How-To Guides
Why Is My Snow Blower Running Rough? How to Fix It
AAZparts Team
Updated on June 13, 2025
6 min read
If your snow blower runs rough and struggles to start or stay smooth during use, you're not alone. This article from AZParts will help you understand why it happens, how to fix it, and what you can do to prevent it in the future. We’ll walk you through common issues like dirty carburetors, clogged filters, or spark plug problems, and show you where to find reliable replacement parts for your machine.
1. Why Is My Snow Blower Running Rough?
Knowing why your snow blower runs rough helps you spot the issue fast, fix it properly, and keep it working smoothly all winter. Here are some potential causes to look out for:
1.1 Dirty or Clogged Carburetor
A common cause of a snow blower running rough is a dirty or clogged carburetor. This often happens when old fuel sits too long, leaving behind sticky residue that blocks fuel flow. To fix it, you can clean the carburetor by using a carburetor cleaner. If that doesn’t work, you may need to rebuild or replace the entire unit for smooth performance.
Dirty or clogged carburetor can cause your snow blower to act up (Source: AZParts)
1.2 Clogged Fuel Filter
A clogged fuel filter is another common reason why your snow blower runs rough. Dirt, debris, or old fuel can restrict fuel flow, causing the engine to sputter or lose power. Clearing out old fuel and inspecting the filter for buildup can help. If the filter is dirty or damaged, installing a new one is the most reliable way to get your machine running smoothly again.
1.3 Faulty or Dirty Spark Plug
If your snow blower is sputtering or losing power, a faulty or dirty spark plug might be the cause. Carbon buildup, worn electrodes, or cracks in the insulator can weaken the spark and affect engine performance. Check the plug for visible damage or test it with a spark plug tester. If there's no strong spark, replacing the spark plug is the most reliable way to restore smooth operation.
1.4 Incorrect Valve Clearance
Incorrect valve clearance is another reason why your snow blower runs rough. If the gap between the valve and rocker arm is too tight or too loose, the engine may be hard to start, lose power, or run unevenly. Over time, this can also damage the valves. It’s a good idea to check and adjust the valve clearance after the first 25 hours of use, then every 100 hours to keep your snow blower running smoothly.
1.5 Leaking Engine Gasket
Engine gasket leaks can directly affect performance and cause your snow blower to run rough. When the gasket wears out or cracks, it can let air or fuel escape, causing the engine to lose power or run unevenly. You might also notice oil leaks or strange noises. Replacing the damaged gasket is the best way to get your snow blower running smoothly again.
Engine gasket leaks leads poor performance and rough running (Source: AZParts)
2. How to Prevent Snow Blower Runs Rough in the Future
Keeping your snow blower in top condition not only ensures smoother performance but also helps avoid costly repairs during the peak of winter. Here are four practical tips to prevent issues like rough running:
2.1. Store Your Snow Blower Properly
Keeping your snow blower covered when not in use helps prevent rust, dust buildup, and moisture damage. Using a good snow blower cover protects important parts and keeps the machine in better shape. You can find high-quality covers that fit many brands at AZParts.
2.2. Use Fresh Stabilized Fuel
Old fuel can clog the engine and is a common reason why your snow blower runs rough. Always empty the tank at the end of winter and add fuel stabilizer before storing. This helps keep the engine clean and ready to start next season.
Use fresh stabilized fuel to make sure snow blower run smoothly (Source: AZParts)
2.3. Replace Worn Starting Components
To avoid starting troubles and rough performance, check and replace worn parts like the recoil starter or starter ignition key before each season. These components can weaken over time due to repeated use and exposure to cold weather. Replacing them early helps keep your machine reliable all season. Find reliable replacements at AZParts for most major snow blower brands.
2.4. Maintain Key Control Cables
If the clutch cable on your snow blower is worn out or too loose, it can be harder to control and may not work smoothly. Check it often and replace it if it looks frayed or stretched. You can find the right replacement clutch cables for many brands at AZParts to keep your snow blower working properly.
Worn out or too loose clutch cables can make it hard to control the snow blower smoothly (Source: AZParts)
3. FAQs about Snow Blower Runs Rough
3.1. Why is my snowblower running rough?
There are several reasons why your snow blower runs rough, including a clogged carburetor, dirty spark plug, old or stale fuel, and a blocked fuel filter. Each of these can disrupt the engine’s fuel-air mix and cause poor performance. You can find more details on these causes in the earlier section of this article.
3.2. How do I fix my snowblower from sputtering?
To fix sputtering, you can begin by draining any old or stale fuel and refilling with fresh, stabilized fuel. Then check the spark plug, fuel filter, and carburetor, these are common trouble spots for poor performance. Cleaning or replacing these parts often solves sputtering issues.
3.3. Why does my snowblower engine pulsate?
Pulsating or surging engines are often caused by an air leak or inconsistent fuel flow, commonly from a dirty carburetor or a loose gasket. Make sure all connections are tight and clean the fuel system if needed.
3.4. Should I put a fuel stabilizer in my snowblower?
Yes, using a fuel stabilizer helps prevent fuel breakdown during storage, which can clog your carburetor and cause rough running. It’s especially important before storing the machine for months.
3.5. Why is my snowblower shaking?
Excessive vibration or shaking is usually due to loose parts, worn-out bearings, or an unbalanced auger or impeller. Check for loose bolts or damaged components and replace any worn parts.
3.6. How often do you need to grease a snowblower?
It’s best to grease your snow blower every 25–50 hours of use, or at least once per season. Focus on auger bearings, wheels, and chute rotation points to keep everything running smoothly.
Keeping your snow blower in top shape doesn’t have to be complicated. By addressing issues early and following simple maintenance habits, you can avoid the frustration of rough running and extend the life of your machine. With many different types of snow blowers from various brands on the market, it’s important to find replacement parts that are compatible with your specific model. Visit AZParts today to find the right snow blower replacement parts and keep your machine running strong all season long.
Contact Information:
8 The Green, Ste A, Dover, Delaware 19901-3618, United States
Snowblower
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