QuestionI have a 1 year old 9HP Craftsman snowblower that has only been used 5 times. I start it up and it runs but not smooth. After a while it will sputter then die. Asside from taking the carb apart is there any remedies you can suggest? The gas that was in the snowblower over the summer did have stabilizer in it. I was thinking about sucking it all out and making sure all gas is fresh.
AnswerHi Doug,
Try adjusting the carbs' mixture screws. The larger, high speed screw is set at 1 & 1/2 turns out and the smaller, low speed screw at 3/4 turn out. Set the idle stop screw to give a good idle speed. Check the fuel for water.
Finally, follow my proceedure below:
You will need to determine if the problem is a lack of spark or a lack of fuel flow. Right after it quits, remove the spark plug, reconnect the wire and lay it against the engine head. Pull the engine over and watch for spark at the plug's electrode.
If good, then try to re-start while squirting fuel or starting fluid into the carb intake. If it starts, then the carb most likely has dirt, debris, gummed fuel or water inside. You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air. Probe each and every hole with a small wire. A carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.
Let me know how you make out.
Michael
