Husqvarna ST 121E User Manual

Owner’s Manual

ST 121E / 96183000100

Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable for use in this machine.

The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.

	Please read the owner's manual carefully and make sure you
532 44 30-86	understand the instructions before using the machine.
	English

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new snow thrower. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your snow thrower properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Snow Throwers

IMPORTANT: This snow thrower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury.

Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place it where it cannot contact plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

WARNING: This snow thrower is for use on sidewalks, driveways and other ground level surfaces. Caution should be exercised while using on sloping surfaces. Do not use snow thrower on surfaces above ground level such as roofs of residences, garages, porches or other such structures or buildings.

Training

1.Read, understand and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before operating this unit. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.

2.Never allow children to operate the equipment. Never allow adults to operate the equipment without proper instruction.

3.Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children.

4.Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling, especially when operating the snow thrower in reverse.

Preparation

1.Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all doormats, sleds, boards, wires, and other foreign objects.

2.Ensure the control bar is released before starting the engine.

3.Do not operate the equipment without wearing adequate winter garments. Avoid loose fitting clothing that can get caught in moving parts. Wear footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

4.Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable

(a)Use an approved fuel container.

(b)Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.

(c)Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel tank indoors.

WARNING: Snow throwers have exposed rotating parts, which can cause severe injury from contact, or from material thrown from the discharge chute. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, small children and pets at all times including startup.

CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

(d)Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailerbedwithaplasticliner.Alwaysplacecontainers on the ground, away from your vehicle, before filling.

(e)When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

(f)Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times, until refueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

(g)Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe up spilled fuel.

(h)If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

5.Use extension cords and receptacles as specified by the manufacturer for all units with electric drive motors or electric starting motors.

6.Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine (motor) is running (except when specifically recommended by manufacturer).

7.Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operation or while performing an adjustment or repair to protect eyes from foreign objects that may be thrown from the machine.

8.Let engine and machine adjust to outdoor temperatures before starting to clear snow.

2

Operation

1.Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

2.Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.

3.After striking a foreign object, stop the engine (motor), disconnect the cord on electric motors, thoroughly inspect the snow thrower for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the snow thrower. Remove key.

4.If the unit should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

5.Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the operating position, before unclogging the auger housing or discharge chute, and when making any repairs, adjustments or inspections.

6.Whencleaning,repairingorinspectingthesnowthrower, stop the engine and make certain the auger blades and all moving parts have stopped. Remove key.

7.Do not run the engine indoors, except when starting the engine and for transporting the snow thrower in or out of the building. Open the outside doors; exhaust fumes are dangerous.

8.Exercise extreme caution when operating on slopes.

9.Never operate the snow thrower without proper guards, and other safety protective devices in place and working.

10.Never direct the discharge toward people or areas where property damage can occur. Keep children and others away.

11.Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting to clear snow at too fast a rate.

12.Never operate the machine at high transport speeds on slippery surfaces. Look behind and use care when operating in reverse.

13.Disengage power to the auger blades when snow thrower is transported or not in use.

14.Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer of the snow thrower.

15.Never operate the snow thrower without good visibility or light. Always be sure of your footing, and keep a firm hold on the handles. Walk; never run.

16.Never touch a hot engine or muffler.

Clearing a Clogged Discharge Chute

Hand contact with the rotating auger blades inside the discharge chute is the most common cause of injury associated with snow throwers. Never use your hand to clean out the discharge chute.

To clear the chute:

1.SHUT THE ENGINE OFF!

2.Wait 10 seconds to be sure the auger blades have stopped rotating.

3.Always use a clearing tool at least 15 inches long.

Maintenance and Storage

1.Check shear bolts and other bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

2.Never store the machine with fuel in the fuel tank inside a building where ignition sources are present such as hot water heaters, space heaters, or clothes dryers. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

3.Always refer to operator’s manual for important details if the snow thrower is to be stored for an extended period.

4.Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

5.Run the machine a few minutes after throwing snow to prevent freeze-up of the collector/impeller.

SERIAL NUMBER: ___________________________

DATE OF PURCHASE: _______________________

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE SNOW THROWER HOUSING (Figure 1).

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

PRODUCT	MAINTENANCE LEVEL				SERIAL NUMBER
PRODUIT	NIVEAU DE MAINTENANCE			NUMERO DE SERIE
000000000		00		000000A 000000
MODEL NUMBER / NUMERO DE MODELE			KG	KW	RPM	YEAR
00000000			000	000	000	0000
FOR SERVICE CALL/POUR APPELER LE SERVICE			CONFORMS TO ANSI B71.3-2005 SAFETY STANDARDS
1-800-448-7543		CONFORME AUX NORMES DE SECURITE ANSI B71.3-2005
ASSEMBLED IN U.S.A.						000000
ORANGEBURG, SC 29116

Figure 1

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

•Read and observe the safety rules.

•Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your snow thrower.

•Follow the instructions under “Maintenance” and “Storage” sections of this manual.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity	1.6 Quarts (1,5 Liters)
and Type:	Unleaded Regular only
Oil Type	SAE 30 (above 50°F)
(API SG–SL):	SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30
	(32° to 50°F)
	SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
Oil Capacity:	18 Ounces (0,53 Liters)
Spark Plug:	F6RTC
Gap:	0.030" (0,762 mm)

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ........................................................	2-3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS......................................	3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES................................	3
SAFETY AND INSTRUCTIONAL DECALS .................	4
ASSEMBLY................................................................	5-6
PRODUCT OVERVIEW ................................................	7

OPERATION ............................................................	8-11
MAINTENANCE.....................................................	12-16
STORAGE...................................................................	17
TROUBLESHOOTING................................................	18
REPAIR PARTS .....................................................	20-35
WARRANTY...........................................................	36-39

KNOW YOUR SNOW THROWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR SNOW THROWER.

Compare the illustrations with your snow thrower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your snow thrower or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

IMPORTANT: Safety and instruction decals are located near areas of potential danger. Replace damaged decals.

IGNITION KEY.	CHOKE	PRIMER	RECOIL START CHOKE OPEN	IGNITION KEY.
INSERT TO	CLOSED		(RUN)	PULL OUT TO
START AND	(START)				STOP
RUN

DANGER	ENGINE ON	ENGINE OFF
OR WARNING			OIL	FUEL

ENGAGING AND

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INFORMATION

DISENGAGING THE

AND INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE OF THIS PRODUCT.

AUGER BLADES

KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

4

ASSEMBLY

Setup

LOOSE PARTS

Use the chart below to verify that all parts have been shipped.

Description	Qty.
Carriage bolts	5
Flange nuts	3
Washers	2
Knob	2
Chute	1
Deflector	1

Installing the Handle

1.Remove temporary cable ties holding cables at handle adjustment holes (Figure 2).

2.Release handle adjustment levers on both sides.

1

2

4.Pull up and push down slightly on the handle to verify handle is locked into place (Figure 4).

NOTE: If handle feels unsecure with the adjustment levers closed, tighten adjustment handle nuts until the handle feels secure.

5. Remove the cardboard from recoil start handle and feed the recoil rope through the rope guide.

6. Snap two rotator cables and one wiring harness into the three cable clips (Figure 5).

1

2 3

4

1.Handle

2.Recoil handle

3.Rope guide

4.Adjustment lever nut

Figure 4

Figure 2

1.Cable ties

2.Adjustment lever

3.Lift operator handle up to the desired height, and close adjustment lever ensuring the positioning pin on the lower handle engages one of the three holes on the upper handle (Figure 3).

2

1

Figure 3

1.Positioning pin

2.Upper handle adjustment hole

1

2

3

Figure 5

1.Rotator cable

2.Wiring harness

3.Cable clip

5

ASSEMBLY

Installing the Discharge Chute

1.Install the chute deflector to the discharge chute using two screws, washers, and deflector knob (Figure 6).

2.Install the discharge chute to the chute base using three screws and nuts.

		1
2			5
		4
	4		6
5

3

2	2

3

		Figure 6
1. Chute deflector		4.	Washer
2.	Carriage bolts	5.	Knob
3.	Flange nuts	6.	Discharge chute

IMPORTANT: Do not overtighten the flange nuts; otherwise you may damage the discharge chute.

Filling the Engine with Oil

ENGINE

See engine manual.

LUBRICATION

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid

possible engine damage from running low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at least once a year if the snow thrower is not used for 25 hours in one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Tighten oil fill cap / dipstick securely each time you check the oil level.

1.Move the snowthrower to a level surface.

2.Clean around the dipstick (Figure 7).

NOTE: Dipstick location may vary depending on engine type.

3.Remove either side mounted filler cap dipstick or high oil fill dipstick and wipe it clean.

1

Fill if oil is below “Add” on the

GLSVWLFN

Fill if oil is

below letter

“L” on the

¿OOHU FDS

Figure 7

1.Oil filler cap/dipstick

4.Insert the dipstick into the filler neck and turn clockwise until fully seated. Then remove the dipstick by turning it counter-clockwise.

5.Fill oil to "FULL" on dipstick with the recommended oil.

6.Securely screw in the oil filler cap/dipstick.

