MTD 769-04095 User Manual

Safety • Set-Up • Operation • Adjustments • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

Two-Stage Snow Thrower

IMPORTANT:

READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT.

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

MTD Products Ltd., P. O. Box 1386, KITCHENER, ONTARIO N2G 4J1

769-04095

06/10/08

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new snow thrower. It will help you assemble,

prepare and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.

Table of Contents

Safety Symbols ................................................... 3

Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4

Setting Up Your Snow Thrower .......................... 6

Operating Your Snow Thrower ......................... 10

MakingAdjustments ......................................... 14

Finding and Recording Model Number

BEFORE YOU START ASSEMBLING YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT, please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the the model number and the serial number to the sample model plate provided to the right. You can locate the model plate by standing at the operating position and looking down at the frame.

Maintaining Your Snow Thrower ...................... 16

Off-Season Storage .......................................... 20

Trouble Shooting .............................................. 21

Warranty ............................................................ 22

Illustrated Parts Lists ....................................... 24

Customer Support

Please do

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

1. Visit www.yardman.ca for many useful suggestions, click on Customer Support button.

2. Call a Customer Support Representative at 1-800-668-1238

3. The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your unit, for more information.

Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial number in order to process your call.

NOT

return the unit to the retailer from which it was purchased,

without rst contacting Customer Support.

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

Symbol Description

READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S) Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate.

WARNING— ROTATING BLADES Keep hands out of inlet and discharge openings while machine is running. There are rotating blades inside.

WARNING— ROTATING AUGER Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts, in the auger/impeller housing or chute assembly. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.

WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.

WARNING—GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.

WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

WARNING— ELECTRICAL SHOCK Do not use the engine’s electric starter in the rain.

Safety

Symbols

WARNING

This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol, HEED

ITS WARNING!

Your Responsibility

Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

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

Safe

Operation

Practices

WARNING

ITS WARNING!

Your Responsibility

Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

HEED

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

Training

1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an adult.

4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper instruction.

5. Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury. Plan your snow-throwing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, bystanders and the like.

6. Keep bystanders, helpers, pets and children at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

7. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling, especially when operating in reverse.

Preparation

Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used. Remove all doormats, newspapers, sleds, boards, wires and other foreign objects, which could be tripped over or thrown by the auger/impeller.

1. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes.

2. Do not operate without wearing adequate winter outer garments. Do not wear jewelry, long scarves or other loose clothing, which could become entangled in moving parts. Wear footwear which will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

3. Use a grounded three-wire extension cord and receptacle for all units with electric start engines.

4. Adjust collector housing height to clear gravel or crushed rock surfaces.

5. Disengage all control levers before starting the engine.

6. Never attempt to make any adjustments while engine is running, except where specifically recommended in the operator’s manual.

7. Let engine and machine adjust to outdoor temperature before starting to clear snow.

Safe Handling of Gasoline

To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes, which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

a. Use only an approved gasoline container. b. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources

of ignition. c. Never fuel machine indoors. d. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot

or running. e. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refuel-

ing. f. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch

below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel

expansion. g. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely. h. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equip-

ment. Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes

before starting the engine. i. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where

there is an open flame, spark or pilot light (e.g. furnace,

water heater, space heater, clothes dryer etc.). j. Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing k. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or

trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on

the ground away from your vehicle before filling. l. If possible, 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. m. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or

container opening at all times until fueling is complete.

Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

Operation

1. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts, in the auger/ impeller housing or chute assembly. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.

2. The auger/impeller control lever is a safety device. Never bypass its operation. Doing so makes the machine unsafe and may cause personal injury.

3. The control levers must operate easily in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged position when released.

4. Never operate with a missing or damaged chute assembly. Keep all safety devices in place and working.

5. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

6. Do not operate machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

7. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.

8. Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel surfaces. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.

9. Exercise caution when changing direction and while operating on slopes.

10. Plan your snow-throwing pattern to avoid discharge towards windows, walls, cars etc. Thus, avoiding possible property damage or personal injury caused by a ricochet.

