Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
L.E. SINGLE STAGE
SMALL FRAME
SNOW THROWER
SERIES 0
MODELS
LE3170R
LE3190R
LE3190E
®
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
L
I
MODEL DESIGNATION
ENGINE HP
L - Light Weight Frame
E - Easy Operation
3 - 3.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Snow Thrower, read this manual carefully and pay
particular attention to the "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on Pages 2 & 3. Remember that all power
equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance
with the operating instructions and common sense.
COPYRIGHT © 2003
SNAPPER PRODUCTS INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
I E I 3 I 19 I
1
]
17 - 17" Auger Width
19 - 19" Auger Width
.qlilAPPEl:l McDonough,
0 -- Series Designation
E - 110 Volt Electric Start
R - Recoil Start
GA., 30253 U.S.A.
E
I
INSTRUCTION No. 7-5223 (I.R. 3/3/03)
1
I
ENGINE OPTIONS
SERIES DESIGNATION
AUGER WIDTH
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This powerful machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury
and damage! Failure to comply with the following instructions may result in serious injury to the operator or
other persons. The owner of the snow thrower must understand these instructions and, furthermore, must
allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate snow thrower. Each person operating the
snow thrower must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which
might impair vision, dexterity, or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your snow thrower which
your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER,
McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: 800/935-2967.
PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert
to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and the snow removal
activity. Never assume that the children will remain
where you last saw them.
1. DO NOT allow children in the area when snow
thrower is being operated.
2. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate
snow thrower.
3. ALLOW only responsible adults and teenagers
with mature judgment to operate the machine
and then only after being thoroughly instructed
and under the close supervision of an
experienced adult operator.
4. Keep the area clear of all persons, particularly
small children and pets.
5. Know how to STOP the snow thrower and
disengage the controls quickly.
PREPARATION
1. Warn everyone in advance to stay clear of area.
Keep especially watchful for children and pets
darting into area while operating.
2. Read, understand, and follow instructions and
warnings in this manual and on the machine.
Know the controls and the proper use of the
snow thrower before starting.
3. Data indicates that operators, age 60 and above,
are involved in a large percentage of snow
thrower-related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the snow thrower
safely enough to protect themselves and others
from serious injury.
4. Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral
before starting the engine (motor).
5. Wear adequate winter clothing including boots
which will give you maximum footing on slippery
surfaces. Exercise CAUTION to avoid slipping or
falling.
6. Before the first snow fall, check the area to be
cleared and remove all objects such as
doormats, sticks, toys, wires, rocks, etc., which
could be hurled or jam the snow thrower.
PREPARATION
7. Survey the area to be cleared beforehand and
plan where snow is to be blown. Be prepared to
release auger/impeller clutch or to change
discharge chute direction quickly to discharge
away from windows, cars, buildings and
doorways to avoid property damage or personal
injury from hurled objects
8. Use only approved extension cords and
receptacles in good condition and with sufficient
capacity to carry the current to the machine if
equipped with electric starting motors.
9. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
and vapors are explosive. Store only in an
approved fuel container. Never remove fuel cap
or add fuel with the engine running. Add fuel
outdoors only with the engine stopped and cool.
Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT
smoke. DO NOT run engine indoors.
OPERATIONAL PRECAUTIONS
1. Before starting, make visual check to make sure
auger/impeller housing is clear and all guards
and shields are in place and tight.
2. DO NOT operate machine without proper guards
shields, deflectors, or other safety protective
devices in place and functioning properly.
3. Should the auger/impeller become clogged,
release the auger/impeller clutch control and, as
an additional precaution, STOP the engine
before attempting to unclog the auger/impeller or
discharge chute.
4. DO NOT attempt to unclog the auger/impeller or
discharge chute by reaching in with your hands.
Use a long stick or similar implement to unclog.
5. DO NOT attempt to unclog the auger/impeller or
discharge chute with the engine running. STOP
engine and remove key.
6. STOP engine (motor) and remove key before
leaving the operator position for any reason.
7. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all
times.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATIONAL PRECAUTIONS
8. Start engine only where exhaust fumes will be
safely dissipated. Allow a brief warm-up period,
and practice operation of controls outside before
putting the machine to work.
