Troubleshooting - MTD 31A-3CAD729 Operator's Manual

Troubleshooting
Problem
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats
Loss of power
Excessive vibration
Cause
1. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
2. Blocked fuel line.
3. Key not snapped in place.
4. Spark plug wire disconnected.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Engine not primed.
7. Engine flooded from excessive priming.
1. Unit running on choke.
2. Fuel line blocked, or stale fuel.
3. Water or dirt in fuel system.
4. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Ventin gas cap plugged.
1. Loose parts or damaged auger.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
I.
2.
3.
4.
1.
1.
2.
1.
Unit fails to self-propel 1. Drive belt loose or damaged. 1.
Augers continue to rotate 1. Cable out of adjustment. 1.
Unit fails to discharge snow 1. Chute assembly clogged. 1.
Remedy
2. Shear pin(s) sheared.
3. Foreign object lodged in auger.
4. Auger control cable out of adjustment.
5. Auger belt loose or damaged.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline.
Clean fuel line.
insert key. See "Ignition Key" section.
Connect wire to spark plug.
Clean spark plug, re-adjust gap, or replace.
Prime engine four times.
Wait at least ten minutes before starting.
Move choke lever to OFF position.
Clean fuel line and fill tank with fresh, clean
gasoline.
Refer to engine manual.
Refer to engine manual.
Refer to engine manual.
Firmly connect spark plug wire.
Clear vent.
Stop engine immediately and disconnect
spark plug wire. Check for possible damage.
Tighten all bolts and nuts. Repair as needed.
If the problem persists, take unit to an
authorized service dealer.
Replace drive belt.
Adjust auger control cable as shown in
"Adjusting Auger Cable" section.
Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire.
Clean chute and inside of auger housing with
clean-out tool or stick.
Replace shear pin(s).
Stop engine immediately and disconnect the
spark plug wire. Remove object from auger.
Adjust auger control cable.
Replace auger belt.