Safe Snowthrower Operation

Safety practices should start even before the snowthrower is ever started for the season. Therefore, Toro recommends the following three key safety guides for operators who haven’t had their snowthrowers running recently:

1. Check your operator's manual. Be sure you remember how to operate your snowthrower. Things like pulling the choke and priming the engine are essential details that will frustrate you if you forget a step to starting your machine. One tip: Snowthrowers operate better with the engine at full throttle.



2. Know how to stop your snowthrower. If the snowthrower discharge chute clogs up, stop the engine, wait for all moving parts to stop and remove the spark plug wire. Use a broom handle or stick to dislodge snow or debris. Never put your hand in the discharge chute. A quick tip to keep the snow moving through the chute is to spray the inside with silicon spray or vegetable oil. A little PAM goes a long way to making snow removal easier.



3. Use common sense when delegating snow removal to employees. Review the safety instructions and provide training to anyone who will use the snowthrower.

SNOWTHROWER NOT WORKING? The above safety guidelines assume your machine has rumbled to life with the turn of the key or the tug of the coil. Here's what Toro recommends if your machine doesn't start:

1. Get new gas. Drain the old gas out and get new gas for the snowthrower. The most common problem when a snowthrower doesn't start is old gas. Sometimes the old gas has clogged the carburetor. Depending on how handy you are around engines, a Toro dealer may need to help you clear your carburetor of the old gas.



2. Replace the spark plug. Most spark plugs can be purchased at an automotive parts store and are easily changed.



3. Inspect belts. This is better done before the blizzard. Owner’s manuals include instructions for adjusting belts. Properly adjusted belts will throw snow better and the belts will last longer.