Questions and Answers
Question:
My neighbor wants to borrow my snowblower should I lend it to them?
Answer:
No, most likely your neighbor will put the same bad or old gasoline in your snowblower that caused his to stop working.
Question:
My Toro Personal Pace lawnmower with blade brake runs great but does not cut grass. What could be wrong?
Answer:
My Toro Personal Pace lawnmower with blade brake runs great but does not cut grass. What could be wrong?
Question:
Do you use OEM replacement parts when servicing small engine equipment?
Answer:
Yes, original equipment manufacturer or better parts are used for repairs.
Question:
The pull cord rope on my Ariens snowblower just broke. Is this repairable?
Answer:
Yes, the broken rope on your snowblower can be replaced with a new one.
In some cases the entire recoil mechanism does need to be replaced if the mechanism
has also failed.
Question:
How do I know if my Toro single stage snowblower paddles are worn out?
Answer:
Each paddle has a wear indicator hole on the outer edge of the paddle. If you can’t see the hole, your paddle’s are worn out. This is the same on the 2000,, 2500, 2450, 3650, 421, 521, 621, 721and 821 Toro single stage snowblowers.
Question:
After using my snowblower what should I do before putting it in the garage?
Answer:
After each use its a good idea to run the auger to clear out any snow that is in the auger before storing to prevent freeze up of the auger and/or impeller. Sweep the excess snow off of the machine and closing the gas valve (if equipped) is always a good practice.
Question:
How can I book an appointment?
Answer:
Call 612-424-2041 for a free estimate to set up an appointment.
Question:
Do you work on small engines in Minnetonka such as snowblowers, lawnmowers, generators and pressure washers?
Answer:
Yes I do work on small engines in Minnetonka such as snowblowers, lawnmowers, generators and pressure washers. I do service most all Snowblower, lawnmower, generator and pressure washers for the Minnetonka community and surrounding areas.
Question:
How much does it cost to repair my snowblower?
Answer:
Most repairs cost less than a fraction of what the machine cost new and take just one day to complete. Serving the community by offering quality and customer satisfaction is our number one goal.
Question:
How do I know when my grass needs cutting?
Answer:
Most grasses should be mowed when they have grown 1/2
” to 1″ above the recommended height.
Question
How do I know if my lawn mower blade needs sharpening?
Answer:
A sharp blade cuts cleanly. A dull blade tears the grass, leaving shredded ends that turn brown.
Question:
What is the difference between mulching, bagging and discharging clippings?
Answer:
Mulching chops the clippings and returns them to the soil, bagging collects the clippings and discharging throws the clippings through the side or rear discharge.
Question:
The pull rope to start my lawnmower pull all the way out is this repairable?
Answer:
Yes it is repairable. If the rope pulled all the way out it can be replaced with a new rope. If the rope pulled all the way out but will not retract the recoil will need to be replaced, this type of repair takes only a few hours to complete.
Question:
What is the best height to set my lawnmower at for a nice lawn?
Answer:
Most grasses grow well and look good mowing at a height of 2.5″ to 3″.
Question:
Does Honda still make gas powered lawnmowers?
Answer:
No, not in America. They are still sold in other countries just not in the USA. Honda will be selling a battery powered lawnmower starting in 2025.
Question:
Can you replace a broken cable on my Toro lawnmower?
Answer:
Yes, most Toro lawnmower cables are in stock and can be installed in less than 24 hours.
Question:
What is a power brush machine?
Answer:
A power brush machine looks like a snowblower but uses a rotating brush to sweep snow instead of blowing snow.
Question:
Do you have 24 hour 7 days a week (24/7) emergency service and support available?
Answer:
Yes 24/7 support and service is available. Start by calling our office and we will work to get you running again ASAP!
Question:
What is a gas powered lawnmower?
Answer:
Gas powered lawnmowers use a combustion engine for its power source. Gas powered lawnmowers are a good choice if you have a larger yard but they do require engine maintenance.
Question:
What is a Zip Deflector?
Answer:
You can only find snowblowers with a Zip Deflector on the Toro Power Clear snowblowers. The Zip Deflector controls the direction that the snow goes when it exits the machine.
Question:
What does a snowblower weight kit do?