11. Never direct discharge at children, bystanders and pets or allow anyone in front of the machine.

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

13. Never operate this machine without good visibility or light. Always be sure of your footing and keep a firm hold on the handles. Walk, never run.

14. Disengage power to the auger/impeller when transporting or not in use.

15. Never operate machine at high transport speeds on slippery surfaces. Look down and behind and use care when backing up.

16. If the machine should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine. Inspect thoroughly for damage. Repair any damage before starting and operating.

17. Disengage all control levers and stop engine before you leave the operating position (behind the handles). Wait until the auger/impeller comes to a complete stop before unclogging the chute assembly, making any adjustments, or inspections.

18. Never put your hand in the discharge or collector openings. Always use the clean-out tool provided to unclog the discharge opening. Do not unclog chute assembly while engine is running. Shut off engine and remain behind handles until all moving parts have stopped before unclogging.

19. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer (e.g. wheel weights, tire chains, cabs etc.).

20. When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains could result.

21. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgment. Call customer assistance for the name of your nearest servicing dealer.

Maintenance & Storage

1. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Refer to the maintenance and adjustment sections of this manual.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting machine disengage all control levers and stop the engine. Wait until the auger/ impeller come to a complete stop. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.

3. Check bolts and screws for proper tightness at frequent intervals to keep the machine in safe working condition. Also, visually inspect machine for any damage.

4. Do not change the engine governor setting or over-speed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.

5. Snow thrower shave plates and skid shoes are subject to wear and damage. For your safety protection, frequently check all components and replace with original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) parts only. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!”

6. Check controls periodically to verify they engage and disengage properly and adjust, if necessary. Refer to the adjustment section in this operator’s manual for instructions.

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

8. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.

9. Prior to storing, run machine a few minutes to clear snow from machine and prevent freeze up of auger/impeller.

10. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer etc.

11. Always refer to the operator’s manual for proper instructions on off-season storage.

12. Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.

13. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.

Do not modify engine

To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper with factory setting of engine governor.

Notice regarding Emissions

Engines which are certiﬁed to comply with California and federal EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certiﬁed to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control systems: Engine Modiﬁcation (EM) Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

Average Useful Life

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years, or 60 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful Life, have the machine inspected annually by an authorized service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety systems are working properly and not worn excessively. Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

05.08.08

Safe

Operation

Practices

WARNING

This symbol points out important safety instructions, which if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol, HEED IT’S WARNING!

Your Responsibility

Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

Setting Up

Your Snow

Thrower

NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Snowthrower featrues vary by model. Not all features referenced in this manual are applicable to all snowthrower models.

Figure 3-1

IMPORTANT: The snow thrower is shipped with oil and WITHOUT GASOLINE. After assembly, refer to separate engine manual for proper fuel and engine oil recommendations.

Loose Parts

• Theaugersaresecuredtotheaugershaftwithshear

pins and bow tie cotter pins. If you hit a foreign object or ice jam, the snow thrower is designed so that the pins may shear. Replacement shear pins and cotter pins are provided for your convenience. Store these

safely until needed.

Items Required For Assembly

Pair of pliers 7/16” Wrenches or adjustables Fresh gasoline

Assembling Handle

• Look at the lower rear of the snow thrower frame to be sure the spring (found at the end of each cable) is attached to its actuator bracket.

• Removethelowerhandleknobs,washersand

carriage bolts from each side of the upper handle. See Figure 3-2.

• Raise the upper handle assembly until it locks over the lower handle. See Figure 3-1.

• Secure the upper handle and lower handle with the handle knobs and carriage bolts previously removed.

• Tighten the handle knobs already in place on the upper holes and secure the handles firmly.

NOTE: References to right or left side of the snow thrower are determined from behind the unit in the operating position.

NOTE: Replacement auger shear pins and cotter pins are provided for your convenience. Store these safely until needed.

Figure 3-2

Figure 3-3

Attaching Chute Crank

• Removetheflatwasherandhairpinclipfromtheend

of the chute directional control. See Figure 3-3.

