Poulan 961940008, 428707, 96194000801 User Manual

IMPORTANT MANUAL Do Not Throw Away

OWNER'S MANUAL

MODEL NUMBER:

961940008

SNOW THROWER

WARNING:

Read the Owner's Manual and fol low all Warnings and Safety In struc tions. Fail ure to do so can result in serious injury.

Always Wear Eye Protection During Operation

428707 10.21.09 SR

Printed in U.S.A.

IMPORTANT

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Snow Throwers

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 im por tant safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BE COME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFE TY IS IN VOLVED.

WARNING: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place it where it can not con tact plug in order to pre vent ac ci den tal start ing when setting up, trans port ing, ad just ing or making re pairs.

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, porch es 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. Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral before starting the engine (motor).

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 en-

gine.

fuel tank indoors.

(d) 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.

(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.

WARNING: Snow throwers have ex posed 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 con stit u ents, and certain vehicle com po nents contain or emit chem icals known to the State of Cal i for nia to cause can cer and birth defects or oth er re pro duc tive harm.

(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 im-

mediately.

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

6. Adjust the collector housing height to clear gravel or crushed rock surface.

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

8. 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.

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), remove the wire from the spark plug, 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.

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 collector/impeller housing or discharge chute, and when making any

repairs, adjustments or inspections.

6. When cleaning, repairing or inspecting the snow thrower, stop the engine and make certain the collector/impeller and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent someone from accidentally starting the engine.

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 collector/impeller when snow thrower is transported or not in use.

14. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer of the snow thrower (such as wheel weights, counterweights, or cabs).

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 impeller 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 impeller blades have stopped rotating.

3. Always use a clean-out tool, not your hands.

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.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new snow thrower. It has been designed, engineered and man u fac tured to give best possible dependability and per for mance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center. We have competent, well-trained tech ni cians 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 prop er ly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

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.

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

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity 0.5 Gallons (1,9 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: 20 Ounces (0,57 Liters)

Spark Plug: Champion RN9YC Gap: 0.030" (0,762 mm)

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 “Stor age” sec tions of this own er’s manual.

SAFETY RULES ........................................................ 2-3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................ 3

ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION ............................... 4-6

OPERATION ............................................................7-12

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................... 13

MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 13-14

SERVICE AND AD JUST MENTS ........................... 15-17

STORAGE ................................................................... 18

TROU BLE SHOOT ING ................................................ 19

REPAIR PARTS ..................................................... 38-55

WARRANTY ............................................ BACK COVER

PARTS PACKED SEPARATELY IN CARTON

(1) AUGER CONTROL ROD

(1) MULTI-

WRENCH

(180684)

(1) DISCHARGE CHUTE

ROTATOR HEAD MOUNTING

(1) WASHER 3/8

(19131316)

(2) SHEAR BOLTS 1/4-20 x 1-3/4

(1) POWER CORD

(198563)

SAFTEY IGNITION KEY(S)

(1) LOCKNUT 3/8

(73800600)

EXTRA SHEAR BOLTS AND NUTS

(192090)

(422663)

(2) LOCKNUTS

1/4-20

(73800400)

(3) RETAINER SPRINGS

(169675)

(2) FLAT WASHERS

(2) CARRIAGE BOLTS

3/8-16 x 2.25

(2) HANDLE KNOBS

ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new snow thrower. Reading the entire manual will familiarize you with the unit, which will assist you in assembly, operation and maintenance of the product.

Your new snow thrower has been as sem bled at the factory with the ex cep tion of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com plete the as sem bly have been placed in the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper operation of your snow thrower, all parts and hard ware you assemble must be tightened se cure ly. Use the correct tools as nec es sary to ensure proper tightness.

REMOVE SNOW THROWER FROM CAR TON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from carton.

2. Cut down all four corners of carton and lay panels flat.

3. Remove the two (2) screws securing the auger housing to the pallet.

4. Remove all packing materials ex cept plastic tie holding speed control rod to lower handle.

5. Remove the two (2) plastic ties securing the upper handle to the pallet.

6. Remove snow thrower from carton and check carton thor ough ly for ad di tion al loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR SNOW THROWER

TOOL BOX (See Fig. 8)

A toolbox is provided on your snow thrower. The toolbox is located on top of the belt cover. Store the extra shear bolts, nuts and multi-wrench provided in parts bag in the toolbox.

