Symptoms
- Pull cord or electric start does nothing or feels dead
- Engine turns over but won't fire
- Starts briefly then dies
- Been sitting since last winter without fuel drained
Likely causes
- CommonOld or stale gasolineGas left over the summer breaks down and gums up the carburetor.
- CommonFouled or worn spark plugA carbon-coated or worn plug won't produce a strong enough spark.
- CommonChoke or primer not set for cold startsCold engines need the choke closed and primer bulb pressed a few times before starting.
- PossibleClogged carburetor jetVarnish from old fuel can block the small jet that meters gas into the engine.
- PossibleDead battery on electric-start modelsBatteries lose charge in storage and may need charging or jumping.
What to do
- If fuel is more than a year old, drain it and refill with fresh gasoline.
- Check the choke is closed and press the primer bulb 2–3 times for a cold engine.
- Pull the spark plug, check for a wet or black coating, and clean or replace it.
- Confirm the spark plug wire is firmly connected.
- For electric start, check the outlet and cord, or charge the battery on battery-start models.
- Check the fuel shutoff valve is open and the fuel line isn't cracked or blocked.
- If it still won't start, the carburetor likely needs cleaning by a small-engine shop.
Tools and parts
- Spark plug socket
- Fresh gasoline
- Fuel stabilizer
Small engine spark plugSearch: “snow blower spark plug replacement”
Fuel stabilizerSearch: “small engine fuel stabilizer”
When to call a pro
If the carburetor needs disassembly or the engine won't hold a prime after cleaning, a small-engine repair shop can service it before the next storm.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.