Operation - MTD 300 Series Operator's Manual

Operation
Starting the Engine
NOTE: For complete and detailed engine starting, stopping and
storing instructions, it is recommended that you read the engine
manual also included with this machine.
NOTE:To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, make sure the
engine is outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain the
metal loop on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the
rubber boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the
spark plug.
2. Make certain both the auger control and drive control are
in the disengaged (released) position.
3. Move throttle control up to FAST position. Insert ignition
key into slot. Make sure it snaps into place. Do not attempt
to turn the key.
NOTE:The engine cannot start unless the key is inserted
into the ignition switch.
4. Rotate choke control to FULL choke position (cold engine
sta rt).
NOTE: If the engine is already warm, place choke control in
the OFF position instead of FULL.
5. Push the primer two or three times for cold engine start,
making sure to cover vent hole in the center of the primer
when pushing.
NOTE: DO NOT use primer to restart a warm engine after a
short shutdown.
NOTE:Additional priming may be necessary if the
temperature is below 15° Fahrenheit.
6. Grasp the recoil starter handle and slowly pull the rope out.
At the point where it becomes slightly harder to pull the
rope, slowly allow the rope to recoil.
7. Pull the starter handle with a firm, rapid stroke. Do not
release the handle and allow it to snap back. Keep a firm
hold on the starter handle and allow it to slowly recoil.
8. As the engine warms, slowly rotate the choke control to the
OFF position. If the engine falters, quickly rotate the choke
control back to the FULL position and then slowly into the
OFF position again.
NOTE: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes after
starting. The engine will not develop full power until it
reaches operating temperatures.
9. Operate the engine at full throttle (FAST) when throwing
snow.
Stopping the Engine
Run engine for a few minutes to help dry off any moisture on
engine.
1. To stop the engine, move the throttle control lever to the
OFF position or pull out the key (either method works). Do
not attempt to turn key as this could cause it to break.
2. Remove the ignition key and store in a safe place.
3. Wipe all snow and moisture from the area around the
engine as well as the area in and around the drive control
and auger control. Also, engage and release both controls
several times.
ToEngagethe Drive
1.
2.
Move the throttle control into the Fast (rabbit) position.
To engage the drive, squeeze the drive control completely
against the upper handle to engage the wheels. To stop
the forward motion, release the drive control.
Engaging the Augers
To engage the augers, squeeze the auger control handle
completely against the upper handle. To stop the augers,
release handle.
Replacing Shear Pins
The augers are secured to the spiral shaft with two shear pins
and cotter pins. If the auger should strike a foreign object or ice
jam, the snow thrower is designed so that the pins may shear. If
the augers will not turn, check to see if the pins have sheared.
See Fig. 5-1.
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Figure 54