9. After striking a foreign object, STOP the engine
(motor), remove the key, and remove the wire
from spark plug. Thoroughly inspect the snow
thrower for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the snow
thrower.
10. STOP the engine if the machine starts to vibrate
excessively as this normally indicates
mechanical problems. Remove the key and
disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent
unintentional starting before servicing or
repairing the machine.
11. DO NOT clear snow across the face of slopes.
Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing
direction on slopes. DO NOT attempt to clear
steep slopes.
12. DO NOT leave machine unattended with the
engine running. STOP engine and remove key to
prevent unauthorized operation.
13. Release clutch control and make sure
auger/impeller has STOPPED before rotating
discharge chute, adjusting deflector, or placing
hands near auger/impeller.
14. DO NOT use snow thrower on surfaces above
ground level, such as, a roof of a building.
15. Exercise extreme CAUTION when operating on
or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay
alert for hidden hazards or traffic.
16. DO NOT overload the machine capacity by
attempting to clear snow at too fast a rate.
17. Never operate the machine at high transport
speeds on slippery surfaces. Look behind and
use care when backing.
18. Disengage power to the auger/impeller when
snow thrower is transported or not in use.
19. Use only attachments and accessories approved
by the manufacturer of the snow thrower (such
as wheel weights, counterweights, cabs and the
like).
20. 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.
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
To avoid personal injury orproperty damage, use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
2. Use only an approved fuel container.
3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.
5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
such as on a water heater or other appliances.
6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
the containers on the ground away from the vehicle
before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel equipment using a portable
container, rather than a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in enclosed
vehicles or trailers.
9. 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
10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
11. Never overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and
tighten securely.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1. DO NOT store machine or fuel container inside
where fumes may reach an open flame, spark, or
pilot light as in a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer
or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before
storing machine in an enclosure. Store fuel container
out of reach of children in a well ventilated,
unoccupied building.
2. Keep machine and engine free of excess oil, grease
and spilled fuel to reduce fire hazard.
3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved
container outdoors and away from open flame.
4. Inspect all bolts, nuts and screws frequently and
keep properly tightened.
5. Use only recommended shear bolts (if equipped) to
prevent possible damage to machine.
6. Service engine and make adjustments only when
engine is stopped. Remove key, remove wire from
spark plug, secure wire away from plug, and
disconnect cord from electric starting motors to
prevent accidental starting.
7. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or
overspeed engine.
8. DO NOT test for spark by grounding the spark plug
next to spark plug hole. Spark from the plug could
ignite gas exiting engine.
9. Have machine serviced by an authorized SNAPPER
dealer at least once a year and have the dealer install
any new safety devices.
10. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to
assure that original standards are maintained.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1 - IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .......................... 2-3
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................ 4
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ......................................... 5-9
Pre-start Checklist ........................................................................................... 5-6
Starting & Stopping Engine (Recoil Start Models) ........................................ 7-8
Starting & Stopping Engine (Electric Start Models) ...................................... 8-9
Starting & Stopping Auger ............................................................................... 8-9
SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS .................................... 10
Checking Auger Drive Belt ................................................................................ 10
Checking Auger Flite Shoes ............................................................................. 10
Checking Clutch Control Cable ........................................................................ 10
Annually - End of Each Season ....................................................................... 10
Engine ........................................................................................................... 10
Spark Plug .................................................................................................... 10
Storage Procedure ............................................................................................. 10
SECTION 4 - REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENTS .................................... 11-13
Auger Drive Belt Adjustment ....................................................................... 11-12
Auger Drive Belt Replacement .................................................................... 12-13
Auger Flite Shoe Replacement ......................................................................... 13
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 14
SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 14
Maintenance/Replacement Parts ...................................................................... 14
WARRANTY AND PRODUCT REGISTRATION ................................ 15-16
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST
Make the following checks and perform the service
required before each start-up.
2.1.1. Check guards, chutes, deflectors and covers to
make sure all are in place and securely tightened.
2.1.2. Check auger control to insure it works freely.
See Figure 2.1.