Answer:
A weight kit (purchased separately) can be installed on the front of your snowblower auger housing to provide additional weight. The additional weight helps the snowblower dig into the snow. The additional eight can also counter balance your snowblower if you are using a snow cab.
Question:
What is a track drive snowblower?
Answer:
A track drive snowblower has a drive system that rides on rubber tracks instead of wheels with tires.
Question:
Why should I turn my pressure washer off when taking more than 30 seconds to move the patio furniture or other obstacles out of the way?
Answer:
If you let a pressure washer run without pulling the trigger, the water stays in the pump heating up. The heated water continues to get hotter and can melt the seals in the pump and cause other damage.
Question:
What can tire chains do for my snowblower?
Answer:
Tire chains when fitted properly to the tires can improve traction in ice and snow. Most modern snowblowers have special snow tires that don’t require tire chains.
Question:
What are skid shoes on a snowblower?
Answer:
The skid shoes are located on each side of the auger housing and ride on the ground. Some skid shoes are metal and some are made of plastic. The skid shoe height is adjustable depending on the surface you are clearing. Most shoes are reversible for extended life.
Question:
My lawnmower vibrates when it’s running is this normal?
Answer:
Excessive vibration is not normal and is not safe to use. Excessive vibration can be caused buy a bent blade or crankshaft. You are best off replacing the mower with a new one.
Question:
What is a snow cab?
Answer:
A snowblower cab is a protective enclosure that shields the operator from the water elements while blowing snow.
Question:
What is quick stick chute control?
Answer:
Toro Power Max snowblowers come with quick stick remote chute rotation controls for ease of use.
Question:
Is a power brush the same as a snowblower?
Answer:
No, a power brush machine has a rotating brush that sweeps the snow instead of blowing the snow.
Question:
What is the one hand interlock on a snowblower and how does it work?
Answer:
The snowblower interlock feature locks both the drive system and the auger controls to free up one hand to adjust the chute rotation and angle deflector. To engage the interlock press the auger lever then the drive lever, now you can release the auger lever and it will stay locked until the drive lever is released.
Question:
What is a electric or battery powered snowblower?
Answer:
A electric or battery powered snowblower does not use gas or oil.
Question:
What is a snowblower melt buddy?
Answer:
The snowblower melt buddy is a salt spreader attachment that can be installed on the back of your snowblower to spread salt.
Question:
What does the headlight do on a snowblower?
Answer:
A headlight on a snowblower helps you see at night or early in the morning.
Question:
What types of accessory kits are available for a snowblower?
Answer:
Most snowblower manufactures and many aftermarket suppliers offermultiple accessory kits that can be installed, including light kits, weight kits, electric start kits, drift cutter kits and hand warmer kits.
Question:
What is the joystick controller on a snowblower?
Answer:
Some snowblowers have the option of joystick control. The joystick is located on the dashboard by the operators hand. The joy stick can control the shoot rotation from left to right and tip the shoot deflector up and down. Some snowblowers have a joystick that controls the auger from left to right and up and down to follow the surface of the ground.
Question:
What is the snowblower impeller?
Answer:
The snowblower impeller is the fan mechanism behind the augers that propels the snow out of the shoot.
Question:
What is auger gear oil?
Answer:
The auger on a snowblower requires gear oil. Check with the manufacture of your snowblower for the correct gear oil and the proper way to service the auger gear box.
Question:
What is the auger gear case?
Answer:
The auger gear case is made of durable gears that rotate on the auger shaft and transfers power to the augers.
Question:
Do you have 24/7 emergency service and repair available?
Answer:
Yes, service and repair is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during storm emergencies.
Question:
Do you offer free consultations?
Answer:
Yes all consultations are free. Start by making a phone call and tell me what brand of machine you have and the problem you are having with it.
Question:
Which direction do my new Toro single stage snowblower paddles go on?
Answer:
Look at the edge of your new Toro paddles and you will see two rows of cording and a thick area of rubber. The thick area of rubber should hit the ground first when installed correctly.
Question:
What is a snowblower floor mat?
Answer:
Snowblower floor mats are used to keep your floor free from melting snow and ice. The floor mat can also protect your floor from scratches and rust marks. Be sure to elevate the auger end of your snowblower off the ground so it does not sit in a puddle of water.
Question:
What is a 4 stroke engine?