6

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Product Overview

10		2
	1				12
				16	11
		3	17
9	4
					13
8
					*7
*7
6
					14
	5			15
		Figure 8
	1.	Discharge chute	9.	Ignition key
	2.	Chute deflector	10.	Chute rotator handle
	3.	Fuel tank cap	11.	Recoil start handle
	4.	Primer	12.	Control bar
	5.	Electric-start button	13.	Lights
		(if equipped)	14.	Drive side cover
	6.	Oil drain plug
			15.	Auger blade
	7.	Oil fill cap/dipstick
			16.	Deflector knob
	8.	Choke lever
			17.	Owner's Manual

* Dipstick location may vary depending on engine type.

7

OPERATION

Operation

NOTE: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

•Gasoline is extremely flammable and explosive. A fire or explosion from gasoline can burn you and others.

•To prevent a static charge from igniting the gasoline, place the container and/or snowthrower on the ground before filling, not in a vehicle or on an object.

•Fill the tank outdoors when the engine is cold. Wipe up spills.

•Do not handle gasoline when smoking or around an open flame or sparks.

•Store gasoline in an approved fuel container, out of the reach of children.

•Do not tip the snowthrower with fuel in the fuel tank.

The operation of any snow thrower can result

in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your snow thrower or performing any adjust-

ments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

IMPORTANT: Know how to operate all controls before adding fuel or attempting to start the engine.

Filling the Fuel Tank

Fill the fuel tank with fresh, unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 AKI octane rating) (Figure 8).

Figure 8

IMPORTANT: Do not add oil to the gasoline.

IMPORTANT: Do not use E85 blended fuels. This engine is not E20/E30/E85 compatible. Alternative fuels with high alcohol content can cause hard starting, poor engine performance, and may cause internal engine damage.

NOTE: For best results, purchase only the quantity of gasoline that you expect to use in 30 days. Otherwise, you may add fuel stabilizer to newly purchased gasoline to keep it fresh for up to 6 months.

Checking the Engine Oil Level

1.Move the snowthrower to a level surface.

2.Clean around the dipstick (Figure 9).

NOTE: Dipstick location may vary depending on engine type.

3.Remove either side mounted filler cap dipstick or high oil fill dipstick and wipe it clean.

1

Fill if oil is below “Add” on the

GLSVWLFN

Fill if oil is

below letter

“L” on the

¿OOHU FDS

Figure 9

1.Oil filler cap/dipstick

4.Insert the dipstick into the filler neck and turn clockwise until fully seated. Then remove the dipstick by turning it counter-clockwise.

5.Fill oil to "FULL" on dipstick with the recommended oil.

6.Securely screw in the oil filler cap/dipstick.

NOTE: Running the engine with a low oil level can cause enginedamage.Alwayschecktheengineoilbeforestartup.

NOTE: Running the engine with too much oil may cause engine damage and excess smoke in the exhaust. Always check the engine oil level before start up.

8

OPERATION

Starting the Engine

1.Push key in (Figure 10).

2.Move choke lever to left position.

3.Firmly push in the primer 2 times with your thumb, holding the primer in a for a second before releasing it each time.

NOTE: Remove your glove when you push in the primer so that air cannot escape from the primer hole.

IMPORTANT: It may not be necessary to use the primer or the choke if the engine has been running and is hot. Excessive priming may flood the engine and prevent it

from starting.

3

1

2

Figure 10

1. Key

2.Choke lever

3.Primer

4.Pull the recoil starter (Figure 11) or if your snow thrower is equipped with an electric starter, connect an extension cord to the snow thrower and plug the other end into a three-hole grounded 110 volt A.C. receptacle and push the electric-start button (Figure 12).

1

Figure 11

1. Recoil start handle

1

Figure 12

1. Electric start button

NOTE: Use an extension cord recommended for outdoor use that is not longer than 50 feet (15 m).

The electrical cord can become damaged, causing a shock or fire.

Thoroughly inspect the electrical cord before plugging it into a power source. If the cord is damaged, do not use it to start the snowthrower. Replace or repair the damaged cord immediately. Contact an Authorized Service Dealer for assistance.

IMPORTANT: Run the electric starter no more than 10 times at intervals of 5 seconds on, then 5 seconds off. Running the electric starter extensively can overheat and damage it. If the engine does not start after this series of attempts, wait at least 40 minutes to allow the starter to cool before attempting to start it again. If the engine does not start after the second series of attempts, take the snowthrower to an Authorized Service Dealer for service.

NOTE: If you pull the recoil handle and feel no resistance, the starter may be frozen. Thaw out the starter before

attempting to start the snowthrower.

5.While the engine is running, move the choke lever slowly to the right position.

6.Unplug the extension cord from the power source and the snowthrower (Figure 12).

Unplug the power cord whenever you are not starting the snowthrower.

