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8 Snow Blower Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions

AZparts Team

Updated on May 9, 2025

12 min read

A snow blower is a practical tool for winter, making it easy to clear driveways and walkways efficiently. However, over time, it may encounter issues that affect its performance or cause it to stop functioning. By identifying the causes and applying the right solutions, you can save on repair costs, minimize downtime, and extend the lifespan of your machine. This article highlights common snow blower troubleshooting , how to fix them, and suggests quality replacement parts from the AZParts Snow Blower collection.

1. 8 Common Issues and Solutions for Snow Blower Troubleshooting

Below are some of the most common issues and effective troubleshooting tips, along with recommended replacement parts from the Snow Blower by AZParts – a trusted source for high-quality snow blower parts.

1.1. Snow Blower Not Starting

A snow blower that won’t start is one of the most common and frustrating issues users face, especially in the middle of winter. This problem often stems from a combination of overlooked maintenance issues and fuel-related problems. Below are the most common causes and recommended solutions:

Empty fuel tank or use of old, degraded gasoline
Over time, gasoline can degrade and lose its effectiveness, especially if left sitting in the tank during the off-season.
Solution: Drain any old fuel and refill the tank with fresh, high-quality gasoline to ensure proper combustion.
Dirty or worn spark plug
A spark plug that is fouled or worn out can prevent the engine from igniting.
Solution: Inspect the spark plug for carbon buildup or wear. Clean it thoroughly or replace it if necessary to restore reliable ignition.
Clogged carburetor caused by dirt or stale fuel
Fuel left in the system for extended periods can lead to varnish or debris buildup in the carburetor, restricting fuel flow.
Solution: Remove the carburetor and clean it using a carburetor cleaner. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, replacing the component may be required.
Moisture condensation in the fuel tank
When stored in humid or fluctuating temperatures, condensation can form inside the fuel tank, affecting fuel quality and combustion.
Solution: Empty the tank and clean it thoroughly. To prevent future moisture buildup, consider using a fuel stabilizer when storing the snow blower for long periods.

By addressing these common causes and performing regular maintenance, you can significantly reduce the chances of startup failure and ensure your snow blower is ready when you need it most.

Common problems when using a snow blower is that it won’t start (Source: Freepik)

If the carburetor is the problem, you can replace it with the 951-05444 Carburetor , designed for Huayi 175SC engines. It’s compatible with Cub Cadet, MTD, and Troy-Bilt Snow Blower. This replacement part is easy to install taking just over 30 minutes even for those with minimal technical experience. Moreover, 951-05444 Carburetor is also made of non-abrasive and heavy-duty materials that can withstand harsh conditions. You can find it in the Snow Blower collection at AZParts, a trusted source for high-quality snow blower parts.

951-05444 Carburetor, designed for Huayi 175SC engines (Source: AZParts)

1.2. Snow Blower Not Blowing Snow

Another common issue occurs when the snow blower fails to discharge snow effectively. This is especially frequent in wet, heavy, or partially frozen snow conditions.

Common Causes and How to Fix Them:

Clogged discharge chute due to wet or packed snow
Wet snow can stick to the inside of the chute, causing blockages that prevent snow from being expelled.
Solution: Turn off the engine and use a clean-out tool (never your hands) to safely remove any snow or ice buildup from the chute.
Frozen or restricted auger movement
Ice buildup or compacted snow can freeze around the auger, stopping it from rotating properly.
Solution: Inspect the auger for any visible obstructions or ice. Clear any buildup and ensure all moving parts are free to rotate.
Worn or damaged auger paddles
Over time, the paddles may wear down, reducing their ability to scoop and throw snow.
Solution: Check the condition of the paddles. If they appear worn, cracked, or frayed, replace them to restore optimal performance.
Lack of lubrication in moving parts
Components that aren’t well-lubricated can seize up in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Apply appropriate lubricant to the auger shaft, chute controls, and other moving parts to ensure smooth operation.

Regular post-use cleaning and proper storage can help prevent these issues, especially when dealing with wet or slushy snow.