AUGER
CONTROL
ENGAGE AND
DISENGAGE AUGER
CONTROLTOINSURE
PROPER OPERATION
STANDARD FLUID MEASUREMENT (32:1 Ratio)
GASOLINE 2 CYCLE OIL
(Gallons) (Ounces)
0.25 1.00
0.50 2.00
0.75 3.00
1.00 4.00
1.25 5.00
1.50 6.00
2.00 8.00
METRIC FLUID MEASUREMENT (32:1 Ratio)
GASOLINE 2 CYCLE OIL
(Liters) (Cubic Centimeters)
0.50 15.63
1.00 31.26
1.50 46.88
2.00 62.50
2.50 78.15
3.00 93.75
4.00 125.00
FIGURE 2.1
2.1.3. Check chute operation. Rotate chute
insure smooth rotation throughout its range.
WARNING
Use approved fuel container. DO NOT smoke near
open fuel container. DO NOT fill fuel tank indoors or
when engine is running. Allow engine to cool for at
least ten minutes before refilling. Wipe off any
spilled fuel before starting engine. DO NOT run
engine indoors.
2.1.4. Mix fresh, good quality unleaded gasoline and
SNAPPER 2-cycle engine oil or equivalent. Mix fuel
and oil to a 32:1 ratio. See Figure 2.2.
2.1.5. Add premix fuel to tank after pushing the
machine outside where fumes can safely dissipate.
Make sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to
Engine Owners Manual for specifications.
2.1.6. Check auger housing, must be free of all
obstructions. Clean engine of any accumulation of
spilled fuel, dirt, etc.
FIGURE 2.2
to
(Continued on Next Page)
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST
(Continued from Previous Page)
Make the following checks and perform the service
required before each start-up.
k WARNING
DO NOT use an electrical extension cord that is
damaged. A damaged electrical extension cord could
cause a shock or fire. Thoroughly inspect electrical
extension cord before using machine. If cord is
damaged, do not use and do not operate machine.
Replace damaged cord immediately. Contact your
SNAPPER service dealer for assistance. To reduce
the risk of electric shock, use only with an extension
cord intended for outdoor use having a cord type:
SW-A, SOW-A, STW-A, STOW-A, SJW-A, SJTW-A or
SJTOW-A.
2.1.7. Check and make sure extension cord is in
good condition. Extension cord should not have any
broken insulation or exposed wires. Use an
extension cord that is heavy enough to carry the
correct amount of current to the machine. See
Figure 2.3 for correct size to use depending on cord
length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use
the next heavier gauge cord.
MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD SETS
120 Volt Total Length of Cord in Feet
Rating-Amps 25 ft. I 50 ft. I 100 ft. I 150 ft.
More Not More ._ ..,..A.W.('_.
Than Than
0 6 18 16 16 14
6 10 18 16 14 12
10 12 16 16 14 12
12 16 14 12 Not
FIGURE 2.3
2.1.8. Check the AC electrical outlet that will be
used and make sure it is a polarized outlet. The
machine has a polarized plug (one blade of plug is
wider than the other blade) that will accept a
polarized extension cord. The extension cord will fit
into a polarized outlet (receptacle) only one way. If
plug does not fit fully into your outlet, reverse the
plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified
electrician to install a proper polarized outlet. DO
NOT modify or change this polarized plug in any
way.
Recommended
IMPORTANT! Electric Start Kit optional
accessory on some models.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2
STARTING, STOPPING & OPERATION
(RECOIL START MODELS)
(Go to Page 8 for Electric Start Models)
2.2.1. ENGINE & AUGER
1. Move choke control to the choke "ON" position.
See Figure 2.4.
Release auger clutch control and make surel
auger/impeller has STOPPED before rotating discharge I
chute or adjusting deflector. DO NOT place hands near I
auger/impeller while engine is running. I
WARNING
NOTE: Stop the auger by releasing the auger control.
Stop the engine by turning the key switch to the "OFF"
position.
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
PUSH PRIMER
THREE TIMES
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
MOVE CHOKE TO THE "ON"
POSITION
TURN KEY TO THE "ON"
PULL ROPE
START HANDLE
2.2.3. DISCHARGE CHUTE and DEFLECTOR
ADJUSTMENT
1. Release auger control and allow auger to come to a
complete stop before performing any adjustments.
