QuestionQUESTION: Hello Ben,
I have a Craftsman Model# 247.888530. It is about 4 years old. I used it twice this season with no issues. The last time I try to start the unit with the electric starter, it sounds like the starter is just free spinning. It does not try to turn the engine. I tried the recoil starter, but it is stuck and will only extend a few inches. Can you give me some ideas how to troubleshoot this problem please?
Thank you,
Alex
ANSWER: Alex
This snowblower may not have some parts not available any more.
You may have a broken starter solenoid and the bendix gear is not engaging. Do you leave this out in the weather,if you do the recoil may be frozen and stuck take off the recoil housing and look in thee for any rusted parts.
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QUESTION: The unit is stored in my garage when not in use. I have not been taken care of it other than that. The broken starter solenoid idea sounds very possible. Is that something easy to change out?
Answer
wireing diagram
Alex
Test the solenoid: First determine the type of solenoid you have: There are 2 basic types of solenoids. One has 3 terminals and the other has 4. Two large diameter studs, and 1 or 2 smaller diameter studs. The 2 large studs connect to the battery and to the starter. The smaller ones are to the starter switch and the other is ground (if the solenoid only has 1 small stud then the ground is thru the mounting ears). To test: make sure the battery is fully charged. Next, short out the 2 large studs with an insulated screwdriver. If it cranks, the solenoid or starter switch is bad. If it won't crank, the battery or connections are the problem, clean all connections and try again.
Test the starter switch: Connect a piece of wire to the battery positive terminal and touch the other end to the small stud that is marked "+" or "s". If it cranks, the starter switch is bad, and must be replaced with the exact same type for proper operation..
NOTE: These are typical circuit layouts for reference only. Yours may differ.