NOTE: The multi-wrench may be used for assembly of the chute rotator head to snow thrower and making ad just ments to the skid plates.

ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION

UNFOLD UPPER HANDLE

1. Raise upper handle to the operating position and tight en handle knobs securely. Additional carriage bolts, washers and handle knobs are in bag of parts. Use to secure upper handle to lower handle. Install in lower holes in handles.

INSTALL SPEED CONTROL ROD (See Figs. 1 and 2)

1. Remove plastic tie securing rod to lower handle.

2. Insert rod into speed control bracket and secure with retainer spring.

SPEED CONTROL ROD

PLASTIC TIE

UPPER HANDLE

HANDLE KNOB

LOWER HANDLE

INSTALL TRACTION DRIVE CONTROL ROD (See Figs. 3 and 4)

The traction drive control rod is installed on the snow thrower.

1. Remove plastic tie securing rod to lower handle.

2. With top end of rod positioned under left side of control panel, push rod down and insert top end of rod into hole in drive control bracket. Secure with retainer spring.

PLASTIC TIE

TRACTION DRIVE

CONTROL ROD

VINYL

SLEEVE

SPEED CONTROL BRACKET

FIG. 1

SPEED CON TROL ROD

RETAINER SPRING

SPEED

CONTROL

LEVER

FIG. 2

FIG. 3

TRACTION DRIVE CON TROL LEVER

DRIVE CONTROL BRACKET

FIG. 4

RETAINER

SPRING

TRACTION DRIVE CON TROL ROD

ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION

INSTALL AUGER CONTROL ROD (See Figs. 5 and 6)

1. Retrieve vinyl sleeve and spring from bag of parts and retrieve the auger control rod from carton chute tray. Slide straight rod end through the small hole in the vinyl sleeve. Hook spring in hole in rod end.

2. Hook end of spring into control arm with loop opening up as shown. (See Fig. 5)

3. With top end of rod positioned under right side of control panel, push down on rod and insert end of rod into hole in auger control bracket. Secure with retainer spring.

AUGER CONTROL ROD

VINYL SLEEVE

CONTROL ARM

INSTALL DISCHARGE CHUTE / CHUTE ROTATOR HEAD (See Fig. 7)

NOTE: The multi-wrench provided in your parts bag may

be used to install the chute rotator head.

1. Place discharge chute assembly on top of chute base with discharge opening toward front of snow thrower.

2. Position chute rotator head over chute bracket. If nec es sary, rotate chute assembly to align square and pin on un der side of chute rotator head with holes in chute brack et.

3. With chute rotator head and chute bracket aligned, po si tion chute rotator head on pin and threaded stud of mounting bracket.

4. Install 3/8 washer and locknut on threaded stud and tighten securely.

CHUTE ROTATOR HEAD

3/8 LOCKNUT

3/8 WASHER

LOOP

OPENING

FIG. 5

AUGER CONTROL ROD

RETAINER SPRING

AUGER

CONTROL

LEVER

AUGER CONTROL BRACKET

THREADED

STUD

CHUTE BRACKET

ALIGN BEFORE

TIGHTENING LOCKNUT

FIG. 7

ROTATOR HEAD

MOUNT ING

BRACKET

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your snow thrower were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct and equal tire pres sure is important for best snow throwing performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to 14-17 PSI.

FIG. 6

OPERATION

FORWARD

PRIMER

IGNITION KEY.

INSERT TO START

AND RUN,

PULL OUT TO STOP.

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INFORMATION

AND INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE OF THIS PRODUCT.

KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

DANGER

OR WARNING

REVERSE

SNOW

DISCHARGE

TRACTION

DRIVE CONTROL

DISENGAGED

ENGAGED

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.