• Inserttheendofthechutedirectionalcontrolinto

the lower bracket and secure with the flat washer and hairpin clip just removed. If necessary, the lower bracket can be adjusted. Refer to Chute Bracket Adjustment, in the Adjustment Section of this manual.

Attaching the Chute Assembly

• Removelocknutsandscrewssecuringoneofthe

flange keepers to the chute assembly. See Figure 3-4.

• Loosenbutdonotremovethelocknutsandscrewson

the other two flange keepers.

Alternator Lead

Lamp Wire

Alternator Lead

NOTE:

Wheels are omitted from illustration for clarity.

Setting Up

Your Snow

Thrower

Figure 3-4

• Slide chute assembly over chute opening, making sure the flange keepers are beneath lip of chute adapter. The notches should engage with the spiral end of the chute crank. See Figure 3-5.

• Secureflangekeeper,locknutsandscrewspreviously

removed. Tighten all flange keepers and hardware with two 7/16” wrenches. Do not over tighten.

NOTE: If necessary the chute crank support bracket can be adjusted so the spiral on the chute crank fully engages the teeth on the chute assembly. Refer to the Adjustment Section.

• Ifnotalreadyattached,slipthecablesthatrunfrom

the handle panel to the discharge chute into the cable guide located on top of the engine. See Figure 3-6.

• Wrapthewirefromtheheadlampdowntheright

handle until the wire can be plugged into the alternator lead wire under the fuel tank. See Figure 3-7.

Figure 3-5

WARNING

Prior to operating your snow thrower, refer to Auger Control on page 9. Read and follow all instructions carefully and perform all adjustments to verify your unit is operating safely and properly.

Figure 3-6

Figure 3-7

Setting Up

Your Snow

Thrower

WARNING

Never use your hands to clean snow and ice from the chute assembly or auger housing.

IMPORTANT

Under any circumstance do not exceed manufacturer’s recommended psi. Equal tire pressure should be maintained at all times. Excessive pressure when seating beads may cause tire/rim assembly to burst with force sufficient to cause serious injury. Refer to sidewall of tire for recommended pressure.

Drive

Figure 3-8

Figure 3-9

Figure 3-10

Clean-Out

Tool

Auger

Drift Cutters (If Equipped)

Drift cutters should be used when operating the snow thrower in heavy drift conditions.

• Onmodelssoequipped,driftcuttersandhardware

are assembled to the auger housing inverted.

• Removethecarriageboltsandwingnutssecuringthe

drift cutters to the housing.

• Repositiondriftcutterssotheyfaceforwardasshown

in Figure 3-8. Secure with hardware previously removed, wingnuts should be fastened on the outside of the housing as shown.

If your unit is not equipped with drift cutters, you may contact Customer Support as instructed on page 2 for information regarding price and availability.

Snowthrower Model Drift Cutter Kit:

All models OEM-390-679

Clean-Out Tool

The clean-out tool is mounted to the rear of the auger housing and is designed to clear a clogged chute. See Figure 3-9. Refer to the Operation section for more detailed information regarding the chute clean-out tool.

NOTE: This item is fastened with a cable tie to the rear of the auger housing at the factory. Cut the cable tie before operating the snow thrower.

WARNING: Never use your hands to clean snow and ice from the chute assembly or auger housing.

Final Adjustments

Make these final adjustments before operating your snow thrower for the first time. Failure to follow these instructions may cause damage to the snow thrower.

Wheel Drive Control & Shift Lever

Perform the following test to determine need for adjustment:

• Movetheshiftleverintosixth(6)position.SeeFigure

4-1.

• Withthedrivecontrolreleased(seeFigure3-10A),

push the snow thrower forward, then pull it back. The machine should move freely.

• Engagethedrivecontrolandattempttomovethe

machine both forward and back, resistance should be felt.

• Movetheshiftleverintothefastreverse(R2)position

and repeat the previous two steps.

