Troubleshooting - MTD 31A-2M1A729 Operator's Manual

Troubleshooting
9
Problem
Engine Fails to start
Engine running erratically/
inconsistent RPM (hunting
or surging)
Engine overheats
Loss of power
Excessive vibration
Cause
1. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
2. Blocked fuel line.
3. Key not inserted all the way.
4. Spark plug wire disconnected.
S. Faulty spark plug.
6. Engine not primed.
7. Engine flooded from excessive priming.
1. Engine running on choke.
2. Fuel line blocked, or stale fuel.
3. Water or dirt in fuel system.
4. Carburetor out of adjustment.
5. Over-governed engine.
1. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Ventin gas cap plugged.
1. Loose parts or damaged auger.
Snow thrower fails to self- 1. Auger control cable out of adjustment. 1.
propel
2. Auger drive belt loose or damaged. 2.
Augers continue to rotate 1. Auger control cable out of adjustment. 1.
Unit fails to discharge snow 1. Chute assembly clogged. 1.
Engine fails to start
2. Foreign object lodged in auger.
3. Auger control cable out of adjustment.
4. Auger belt loose or damaged.
1. Extension cord not connected (when using
electric start button, on models so equipped)
Remedy
1. Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline.
2. Clean fuel line.
3. Insert key all the way.
4. Connect wire to spark plug.
5. Clean spark plug, readjust gap, or replace.
6. Prime engine five times.
7. Wait at least ten minutes before starting.
1. Move choke lever to RUN position.
2. Clean fuel line and fill tank with fresh, clean
gasoline.
3. Run engine until it stops. Refill with fresh fuel.
4. Contact an authorized service center.
5. Contact an authorized service center.
1. Contact an authorized service center.
1. Firmly connect spark plug wire.
2. Clear vent.
1. 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 snow thrower to
an authorized service dealer.
Adjust auger control cable as shown in
Maintenance & Adjustments section.
Replace auger drive belt.
Adjust auger control cable as shown in
Maintenance & Adjustments section.
Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire.
Clean chute and inside of auger housing with
clean-out tool or stick.
2. Stop engine immediately and disconnectthe
spark plug wire. Remove object from auger.
3. Adjust auger control cable.
4. Replace auger belt.
1. Connect one end of the extension cord to
the electric starter outlet and the other end
to a three-prong 120-volt, grounded, AC
outlet.