Snow Blower Not Blowing Snow is common in high-moisture snow conditions (Source: Freepik)

For improved performance, consider replacing worn paddles with the 302565MA Snow Thrower Rubber Paddle & Hardware . This high-quality kit includes durable rubber paddles and installation hardware, compatible with Craftsman, Murray, and Noma snow blowers sized 20", 21", and 22". Upgrading to this set helps restore full clearing power and extends the life of your snow blower. Additionally, installation is straightforward and takes only 15–20 minutes, even for non-experts.

302565MA Snow Thrower Rubber Paddle & Hardware (Source: AZParts)

1.3. Auger or Discharge Chute Is Clogged

Clogging in the auger or discharge chute often happens when wet, heavy snow or frozen buildup obstructs the path. Foreign objects such as rocks, sticks, or debris can also get lodged during operation, causing the snow blower to stop functioning properly.

Clogging in the auger or discharge chute often happens when wet, heavy snow (Source: Freepik)

How to fix it:

Always turn off the machine and ensure it’s completely powered down before performing any maintenance. Use a snow removal tool or clearing stick to safely dislodge any ice or debris from the auger and chute. Check thoroughly to make sure no obstructions remain. Regular cleaning helps prevent recurring blockages and ensures smooth, efficient operation.

1.4. Leaking Gas

Fuel leaks are a serious issue that not only reduce the performance of your snow blower but also pose significant safety risks. These leaks typically occur when components such as the fuel tank, fuel lines, or rubber gaskets become cracked, brittle, or worn over time. If left unaddressed, leaking fuel can lead to fire hazards, environmental damage, and decreased machine efficiency.

Common Causes and How to Fix Them:

Cracked or damaged fuel tank
Repeated exposure to cold weather and vibrations can cause the fuel tank to crack or weaken over time.
Solution: Inspect the fuel tank for any visible cracks, warping, or signs of leakage. Replace the tank if any damage is found.
Worn or split fuel lines
Fuel lines made of rubber or plastic can degrade due to age, exposure to fuel, or temperature changes.
Solution: Examine all fuel lines for splits, soft spots, or brittleness. Replace any that show signs of wear to restore a secure fuel flow.
Deteriorated rubber gaskets or seals
Gaskets and seals can dry out, crack, or lose elasticity, allowing fuel to seep through connections.
Solution: Check the gaskets around the fuel cap, carburetor, and other fittings. Replace any that appear brittle, cracked, or no longer form a tight seal.

1.5. Wheels Not Turning

If the wheels aren’t turning, the issue may stem from a loose or broken drive belt, or a problem with the gearbox. The drive belt is a critical component that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. When it becomes damaged or loses tension, the snow blower will be unable to move.

If the wheels aren’t turning, the issue may stem from a loose or broken drive belt (Source: Freepik)

How to fix it:

Inspect the condition of the drive belt and gearbox. If the belt is loose or broken, replace it immediately to restore proper power transmission. Make sure the new belt is correctly installed and check for any gearbox malfunctions to ensure smooth operation.

1.6. Snow Blower Runs Rough

When your snow blower runs unevenly sputtering, surging, or idling inconsistently it’s typically a sign of underlying engine issues. These symptoms are often caused by restricted airflow, poor fuel quality, or weak ignition. If left unresolved, they can lead to reduced performance and difficulty clearing snow efficiently.

Common Causes and How to Fix Them:

Clogged or dirty air filter
A blocked air filter restricts the airflow needed for combustion, disrupting the air-fuel mixture and causing the engine to run roughly.
Solution: Remove the air filter and inspect its condition. Clean it if it’s reusable, or replace it if it’s excessively dirty or damaged.
Old or poor-quality fuel
Fuel degrades over time, especially if it’s been sitting in the tank since last season, reducing combustion efficiency and causing erratic engine performance.
Solution: Drain the tank and refill it with fresh, high-quality gasoline. For long-term storage, consider using a fuel stabilizer.
Worn or faulty spark plug
A weak or damaged spark plug may fail to ignite the fuel-air mixture effectively, resulting in poor combustion and inconsistent operation.
Solution: Check the spark plug for signs of wear or carbon buildup. Clean or replace it as needed to ensure a strong, consistent spark.
Dirty or malfunctioning carburetor (if problem persists)
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, the carburetor may be clogged or damaged.
Solution: Inspect the carburetor and clean it thoroughly using a carburetor cleaner. If cleaning doesn’t help, consider replacing the unit.