If you experienced resistance rolling the unit, either when repositioning the shift lever from 6 to R2 or when attempting to move the machine with the drive control released, adjust the drive control immediately. To adjust, proceed as follows:

• Loosenthenylocknutonthedrivecontrolcableand

unthread the cable one full turn. See Figure 3-12.

• Recheckadjustment.

• Retightenthenylocknuttosecurethecablewhen

correct adjustment is reached.

NOTE: For more details, refer to Drive Control Adjust- ment in the Adjustment Section of this manual.

Auger Control

Check the adjustment of the auger control as follows:

• Whentheaugercontrolisreleasedandinthe

disengaged “up” position (see Figure 3-10B), the cable should have very little slack, but should NOT be tight. See Figure 3-11.

WARNING:Do not over-tighten the cable. Over-tightening may prevent the auger from disengaging and compromise the safety of the snow thrower.

• Inawell-ventilatedarea,startthesnowthrowerengine

as instructed on page 12.

• Whilestandingintheoperator’sposition(behindthe

snow thrower) engage the auger.

• Allowtheaugertoremainengagedforapproximately

ten seconds before releasing the auger control. Repeat this several times.

• Withtheenginerunninginthefastpositionandthe

auger control lever in the disengaged “up” position, walk to the front of the machine.

• Confirmthattheaugerhascompletelystopped

rotating and shows no signs of motion.

IMPORTANT: If the auger shows any signs of rotating, immediately return to the operator’s position and shut off the engine. Wait for all moving parts to stop before readjusting the auger control cable.

• Toreadjustthecontrolcable,unhookthespring(found

on the end of the auger cable) from the auger actuator bracket. See Figure 3-11.

• Pushthecablecouplerthroughtheendofthespring

to expose the lock nut. See Figure 3-12.

• Threadthenylocknutoutward(downthecoupler)

three full turns to provide more slack in the cable and reattach the spring to the bracket.

• Repeataugercontroltesttoverifyforproper

adjustment. Repeat previous steps to adjust more, if necessary.

A - For models with steel panels. B - For models with plastic panels.

Figure 3-11

Figure 3-12

Skid Shoes

Position the skid shoes based on surface conditions. Adjust upward for hard-packed snow. Adjust downward when operating on gravel or crushed rock surfaces. See “Making Adjustment” Section.

Tire Pressure (Pneumatic Tires)

The tires are over-inflated for shipping purposes. Check the tire pressure before operating the snow thrower. Refer to the tire side wall for tire manufacturer’s recommended psi and deflate (or inflate) the tires as necessary.

Setting Up

Your Snow

Thrower

WARNING

Never use your hands to clean snow and ice from the chute assembly or auger housing.

IMPORTANT If the tire pressure is not equal in both tires, the unit may not travel in a straight path and the shave plate may wear unevenly.

Headlight

Chute Assembly

Clean-Out Tool

Drive Control

Shift Lever

Two-Way Chute Control

Heated Handle Switch

(en option)†

Auger Control

Wheel Steering Control

Chute Directional Control

Skid Shoe

Engine Controls

Recoil Starter

Handle

Choke

Control

Electric Starter

Outlet

(optional)

Electric Start

Button

(optional)

Primer

Safety

Key

Rocker Switch

Oil Fill

Gas Cap

† If Equipped

Operating

Your Snow

Thrower

WARNING

Read, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating.

Know Your Snow Thrower

Figure 4-1

Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

Now that you have set up your snow thrower for operation, get acquainted with its controls and features. These are described below and illustrated on this page. This knowledge will allow you to use your new equipment to its fullest potential.

NOTE: For detailed starting instructions and more information on all engine controls, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit.

Shift Lever

The shift lever is located in the center of the handle panel and is used to determine ground speed and direction of travel. It can be moved into any of eight positions.

IMPORTANT: Always release drive control before changing speeds.

Forward: The snow thrower has six forward (F) speeds. Position one (1) is the slowest and position six (6) is the fastest.

Reverse: The snow thrower has two reverse (R) speeds—R1 is the slower of the two.

Choke Control

The choke control is found on the top of the engine and is activated by rotating the knob counter clockwise. Activating the choke control closes the choke plate on the carburetor and aids in starting the engine.