OPERATION

MUF FLER

GAS O LINE FILLER CAP

CHOKE CON TROL

SAFETY IGNITION KEY

ON / OFF SWITCH

PRIM ER

FUEL SHUT-OFF VALVE RECOIL (AUXILIARY) STARTER HANDLE

NOTE: ITEMS ABOVE

ARE SHOWN IN THEIR TYPICAL

LOCATION ON THE

ENGINE. ACTUAL

LOCATION MAY VARY

WITH THE ENGINE

ON YOUR UNIT.

ELECTRIC

START

BUTTON

DISCHARGE

CHUTE

CLEAN-OUT TOOL

POWER

CORD

PLUG

AUGER CONTROL LEVER

CHUTE

DE FLEC TOR

DEFLECTOR REMOTE

CONTROL LEVER

DRIVE SPEED CON TROL LEVER

TRACTION DRIVE CONTROL LEVER

LIGHT

DISCHARGE

CHUTE

CONTROL

KNOB

HANDLE

KNOB

MUF FLER

TOOLBOX

AU GERS

FIG. 8

MEETS A.N.S.I. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Our snow throwers conform to the standards of the American National Standards Institute.

Toolbox - used to store spare shear bolts, locknuts and wrench.

Safety ignition key - must be inserted for the engine to start and run. Remove when snow thrower is not in use.

Electric start button - used for starting the engine. Recoil (auxiliary) starter handle - used for start ing en gine. Primer - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the

cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.

Choke control - used for starting a cold engine.

ON / OFF switch - used to STOP the engine. Traction drive control lever - used to engage power-

pro pelled for ward or reverse motion of snow thrower. Auger control lever - used to engage auger motion (throw

snow). Discharge chute control knob - used to change the

di rec tion the snow is thrown. Skid plate - used to adjust height of scraper bar from the

ground.

SKID PLATE

OPERATION

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

HOW TO USE YOUR SNOW THROWER

Know how to operate all controls before adding fuel or

attempting to start the engine.

STOPPING

TRACTION DRIVE

• Release traction drive control lever to stop the forward

or reverse movement of the snow thrower.

AUGER

• Release the auger control lever to stop throwing snow. ENGINE

1. Move ON / OFF switch to “OFF” position.

2. Remove (do not turn) safety ignition key to prevent

unauthorized use.

NOTE: Never use choke to stop engine.

TO USE FUEL SHUT-OFF VALVE (See Fig. 9)

The fuel shut-off valve is located beneath the fuel tank on the engine. Always op er ate the snow thrower with the fuel shut-off valve in the OPEN position.

TO CONTROL SNOW DISCHARGE (See Figs. 11 & 12)

WARNING: If the discharge chute or au ger become clogged, shut-off en gine and wait for all moving parts to stop. Use the clean-out tool, NOT YOUR HANDS, to un clog the chute and/or auger.

The DIRECTION in which snow is to be thrown is controlled by the discharge chute control lever.

• To change the discharge chute position, press down ward on discharge chute control lever and move lever left or right until chute is in desired position. Be sure lever springs back and locks into desired position.

DISCHARGE CHUTE

CONTROL LEVER

OFF

OPEN

FIG. 9

TO USE CHOKE CON TROL (See Fig. 10)

The choke con trol is located on the en gine. Use the choke control when ev er you are starting a cold en gine. Do not use to start a warm en gine.

• To engage choke, rotate lever to “FULL” position.

FULL OFF

FIG. 10

FIG. 11

The DISTANCE that snow is thrown is controlled by the position of the chute deflector. Set the deflector low to throw snow a short distance; set the deflector higher to throw snow farther.

• To change the deflector position, loosen knob, move deflector to desired position and tighten knob securely.

HIGH

POSITION

KNOB

CHUTE DEFLECTOR LOW POSITION

FIG. 12

OPERATION

TO THROW SNOW (See Fig. 13)

The auger rotation is controlled by the auger control lever located on the right side handle.

• Squeeze auger control lever to handle to engage the auger and throw snow.

• Release the auger control lever to stop throwing snow.