2. Loosen deflector knob and position deflector to
desired angle. Retighten knob.
3. Rotate discharge chute in desired direction. See
Figure 2.6.
MOVE AUGER
CONTROL AGAINST
HANDLE TO ENGAGE
AUGER
AUGER
/ / CONTROL BEFORE
• ADJUSTING DEFLECTOR &
CHUTE
FIGURE 2.4
2. Turn ignition key to the "ON" position.
3. Push primer button three times to start a cold
engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start
warm engine.
4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.
5. After engine starts, move the choke control to
the no choke "OFF" position. Allow a brief warm-up
until engine runs smooth.
WARNING
Objects can be thrown by the snow thrower while it
is in operation. Thrown objects could cause serious
injury to the operator or bystanders. Always wear
safety goggles or other suitable eye protection. Keep
people and pets away from area.
2.2.2. ENGAGING AUGER
1. Pull auger control against handle to engage
auger. See Figure 2.5.
FIGURE 2.5
DEFLECTOR_ /_//
ROTATE CHUTE TO '_._ _ -/'_
D,SCHARGE - //
FIGURE 2.6
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2.4. STOPPING
Stop the auger by releasing the auger control. Stop
the engine by turning the key switch to the "OFF"
position. Always remove key from key switch
before leaving machine unattended. See
Figure 2.7.
RELEASE AUGER
CONTROL TO
TURN KEY TO THE "OFF"
POSITION TO STOP ENGINE--'7
1. Connect the power cord to the starter switch box
on machine's control panel then plug the other end
into 120 volt AC receptacle.
2. Turn ignition key to the "ON" position.
3. Move choke control to the choke "ON" position.
See Figure 2.8.
4. Push primer button three times to start a cold
engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start
warm engine.
5. Push the electric starter button. DO NOT hold
button for more than 20 seconds to avoid damaging
the starting motor. See Figure 2.8.
6. After engine starts, move the choke control to the
no choke "OFF" position. Allow a brief warm-up until
engine runs smooth.
7. Disconnect power cord from AC receptacle.
Disconnect power cord from machine and remove
cord from area where machine will be in operation.
NOTE: Stop the auger by releasing the auger control.
Stop the engine by turning the key switch to the "OFF"
position.
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
PUSH PRIMER
THREE TIMES
TURN KEY TO THE "ON"
POSITION
FIGURE 2.7
2.2
STARTING, STOPPING & OPERATION
(ELECTRIC START MODELS)
(Go to Page 7 for Recoil Start Models)
2.2.5. ENGINE & AUGER
A WARNING
DO NOT use an electrical extension cord that is
damaged. A damaged electrical extension cord
could cause a shock or fire. Thoroughly inspect
electrical extension cord before using machine. If
cord is damaged, do not use and do not operate
machine. Replace damaged cord immediately.
Contact your SNAPPER service dealer for
assistance. To reduce the risk of electric shock, use
only with an extension cord intended for outdoor
use having a cord type: SW-A, SOW-A, STW-A,
STOW-A, SJW-A, SJTW-A or SJTOW-A.
INTO STARTER
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
MOVE CHOKE TO THE "ON"
POSITION
FIGURE 2.8
j PUSH STARTER
BUTTON
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Objects can be thrown by the snow thrower while it
is in operation. Thrown objects could cause serious
injury to the operator or bystanders. Always wear
safety goggles or other suitable eye protection.
Keep people and pets away from area.
2.2.6. ENGAGING AUGER
1. Pull auger control against handle to engage
auger. See Figure 2.5.
Release auger clutch control and make sure
auger/impeller has STOPPED before rotating
discharge chute or adjusting deflector. DO NOT place
hands near auger/impeller while engine is running.
2.2.7. DISCHARGE CHUTE and DEFLECTOR
ADJUSTMENT
1. Release auger control and allow auger to come to
a complete stop before performing any adjustments.
2. Loosen deflector knob and position deflector to
desired angle. Retighten knob.
3. Rotate discharge chute in desired direction. See
Figure 2.6.
