Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Ariens Snow Thrower, piston rings, head gasket

Question
Ben,
I have an Ariens ST824 snow thrower.  It has not been used for almost 2 years, so I had the carb cleaned.  I want to sell it, so I put some fresh gas in and it started right up.  The clutch and auger engage fine, but when I try to move snow, the engine cuts out.  I let it run with no load for several minutes, and it runs fine, but when it hits snow, it dies.  Just before this happens, a few sparks/embers come out of the muffler.  I can hit the primer bulb a few times after it cuts out, and it will start right up.  Any ideas?

Answer
John
Things that would cause that problem are many here is some things you can check.

  1.  Old gas, bad spark plug, very thick/dirty oil.
  2. Choke is partially closed.
  3. Carburetor needs adjustment or service.
  4. Ignition not timed correctly.
  5. Air filter is clogged.
  6. There is a lack of lubrication.
  7. Valves are not sealing properly.
  8. Piston rings are not sealing properly.
  9. Head loose or head gasket blown or damaged.
 10. Exhaust ports blocked (2 stroke).