Simplicity 551M User manual

Operator’s Manual
Single Stage
Snowthrower Models
551M
Mfg. No. 1692320
(Serial Number 10000 and up)
55 IE
Mfg. No. 1692321
(Serial Number 20000 and up)
FORM NO. 770-0355M

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTENT PAGE
Maintaining Safety.2
Training...2
Preparation.2
Operation.2
Maintenance & Storage.3
Safety Decals...3
Assembling Your Unit.4
Tools Required...4
Chute Assembly.4
Fuel & Oil Mixture.4
Knowing Operation Controls.6
Throttle.“•.6
Ignition Switch..°
Choke Control.6
Primer Button.6
Electric Starter.6
Auger Clutch Control.6
Discharge Chute Control.6
Snow Discharge Deflector.6
Operating The Unit.7
Starting Engine.2
Stopping Engine.8
Throwing Snow.8
Adjustments.9
Auger Clutch Cable.9
Carburetor.10
Maintenance.11
Lubrication.H
Replacing Drive Belt.11
Replacing Shave Plate.12
Servicing Spark Plug.12
Storage.13
Drain Carburetor.13
Drain Fuel.13
Clean Unit.13
Lubricate.•••.13
Stop Corrosion.13
Service Parts.13
Store Unit.13
Troubleshooting.14
Warranty.13
Hardware Information.17

MAINTAINING SAFETY
TRAINING
PREPARA¬
TION
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 your snow thrower, failure to comply with these
instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol, heed its warning.
A Your snow thrower was built to be operated according to the
^4 WARNING rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any type of
power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the oper¬
ator can result in serious injury. If you violate any of these
rules, you may cause serious injury to yourself or others.
1. Read this owner’s guide carefully in its entirety before attempting to assemble or operate this
machine. Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use of this machine before
operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.
2. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a snow thrower. Children 14 years old and
over should only operate snow thrower under close parental supervision. Only persons well
acquainted with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use your snow thrower.
3. No one should operate this unit while intoxicated or while taking medication that impairs the
senses or reactions.
4. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, especially small children and pets.
5. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling, especially when operating in reverse.
6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all door mats,
sleds, boards, wires and other foreign objects.
7. Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral before starting engine.
8. Do not operate equipment without wearing adequate winter outer garments. Do not wear jew¬
elry, long scarfs or other loose clothing which could become entangled in moving parts. Wear
footwear which will improve footing on slippery surfaces.
9. Before working with gasoline, extinguish all cigarettes and other sources of ignition. Check the
fuel before starting the engine. Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel. Do not fill the gaso¬
line tank indoors, while the engine is running, or until engine has been allowed to cool at least
two minutes. Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off any spilled gasoline before starting
the engine as it may cause a fire or explosion.
10. Use a grounded three wire plug-in for all units with electric drive motors or electric starting motors.
11. Adjust collector housing height to clear gravel or crushed rock surface.
12. Never attempt to make any adjustments while engine is running (except where specifically
recommended by manufacturer).
13. Let engine and machine adjust to outdoor temperature before starting to clear snow.
14. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operation or while performing an adjustment or
repair, to protect eyes from foreign objects that may be thrown from the machine in any
direction.
15. Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of discharge
opening and auger at all times.
16. Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay
alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do not carry passengers.
17. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, remove wire from spark plug, and thoroughly
inspect the snow thrower for any damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating
the snow thrower.
18. if the snow thrower should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately
for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
19. Stop engine whenever you leave the operating position, before unclogging the collector/impel¬
ler housing or discharge guide, and making any repairs, adjustments, or inspections. Never
place your hand in the discharge or collector openings. Use a stick or wooden broom handle
to unclog the discharge opening.
20. Take all possible precautions when leaving the unit unattended. Disengage the collector/
impeller, shift into neutral, stop the engine, and remove the key.
2

