Troubleshooting tips for your Sears gas snowblower when it won't stay running
If your engine only runs for a few seconds and then shuts off, you could have a gummed-up carburetor. The engine probably starts because gas enters the cylinder when you press the primer bulb. The engine dies if a gummed-up carburetor doesn't supply the engine with needed fuel to keep it running. Rebuild or replace the carburetor if the engine dies soon after start-up. A carburetor rebuild kit has the seals, gaskets and other parts you need to rebuild the carburetor. Use the carburetor rebuild kit for the carburetor on your engine. Sometimes, it's easier to replace the entire carburetor rather than rebuilding it.
Common repair parts for Sears gas snowblowers
- Shear pins. The shear pin is a fastener bolt that connects the auger to the rotating drive shaft. The shear bolt is made of soft metal that purposely shears off or breaks to protect the transmission and motor when a foreign object or hard-packed snow binds the augers.
- Scraper blade. The scraper blade is plate that runs along the bottom of the auger housing. It protects the auger housing and scrapes up snow the augers leave behind.
- Skid shoes. The skid shoes are two spacers that attach to each side of the auger housing and slide along the ground so the snowblower moves smoothly. They also elevate the auger housing so it clears the ground, protecting it from damage.
- Fuel filter. The fuel filter attaches to bottom of the fuel tank and connects to the fuel line. It filters particles from the gasoline as fuel moves from the tank to the carburetor.