MTD COLUMBIA 31AH7EKY897 User manual

Printed In USA
Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty
WARNING
READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED, 97 KENT AVENUE, KITCHENER, ONTARIO N2G 4J1
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
769-10054B
7.12.16
Three Stage Track Snow Thrower

Customer Support
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, call an authorized dealer, see below.
Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous section to locate this
information.
In the U.S.A.:
MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019. Phone: [phone].
In Canada:
MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED, 97 Kent Avenue, Kitchener, ON N2G 4J1 Phone: [phone] or
LES DISTRIBUTIONS RVI, a division of MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED,
10655, boulevard Henri-Bourassa Ouest, St-Laurent, Québec H4S 1A1 Phone: [phone]
To The Owner 1
2
Safe Operation Practices........................................ 3
Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 7
Controls...................................................................12
Operation................................................................15
Maintenance & Adjustment .................................16
Service .................................................................... 20
Troubleshooting.................................................... 22
Replacement Parts................................................ 23
Warranty (Canada) ............................................... 24
Warranty (U.S.)...................................................... 25
Table of Contents
Thank you for purchasing your new equipment. It was carefully
engineered to provide excellent performance when properly
operated and maintained.
Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.
It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and
maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other
persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the
recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury or property damage.
All information in this manual is relative to the most recent
product information available at the time of printing. Review
this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,
its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator’s
Manual may cover a range of product specifications for
various models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or
illustrated in this manual may not be applicable to all models.
The manufacturer reserves the right to change product
specifications, designs and equipment without notice and
without incurring obligation.
If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,
phone your local service dealer or contact us directly. Customer
Support telephone numbers, website address and mailing
address can be found on this page. We want to ensure your
complete satisfaction at all times.
Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position.
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related
issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications,
warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s
Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your
machine, for more information.
Thank You
Record Product Information
Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please
locate the model plate on the equipment and record the
information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the
model plate by standing at the operator’s position and looking
down at the rear of the frame. This information will be necessary,
should you seek technical support via our web site, Customer
Support Department, or with a local authorized service dealer.
Model NuMber
Serial NuMber

Important Safe Operation Practices 2
3
Training
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for
future and regular reference and for ordering replacement
parts.
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
Know how to stop the machine and disengage them
quickly.
3. Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand
the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an
adult.
4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper
instruction.
5. Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury. Plan
your snow-throwing pattern to avoid discharge of material
toward roads, bystanders and the like.
6. Keep bystanders, pets and children at least 75 feet from the
machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
7. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling, especially
when operating in reverse.
Preparation
Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used.
Remove all doormats, newspapers, sleds, boards, wires and other
foreign objects, which could be tripped over or thrown by the
auger/impeller.
1. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operation
and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect
your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious
injury to the eyes.
2. Do not operate without wearing adequate winter outer
garments. Do not wear jewelry, long scarves or other loose
clothing, which could become entangled in moving parts.
Wear footwear which will improve footing on slippery
surfaces.
3. Use a grounded three-wire extension cord and receptacle
for all machines with electric start engines.
4. Adjust auger housing height to clear gravel or crushed rock
surfaces.
5. Disengage all control levers before starting the engine.
6. Never attempt to make any adjustments while engine is
running, except where specifically recommended in the
operator’s manual.
7. Let engine and machine adjust to outdoor temperature
before starting to clear snow.
WARNING! This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,
could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow
all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply
with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the
operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands,
toes and feet and throwing foreign objects. Failure to observe the following safety
instructions could result in serious injury or death.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING! Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.