9

OPERATION
Engaging the Auger Blades
1. To engage the auger blades, hold the control bar against
the handle (Figure 13).	1
1

2
	Figure 15
1. Rub Area	2. Wear Areas

Figure 13

1. Control bar

Disengaging the Auger Blades

1.To disengage the auger blades, release the control bar (Figure 14).

1

Figure 14

1. Control bar

IMPORTANT: During initial operation there may be wear between the auger blades and the scraper bar. Maximum performance, both snow throwing and driving, occurs when there is zero clearance between these two parts

(Figure 15).

During initial break-in period of the auger blades it is normal for the auger blades to build up excessive heat if not operated in the snow.

Do not operate without snow or water for lubricating the auger blades. This will cause excessive heat build up in the auger blades which could cause damage to the auger blades and scraper bar.

Stopping the Engine

1. To stop the engine, pull key out (Figure 16). 1

1. Key

Figure 16

Adjusting the Discharge

Chute and Chute Deflector

1.To adjust the discharge chute, rotate chute handle left or right to desired position (Figure 17).

1

1. Chute rotator handle

Figure 17

10

OPERATION

2.To raise or lower the angle of the chute deflector, loosen both chute deflector knobs on the chute deflector and move the chute deflector up or down to desired position and retighten knobs (Figure 18).

1

2

2

1.Chute deflector

2.Chute deflector knobs

Figure 18

Clearing a Clogged Discharge

Chute

Hand contact with the rotating auger blades inside the discharge chute is the most common cause of injury associated with snow throwers. Never use your hand to clean out the discharge chute.

To clear the chute:

1.SHUT THE ENGINE OFF!

2.Wait 10 seconds to be sure the auger blades have stopped rotating.

3.Always use a clearing tool at least 15 inches long, not your hands (Figure 19).

Figure 19

Preventing Freeze-up After Use

•Let the engine run for a few minutes to prevent moving parts from freezing. Stop the engine, wait for all moving parts to stop, and remove ice and snow from the snowthrower.

•Clean off any snow and ice from the base of the chute.

•Rotate the discharge chute left and right to free it from any ice buildup.

•With the ignition key in the Off position, pull the recoil starter handle several times or connect the electrical cord to a power source and the snowthrower and push the electric start button once to prevent the recoil starter and/or the electric starter from freezing up.

•In snowy and cold conditions, some controls and moving parts may freeze. Do not use excessive force when trying to operate frozen controls. If you have difficulty operating any control or part, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.

Operating Tips

The auger blades can throw stones, toys, and other foreign objects and cause serious personal injury to the operator or to bystanders.

•Keep the area to be cleared free of all objects that the auger blades could pick up and throw.

•Keep all children and pets away from the area of operation.

•Do not operate snow thrower if weather conditions impair visibility. Throwing snow during a heavy, windy snowstorm can blind you and be hazardous to the safe operation of the snow thrower.

•The best time to remove snow is the early morning. At this time the snow is usually dry and has not been exposed to the direct sun and warming temperatures.

•Slightly overlap each successive path to ensure all snow will be removed.

•Throw snow downwind whenever possible.

•For extremely heavy snow, reduce the width of snow removal by overlapping previous path and moving slowly.

•Keep engine clean and clear of snow during use. This will help air flow and extend engine life.

•After snow-throwing is completed, allow engine to run for a few minutes to melt snow and ice off the engine.

•Clean the entire snow thrower thoroughly after each use and wipe dry so it is ready for next use.

•Spraying off unit with a hose is NOT recommended.

11

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance

NOTE: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

Check for Loose Fasteners

Clean / Inspect Snow Thrower

Clean / Replace V-Belts

Check / Replace Auger Blades and Scraper Bar

Check Fuel Lines and Electrical Wires

Check Engine Oil Level

Change Engine Oil

Inspect Muffler

Check / Replace Spark Plug

Empty Fuel Tank

Adjusting the Control Cable	NOTE: You may need to adjust the control cable from
	position 1 (default) to position 2 if you notice belt slip
	when the control bar is engaged.

CHECKING THE CONTROL CABLE

1.Release the control bar to remove the slack in the control cable (Figure 20).

NOTE: If the control cable is adjusted to position 2, ensure that the auger stops properly when the control bar is released

ADJUSTING THE CONTROL CABLE

1. With the control bar disengaged, unhook and move the control cable to the highest position. (Figure 21).

1

1	2	Position 2

3

Figure 20

1. Control bar

IMPORTANT: The control cable must contain some slack when you disengage the control bar for the auger blades to stop properly.

Position 1: Default position

(Lower Hole as shown in illustration)

Figure 21

1.Control bar

2.Adjuster link

3.Cable positions

12