Primer

Depressing the primer forces fuel directly into the engine’s carburetor to aid in cold-weather starting.

Oil Fill

Engine oil level can be checked and oil added through the oil fill.

Safety Key

The safety key must be pushed in place in order for the engine to start. Pull the safety key out to prevent unauthorized use of equipment.

Rocker Switch

The rocker switch is used to stop the engine. The switch must be in the “ON” position in order to start the engine.

Auger Control

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The auger control is located on the left handle. Squeeze the auger control to engage the augers. Release to stop the snow throwing action. The drive control must also be released in order to stop auger.

Drive Control / Auger Control Lock

The drive control is located on the right handle. Squeeze the drive control to engage the wheel drive. Release to stop. This same lever also locks the auger control so you can operate the chute crank without interrupting the snow throwing process. If the auger control is engaged simultaneously with the drive control, the operator can release the auger control (on the left handle) and the augers will remain engaged. Release the drive control to stop the augers and wheel drive (the auger control must also be released).

IMPORTANT: NEVER reposition the shift lever (change speeds or direction of travel) without first releasing the drive control and bringing the snow thrower to a complete stop. Doing so will result in premature wear to the snow thrower’s drive system.

Heated Handles Switch (If Equipped)

This switch is located on the right side of the snow thrower dash panel. To activate the heated handles, toggle the switch to the “ON” position to generate heat within the handle grips. Toggle the switch to the “OFF” position after using the snow thrower.

NOTE: The heated handles grips are a compliment to, not a substitute for, proper cold weather outerwear for the operator’s hands. It is recommended that the snow thrower operator wear gloves/mittens to avoid extremities of winter while operating this equipment.

Two-Way Chute Control™)

This two-way control lever is meant to control the distance of snow discharge from the chute. Tilt the lever forward or rearward to adjust the distance snow will be thrown.

Chute Directional Control

The chute directional control is located on left side of the snow thrower. To change the direction in which snow is thrown, turn chute directional control as follows:

• Crankclockwisetodischargeto

the left.

• Crankcounterclockwisetodischargetotheright.

Wheel Steering Controls

The left and right wheel steering controls are located on the underside of the handles. Squeeze the right control to turn right; squeeze the left control to turn left.

NOTE: Operate the snow thrower in open areas until you are familiar with these controls.

Chute Clean-Out Tool

WARNING: Never use your hands to clear a clogged chute assembly. Shut off engine and remain behind handles until all moving parts have stopped before unclogging.

The clean-out tool is conveniently fastened to the rear of the auger housing with a mounting clip.

1. Release both the auger control and the drive/auger control lock.

2. Stop the engine by pushing the rocker switch to the “OFF” position, pull out the safety key.

3. Remove the clean-out tool from the mounting clip.

4. Use the shovel-shaped end of the clean-out tool to remove any snow and ice in the chute assembly.

5. Re-fasten the clean-out tool to the mounting clip on the rear of the auger housing and restart engine.

6. While standing in the operator’s position (behind the snow thrower), engage the auger control for a few seconds to clear any remaining snow or ice from the chute assembly before continuing to clear snow.

Skid Shoes

Position the skid shoes based on surface conditions. Adjust upward for hard-packed snow. Adjust downward when operating on gravel or crushed rock surfaces. See “Making Adjustment” Section.

Headlight

The headlight is on whenever the engine is running.

CL OCK WIS E TO DISCHARGE LEF T

COUNTER CLOCKWISE

TO DISCHARGE RIGH

Operating

Your Snow

Thrower

WARNING

The operation of any snow thrower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses while operating the snow thrower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the snow thrower while starting engine or operating snow thrower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and snow thrower.

Operating

Your Snow

Thrower

WARNING

Read, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating.

Gas & Oil Fill-Up

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Read instructions carefully.