4Section 2 — important Safe operation practiceS
Safe Handling of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care
in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when
gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.
Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
c. Never fuel machine indoors.
d. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is
hot or running.
e. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before
refueling.
f. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½
inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space for
fuel expansion.
g. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
h. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move machine to another area. Wait 5
minutes before starting the engine.
i. Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
(e.g. furnace, water heater, space heater, clothes
dryer etc.).
j. Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before
storing.
k. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck
or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
containers on the ground away from your vehicle
before filling.
l. If possible, remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this
is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a
trailer with a portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
m. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel
tank or container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
Operation
1. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts, in the auger/
impeller housing or chute assembly. Contact with the
rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.
2. The auger/impeller control lever is a safety device. Never
bypass its operation. Doing so makes the machine unsafe
and may cause personal injury.
3. The control levers must operate easily in both directions
and automatically return to the disengaged position when
released.
4. Never operate with a missing or damaged chute assembly.
Keep all safety devices in place and working.
5. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.
6. Do not operate machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
7. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch. Keep children away.
8. Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing
gravel surfaces. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.
9. Exercise caution when changing direction and while
operating on slopes. Do not operate on steep slopes.
10. Plan your snow-throwing pattern to avoid discharge
towards windows, walls, cars etc. Thus, avoiding possible
property damage or personal injury caused by a ricochet.
11. Never direct discharge at children, bystanders and pets or
allow anyone in front of the machine.
12. Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to clear
snow at too fast of a rate.
13. Never operate this machine without good visibility or light.
Always be sure of your footing and keep a firm hold on the
handles. Walk, never run.
14. Disengage power to the auger/impeller when transporting
or not in use.
15. Never operate machine at high transport speeds on
slippery surfaces. Look down and behind and use care
when backing up.
16. If the machine should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine. Inspect thoroughly for damage. Repair
any damage before starting and operating.
17. Disengage all control levers and stop engine before you
leave the operating position (behind the handles). Wait
until the auger/impeller comes to a complete stop before
unclogging the chute assembly, making any adjustments,
or inspections.
18. Never put your hand in the discharge or collector openings.
Always use the clean-out tool provided to unclog the
discharge opening. Do not unclog chute assembly while
engine is running. Shut off engine and remain behind
handles until all moving parts have stopped before
unclogging.
19. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the
manufacturer (e.g. wheel weights, tire chains, cabs etc.).
20. When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance
is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord
(kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains
could result.
21. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use
care and good judgment. Contact Customer Support for
assistance and the name of your nearest servicing dealer.

5Section 2 — important Safe operation practiceS
Clearing a Clogged Discharge Chute
Hand contact with the rotating impeller inside the discharge
chute is the most common cause of injury associated with snow
throwers. Never use your hand to clean out the discharge chute.
To clear the chute:
1. SHUT THE ENGINE OFF!
2. Wait 10 seconds to be sure the impeller blades have
stopped rotating.
3. Always use a clean-out tool, not your hands.
Maintenance & Storage
1. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly. Refer to the maintenance and
adjustment sections of this manual.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting machine
disengage all control levers and stop the engine. Wait until
the auger/impeller come to a complete stop. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.
3. Check bolts and screws for proper tightness at frequent
intervals to keep the machine in safe working condition.
Also, visually inspect machine for any damage.
4. Do not change the engine governor setting or over-speed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.
5. Snow thrower shave plates and skid shoes are subject to
wear and damage. For your safety protection, frequently
check all components and replace with original equipment
manufacturer’s (OEM) parts only. “Use of parts which do
not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”
6. Check control levers periodically to verify they engage
and disengage properly and adjust, if necessary. Refer
to the adjustment section in this operator’s manual for
instructions.
7. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
8. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil,
etc. to protect the environment.
9. Prior to storing, run machine a few minutes to clear snow
from machine and prevent freeze up of auger/impeller.
10. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water
heater, furnace, clothes dryer etc.
11. Always refer to the operator’s manual for proper
instructions on off-season storage.
12. Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks
or leaks. Replace if necessary.
13. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
14. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission
(CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,
or 60 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful
Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized
service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety
systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.
Do not modify engine
To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any
way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway
engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper
with factory setting of engine governor.
Notice Regarding Emissions
Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal
EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment)
are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and
may include the following emission control systems: Engine
Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air
Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.
Spark Arrestor
WARNING! This machine is equipped with an
internal combustion engine and should not be used
on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s
exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester
meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrestor is used, it should be maintained in effective
working order by the operator.
A spark arrestor for the muffler is available through your nearest
engine authorized service dealer.

