilation grilles)
e. Problem with fuel supply
A small vacuum pump pumps fuel from the tank to the carburettor. This fuel line is
equipped with a fuel filter that stops rubbish in the fuel ending up in the carburettor. The
filter may become blocked over time and must then be replaced.
• Check the fuel filter (read the relevant procedure in the engine manual).
• Rubbish can build up in a narrowing in the fuel line. Disconnect the line ahead of the fuel
filter and blow this out with compressed air.
• Make sure that no rubbish has been taken into the fuel tank. Remove any rubbish by
bleeding the fuel via the drainage plug.
f. Ineffective combustion
As the engine provides the source of power, it has most influence on efficiency. Optimum
engine efficiency is only guaranteed if there is effective combustion. Check whether the
choke valve has shut of its own accord as a result of vibration during snow clearing or
a lack of maintenance. This means that the supply of fuel to the engine is excessive and
leads to incomplete combustion.