Starting The Engine

1. Make certain both the auger control and drive control are in the disengaged (released) position.

2. Open fuel shut-off valve (If equipped) and make sure the Rocker switch is in the On position (if equipped).

3. Push in the safety key.

4. Rotate choke control to FULL choke position (for a cold engine start).

NOTE: If the engine is already warm, place choke control in the OFF position instead of FULL.

5. Push the primer two times if temperature is above 15oF (-9oC), four times if temperature is below 15oF (-9oC) for cold engine start, making sure to cover vent hole in the center of the primer when pushing.

NOTE: DO NOT use primer to restart a warm engine after a short shutdown.

Electric Starter (If Equipped)

1. Determine that your home’s wiring is a three-wire grounded system. Ask a licensed electrician if you are not certain.

WARNING: The optional electric starter is equipped with a grounded three-wire power cord and plug, and is designed to operate on 120 volt AC household current. It must be used with a properly grounded three-prong receptacle at all times to avoid the possibility of electric shock. Follow all instructions carefully prior to operating the electric starter.

If you have a grounded three-prong receptacle, proceed as follows:

1. Plug the extension cord into the outlet located on the engine’s surface. Plug the other end of extension cord into a three-prong 120-volt, grounded, AC outlet in a well-ventilated area.

2. Push starter button to start engine.

3. Once the engine starts, immediately release starter button.

4. As the engine warms, slowly rotate the choke control to the OFF position quickly rotate the choke control back to FULL and then slowly into the OFF position again.

5. When disconnecting the extension cord, always unplug the end at the three-prong wall outlet before unplugging the opposite end from the snow thrower.

. If the engine falters,

Recoil Starter

1. Grasp the recoil starter handle and slowly pull the rope out. At the point where it becomes slightly harder to pull the rope, slowly allow the rope to recoil.

2. Pull the starter handle with a firm, rapid stroke. Do not release the handle and allow it to snap back. Keep a firm hold on the starter handle and allow it to slowly recoil.

3. As the engine warms, slowly rotate the choke control to the OFF position. If the engine falters, quickly rotate the choke control back to the FULL position and then slowly into the OFF position again.

NOTE: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes after starting. The engine will not develop full power until it reaches operating temperatures.

Stopping The Engine

Run engine for a few minutes before stopping to help dry off any moisture on the engine.

• Pushtherockerswitchtothe“OFF”position.

• Pulloutthesafetykey.

• Closefuelshut-offvalve(Ifequipped).

• Wipeallsnowandmoisturefromtheareaaroundthe

engine as well as the area in and around the drive control and auger control. Also, engage and release both controls several times.

To Engage Drive

1. With the engine running near top speed, move shift lever to one of six FORWARD positions or two REVERSE positions. Select a speed appropriate for the snow conditions that exist.

2. Squeeze drive control against the right handle and the snow thrower will move. Release it and the drive motion will stop.

To Engage Augers

1. To engage augers and start snow throwing, squeeze the left hand auger control against the left handle. Release to stop augers.

2. While the auger control is engaged, squeeze the drive control to move, release to stop. Do not shift speeds while the drive is engaged.

NOTE: The drive control lever also locks auger control so you can turn the chute control without interrupting the snow throwing process.

3. Release the auger control; the interlock mechanism should keep the auger control engaged until the drive control is released.

4. Release the drive control to stop both the augers and the wheel drive. To stop the auger, both levers must be released.

Operating Tips

NOTE: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes. The engine will not develop full power until it reaches operating temperature.

WARNING: The temperature of the muffler and the surrounding areas may exceed 150° F (65° C). Avoid these areas.

1. If possible, remove snow immediately after it falls.

2. Discharge snow downwind whenever possible.

3. Slightly overlap each previous path.

4. Set the skid shoes 1/4” below the shave plate for normal usage. Adjust them upward for hard-packed snow and downward when using on gravel or crushed rock.

General Recommendations

1. Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

2. The warranty on this snow thrower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain the snow thrower as instructed here.

3. Some adjustments will have to be made periodically to maintain your unit properly.

4. Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.

Operating

Your Snow

Thrower

WARNING

The muffler, engine and surrounding areas become hot and can cause a burn 150°F (65°C). Do not touch.