6Section 2 — important Safe operation practiceS
Safety Symbols
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.
Symbol Description
READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate
WARNING— WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION
Thrown objects and loud noise can cause severe eye injury and hearing loss. Wear ear
protection meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards and ear protection when operating this machine.
WARNING— ROTATING BLADES
Keep hands out of inlet and discharge openings while machine is running. There are rotating
blades inside
WARNING— ROTATING AUGER
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts, in the auger/impeller housing or chute
assembly. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.
WARNING— KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY
Keep all bystanders, especially children, away from the operating area.
WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw objects which can cause serious personal injury.
WARNING—GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE
Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
WARNING— ELECTRICAL SHOCK
Do not use the engine’s electric starter in the rain
WARNING— HOT SURFACE
Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine
and muffler to cool before touching.
WARNING! Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and
follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Assembly & Set-Up 3
7
Figure 3-2
Figure 3-3
Handle Assembly
1. Loosen the top two lock nuts securing the upper and lower
handle and remove the two carriage screws from the lower
handle and set aside as shown in Figure 3-1.
Figure 3-1
2. Place the shift lever in the Forward-6 position.
3. Remove the rubber bands securing cables to carriage bolts
and cut zip ties securing shift rod and flex shaft to lower
handle. Carefully pivot the handle upward. See Figure 3-2.
NOTE: You will need to lower shift rod to the side slightly
to manuever the handle panel over it when pivoting the
handle upward.
NOTE: Make certain the cables are seated properly in the
roller guides. See Figure 3-3.
IMPORTANT: The snow thrower is shipped with oil and WITHOUT GASOLINE. After assembly, refer to separate engine manual for
proper fuel and engine oil recommendations.
NOTE: Remove all loose parts and any packing material before assembling.
NOTE: References to right or left side of the snow thrower are determined from behind the unit in the operating position.
NOTE: Some models with electric start are equipped with an extension cord fastened with a cable tie to the rear of the auger housing
for shipping purposes. Cut the cable tie and remove it before operating the snow thrower.

8Section 3— ASSembly & Set-Up
3. Secure chute control head to chute support bracket with
the lock nuts and hex screws removed earlier. See Figure
3-6.
Figure 3-6
4. Remove the hairpin clip from the rear of the chute control
assembly.
5. Insert flex shaft into rear of the chute directional control
head. Secure the flex shaft to the chute control head with
the hairpin clip removed earlier. See Figure 3-7.
Figure 3-7
4. Reattach the two carriage screws and lock nuts removed
earlier as shown in Figure 3-4.
Figure 3-4
5. Finish securing the handle by tightening the top two lock
nuts loosened earlier. Remove and discard any remaining
rubber bands, if present. They are for packaging purposes
only.
Chute Assembly
1. Remove the lock nuts and hex screws from chute support
bracket. Position the chute assembly over the chute base.
See Figure 3-5 .
1
1
2
2
Chute
Assembly
Chute Base
Chute
Support
Bracket
Chute Control
Head
Figure 3-5
2. Place chute assembly onto chute base.

9Section 3 — ASSembly & Set-Up
8. Insert the ferrule into the top hole of the shift lever and
secure with the cotter pin and washer removed in the
previous step. Make sure the shift lever is in the fastest
forward position.
9. Check that all cables are properly routed through the cable
guide on the right side of the chute crank rod. See Figure
3-10.
Figure 3-10
Tires
Pneumatic (Air-Pressurized) Tires
The tires are over-inflated for shipping purposes. Check the tire
pressure before operating the snow thrower. Refer to the tire side
wall for tire manufacturer’s recommended psi and deflate (or
inflate) the tires as necessary.
WARNING: Under any circumstance do not exceed
manufacturer’s recommended psi. Equal tire
pressure should be maintained at all times. Excessive
pressure when seating beads may cause tire/rim
assembly to burst with force sufficient to cause
serious injury. Refer to sidewall of tire for
recommended pressure.
NOTE: Equal tire pressure is to be maintained at all times for
performance purposes.
Non-Pneumatic (Airless) Tires
Some units are equipped with non-pneumatic tires. Therefore,
these airless tires are considered maintenance free with regards
to air pressure
6. Insert the flex shaft into the chute control rod coupling
under the dash panel. See Figure 3-8.
Figure 3-8
7. Remove the cotter pin and washer from the ferrule on the
end of the shift rod. See Figure 3-9 inset.
Figure 3-9

