Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 1978 Toro 826 Snowblower - The famous Blizzard of 1978, briggs and stratton, blizzard of 1978

Question
Briggs and Stratton engine.I love this snowblower. My snowblower started backfiring tonight and would not stay started after a few minutes. I put a new spark plug in it figuring the existing one was burnt out but the backfiring got worse with some sparks shooting out the muffler.  Any thoughts on what it might need? Many thanks for any and all assistance!

Answer
Hello Gerry:

The Problem can be a Dirty Carburetor, a Damaged Flywheel Key, Carbon keeping the Valves from Seating Properly or the Valve Clearance Requires Setting. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine or the Model Numbers Off the Snow Blower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Numbers you Sent me are the Series Numbers. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John