NOTE: Use slower speeds in higher snow and/or until you are familiar with the snow thrower opera-

IMPORTANT

NEVER move the shift lever without first releasing the wheel drive control. Doing so will cause premature wear on the drive system’s friction wheel.

Making

Adjustments

Figure 5-1

WARNING

Read, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating.

Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine is running, except where specified in operator’s manual.

Shift Rod

If the full range of speeds (forward and reverse) cannot be achieved, refer to Figure 5-1 and adjust the shift rod as follows:

1. Looking underneath the handle panel, note which of the three holes in the shift lever the ferrule is inserted into. Also note the direction of insertion. Then remove the internal cotter pin and flat washer from the ferrule and withdraw the ferrule from the shift lever. See Figure 5-1.

2. Place shift lever in sixth (6) position or fastest forward speed.

3. Push shift rod and shift arm assembly down sharply, as far as it will go to put the drive into the fastest forward position.

4. As necessary, rotate the ferrule up or down the shift rod until the ferrule lines up with the hole from which it was earlier removed. See Figure 5-1.

5. From the direction noted earlier, insert the ferrule into the proper hole.

6. Reinstall the washer and the internal cotter pin.

Drive Control

WARNING: Run the engine completely dry of gasoline before tipping snowthrower.

Refer to the Final Adjustment section of the Set-Up instructions to adjust the drive control. To further check the adjustment, proceed as follows:

1. Tip the snow thrower forward, allowing it to rest on the auger housing.

2. Remove the frame cover underneath the snow thrower by removing the self-tapping screws. See Figure 5-2.

Figure 5-2

Friction

Wheel

Drive Plate

Figure 5-3

3. With the wheel drive control released, check if there is clearance between friction wheel and drive plate in all positions of the shift lever. See Figure 5-3.

4. With the drive control lever engaged, check if the friction wheel solidly contacts the drive plate. See Figure 5-3. If not, adjust as follows:

a. Loosen the jam nut on the drive cable and thread

the cable in or out as necessary.

b. Retighten the jam nut to secure the cable when

correct adjustment is reached.

5. Reassemble the frame cover.

Axle Supp.

Brkt.

Opening

Skid Shoes

The space between the shave plate and the ground can be adjusted by raising or lowering the skid shoes. For close snow removal, as when using on a smooth concrete or asphalt driveway, place the skid shoes in the low position. Use the middle or high position when the area to be cleared is uneven. When operating on gravel, always put skid shoes in the high position. See Figure 5-4.

Adjust skid shoes as follows:

1. Loosen, but do not remove, the hex flange locknuts which fasten the skid shoe to the auger housing.

2. Raise or lower the skid shoe to desired position.

3. Retighten the hex nuts loosened earlier.

NOTE: Make certain the bottom surface of skid shoe is flat against the ground to avoid uneven wear.

4. Repeat on the other side of the snow thrower.

Auger Control

Refer to instructions on page 9 to adjust the auger control. Make certain to check for correct adjustment as instructed before operating the snow thrower.

Chute Assembly

The distance snow is thrown can be adjusted by adjusting the angle of the chute assembly. Refer to page 9 for instructions. The remote chute control cables have been pre-adjusted at the factory. Move the remote chute lever on the control panel back and forward to adjust angle of the chute assembly.

Chute Bracket Adjustment

If the spiral at the bottom of the chute directional control is not fully engaging with the chute assembly, the chute bracket can be adjusted. To do so:

1. Loosen the two nuts which secure the chute bracket and reposition it slightly. See Figure 5-5.

2. Retighten the nuts.

Figure 5-4

Figure 5-5

Making

Adjustments

IMPORTANT: It is not recommended that you operate this snow thrower on gravel as loose gravel can be easily picked up and thrown by the auger causing personal injury or damage to the snow thrower.

If for some reason, you have to operate the snow thrower on gravel, keep the skid shoe in the highest position for maximum clearance between the ground and the shave plate.