10 Section 3— ASSembly & Set-Up
Set-Up
Shear Pins Storage
Replacement auger shear pins and bow tie cotter pins are
included with your snow thrower. Store them in your snow
thrower’s dash panel until needed. See Figure 3-11.
Figure 3-11
Chute Clean-Out Tool
The chute clean-out tool is fastened to the top of the auger
housing with a mounting clip and a cable tie at the factory. Cut
the cable tie before operating the snow thrower. See Figure 3-12.
Chute Clean-Out
Tool
Figure 3-12
Drift Cutters (If Equipped)
Drift cutters are assembled at the factory for shipping purposes.
Assemble the drift cutters as shown in Figure 3-13 prior to
operating your snowthrower.
1. Remove the plastic wingnuts and carriage bolts from the
bag with your manual along with the hardware securing
the drift cutters to the housing.
2. Reposition the drift cutters to the housing with the notches
facing to the front of the unit as shown in Figure 3-13.
Secure with plastic wingnuts and carriage bolts. Bolts
should be on the inside of the housing and seated in the
notches of the drift cutter, see inset Figure 3-13.
3. To adjust the drift cutters loosen the wingnuts and slide
the drift cutter into desired position. Seat the bolt in the
notch and retighten the wingnuts.
Notch
Figure 3-13
Adjustments
Skid Shoes
The snow thrower skid shoes are adjusted at the factory. Adjust
them downward, if desired, prior to operating the snow thrower.
CAUTION: Always place the Track Lock Lever in the
Gravel position before operating the snow thrower
on gravel surfaces. When operated in the Normal or
Packed Snow position, the snow thrower can easily
pick up and throw loose gravel, causing personal
injury or damage to the snow thrower and
surrounding property.
• For close snow removal on a smooth surface, raise skid
shoes higher on the auger housing.
• Use a middle or lower position when the area to be cleared
is uneven, such as a gravel driveway
NOTE: If you choose to operate the snow thrower on a gravel
surface, keep the skid shoes in position for maximum clearance
between the ground and the shave plate.

11Section 3 — ASSembly & Set-Up
To adjust the skid shoes:
1. Loosen the four hex nuts (two on each side), washers (if
applicable) and carriage bolts. Move skid shoes to desired
position. See Figure 3-14 and Figure 3-15).
Figure 3-14
2. Make certain the entire bottom surface of skid shoe is
against the ground to avoid uneven wear on the skid shoes.
3. Retighten nuts and bolts securely.
Figure 3-15
Auger Control
WARNING! Prior to operating your snow thrower,
carefully read and follow all instructions below.
Perform all adjustments to verify your snow thrower
is operating safely and properly.
Refer to the Controls and Features section for the location of the
auger control and check the adjustment as follows:
1. When the auger control is released and in the disengaged
“up” position, the cable should have very little slack. It
should NOT be tight.
2. In a well-ventilated area, start the snow thrower engine.
Refer to your Engine Operator’s Manual.
3. While standing in the operator’s position (behind the snow
thrower), engage the auger.
4. Allow the auger to remain engaged for approximately ten
(10) seconds before releasing the auger control. Repeat this
several times.
5. With the auger control in the disengaged “up” position,
walk to the front of the machine.
6. Confirm that the auger has completely stopped rotating
and shows NO signs of motion. If the auger shows ANY
signs of rotating, immediately return to the operator’s
position and shut off the engine. Wait for ALL moving parts
to stop before readjusting the auger control.
7. To readjust the control cable, loosen the upper hex screw
on the auger cable bracket.
8. Position the bracket upward to provide more slack (or
downward to increase cable tension). See Figure 3-16.
Figure 3-16
9. Retighten the upper hex screw.
10. Repeat steps 2 through 6 above to verify proper
adjustment has been achieved.

Controls and Features 4
12
Shift Lever
The shift lever is located in the right side of the
handle panel and is used to determine ground
speed and direction of travel.
Forward
There are six forward (F) speeds. Position one (1) is
the slowest and position six (6) is the fastest.
Reverse
There are two reverse (R) speeds. One (1) is the
slower and two (2) is the faster.
Skid Shoes
Position the skid shoes based on surface conditions. Adjust
upward for hard-packed snow. Adjust downward when
operating on gravel or crushed rock surfaces. See Set-Up &
Assembly section.
Augers
When engaged, the augers rotate and draw snow into the auger
housing.
Chute Assembly
Snow drawn into the auger housing is discharged out the chute
assembly.
Headlight
The headlight is located on the handle panel and is automatically
turned on when the engine is started.
Figure 4-1
Snow thrower controls and features are described below and illustrated in Figure 4-1.
Drive Control
Shift Lever
Skid Shoe
Chute Directional
Control
Chute Control
(2 Way)
Auger Control
Heated Grips †
Steering Trigger
Control †
Drift Cutters †
Clean Out�
Tool
Chute
Assembly
Headlight
Augers
† If equipped
Track Lock Lever

