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How to Maintain a Snowblower
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#2 GreaseBox wrenchGas stabilizerGasolineGrease gunMotor oilOil canRatchetSpark plug feeler gaugeSpark plug socketSpark plugWaste containerWheel blocksClip Transcript For:
How to Maintain a Snowblower
computer-generated transcript - may not be 100% accurate
" Manufacturers recommend carrying out proper maintenance before storing your snowblower for the summer. Here's how: First, we are going to stabilize the gasoline remaining in the snowblower so it stays fresh until next winter. Following the instructions on a container gas stabilizer, add the recommended amount for a full tank of gas, and thoroughly mix the gas and stabilizer together. Cap off the snowblower fuel tank with the stabilized gasoline, Run the snowblower for a few minutes to allow the stabilizer to flow through the fuel system. The stabilizer will help to prevent the formation of gum, varnish, rust, and corrosion. As a safety measure, remove the key before working on the snowblower, block the wheels and locate the oil drain plug. It will be near the bottom of the engine block. Place the container large enough to hold the engine's oil under the oil drain plug. Remove the oil filler cap. Using a box wrench, remove the oil drain plug. Allow the oil to run freely into the waste container, be very careful as the old oil can be hot enough to burn you. Tip the engine to assure that all the oil runs out into the waste pan. Reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten the plug securely. For temperate climates, select a four-stroke detergent 530 weight premium motor oil. For colder climates, refer to"
" can with a long spout, inject two squirts of oil into the cylinder through the spark plug hole. Using the hand crank, turn over the engine a few times. This coats the inside of the cylinder walls with oil protecting them from rusting during the summer. Use the exact replacement spark plug recommended by the manufacturer. Using a spark plug feeler gauge, set the gap of the spark plug to the manufacturer's recommendation. Thread the new spark plug into the cylinder by hand to prevent cross threading and then tighten the spark plug with a ratchet and socket finishing with a half turn after the spark plug seat to compress the washer. Replace the spark plug boot pressing down until you feel a click. Referring to the manual, identify the location of all the grease fittings. Using a grease gun containing number two grease, lubricate each fitting. Follow any other lubrication requirements for your snowblower. Store your snowblower in your garage in a cool dark area. Your snowblower will be ready and waiting for the first winter's snowfall."
