Toro Snow Blower Help

When the snow begins to fall, the last thing you want is a snow blower that won’t run or do its job properly. Performing annual maintenance should keep your unit running when you need it, but problems do happen. Some are due to wear, while others may be caused by operating the unit improperly or in conditions for which it was not designed The Toro models have some common fixes that will help you get your unit running again.

Why Won't It Start?

If your Toro snow blower won’t start, check the gas tank to make sure it has fuel. If it has fuel, and it’s more than 30 days old, drain the fuel tank and refill it with fresh fuel; make sure you mix in the proper amount of oil for two-cycle engines. For a cold engine, engage the choke and prime the fuel line two pumps before starting the engine. If your engine still won’t start, make sure the spark plug wire is connected to the spark plug. If the plug is damaged, replace it. If your model has an electric starter, the blower needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet to start the machine.

Missing Patches of Snow

If your machine is not removing snow from surfaces properly, check the condition of the scraper and the rotor blades. The rotor blades have a wear indicator hole. When the end of the blade has worn down to the hole, replace the blades and the scraper. They are designed to wear down over time at about the same rate. If the blades and scraper are in good condition, use the handle to push the front of the machine to the surface to ensure good contact.

Won’t Throw Snow Properly

If your blower is not discharging snow through the chute, it could be your walking speed or operating gear; walk faster or slower, or use a higher or lower gear. Heavy, wet snow requires you to operator the machine at a slower pace so it has time to work. A broken control cable or one with too much slack won’t allow the unit to throw snow properly. Correct this by replacing or adjusting the control cable. A worn drive belt can also stop the machine from throwing snow.

Annual Preventative Maintenance

Before using your snow blower each season, Toro recommends inspecting the rotor blades, gear box oil, spark plug and drive belt. Replacing worn parts before the snow removal season starts saves you from having to make repairs when you’d rather be throwing snow. While you’re at it, make any needed adjustments to the control cable and fill the tank with fresh fuel. Do not store the unit with fuel in the tank, since this can cause pitting in the carburetor and make it hard to start.