Replacing Snowblower Fuel Lines: A Step-By-Step Guide

If your snowblower won't start, it could be due to a clogged or broken fuel line. Replacing the fuel line yourself is possible, and you can do it with a few tools. The fuel line carries fuel from the gas tank to the engine, so you'll need to drain the fuel tank and disconnect the spark plug wire. You'll also need to remove the engine shroud and the old fuel line before installing the new one and putting everything back together.

Drain the fuel tank and disconnect the spark plug wire

Before you begin to replace the fuel line on your snowblower, it is important to take a few safety precautions. Firstly, ensure that you have drained the fuel from the tank or run the snowblower until the tank is empty. This is a crucial step to avoid any accidental spillage or leakage during the replacement process. Once the tank is empty, position the snowblower in a well-ventilated area. This will help dissipate any residual fuel vapours and ensure a safe working environment.

The next step is to disconnect the spark plug wire. Locate the spark plug and carefully pull the wire up and away from the plug. By doing so, you are eliminating the risk of accidental ignition during the repair process. It is important to handle this step with caution, as the spark plug is a crucial component of your snowblower's engine.

At this point, you have successfully drained the fuel tank and disconnected the spark plug wire. You can now proceed to the next steps, which involve removing the electric starter switch and engine shroud, as outlined in the subsequent paragraphs. Remember to work carefully and refer to the snowblower's manual for additional guidance if needed.

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Remove the electric starter switch

To remove the electric starter switch on your snowblower, you'll need to perform the following steps:

Firstly, check that the engine spins normally by pulling the recoil starter rope. If the engine is locked up, the electric starter won't be able to spin it. Next, disconnect the spark plug wire by pulling it straight up and off the plug. This will prevent any accidental starts during the process. Now, locate the switch box and remove the screws that secure it to the engine. Gently pull the switch box away from the engine, allowing it to hang by the power cord connected to the starter motor. At this point, you should be able to access the starter motor mounting screws. Remove these screws and pull the starter motor off the engine.

Now you can focus on removing the electric starter switch itself. Using a screwdriver, carefully unscrew the starter switch screws. Be gentle, as you don't want to damage the surrounding components. Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the switch away from its housing. It should come off without too much force. Before installing a new switch, take this opportunity to inspect the starter motor for any signs of damage or wear. Make sure to check the wires for any burning or melting, as this could indicate a larger issue.

If your snow blower's electric starter is not responding when the switch is engaged, there could be an issue with the switch or the motor itself. Before assuming the switch is faulty, check the power cord that connects to the starter to ensure it's receiving power. If the cord is plugged in and intact, with no signs of fraying or breakage, then the problem likely lies with the starter switch or motor.

To confirm which component is at fault, remove both the switch and the motor by unscrewing them from their attachments. Once they're removed, take off the cover of the motor and inspect it for any damage. If you notice any burnt or melted wires, the motor has likely burnt out and requires replacement. However, if the motor appears to be in good condition, the issue is probably a failing starter switch.

Remove the engine shroud

To remove the engine shroud, you will need to first pull off the choke and throttle knobs. Next, remove the acorn nuts that secure the carburetor to the engine. Then, remove the muffler shroud mounting screws. Finally, work the engine shroud off the carburetor mounting studs, leaving the primer hose and breather hose connected.

Some people find it easier to remove the engine shroud without first removing the muffler shroud, but this is not recommended for reassembly. The engine shroud fits under the bottom lip of the muffler shroud, so it is necessary to remove the muffler shroud first before putting the engine shroud back on.

If you are having trouble removing the fuel line, it may be stuck. It could be pressed into a groove and hard to remove without further disassembling the front cover, starter, and part of the controls. Try pulling the front cover off—it's not a big job. Taking off the engine shroud will also make it easier for you.

Remember to use the same type of insulated black fuel line when replacing the fuel line. You can spray the outside of it with clear silicone to make it slide better. Flush the line before connecting it to the carb.

Remove the fuel line

To remove the fuel line, you will first need to drain the fuel tank and disconnect the spark plug wire. Position the snowblower in a well-ventilated area and pull the spark plug wire up and off the plug. Next, remove the electric starter switch by taking out the mounting screws and pulling the starter switch off the bracket. Allow the starter switch to hang by the electrical cord.

Now, you can begin to remove the engine shroud. Pull off the choke and throttle knobs, and then remove the acorn nuts that secure the carburetor to the engine. Take out the muffler shroud mounting screws and work the engine shroud off the carburetor mounting studs, leaving the primer hose and breather hose connected.

Finally, you can release the fuel line. Release the fuel line clamp and pull the fuel line off the fuel filter. Repeat this process to release the other end of the fuel line from the carburetor and remove it completely.

Install the new fuel line

To install the new fuel line, first, connect the new fuel line to the tank. Secure it in place with the fuel line clamp. Next, connect the other end of the new fuel line to the carburetor and again, secure it with the clamp.

When installing the new fuel line, ensure you are using the correct type of fuel line. There are two different sizes of 1/4" Neoprene fuel hose. The fuel line bought from an auto parts store is 5/8" OD, whereas the one from a mower store is 1/2" OD. This makes a big difference in this application.

To make the new fuel line easier to install, you can spray the outside of it with clear silicone to make it slide better. You can also use a lubricant to help guide the new fuel line through.

Frequently asked questions