How to replace a snowblower electric starter
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.
This video explains how to replace the electric starter on a snowblower.
Instructions
- 01.
Disconnect the spark plug wire
Pull the spark plug wire straight up and off the plug.
- 02.
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: Pull the switch away.
PHOTO: Remove the starter motor screws.
PHOTO: Remove the starter.
- 03.
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.
Tip: If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten the starter motor mounting screws firmly using a regular ratchet handle.
PHOTO: Reinstall the starter motor.
PHOTO: Reinstall the switch screws.
- 04.
Reconnect the spark plug
Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
Symptoms for gas snowblowers
Choose a symptom to see related snowblower repairs.
Main causes: broken shear pins, worn or loose auger drive belt, auger drive cable failure, damaged auger, bad gear case…
Main causes: clogged chute, snow build-up in auger housing, broken auger shear pins, auger drive belt needs adjustment, …
Main causes: stale gas, clogged carburetor, clogged or broken fuel line, dirty spark plug, bad rewind starter, incorrect…
Main causes: punctured tire, damaged rim…
Main causes: clogged chute, damaged auger blades, broken shear pins, worn auger belt, damaged gear case, engine problems…
Things to do: replace the spark plug, change the oil, rebuild the carburetor, adjust valve lash, adjust or replace the b…
Main causes: dirty carburetor, clogged fuel filter, dirty spark plug, incorrect valve lash, leaky engine gaskets…
Main causes: dirty carburetor, stale fuel…
Main causes: loose drive clutch cable, damaged drive clutch cable, worn friction disc, scraper blade scraping the ground…
Repair guides for gas snowblowers
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your snowblower.
How to replace a snowblower fuel filter
Replace the fuel filter on your snowblower if it's clogged or damaged.…
How to adjust snowblower skid shoes
To prevent snowblower auger and shave plate damage, adjust the skid shoes regularly to keep the shave plate ¼-inch high.…
How to rebuild a snowblower carburetor
Rebuild the carburetor on your snowblower if the engine isn't getting fuel.…
Effective articles & videos to help repair your snowblowers
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your snowblower.
Learn the steps to take to adjust and maintain your snowblower so it lasts longer.…
Learn about Sears Technical Institute and the advanced technical content being developed for aspiring appliance techs.…
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…