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How to replace a snowblower electric starter

less than a minute readMay 20Lyle Weischwill

Repair time and Difficulty

 15 minutes or less
Tools Required
  • Socket wrench set with ratchet
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Torque wrench
  • Work gloves

This DIY snowblower repair guide explains how to replace the electric starter. Make sure the engine spins normally by pulling the recoil starter rope before replacing the starter; if the engine is locked up, the electric starter won't spin the engine. If the starter won't spin to start the engine when activated and is plugged into a working wall outer, replace the electric starter using the manufacturer-approved snowblower part.

Replace the electric starter on Craftsman, Husqvarna, MTD, Troybilt, Murray, Poulan, Ariens, Snapper, Yard-Man and Noma snowblowers using the steps in this guide.


Instructions

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire

Pull the spark plug wire straight up and off the plug.

2. Remove the electric starter

Remove the two screws that secure the switch box to the engine.

Pull the switch box away from the engine and let it hang by the power cord going to the starter motor.

Remove the two starter motor mounting screws and pull the starter motor off the engine.

PHOTO: Remove the starter switch screws.
PHOTO: Remove the starter switch screws.
PHOTO: Pull the switch away.
PHOTO: Pull the switch away.
PHOTO: Remove the starter motor screws.
PHOTO: Remove the starter motor screws.
PHOTO: Remove the starter.
PHOTO: Remove the starter.
3. Install the new electric starter

Position the new starter motor on the engine and reinstall the mounting screws.

Tighten the mounting screws to 53- to 71-inch-pounds using a torque wrench.

Position the switch box on the bracket and reinstall the mounting screws.

PHOTO: Reinstall the starter motor.
PHOTO: Reinstall the starter motor.
PHOTO: Reinstall the switch screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the switch screws.
Tip: If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten the starter motor mounting screws firmly using a regular ratchet handle.
4. Reconnect the spark plug

Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.