Answer:
A 4-cycle engine does not require the mixing of gas and oil in the gas tank. Also known as the four stroke engine, which provides more torque, cleaner emissions and improved fuel economy over the 2-cycle engine.
Question:
What are drift cutter bars?Answer:
Drift cutters / bars are extension bars that you install on each side of the auger housing. Once the drift bars are installed you will now be able to cut through tall snow drifts. The drift bars also aid in directing the snow to the auger opening.
Question:
What is the snowblower shoot deflector?
Answer:
The shoot deflector is the adjustable extension at the top of the snowblower discharge shoot that directs the angle of discharge for shorter and further throw distances.
Question:
What is clogging of the auger housing?
Answer:
Clogging of the auger occurs when too much snow builds up in the auger housing, putting stress on the augers, impeller and belt. Serious clogging and overloading will cause the shear pins to break and the auger belt to burn up. Follow manufacture recommendation for clearing the auger of obstructions.
Question:
What is the clearing width of a snowblower?
Answer:
The clearing width of a snowblower is the maximum width of a path that can be cleared during each pass. Typically measured in inches from one side of the auger housing to the other side.
of the auger.
Question:
What is the snowblower shoot?
Answer:
The snowblower shoot extends out from the auger housing to discharge the snow from the auger housing. The shoot can be adjusted left to right and up and down.
Question:
What do the belts do on a snowblower?
Answer:
Single stage snowblowers have one belt that controls the auger. Two stage snowblowers have at least two belts and sometimes three. One belt controls the drive wheels and the other one or two belts controls the auger.
Question:
What is the snow blower auger housing?
Answer:
The auger housing is the structure at the front of the snowblower where the snow is collected by the augers.
Question:
My Cub Cadet Snow Blower has (EFI) electronic fuel injection and does not start, what could be wrong?
Answer:
The most common reason would be the battery needs to be charged or if the battery is over 5 years old it should be replaced and charged.
Question:
What are the augers on a snowblower?
Answer:
The Augers are the rotating paddles or serrated metal blades on the front of the snowblower. The single stage snow blowers use rubber paddles to collect and throw snow in one motion, while two stage models have metal serrated augers that cut through deeper snow to feed the impeller.
Question:
What are some common snowblower terms?
Answer:
You will find the answer to most terms used to describe snowblower parts and function in my question and answer section.
Question:
Should I buy a battery powered snowblower?
Answer:
If your curious you should try one. Most businesses that sell them have a 90 return policy if you don’t like it.
Question:
What are some additional features to look for when buying a snowblower?
Answer:
Some additional features to look for when considering a snowblower are:
1. Electric push button start.
2. Big hog tires.
3. EFI electronic fuel injection
4. Lights for night time use.
5. Excellent warranty coverage.
6. Easy steering option is a great feature!
7. Heated hand grips.
8. Electric shoot control
Question:
My snowblower has no spark what is wrong?
Answer:
1. Check that the key or power switch is on.
2. Check that the throttle is toward the fast position.
3. Check that your safety key is in the on position.
4. Replace and gap spark plug.
5. If none of the above works then you most likely have a
Bad ignition coil that needs to be replaced.
Question:
Can I use a snowblower on a wooden deck?
Answer:
Yes, a snowblower can be used on a deck. A single stage snowblower is a good choice since it is compact and light. The rubber paddles can leave black rubber marks on your deck so use caution.
Question:
Do snowblowers work in icy conditions?
Answer:
Yes, snowblowers do work on ice, just be carful and take proper safety precautions to protect yourself from falling as you walk over the slippery surface. Tires may slip here and there but will get the job done.
Question:
How do you start a snowblower with electric start?
Answer:
Go through the normal starting procedure by turning on the gas valve, inserting the safety key, prime the engine, choke the engine, raise the speed control and insert an extension cord into the electric starter. Once those steps are complete just press the electric start button. Once the engine starts release the starter button and proceed to removing the choke as soon as you can without stalling the engine. Remember to never hold the starter button more than 5 seconds or you could burn up your starter. Always wait one minute between tries.
Question:
How should I prepare my property before it snows?
Answer:
Remove anything that could obstruct your snow clearing pathway or damage your machine. Look for everything from rocks, wood chips, garden hoses, power cords, dog toys and the newspaper are some examples. Use stakes to mark the edges of your sidewalks and driveway.