Shear Pin

Vent Plug

Grease

Fitting (optional)

Bearing

SpacersCotter Pin

Auger Shaft

Maintaining

Your Snow

Thrower

WARNING

Before lubricating, repairing or inspecting, disengage all controls and stop engine. Wait until all moving parts have come to a complete stop. Remove the safety key to prevent unintended firing of the engine.

IMPORTANT

Avoid oil spillage on rubber friction wheel and aluminum drive plate.

Friction Wheel

Drive Plate

Figure 6-1

Figure 6-2

Engine

Refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit for all engine maintenance and lubrication instructions.

Figure 6-3

Gear (Hex) Shaft

Lubrication

Drive and Shifting Mechanism

At least once a season or after every 25 hours of operation, remove rear cover. Lubricate any chains, sprockets, gears, bearings, shafts, and the shifting mechanism at least once a season. Use engine oil or a spray lubricant. Refer to Figure 6-1.

IMPORTANT: Keep all grease and oil off the rubber friction wheel and drive plate.

Wheels

At least once a season, remove wheels. Clean and coat the axles with a multipurpose automotive grease before reinstalling wheels.

Auger Shaft

At least once a season, remove the shear pins on auger shaft. Spray lubricant inside shaft, around the spacers. Also lubricate the flange bearings found at either end of the shaft. See Figure 6-2.

Augers

• Theaugersaresecuredtothespiralshaftwithshear

pins and cotter pins. If the auger should strike a foreign object or ice jam, the snow thrower is designed so that the pins may shear. See Figure 6-2.

• Iftheaugerswillnotturn,checktoseeifthepinshave

sheared. Replacement shear pins have been provided with the snow thrower. When replacing pins, spray an oil lubricant into shaft before inserting new pins.

Shave Plate and Skid Shoes

The shave plate and skid shoes on the bottom of the snow thrower are subject to wear. They should be checked periodically and replaced when necessary. To remove skid shoes:

1. Remove the carriage bolts (and washers if equipped)and hex flange nuts which secure the skid shoes to the snow thrower.

2. Reassemble new skid shoes with previously removed hardware. Refer to Figure 6-3.

To remove shave plate:

1. Remove the carriage bolts and hex nuts which attach it and the skid shoes to the snow thrower housing.

2. Reassemble new shave plate, making sure heads of carriage bolts are to the inside of housing. Tighten securely.

Replacing Belts

To remove and replace either the auger belt or the drive belt, follow the steps below and then proceed to the specific steps listed under respective sub-headings.

1. Disconnect the chute crank assembly at the discharge chute end by removing the hairpin clip and the flat washer. See Figure 6-8.

2. Remove the plastic belt cover, located near the engine, by removing the three self-tapping screws that secure it. See Figure 6-4.

3. a. Loosen the bolt shown in Figure 6-5 securing the

belt keeper bracket and remove the other bolt.

b. Push the belt keeper and bracket up off the engine

pulley. See Figure 6-5.

Auger Belt

4. Remove the clip and flat washer from the ferrule in order to disconnect the auger idler rod from the brake bracket assembly. See Figure 6-6.

5. Slip the auger belt (the front belt) off the engine pulley.

6. Pull the brake bracket assembly towards the cable guide roller and unhook the auger cable “Z” fitting. See Figure 6-7.

7. From both sides of the the frame assembly, use a 1/2” wrench to remove the three hex tap screws securing the frame to the auger housing assembly. See Figure 6-8. NOTE: Do not remove the lower hex flange lock nut on each side.

Figure 6-6

Figure 6-7

Maintaining

Your Snow

Thrower

IMPORTANT

NEVER replace the auger shear pins with standard pins. Any damage to the auger gearbox or other components, as a result of doing so, will NOT be covered by your snow thrower’s warranty.

Loosen

Figure 6-4

Remove

Figure 6-8

Check the condition of both auger belt and drive belt every 25 hours of snow thrower operation. Replace if either shows signs of wear and tear.

Specifications are subject to change without notification or obligation. Images may not reflect your exact model and are for reference purposes only.

Figure 6-5

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