MAINTE¬
NANCE &
STORAGE
SAFETY
DECALS
21. When cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain collector/impeller and ali moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect spark plug wire and keep away from plug to prevent accidental starting.
22. Do not run engine indoors, except when starting engine and transporting snow thrower in or
out of building. Open doors. Exhaust fumes are dangerous.
23. Do not clear snow across the face of slopes. Exercise extreme caution when changing direc¬
tion on slopes. Do not attempt to clear steep slopes.
24. Never operate snow thrower without guards, plates, or other safety protection devices in place.
25. Never operate snow thrower near glass enclosure, automobiles, window wells, drop off, etc.,
without proper adjustments of snow thrower discharge angle. Keep children and pets away.
26. Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to clear snow at too fast a rate.
27. Never operate the machine at high transport speeds on slippery surfaces. Look behind and
use care when backing.
28. Never direct discharge at bystanders or allow anyone in front of unit.
29. Disengage power to collector/impeller when transporting or not in use.
30. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer of snow thrower (such
as wheel weights, counter weights, cabs, etc.).
31. Never operate the snow thrower without good visibility or light. Always be sure of your footing
and keep a firm hold on the handles. Walk, never run with the snow thrower.
32. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.
33. Check shear bolts, engine mounting bolts, etc., at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure equipment is in safe working condition.
34. Never store the machine with fuel in the fuel tank inside a building where ignition
sources are present, such as hot water and space heaters, clothes dryers, and
the like. Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
35. Always refer to owner's guide instructions for important details if snow thrower is
to be stored for an extended period.
36. Run machine a few minutes after throwing snow to prevent freeze up of collector/impeller.
37. Check clutch controls periodically to verify they engage and disengage properly and readjust
if necessary. Refer to owner’s guide for adjustment instructions.
The safety decals are located near any area of potential danger and are easily visible to the opera¬
tor. These are meant to warn the operator of the danger. It is very important to follow the instruction
on these decals to maintain safety.
A DANGER
DO NOT
USE HANDS
TO UNCLOG
DISCHARGE
CHUTE
*
*
*
. STOP B*GW£/MOTWI SEFORE
REMOVING OEMS
• DO NOT WALK IN FRONT Of
RUNNING MACHME.
• DO NOT DISCHARGE AT BYSTANDERS.
• KEEP PEOPLE AND PETS A SAFE
DISTANCE FROM THE MACHINE.
k .KFOM LEAVING MACHME. SHUT
1 OFF EMQNE/MOTOR ANO
V REMOVEKET. __. _ ‘
*
*
*
This safety decal is located on
the auger housing. It is very im¬
portant that you follow its in¬
structions. Also replace it, if
damaged.
This safety decal is located
on the discharge chute.lt is
very important that you follow
its instructions. Also replace
it, if damaged.
ADANGER
AVOID INJURY FROM
ROTATING AUGER-
KEEP HANDS, FEET,
ANO CLOTHING AWAY!
3

ASSEMBLING YOUR UNIT
TOOLS
REQUIRED
Socket wrench set
A pair of pliers
Screwdrivers (Phillips head)
CHUTE 1.
ASSEMBLY
2 .
3.
Install discharge chute on the rotating ring located on the auger
housing. Secure with three 5/16 inch carriage bolts, flat wash¬
ers and nylok nuts. Install the rear bolt first for easier align¬
ment. You will find the hardware in the parts bag. See figure 1.
Make sure that for all three bolts, the bolt head goes inside the
rotating ring, and the washer and the nut are on the outside.
Tighten bolts securely with the wrench.
Lift up the folding handle and align it with the lower handle until
it clicks into place. Tighten the wing nuts securely.
FUEL & OIL
MIXTURE
Note: Your snow thrower unit uses a two cycle engine that requires
a mixture of gasoline and oil for lubrication of bearings and other
moving parts.
Mix the gasoline and oil in a clean gasoline container.
Always use fresh, unleaded, winter grade gasoline;
never use ‘stale’ gasoline left over from last season or
stored for 30 days or longer.
Use the correct fuel/oil mix to prevent engine dam¬
age. Follow the chart below.
FUEL/OIL MIXTURE CHART (50:11
u.s.
IMPERIAL METRIC
Gasoline
Gallons
2 Cycle Oil
Ounces
Gasoline
Gallons
2 Cycle Oil
Ounces
Gasoline
Liters
2 Cycle Oil
ml.
1 2.5
1 2.8
4
80
2
5
2
5.6 8
160
5
13
5
14.1
20
400
A WARNING
• Handle gaso-j
line carefully.]
Remember j
that it is j
highly flam- ]
mable. I
• Careless use ]
or handling of
^''gasoline
: could
cause
fire
hazard and
result in dam¬
age to your i
person and/or
property. ;
• Always fill i
gasoline con¬
tainer out¬
doors.
4

