Troubleshooting - MTD 300 Series Operator's Manual

Troubleshooting

Problem
Engine fails to start
Engine running erratically/
inconsistent RPM (hunting
or surging)
Engine overheats
Loss of power
Excessive vibration
Unit fails to self-propel
Augers continue to rotate
Unit fails to discharge snow
Cause
1. Choke not in CHOKE position.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
4. Engine not primed.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Key not in ignition on engine.
1. Engine running on CHOKE.
2. Stale fuel.
3. Water or dirt in fuel system.
4. Carburetor out of adjustment.
5. Engine over-governed
1. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Vent in gas cap plugged.
1. Loose parts or damaged auger.
1. Drive belt loose or damaged.
1. Cable out of adjustment.
1. Chute assembly clogged.
2. Shear pin(s) sheared.
3. Foreign object lodged in auger.
4. Auger control cable out of adjustment.
5. Auger belt loose or damaged.
Remedy
1. Move choke to CHOKE position.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Prime engine as instructed in the Operation
Section.
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Insert key fully into the switch.
1. Move choke lever to RUN position.
2. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
3. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
4. Contact an authorized Service Center.
5. Contact an authorized Service Center.
1. Refer to Engine Maintenance section.
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 unit to an
authorized service dealer.
1. Replace drive belt.
1. Adjust auger control cable as shown in
"Adjusting Auger Cable" section.
1. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire.
Clean chute and inside of auger housing with
clean-out tool or stick.
2. Replace shear pin(s).
3. Stop engine immediately and disconnect the
spark plug wire. Remove object from auger.
4. Adjust auger control cable.
5. Replace auger belt.
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