Durability is one of the key features of all Honda snowblowers, but even these reputable models can sometimes cause headaches for homeowners. Though these problems are a nuisance at the outset of a snow clearing job, a few brief troubleshooting routines can often pin down the specific problem and make it easy to get the equipment back in working order within just a few moments. Before contacting a local service center and assuming the worst, be sure to follow these common troubleshooting guidelines and rule out any problems that might be a bit easier to fix at home.
Safety First: Don’t Troubleshoot Without Taking Precautions
Don’t let troubleshooting pose major safety risks. If the issue occurs after the equipment has been turned on, be sure to turn the equipment completely off and close the fuel valve. Allow the engine to cool before attempting service, since a very hot engine can lead to operator burns and even cause fuel or oil to spark. Perform maintenance only in an outdoor or well-ventilated area, and only while wearing the proper eye protection and gloves. Never touch the auger without gloves or the snow clearing bar. Make sure that the snowblower is placed on a flat, level, and solid surface, in order to guard against the dangers of spilled fluids or unstable equipment.
Engine Problems
Some of the most common problems to affect a snowblower prior to operation are those concerning the engine itself. Whether it’s the starter mechanism, the engine’s power level, or a similar concern, equipment operators should check a few key things before assuming that their snowblower requires the service of a trained professional. Among the most common problems:
1. The Electric Starter Doesn’t Function
If the electric starter isn’t turning the equipment on as it should, there are two key things to check. The first of these is the condition of the electric starter’s power cord. A shorted or snagged cord will simply be unable to provide sufficient power to the engine to get it started from a cold state. If the cable’s integrity can be verified, the next consideration to make would concern the wall outlet itself. Try several different wall outlets, since some outlets can occasionally lack the amount of power needed to start the equipment.
2. The Starter Works, But the Engine Does Not Turn On
Most of the time, this problem is caused by something that affects the engine’s fuel supply or spark plug. If the starter’s condition is great, but the engine just won’t start on demand, consider the following probable causes of the issue:
– The fuel may be old or “stale.” There may also be too little fuel for the engine to start properly. Put new fuel in the fuel tank and try starting the snowblower again. If the fuel is new and the fuel tank is full, check that the fuel valve has been switched to the “on” position.
– The throttle may not be in the “fast” position. Ensure that this is the case, and make sure that the choke is set to “on” for a cold start or “off” if restarting the engine after a temporary stop in the snow clearing process.
– The spark plug cap may be off, or excessive deposits around the spark plug may be impeding the engine’s startup process. Check the spark plug’s integrity, position, and cleanliness, and try again when these issues have been fixed.
3. Engine Suffers From Low Power
A low-powered engine is typically the result of a clog, excessive ground speed in deep accumulations, or problems with the spark plug, choke control, or fuel condition. Check these issues and try again.
4. General Drive Problems
Drive problems that affect the equipment’s speed, even if the engine is working, typically result from issues with transmission fluid or the throttle speed. The shift lever, drive control, or drive belt may also be malfunctioning. Most of these issues are easily fixed, but a drive belt problem will require service by an authorized dealer.
Snowblower Problems That Affect Snow Clearing
Another key cause of problems for Honda snowblower owners is the equipment’s occasional tendency to experience problems while clearing snow. There are generally a few key issues that arise, and a few easy ways to solve them.
1. The Snowblower Won’t Throw Snow
The drive belt or primary belt may be the cause of this problem, and a fix for either issue would require visiting Honda Lawn Parts. Otherwise, check the auger housing for debris and clogs. If that doesn’t fix the problem, check the snowblower’s lock bolts for damage and replace them if necessary.
2. Snow Does Not Discharge Properly
Lock bolts may again be the cause if this problem arises. Another key concern is the density of the snow. Heavier and wetter snow can be very difficult to discharge in some cases. The throttle may also be set to the wrong position, or the drive belt may require professional service in order to restore proper discharge.
2. The Engine Stalls When the Auger Clutch Lever is Engaged
Generally, this problem arises when the auger housing is clogged with snow or debris. It may also occur if the engine is running to slow. Set the throttle to “fast” and try again.
For OEM Parts and More, Visit HondaLawnParts.com
For the parts and knowledge needed to fix many common Honda snowblower issues, equipment owners should visit HondaLawnParts.com. With the right combination of OEM parts and excellent equipment knowledge, it will be easy to fix many of the most common issues before handling a major snowstorm’s aftermath.