1. Fill an approved clean one-gallon container with one quart
fresh unleaded gasoline. See figure 2.
2. Pour recommended amount of 2.5 oz. high quality two cycle oil
into the gasoline container.
Note: Do not use multiviscosity oils such as 10W-30 or 10W-40.
3. Put the cap back on the gasoline container, tighten it, and shake the
container vigorously so that the oil and gasoline mix.
4. Unscrew the cap and fill the container with three quarts of gas¬
oline. Shake the container again. See figure 2.
5. Remove the fuel tank cap and carefully pour mixed gasoline
into the fuel tank, filling to 1/2 inch below the filler neck to allow
room for expansion. Shake the gasoline container each time
before filling the fuel tank.
Caution: Never put plain, unmixed gasoline into the fuel tank.
Note: You can use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol or grain
alcohol (gasohol), but make sure that you follow the engine manu¬
facturer’s special instructions for engine care when the engine is not
used for an extended period. See Storage Instructions in the engine
manual for that information.
WARNING
• Always fill up :
the fuel tank Z.
outdoors or
; in a well-ventM
latedarea. j
• Use a funheT?|
or spout to 'lj
prevent spill- 3
• If there
,J^ttemptingyto|
;startther%V |
• Never f Ilf up
•2 the gas tank :
while the §§l|f ‘
^engine is run
fining or is hot.1
• s Do not smoke,
ir; while mixing ™
-. the gasoline |f
•and oiforJIF.
M ing up the fuel ]
:* ,-3
&SK8e35H5!
5

KNOWING OPERATION CONTROLS
THROTTLE
IGNITION
SWITCH
CHOKE
CONTROL
PRIMER
BUTTON
ELECTRIC
STARTER
AUGER
CLUTCH
CONTROL
DISCHARGE
CHUTE
CONTROL
SNOW
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR
Note: It is very important to know and understand the controls and
safety devices of your snow thrower before you attempt to operate
it. Make sure that the operator of the snow thrower has read
this manual and understood the Safety Operation Rules on
pages 2 & 3 before running the unit for the first time. Refer
to the manual again for clarification whenever any question arises.
The snow thrower does not have a remote throttle for controlling the
operating speed of the engine. The engine governor maintains the
operating speed according to the snow removal condition.
This switch is used to start and stop the engine. Insert key in the
switch and turn switch to ON position to start the engine; turn switch
to OFF position to stop the engine.
This control is used to enrich the fuel mixture to start a cold engine.
A warm engine will normally not require choking to start. You can
locate the operating position for the choke control on the decal. You
may have to partially close the choke to allow the cold engine to run
smoothly until it warms up.
This button helps in starting a cold engine. Depress the primer but¬
ton to supply extra fuel mixture to start the cold engine. Do not
prime a warm engine since it will flood the engine.
On electric start models, plug the cord for the electric starter switch
into the receptacle on the unit. Next, plug the other end into a 120V,
AC household receptacle. Next depress the starter button to start
the motor and crank the engine.
Note: You can start these electric start engines manually with the
starter rope. See instructions on how to use electric starter.
This control starts and stops the auger. Pull the control back against
the handle to start the auger; release the control to stop the auger.
When the auger touches the ground the snow thrower moves for¬
ward. Do not manually turn the auger in a clockwise direction
because that will loosen the belt and unthread the pulley.
WARNING
• The operation !
of any snow
thrower can j
result In for¬
eign objects.
% being g
thrown
into the
eyes resulting j
in severe eye
damage. Pro- |
tect your eyes 1
With safety
glasses or eye
shields when- j
ever you oper- j
ate this unit, i
• This machine !
can be danger-'
ousifused i
carelessly. So :
be careful in
handling it. 1
• Never ignore ,J
safety devices
or bypass
these.
• Never operate
the snow
thrower with-
out all guards,
covers, and
shields in
place.
This control is used to rotate the discharge chute to the desired
direction. Turn crank clock¬
wise to rotate the chute to
the right, turn it counter¬
clockwise to rotate the
chute to the left.
This deflector is used to
control the distance that
the snow will be thrown.
Move deflector up to throw
snow further; move deflec¬
tor down to throw snow
closer.
Auger
Clutch
Control
FIGURE 3
Ignition
Switch
Primer
Button 1
Choke
Control
Snow
Discharge
Deflector
Spark
Plug
Discharge
Chute Control
Electric
Starter
6