Question:
How long do snow blowers last?
Answer:
If you maintain your machine and keep it from rusting it could last 20 – 30 years.
Question:
What is the difference between a snow blower and a snow thrower?
Answer:
A snow thrower is a single stage machine that scoops snow and throws it out the discharge shoot. A snow blower is a two stage machine that has a second impeller that blows the snow out of the discharge shoot.
Question:
How much does a snow blower weigh?
Answer:
Between 20 and 300 pounds. Single stage snowblowers are the lightest and duel stage snowblowers are the heaviest.
Question:
Can I use a snow blower on a gravel driveway?
Answer:
Yes, a snow blower can be used on a gravel driveway, but you will need closely follow the instructions in the operator’s manual to do so safely. Make sure you raise the shave plate above the gravel to avoid throwing gravel, which can cause injury to bystanders or damage to property.
Question:
Where is the air filter on my gas powered snowblower?
Answer:
Snowblower engines typically don’t have an air filter because snow would quickly clog the air filter and starve the engine of air for combustion. For the very few snowblower engines that do have an air filter, it’s a good idea to check it or replace it once a year.
Question:
What is the difference between single stage snowblower and two stage snow blower?
Answer:
A single-stage snow blower is the most basic design , where the auger paddle pulls snow into the machine and throws it out of the chute. There are also more advanced stages designed to handle more snow.
Question:
What is the difference between single stage snowblower and two stage snow blower?
Answer:
A single-stage snow blower is the most basic design , where the auger paddle pulls snow into the machine and throws it out of the chute. There are also more advanced stages designed to handle more snow.
A 2 stage snow blower pulls snow into the machine and feeds it into an impeller to break it up more efficiently before throwing it out of the discharge chute.
Question:
After using my snowblower what should I do before putting it in the garage?
Answer:
After each use its a good idea to run the auger to clear out any snow that is in the auger before storing to prevent freeze up of the auger and/or impeller. Sweep the excess snow off of the machine and closing the gas valve (if equipped) is always a good practice.
Question:
How do I know if my Toro single stage snowblower paddles are worn out?
Answer:
Each paddle has a wear indicator hole on the outer edge of the paddle. If you can’t see the hole, your paddle’s are worn out. This is the same on the 2000,, 2500, 2450, 3650, 421, 521, 621, 721and 821 Toro single stage snowblowers.
Question:
The pull cord rope on my Ariens snowblower just broke. Is this repairable?
Answer:
Yes, the broken rope on your snowblower can be replaced with a new one. In some cases the entire recoil mechanism does need to be replaced if the mechanism has also failed.
Question:
Do you use OEM replacement parts when servicing small engine equipment?
Answer:
Yes, original equipment manufacturer or better parts are used for repairs.
Question:
My Toro Personal Pace lawnmower with blade brake runs great but does not cut grass. What could be wrong?
Answer:
Most likely your Toro lawnmower needs to have the blade engagement belt replaced.
Question:
My neighbor wants to borrow my snowblower should I lend it to them?
Answer:
No, most likely your neighbor will put the same bad or old gasoline in your snowblower that caused his to stop working.
Question:
Should I fill the gas tank all the way to the top?
Answer:
You should not fill the gas tank to the top it can plug the gas cap vent and prevent the engine from running.
Question:
Can I use E85 gasoline in my snowblower and lawnmower?
Answer:
NO you can’t use E85 gasoline in any small engine. Only use non-oxygenated gas in your small engines. Non-oxygenated gas is good for 4 months and won’t gum up your carburetor like oxygenated gasoline.
Question:
Why does my spark plug turn so hard when removing it or replacing it?
Answer:
Common reason the spark plug is hard to remove or replace is because it has been cross threaded. If its hard to turn when removing the cylinder head that the spark plug threads into will need to be replaced. If its hard to turn when installing it into the cylinder head the cylinder head will need to be replaced. When you install a new plug make sure you can easily thread it in by hand at-least 6 full turns before using your spark plug tool.
Question:
My snowblower will not start. Do you think it could be the spark plug?
Answer:
No in most cases it is not the spark plug that is causing your snowblower to not start.If you do decide to replace the spark plug be careful when screwing in the new spark plug so that it does not cross thread. It is best to turn it by hand at least 6 full turns prior to using a spark plug wrench on it. Don’t forget to gap your new spark plug!