2.2.8. STOPPING
Stop the auger by releasing the auger control. Stop
the engine by turning the key switch to the "OFF"
position. Always remove key from key switch
before leaving machine unattended. See Figure
2.7.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE
3.1 INTRODUCTION
To retain the quality of the snow thrower, use
genuine SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact
a local SNAPPER dealer for parts and service
assistance. For the correct part or information for a
particular snow thrower, always mention model and
serial number.
3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS
3.2.1 CHECK AUGER DRIVE BELT
1. Visually check engine drive belt for cracking,
fraying, severed or exposed belt strands. Replace
worn belt before operating snow thrower. See Figure
3.1
CHECK AUGER
DRIVE BELT
FIGURE 3.1
3.2.3 CHECK AUGER CLUTCH CONTROL CABLE
1. Visually check cable for fraying, kinking or severed
cable strands. Replace cable and adjust tension before
operating snow thrower. See Figure 3.3.
CHECK AUGER
CONTROLCABLE
FIGURE 3.3
3.3 ANNUALLY (END OF EACH SEASON)
Perform all maintenance as described in the maintenance
schedule.
3.3.1. Engine
Refer to engine owner's manual for service
instructions.
3.3.2. Spark Plug
Refer to engine owner's manual for service
instructions.
3.2.2 CHECKAUGER FLITE SHOE
1. Visually check flite shoes for cracking, fraying
severed or exposed belt strands. Replace worn flite
shoes before operating snow thrower. See Figure 3.2.
CHECK AUGER
FLITE SHOE
FIGURE 3.2
3.4 STORAGE PROCEDURE
Refer to the Engine Owner's Manual for directions
regarding engine storage preparations. Prepare the snow
thrower for "end of season" storage as follows:
1. Drain fuel from fuel tank and let engine run until
all fuel is out of the carburetor.
2. Disconnect and remove the spark plug wire
away from spark plug before any other
preparations are made!
3. Tape all openings closed to prevent spraying
water into exhaust or air intakes during washing.
4. Tilt snow thrower up on its wheels and
thoroughly clean the underside of the auger.
5. Lubricate all exposed metal with a light coating
of oil to prevent corrosion. DO NOT place any type
of lubrication onto belt or pulleys.
6. Store the machine in a shed or other dry area,
protected from weather.
10
Section 4 - REPAIR & ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance,
service, or repairs with engine running. Stop auger.
Stop engine. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire
and secure wire away from spark plug.
4.1 AUGER BELT ADJUSTMENT/REPLACEMENT
When operating machine release the auger clutch
control. The auger should come to a complete stop in
5 seconds. If the auger does not come to a complete
stop in the required time, check and adjust belt
tension. Inspect belt frequently for signs of excessive
wear. Observe drive belt for slippage due to wear
when operating machine. If slippage does occur
adjust as follows.
4.1.1. AUGER BELT CABLE ADJUSTMENT
1. Measure control cable extension from a relaxed
position to full extended position. Move control lever
against handle. Measure the overall length of the
spring. The length of the cable spring should
increase by 1/2" to 3/4" when the clutch control is
depressed. See Figure 4.1.
4.1.2. AUGER BELT IDLER PULLEY
ADJUSTMENT
NOTE: To adjust the idler pulley and properly tension
the auger belt, the auger control cable adjustment
must first be loosened as described in the following
step. Cable adjustment must be checked after
completing the idler pulley adjustment.
1. Loosen jam nut at the upper end of cable. Hold
threaded end of cable and then turn metal housing of
cable counter clockwise until threaded portion of cable
is extracted from metal housing. Reinstall 1/2" of the
threaded portion of cable back into metal housing.
Retighten jam nut.
2. Remove belt cover. See Figure 4.2
AUGER CLUTCH
CABLE SPRING _L
•,xoo N=°'°
l'o '&o
FIGURE 4.1
2. Loosen jam nut at the upper end of cable. Hold
threaded end of cable and then turn cable clockwise
until correct extension is achieved. Retighten jam nut.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT over tighten cable. The control
cable must have slack for the auger brake to function
properly. If the auger control cannot be properly adjusted,
belt adjustment and/or replacement will be required.
Refer to Section "Auger Belt Idler Pulley Adjustment".
REMOVE COVER
FORIDLER PULLEY
ADJUSTMENT
FIGURE 4.2
(Continued on the Next Page)
11