13Section 4 — controlS and FeatureS
Auger Control
The auger control is located on the left handle. Squeeze the
control grip against the handle to engage the augers and start
snow throwing action. Release to stop.
Drive Control / Auger Clutch Lock
The drive control is located on the right handle. Squeeze the
control grip against the handle to engage the track drive. Release
to stop.
The drive control also locks the auger control so that you can
operate the chute directional control without interrupting
the snow throwing process. If the auger control is engaged
simultaneously with the drive control, the operator can release
the auger control (on the left handle) and the augers will remain
engaged. Release both controls to stop the augers and track
drive.
Note: Always release the drive control before changing speeds.
Failure to do so will result in increased wear on your machine’s
drive system.
Steering Trigger Controls
The left and right steering trigger controls are located on the
underside of the handles.
• Squeeze the right control to turn right.
• Squeeze the left control to turn left.
CAUTION: Operate the snow thrower in open
areas until you are familiar with these controls.
Two-Way Chute Control™ (if equipped)
This two-way control lever is meant to control the distance of
snow discharge from the chute. Tilt the lever forward or rearward
to adjust the distance snow will be thrown.
Chute Directional Control (if equipped)
The chute directional control can be turned clockwise or
counterclockwise to change the direction in which snow is
thrown
CHUTE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL
DISCHARGE
LEFT
DISCHARGE
RIGHT
CHUTE TILT
DOWN
CHUTE TILT
UP
Drift Cutters (If equipped)
The drift cutters are designed for use in deep snow. Their use
is optional for normal snow conditions. Maneuver the snow
thrower so that the cutters penetrate a high standing snow drift
to assist snow falling into the augers for throwing.

14 Section 4 — controlS and FeatureS
Heated Grips (If so Equipped)
CAUTION: It is recommended that you wear
gloves when using the heated grip. If the heated
grip become too hot, turn it off.
To activate the heated grips, move the switch found on the rear
of the dash panel into the ON position. To turn off the heated
grips, move the switch found on the rear of the dash panel to the
OFF position.
Chute Clean-Out Tool
WARNING! Never use your hands to clear a
clogged chute assembly. Shut off engine and remain
behind handles until all moving parts have stopped
before unclogging.
The chute clean-out tool is conveniently fastened to the rear of
the auger housing with a mounting clip. Should snow and ice
become lodged in the chute assembly during operation, proceed
as follows to safely clean the chute assembly and chute opening:
1. Release both the Auger Control and the Drive Control.
2. Stop the engine. Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual.
Remove the key.
3. Remove the clean-out tool from the clip which secures it to
the rear of the auger housing.
4. Use the shovel-shaped end of the clean-out tool to
dislodge and scoop any snow and ice which has formed in
and near the chute assembly.
5. Refasten the clean-out tool to the mounting clip on the
rear of the auger housing, reinsert the key and start the
snow thrower’s engine.
While standing in the operator’s position (behind the snow
thrower), engage the auger control for a few seconds to clear any
remaining snow and ice from the chute assembly.
Track Lock Lever
The track lock lever is located on the right side of the
snow thrower and is used to select the position of the
auger housing and the method of track operation. Move
the lever to the right, then forward or rearward to one of
the four positions.
Transport
Raises the snow thrower auger housing for easy
transport.
Snow-covered Gravel
Raises the snow thrower auger housing so that its shave
plate leaves gravel undisturbed while clearing snow.
Normal Snow
Allows the tracks to be suspended independently for
continuous auger housing ground contact.
Packed Snow
Locks the auger housing down to the ground for hard-
packed or icy snow conditions.
PACKED
EMBALLÉE NORMALE
NORMAL GRAVEL
TRANSPORT