AUGER CONTROL LEVER

FIG. 13

USING THE CLEAN-OUT TOOL (See Fig. 14)

In certain snow conditions, the discharge chute may become clogged with ice and snow. Use the clean-out tool to dislodge this blockage.

When cleaning, repairing, or in spect ing, make certain all controls are disengaged and the auger/impeller and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep the wire away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

• Release the auger control lever and shut off the engine.

• Remove the clean-out tool from it's mounting clip. Grasp the tool firmly by the handle and push and twist the tool into the discharge chute to dislodge the blockage.

After the packed snow has been dislodged, return the cleanout tool to it's mounting clip by pushing it into the clip.

• Make sure the discharge chute is pointed in a safe direction (no vehicles, buildings, people, or other objects are in the direction of discharge) before restarting the engine.

• Restart the engine, then squeeze the auger control lever to the handle to clear snow from the auger housing and the discharge chute.

DISCHARGE CHUTE

CLEAN-OUT TOOL

MOUNTING CLIP

FIG. 14

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 15)

SELF-PROPELLING, forward and reverse movement of the snow thrower, is controlled by the traction drive control lever located on the left side handle.

• Squeeze traction drive control lever to handle to en gage the drive system.

• Release traction drive control lever to stop the forward or reverse movement of the snow thrower.

SPEED and DIRECTION are controlled by the drive speed control lever.

• Press downward on the speed control lever and move lever to de sired po si tion BE FORE engaging the trac tion drive control lever. Be sure lever springs back and locks into desired position.

CAUTION: Do not move speed con trol le ver when traction drive control lever is en gaged. Damage to the snow thrower can result.

• Slower speeds are for heavier snow and faster speeds are for light snow and transporting the snow thrower. It is recommended that you use a slower speed until you are familiar with the operation of the snow thrower.

TRACTION DRIVE CONTROL LEVER

DRIVE SPEED CONTROL LEVER

FIG. 15

OPERATION

TO ADJUST SKID PLATES (See Fig. 16) NOTE: The wrench provided in your parts bag may be

used to adjust the skid plates. Skid plates are located on each side of the auger housing

and adjust the clearance between the scraper bar and the ground surface. Adjust skid plates evenly to proper height for current surface conditions. For removal of snow in normal con di tions, such as a paved driveway or side walk, place skid plates in the highest position (lowest scraper clear ance) to give a 1/8" clearance between the scraper bar and the ground. Use a middle position if the surface to be cleared is uneven.

NOTE: It is not recommended to operate the snow thrower over gravel or rocky surfaces. Objects such as gravel, rocks or other debris, can easily be picked up and thrown by the impeller, which can cause serious personal injury, property dam age or damage to the snow thrower.

• If snow thrower must be operated over gravel surface, use extra caution and be sure skid plates are adjusted to lowest (highest scraper clear ance) position.

1. Shut off engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.

2. Adjust skid plates by loosening the hex nuts, then moving skid plate to desired position. Be sure both plates are adjusted evenly. Tighten securely.

HIGH POSITION (LOW GROUND CLEARANCE)

AUGER

HOUSING

SCRAPER BAR

HEX NUTS

LOW POSITION (HIGH GROUND CLEAR ANCE)

SKID PLATE

ADD GASOLINE (See Fig. 17)

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quan ti ties that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

WARNING: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gas o hol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and for ma tion of acids dur ing storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied be fore stor age of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage In struc tions for ad di tion al information. Never use engine or car bu re tor cleaner products in the fuel tank or per ma nent damage may occur.

ON / OFF SWITCH

CHOKE CONTROL

RECOIL (AUXILIARY) STARTER HANDLE

GAS O LINE FILLER CAP

ENGINE OIL FILL

CAP / DIPSTICK

STARTER

BUTTON

FIG. 16

SCRAPER BAR (See Fig. 16)

The scraper bar is not adjustable, but is reversible. After con sid er able use it may become worn. When it has worn almost to the edge of the housing, it can be reversed, providing additional service before requiring replacement. Replace a dam aged or worn scrap er bar.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 17)

The engine on your snow thrower has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with oil.

