18
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem
Cause
Remedy
Engine fails to start
1. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
2. Blocked fuel line.
3. Key not inserted all the way.
4. Spark plug wire disconnected.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Engine not primed.
7. Engine flooded from excessive priming.
1. Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline.
2. Contact a Sears Service Center.
3. Insert key all the way.
4. Connect wire to spark plug.
5. Clean spark plug, readjust gap, or replace.
6. Push the engine primer button five to seven times.
7. Wait at least ten minutes before starting.
Engine running erratically/
inconsistent RPM (hunting or
surging)
1. Engine running on choke.
2. Fuel line blocked, or stale fuel.
3. Water or dirt in fuel system.
4. Carburetor out of adjustment.
5. Over-governed engine
1. Move choke control to RUN position.
2. Contact a Sears Service Center.
3. Run engine until the fuel tank is empty. Refill with
fresh fuel.
4. Contact a Sears Service Center.
5. Contact a Sears Service Center.
Engine overheats
1. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Contact a Sears Service Center.
Loss of power
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Vent in gas cap plugged.
1. Firmly connect spark plug wire.
2. Clear vent.
Excessive vibration
1. Loose parts or damaged auger.
1. Stop engine immediately and remove key. Check for
possible damage. Tighten all bolts and nuts. Repair
as needed. If problem persists, take snow thrower to
a Sears Service Center.
Snow thrower fails to self-
propel
1. Auger control cable out of adjustment.
2. Auger drive belt loose or damaged.
1. Adjust auger control cable as shown in Service and
Maintenance section.
2. Replace auger drive belt.
Auger continues to rotate
1. Auger control cable out of adjustment.
1. Adjust auger control cable as shown in Service and
Maintenance section.
Unit fails to discharge snow
1. Chute assembly clogged.
2. Foreign object lodged in auger.
3. Auger control cable out of adjustment.
4. Auger belt loose or damaged.
1. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire. Clean
chute and inside of auger housing with clean-out tool
or stick.
2. Stop engine immediately and disconnect the spark
plug wire. Remove object from auger.
3. Adjust auger control cable.
4. Replace auger belt.
This section addresses minor service issues. To locate the nearest Sears Service Center or to schedule service, simply contact Sears
at 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.
WARNING
Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls and stop the engine. Wait until all
moving parts have come to a complete stop. Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to
prevent unintended starting. Always wear safety glasses during operation or while performing any adjustments or
repairs.