Operation 5
15
Starting and Stopping the Engine
Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual packed with your snow
thrower for instructions on starting and stopping the engine.
To Engage Drive
1. With the throttle control in the Fast (rabbit) position, move
shift lever into one of the six forward (F) positions or two
reverse (R) positions. Select a speed appropriate for the
snow conditions and a pace you’re comfortable with.
2. Squeeze the drive control against the handle the snow
thrower will move. Release it and drive motion will stop.
To Engage Augers
To engage the augers and start throwing snow, squeeze the
auger control against the left handle. Release to stop the augers.
To Steer
With the drive control engaged, squeeze the right steering
trigger control to turn right. Squeeze the left steering trigger
control to turn left.
CAUTION: Operate the snow thrower in open
areas and at slow speeds until you are familiar with
the drive control and comfortable operating the
steering controls.
Engage Heated Grips (If so Equipped)
CAUTION: It is recommended that you wear
gloves when using the heated grip. If the heated
grip become too hot, turn it off.
To activate the heated grips, move the switch found on the rear
of the dash panel into the ON position. See Figure 5-1.
Figure 5-1
Replacing Shear Pins
The augers are secured to the spiral shaft with shear pins and
cotter pins. If the auger should strike a foreign object or ice jam,
the snow thrower is designed so that the pins may shear. If the
augers will not turn, check to see if the pins have sheared. See
Figure 5-2.
NOTE: Replacement auger shear pins are included with this
manual (or stowed in the back of the plastic handle panel).
Figure 5-2
CAUTION: NEVER replace the auger shear pins
with anything other than OEM Part No.738-04124A
replacement shear pins. Any damage to the auger
gearbox or other components as a result of failing to
do so will NOT be covered by your snow thrower’s
warranty.
WARNING! Always turn off the snow thrower’s
engine and remove the key prior to replacing shear
pins.

Maintenance & Adjustments 6
16
Maintenance
Engine
Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual.
Shave Plate and Skid Shoes
The shave plate and skid shoes on the bottom of the snow
thrower are subject to wear. They should be checked periodically
and replaced when necessary.
NOTE: The skid shoes on this machine have two wear edges.
When one side wears out, they can be rotated 180° to use the
other edge.
To remove skid shoes:
1. Remove the four carriage bolts and hex flange nuts which
secure them to the snow thrower.
2. Rotate and reassemble skid shoes with the four carriage
bolts (two on each side) and hex flange nuts. Refer to
Figure 6-1.
NOTE: Augers not shown for clarity.
Figure 6-1
NOTE: The shave plate on HD units has a wear edge that can be
adjusted forward to prolong its life. As the shave plate wears, it
can be moved into a second position.
To move shave plate:
1. Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel.
2. Carefully pivot the snow thrower up and forward so that it
rests on the auger housing.
3. Loosen the rear skid shoe bolts on both sides of the snow
thrower housing and remove the carriage bolts and hex
nuts which attach shave plate to the auger housing.
4. Slide the shave plate downward into the second position.
Reinstall and tighten all bolts securely. See Figure 6-2.
Figure 6-2
To remove shave plate:
1. Remove the carriage bolts and hex nuts which attach it to
the auger housing.
2. Reassemble new shave plate, making sure heads of
carriage bolts are to the inside of housing. Tighten securely.
See Figure 6-3.
Figure 6-3

17Section 6 — Maintenance & adjuStMentS
Lubrication
Auger Shaft
At least once a season, remove the shear pins from the auger
shafts. Spray lubricant inside the shafts and around the spacers
and the flange bearings/bushings found at either end of the
shafts. See Figure 6-4.
Figure 6-4
Gear Shaft
The gear (hex) shaft should be lubricated at least once a season
or after every twenty-five (25) hours of operation.
1. Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel.
2. Carefully pivot the snow thrower up and forward so that it
rests on the auger housing.
3. Remove the frame cover from the underside of the snow
thrower by removing the self-tapping screws which secure
it. Refer to Figure 6-5.
Figure 6-5
4. Apply a light coating of Regular Grade Anti-Seize to the hex
shaft. See Figure 6-6.
NOTE: When lubricating the hex shaft, be careful not to get
any anti-seize on the aluminum drive plate or the rubber
friction wheel. Doing so will hinder the snow thrower’s
drive system. Wipe off any excess.
Figure 6-6

