How to Start a Husqvarna Snow Blower: A Step-by-Step Guide

When the snow starts to pile up, having a reliable snow blower can make clearing your driveway and sidewalks much easier. Husqvarna snow blowers are known for their durability and performance in harsh winter conditions. If you own a Husqvarna snow blower equipped with both a recoil starter and a 120-volt AC electric starter, Here’s a detailed guide on how to start it, ensuring you’re ready to tackle the snow efficiently.

Starting Your Husqvarna Snow Blower with the Electric Starter

When you’re ready to tackle the winter snow with your Husqvarna snow blower, the electric starter can simplify the starting process. Here’s how you can get your machine running smoothly:

1. Insert the Safety Ignition Key

Begin the process by inserting the safety ignition key into the ignition slot until you hear a click, which indicates that the key is securely in place. It’s important not to turn the key; just push it straight in to activate the starting mechanism.

2. Prime the Engine

To help with starting a cold engine, gently press the primer bulb with your non-gloved thumb twice, holding it for one second each time. This action delivers a small amount of fuel directly to the carburetor, which is necessary to aid the start.

3. Adjust the Choke

For cold starts, move the choke control to the full position. This setting enriches the fuel mixture in the carburetor, making it easier for the engine to start in colder conditions.

4. Connect the Power Cord

Attach the power cord to the engine’s electric starter. Make sure that the other end of the cord is connected to a reliable 120-volt AC household current outlet. This step is crucial as it provides the necessary power for the starter to function.

5. Start the Engine

Press the starter button and hold it until the engine starts. Be careful not to crank the engine for more than five continuous seconds. If the engine does not start on the first try, pause for five to ten seconds before trying again to avoid overloading the starter system.

6. Adjust the Choke

Once the engine has started, gradually move the choke control to the off position. Adjusting the choke as the engine begins to warm up will help the engine run more smoothly and prevent it from stalling as it transitions to normal operating conditions.

7. Disconnect the Power Cord

After the engine starts, first disconnect the power cord from the receptacle and then from the engine. This order is important for safety and to prevent any potential electrical issues.

8. Warm up the Engine

Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes before beginning your snow clearing. Engines typically do not develop full power until they have reached their normal operating temperature. Allowing your snow blower to warm up ensures it operates efficiently and effectively right from the start.

Using the Recoil Starter on Your Husqvarna Snow Blower

Starting your Husqvarna snow blower using the recoil starter involves a few steps that are similar to using the electric starter but with some key manual actions:

1. Insert the Safety Ignition Key

Begin by inserting the safety ignition key into the ignition slot until it clicks, just as you would with the electric starter. This ensures that the snow blower is ready to be started safely.

2. Prime the Engine

Press the primer bulb gently with a non-gloved thumb two times, each time holding it for one second. This action helps to deliver fuel directly to the carburetor, which is crucial for starting the engine, especially in cold weather.

3. Set the Choke

Rotate the choke control to the full position to enrich the fuel mixture, aiding the start-up process. Be cautious of over-priming, as this can flood the engine, making it harder to start. If you suspect the engine is flooded, give it a few minutes to settle before attempting to start it again, and refrain from using the primer bulb during this attempt.

4. Pull the Recoil Starter

Firmly pull the recoil starter handle with a quick motion. It’s important not to let the starter rope snap back, as this could damage the starter mechanism.

5. Adjust the Choke

After the engine starts, it’s necessary to gradually move the choke control to the off position. This adjustment should be done slowly to allow the engine to transition smoothly to its normal operating mode without stalling.

6. Engine Warm-up

Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes. Snow blowers, like many other engines, do not develop full operational power until they reach the normal operating temperature. Allowing the engine to warm up ensures it performs effectively when you begin clearing snow.

Tips for a Warm Start with Your Husqvarna Snow Blower

Starting your Husqvarna snow blower when the engine is already warm involves a slightly modified process compared to a cold start. Here’s how to effectively get your machine running in warmer conditions or when the engine has only recently been turned off:

For a warm start, it’s crucial to leave the choke control in the off position. When the engine is already warm, it does not require the same level of fuel enrichment that it does from a cold start. Keeping the choke off prevents the engine from flooding with excess fuel, which can make starting more difficult.

Even with a warm engine, you should still follow the basic steps for starting your snow blower. This includes safely inserting the ignition key until it clicks, priming the engine (if it has been sitting for a while since last use), and using the starting method of your choice—either electric or recoil.

• For Electric Start: Connect the power cord and press the start button. Since the engine is warm, it should start more readily without the need for extended cranking.
• For Recoil Start: Firmly pull the recoil starter handle. The engine should start with less effort compared to a cold start.

If the snow blower has been inactive for more than a few minutes, a couple of presses on the primer bulb can help. However, excessive priming is unnecessary and can lead to flooding, so use this feature sparingly with a warm engine.

Although the engine is already warm, allowing it to run for a minute or two before beginning snow removal will ensure it is operating smoothly. This brief warm-up period helps the oil circulate properly and ensures all moving parts are adequately lubricated.

Understanding these nuances in starting your Husqvarna snow blower when the engine is warm will enhance the machine’s performance and reliability. This knowledge not only extends the life of your snow blower but also ensures it operates at peak efficiency for effective snow removal. Whether you’re using the electric or recoil starter, these tips will prepare you to clear snow efficiently throughout the winter season.

FAQs

1. How do I start my Husqvarna snow blower with an electric start?
   To use the electric start, first ensure the fuel tank is filled and the machine is on a flat surface. Insert the safety key, press the primer bulb a few times depending on the temperature, and set the choke to full. Connect the power cord to a 120-volt outlet and then to your snow blower. Push the start button until the engine runs, then disconnect the power cord.
2. What should I do if my Husqvarna snow blower won’t start?
   First, check the basics: ensure there’s fresh fuel in the tank, the safety key is inserted, and the spark plug is clean and properly connected. If the engine is cold, make sure to set the choke to full and prime the engine as needed. If it still won’t start, it may be necessary to check for a clogged carburetor or defective spark plug.
3. Can I use the recoil starter if the electric start isn’t working on my Husqvarna snow blower?
   Yes, you can use the recoil starter. Insert the safety key, prime the engine, and set the choke to full. Pull the starter cord sharply until the engine fires. Remember to let the engine warm up before starting your snow removal.
4. How often should I prime the engine before starting my Husqvarna snow blower?
   Typically, you should press the primer bulb two to three times before attempting to start a cold engine. If the temperature is very low, you might need a couple of extra presses. Avoid over-priming as it can flood the engine.
5. What is the correct choke setting for starting my Husqvarna snow blower in cold weather?
   For cold starts, set the choke to the full position to enrich the fuel mixture. Once the engine starts and runs for a few seconds, gradually move the choke to the half position and then completely off as the engine warms up.

We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried starting your Husqvarna snow blower using these tips, or do you have other methods that work well? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below to help fellow readers gear up for winter!

David Murray

Forestry Author

I'm David Murry, a forestry equipment specialist with a focus on chainsaw operation. With over 13 years of experience, I've honed my skills in operating and maintaining a wide range of machinery, from chainsaws to log splitters. My passion for the outdoors and commitment to sustainable forestry drive my work, which emphasizes safety, efficiency, and staying updated with industry advancements. Additionally, I'm dedicated to sharing my expertise and promoting environmental awareness within the forestry community.