Question:
My snowblower will not run unless the choke is on. Can this be fixed?
Answer:
Yes it can be fixed in less than one day. Your carburetor is clogged and will need cleaning or replacement. Give me a call and tell me which snowblower you have and I will provide you with a free estimate to correct this problem and have it repaired in less than 24 hours.
Question:
My snowblower will not run smoothly at one speed, the rpms keep going up and down. This happens if it’s on fast or slow and this hunting is very annoying.
Answer:
Yes it is very annoying and it can be fixed in less than one day. Your carburetor is clogged and will need cleaning. Give me a call and tell me which snowblower you have and I will provide you with a free estimate.
Question:
My snowblower runs, but it does not throw snow. What could be wrong?
Answer:
When your snowblower does not throw snow it could be a as simple as a broken shear pin or a broken or stretched belt that needs to be adjusted. We can troubleshoot this over the phone. Just call and let me know what brand of snowblower you have.
Question:
I have a Toro Timemaster lawnmower with the Briggs and Stratton engine and blade stop. The blades do not spin anymore what could be wrong?
Answer:
Most likely you’re Toro Personal Pace Timemaster lawnmower blade engagement belt has broken or the blade timing belt bearing has become damaged. Call and set up a time to bring it by. When you get here I will remove the cover and show you what went wrong.
Question:
Some shops don’t gap the spark plug. Is this important?
Answer:
Yes, gapping the spark plugs is very important to make the machine run properly. There are some inexperienced shop workers who don’t gap spark plugs and many who do not know how to gap a spark plug. . Over here, every spark plug is properly gapped!
Question:
The starter on my snowblower stopped spinning. Do I need a new snowblower starter?
Answer:
If it an older Tecumseh or Briggs, the starter is now “toast”. If you have a newer snowblower wait a few minutes and try again. Most newer starters have a trip breaker in them. If you can’t start your snowblower with the pull cord and using the electric start is hit or miss, you are due for a tune up. Call Rick at the shop if you have any questions.
Question:
What happens if my snowblower is not worth repairing?
Answer:
Snowblowers, lawnmowers, generators and pressure washers that are not repairable or too costly to repair, can be recycled. The recycled parts will be reused again rather than just scrapping the whole machine. Recycling is a free service.
Question:
I’m in the market for a new snowblower (Toro, MTD, Cub Cadet, Honda, Ariens, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt) do you have any suggestions on which one might work the best?
Answer:
Yes give me a call I would be happy to help you with that.
Question:
What weight motor oil do I use in the crank case of my four cycle snowblower?
Answer:
The correct cold season oil to use in your snowblower here in Minnesota is 5W-30. Remember to check to dipstick several times so that you have not under filled or over filled your engine.
Question:
The starter on my snowblower stopped spinning. Do I need a new snowblower starter?
Answer:
If it an older Tecumseh or Briggs, the starter is now “toast”. If you have a newer snowblower wait a few minutes and try again. Most newer starters have a trip breaker in them. If you can’t start your snowblower with the pull cord and using the electric start is hit or miss, you are due for a tune up. Call Rick at the shop if you have any questions.
Question:
What happens if my snowblower is not worth repairing?
Answer:
Snowblowers, lawnmowers, generators and pressure washers that are not repairable or too costly to repair, can be recycled. The recycled parts will be reused again rather than just scrapping the whole machine. Recycling is a free service.
Question:
I’m in the market for a new snowblower (Toro, MTD, Cub Cadet, Honda, Ariens, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt) do you have any suggestions on which one might work the best?
Answer:
Yes give me a call I would be happy to help you with that.
Question:
What weight motor oil do I use in the crank case of my four cycle snowblower?
Answer:
The correct cold season oil to use in your snowblower here in Minnesota is 5W-30. Remember to check to dipstick several times so that you have not under filled or over filled your engine.
Question:
What are snowblower hand warmers?
Answer:
Hand warmers are an accessory feature that is installed on the handle bars of a snowblower. When you turn the switch on the handles heat up and keep your hands warm while you operate your snowblower.
Question:
How long does it take to repair my snowblower?
Answer:
Repairs take less than 24 hours.
Tennyson Companies Call 612.424.2041 