Two-Stage Tune-Up

Two-Stage Tune-Up

How to Maintain a Two-Stage Snow Blower

Dale, the Power Equipment Expert
By 
Power Equipment Expert

There's a reason why people have garages. Nobody likes cranking wrenches in freezing weather. We recommend servicing your two-stage snowblower in the late spring or early fall before the cold weather numbs your knuckles.

Your two-stage snow thrower will last much longer if you perform three simple maintenance maneuvers:

 

Step 1: Change the Oil

Oil for a 2-Stage Snowblower

Not all snowblower oil is created equal. Two-stage snow blowers use 4-cycle or 4-stroke engine oil. Don't use 2-cycle, 2-stroke or any oil meant for mixing with gasoline. Two-cycle engine oil is used with older single-stage models instead.

Also, because snow blowers operate in below-freezing temperatures, you should use 4-stroke engine oil specially formulated for cold weather use. Otherwise, the oil can turn to sludge, preventing your snow blower from starting.

We've written about how to mix oil and gasoline in a 2-cycle engine, just remember that you also have the option of getting premixed fuel so you don't need to worry about the right mixture ratio. 

 

Step 2: Change the Spark Plug

If you used your snow blower a lot last season, replace the spark plug too. We even offer maintenance kits that provide the compatible oil, spark plugs and more in one simple kit.

The kits vary depending on your engine type. If you have an OHV engine, get an OHV kit. If you have an L-Head engine, get an L-Head kit.

 

Step 3: Rust Prevention

Snow Blower Touch-up Paint

You want your snowblower to last for years to come, and your engine isn't the only part that needs attention. Melting snow is notorious for rusting scratched steel.

Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove as much rust as possible, so the paint will stick. Apply a thin coat of rust-proof paint and let dry. Repeat a few more times, and your snowblower will be protected all season long.

 

Off-Season Storage

Doing proper tune-ups and routine maintenance on your snow blower will save hundreds in costly repairs and ensures your snowblower will last for years.

If you choose to maintain your snow blower at the end of the snow season, there are a few more steps you should follow to make sure that it's kept safe in off-season storage.

You've spent the time to make sure your snowblower continues running, so the natural next step is to store it properly too-protecting your investment and keeping it looking like new.

Next: How to Properly Store Your Snowblower

Dale, the Power Equipment Expert
By 
Power Equipment Expert
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