Regular seasonal maintenance especially before winter begins can help prevent these issues and ensure your snow blower runs smoothly when you need it most.

An unstable-running snow blower can be caused by a dirty air filter (Source: Freepik)

To support smooth and consistent engine performance, you can use the 570682A 951-10639A Primer Bulb with Fuel Line (2 Packs) . This kit includes two primer bulbs and matching fuel lines, specially designed for Tecumseh engines. It’s compatible with snow blower models from MTD, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, Ryobi, and Yard Machines. The primer bulb ensures accurate and reliable fuel delivery, especially in cold conditions, making it easier to start your snow blower and maintain optimal performance. It’s an excellent choice for keeping your machine running smoothly when you need it most.

1.7. Machine Leaves Too Much Snow Behind

If your snow blower leaves behind patches of snow after use, it could be due to improperly adjusted scraper blades or worn-out cutting edges. When the blade doesn’t make proper contact with the ground or isn’t set at the correct height, it fails to remove all the snow efficiently.

Snow blower leaves behind patches of snow could be due to improperly adjusted scraper blades or worn-out cutting edges (Source: Freepik)

How to fix it:

Check the blade height and adjust it to ensure it sits at the proper level for effective snow removal. If the scraper blade is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one to restore optimal performance and ensure a clean path with every pass.

1.8. Belt Breaks During Use

A broken drive belt can occur if the snow blower is overloaded, the belt is old, or it was installed incorrectly. This often happens when the machine runs continuously for long periods or lacks regular maintenance.

A broken drive belt can occur if the snow blower is overloaded, the belt is old (Source: Freepik)

How to fix it:
To resolve this, replace the broken drive belt with a new one of the correct type and size. Be sure to check the installation to ensure the belt is properly positioned and not overly tight. Regular maintenance and avoiding overloading the machine will help prevent future issues.

2. Snow Blower Maintenance: Avoid These Common Problems

To ensure your snow blower runs efficiently and consistently throughout the winter season, regular maintenance is essential. Below are the key steps you should follow regularly:

Change the engine oil at the recommended intervals: Every 25 hours of use or at least once per season, change the oil to ensure proper lubrication, prevent overheating, and avoid wear and tear.
Clean or replace the air filter: A dirty air filter reduces performance and can cause the machine to run unevenly. Clean it regularly and replace it when necessary.
Check and replace the spark plug: A weak or worn spark plug can cause difficulty starting the engine or lead to rough idling. Replacing the spark plug every season ensures smoother operation.
Monitor the drive belt and transmission parts: A worn, cracked, or improperly installed drive belt can break during use. Check and replace it promptly to avoid further damage.
Lubricate moving parts: Use specialized lubricating grease to keep mechanical parts running smoothly and extend the life of the machine.
Don’t leave old fuel in the system for too long: Stale fuel can clog the fuel system. Drain the fuel if the snow blower won't be used for an extended period.

In addition to proper maintenance, using high-quality replacement parts is crucial. Be sure to purchase parts from trusted sources like AZParts, which specializes in providing original snow blower parts such as drive belts, spark plugs, air filters, cutting blades, transmission kits, and other essential accessories for snow blowers. Using the right, high-quality parts ensures your snow blower operates efficiently, minimizes errors, and saves you on repair costs in the long run.

To store snow blowers right way from harsh weather conditions when not in use, consider investing in a Snow Blower Cover . A durable cover will shield your machine from snow, ice, and moisture, helping to prevent rust, corrosion, and wear during off-seasons. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to prolong the lifespan of your snow blower.