1. Check engine oil with snow thrower on level ground.

2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw tight, wait for a few seconds, remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until “FULL” mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• To change engine oil, see “TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL” in the Main te nance sec tion of this manual.

SAFETY IG NI TION KEY

PRIM ER

FUEL SHUT-OFF VALVE

NOTE: ALL ITEMS ARE SHOWN IN THEIR TYPICAL LOCATION.

ACTUAL LOCATION MAY VARY WITH ENGINE ON YOUR UNIT.

FIG. 17

POWER

CORD

PLUG

OPERATION

TO START ENGINE

• Be sure fuel shut-off valve is in the “OPEN” position. Your snow thrower engine is equipped with both a 120 Volt

A.C. electric starter and a recoil starter. The electric starter is equipped with a three-wire power cord and plug and is designed to operate on 120 Volt A.C. household current.

• Be sure your house is a 120 Volt A.C. three-wire ground ed system. If you are uncertain, consult a li censed electrician.

WARNING: Do not use the electric start er if your house is not a 120 Volt A.C. three-wire grounded system. Se ri ous per son al injury or damage to your snow thrower could result.

COLD START - ELECTRIC STARTER

1. Insert safety ignition key (tied to recoil start cord) into ignition slot until it clicks. DO NOT turn the key. Keep the extra safety ignition key in a safe place.

2. Place ON / OFF switch in “ON” position.

3. Move choke control to “FULL” position.

4. Connect the power cord to the engine.

5. Plug the other end of the power cord into a three-hole grounded 120 Volt A.C. receptacle.

NOTE: Do not use primer when start ing en gine with the electric starter.

6. Push starter button until engine starts.

IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more than five con tin u ous seconds between each time you try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds between each attempt.

7. When the engine starts, release the starter button and slowly move the choke control to the “OFF” position.

8. Disconnect the power cord from the receptacle first, then from the engine.

Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes. Engine will not develop full power until it has reached normal operating temperature.

WARM START - ELECTRIC STARTER Follow the steps above, keeping the choke control in the

“OFF” position. COLD START - RECOIL STARTER

1. Insert safety ignition key (tied to recoil start cord) into ignition slot until it clicks. DO NOT turn the key. Keep the extra safety ignition key in a safe place.

2. Place ON / OFF switch in “ON” position.

3. Rotate choke control to “FULL” position.

4. Push the primer four (4) times if the temperature is below 15°F, or two (2) times if temperature is between 15° and 50°F. If temperature is above 50°F, priming is not nec es sary.

NOTE: Over priming may cause flooding, preventing the engine from starting. If you do flood the engine, wait a few minutes be fore at tempt ing to start and DO NOT push the primer.

5. Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

6. When the engine starts, release the recoil starter han dle and slowly move the choke control to the “OFF” position.

Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes. Engine will not develop full power until it has reached normal operating temperature.

WARM START - RECOIL STARTER Follow the steps above, keeping the choke in the “OFF”

position. DO NOT push the primer.

BEFORE STOPPING

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

IF RECOIL STARTER HAS FROZEN

If the recoil starter has frozen and will not turn the engine, proceed as follows:

1. Grasp the recoil starter handle and slowly pull as much rope out of the starter as possible.

2. Release the recoil starter handle and let it snap back against the starter.

If the engine still fails to start, repeat the above steps or use the electric starter.

SNOW THROWING TIPS

• Go slower in deep, freezing or heavy wet snow. Use the drive speed control, NOT the ON / OFF switch, to adjust speed.

• It is easier and more efficient to remove snow im me di ate ly after it falls.

• 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 tem per a tures.

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

• Throw snow downwind whenever possible.

• Ad just the skid plates to proper height for current snow con di tions. See “TO ADJUST SKID PLATES” in this section of this manual.

• For extremely heavy snow, re duce the width of snow removal by over lap ping 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.

WARNING: Do not operate snow thrower if weather conditions im pair visibility. Throwing snow dur ing a heavy, windy snowstorm can blind you and be hazardous to the safe operation of the snow thrower.

+ 26 hidden pages

Poulan 961940008, 428707, 96194000801 User Manual

IMPORTANT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

OPERATION