Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snowblower, toro 521 snowblower, spark plug wire

Question
Hi - I have a Toro 521 snowblower.  I used it a couple days ago with no problem.  Today the engine starts fine but then kills when I engage the auger (to blow the snow).  Do you know why this is happening?  The snow that I cleared a couple days ago was very wet & heavy.  Is it possible there could be some chunks of ice in the auger I need to clear?  

Thanks in advance for you help.

Joe

Answer
Hi Joe,

I suspect either a clog or something binding the drive system.  Disconnect the spark plug wire, for your safety and check the chute and augers for ice or another object.  If that looks good, try to rotate the crankshaft to see if it turns the belts, pulleys, impeller, gearbox and augers freely.  You may need to tie the handle lever down for testing, to engage the augers   

Let me know how you make out.
Michael