18 Section 6 — Maintenance & adjuStMentS
Adjustments
Shift Rod
If the full range of speeds (forward and reverse) cannot be
achieved, adjust the shift rod as follows:
1. Place the shift lever in the fastest forward speed position.
2. Remove the cotter pin and washer from the adjustment
ferrule on the shift rod and pull it out from the shift lever.
See Figure 6-7.
Figure 6-7
3. Pivot the shift bracket downward as far as it will go. See
Figure 6-8.
Figure 6-8
4. Rotate the ferrule up or down on the shift rod as necessary
until the ferrule lines up with the upper hole in the shift
lever. Make sure the shift lever is in the fastest forward
position. Refer to Figure 6-7 inset.
5. Insert the ferrule into the upper hole and secure with the
washer and cotter pin.
Auger Control
Refer to the Assembly and Set-up section for instructions on
adjusting the auger control cable.
Skid Shoes
Refer to the Assembly and Set-up section for instructions on
adjusting the skid shoes.
Drive Control
When the drive control is released and in the disengaged “up”
position, the cable should have very little slack. It should NOT be
tight.
NOTE: If excessive slack is present in the drive cable or if the snow
thrower’s drive is disengaging intermittently during operation,
the cable may be in need of adjustment.
Check the adjustment of the drive control as follows:
1. With the drive control released, push the snow thrower
gently forward. The unit should roll freely.
2. Engage the drive control and gently attempt to push the
snow thrower forward. The wheels should not turn. The
unit should not roll freely.
3. With the drive control released, move the shift lever back
and forth between the R2 position and the F6 position
several times. There should be no resistance in the shift lever.
If any of the above tests failed, the drive cable is in need of
adjustment. Proceed as follows:
1. Shut off the engine as instructed in the separate engine
manual.
2. Loosen the lower hex screw on the drive cable bracket. See
Figure 6-9.
Figure 6-9

19Section 6 — Maintenance & adjuStMentS
3. Position the bracket upward to provide more slack (or
downward to increase cable tension).
4. Retighten the upper hex screw.
5. Check the adjustment of the drive control as described
earlier (steps 1-3) to verify proper adjustment has been
achieved.
Chute Assembly (Overhead Chute Control)
If the chute fails to remain stationary during operation, the
pre-load of the chute can be adjusted by tightening the hex nut
found on the front of the chute control assembly.
To increase the preload, tighten the hex nut clockwise in ¼ turn
intervals. See Figure 6-10.
Figure 6-10
If the chute directional control is difficult to crank, decrease the
preload by loosening the hex nut counterclockwise in ¼ turn
intervals.
Continuous Tracks
If the snow thrower fails to propel itself because the track wheel
is “jumping” drive lugs, the continuous tracks are in need of
adjustment. See an authorized Service Dealer to have the tracks
properly adjusted. See Figure 6-11.
Track Wheel
Drive Lugs
Figure 6-11
Off-Season Storage
If the snow thrower will not be used for 30 days or longer, follow
the storage instructions below.
1. Lubricate the machine as instructed earlier in this section.
2. Store in a clean, dry area.
3. If storing the snow thrower in an unventilated area,
rustproof the machine using a light oil or silicone to coat
the snow thrower.
4. Clean the exterior of the engine and the snow thrower.
IMPORTANT: When storing unit or when it is not being serviced,
it is to remain in the operating position with both track and auger
housing on the ground.
NOTE: Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for information on
storing your engine.

Service 7
20
Belt Replacement
Auger Belt
To remove and replace your snow thrower’s auger belt, proceed
as follows:
1. Allow the engine to run until it is out of fuel. Do not
attempt to pour fuel from the engine.
2. Remove the plastic belt cover on the front of the engine by
removing the two self-tapping screws. See Figure 7-1.
Figure 7-1
NOTE: On models equipped with the LED headlight on top of
the auger housing, make sure to unplug the wire harness before
removing the belt cover as shown in Figure 7-2.
Figure 7-2
3. If your unit is equipped with a wire belt guide, washers and
hex bolts shown in Figure 7-3 loosen and remove them.
Figure 7-3
4. Roll the auger belt off the engine pulley. See Figure 7-4.
Figure 7-4
5. Carefully pivot the snow thrower up and forward so that it
rests on the auger housing.
6.