How to Troubleshoot Snow Thrower Starters

Check the safety pin or safety switch. On certain models there is a safety switch or key that needs to be inserted all the way before the snowblower will operate. If there is a safety pin, make sure the pin is pushed all the way into the "run" position.

Make sure that the electric start is plugged into a working outlet. Most new snowblowers have an electric start that helps turn the engine over on very cold days.

Make sure that the choke lever is switched all the way open to the "start" position and that you have pressed the primer bulb three to six times (per the manufacturer's starting instructions). If you have primed the engine too many times, you may have flooded it. Allow the gas to evaporate from the engine an hour or two before attempting to restart it.

Ensure that the spark plug wire is connected to the spark plug that is sticking out of the side of the engine. If all of these items are intact, you may want to replace the spark plug with a new one to make sure that the engine fires properly.

Check to make sure that the gas tank is filled with fresh gas. Gasoline that has been left sitting for many months can break down and become less combustible, making it hard to start the snowblower.