OPERATING THE UNIT
STARTING
ENGINE
Note: The snow thrower engine is designed to operate at cold tempera¬
tures and will be difficult to start in warm weather. Avoid operating your
snowthrowerin warmer conditions since engine may vapor lock and stop
running after a short time.
A Never run the engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly
ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains CARBON
MONOXIDE, an ODORLESS, DEADLY gas.
Pull Start Models: See figure 4.
1. Insert key in ignition switch and turn key to ON position.
2. Move choke control lever to the ON position on cold engines. If the
engine is warm from operation, this step may not be necessary.
3. Push the primer button two or three times holding finger over
vent hole. Allow a few seconds between each push for air to
enter bulb through vent hole. You may have to prime more for
the initial start at temperature below 15°F/-10°C.
4. Grasp the starter rope handle and slowly pull out the rope until
you feel a resistance. Allow the rope to rewind slowly, then pull
it out rapidly to start the engine. Let the rope return slowly to
the starter. If the engine does not start after three pulls, push
primer button one more time and pull the starter rope.
5. Once the engine starts and gradually warms up, move the
choke lever to the OFF position. Be prepared to move the
choke lever to the ON position if the engine sputters during
warm up.
6. Allow the engine to warm up before snow throwing. The engine
will operate at full throttle when it warms up.
Electric Start Model: See figure 5.
Note: The electric starter is designed to operate on 120 volts AC
household power supply using the power cord supplied with your
snow thrower. When using the power cord, match the wide blade of
the plug to the wide slot of the receptacle.
7. Follow steps 1 -3 from “pull start model” section.
8. Plug power cord into receptacle on the starter switch first, then
plug the other end of the cord into a standard120 volts AC
household outlet. Do not use any extension cord to lengthen
the power cord supplied with the unit.
WARNING
• Wear safety
glasses while
operating the
unit
•Never direct
discharge at
bystanders or
allow anyone ;
in front of the
unit. 5 - ; "
• Never direct
discharge.,
towards win¬
dows. r
• Never operate
the unit with¬
out all guards,
covers, and
shields in
place.
• Stop the
engine when-
^ ever leaving
the operating ;
position. ; -I
• Stop the
engine,
remove the
key, and dis- 1
connect the
sparkplug
before unclog¬
ging auger
housing or . j
discharge , : . j
'chute and/or 1
before mak¬
ing repairs or
adjustments.
• To reduce the 1
i; risk of fire, ; ;
keep the unit ;
clean and \
free from
spilled gas, oil
and other
debris.
7

STOPPING
ENGINE
THROWING
SNOW
A Make sure that there is no moisture on the cord ends or
receptacles when plugging in the cord.
9. P ush the starter button to crank the engine. Do not crank the
engine for more than 15 seconds without allowing the electric
starter to cool for around 10 minutes. Attempt further cranking
only after the starter has cooled down.
A Do not push the primer button while the engine is
being cranked.
Electric start engines can be severely damaged if you
do not follow proper starting instructions.
10. R elease starter button once
the engine starts and gradually
move the choke lever to the
OFF position.
11. D isconnect the power cord
from (i) household receptacle
and then from (ii) starter switch
on the snow thrower. Store the
cord in a dry place.
m. Always disconnect power
cord from the household receptacle first, then unplug
from starter switch.
Starter - y
Button'^gs c
1. Turn ignition key to the OFF position.
2. Remove the key from the switch if you are leaving the operating
position and/or before making repairs or adjustments.
3. Allow the unit to run for a few minutes before storing.
Note: The snow thrower will be pulled forward by the auger as the
handle is raised. The unit will also move forward when the auger
comes in contact with the accumulated snow.
1. Before entering the area where snow needs to be cleared,
adjust the position of the discharge chute so that snow will be
thrown in the desired direction.
Note: Snow should not be thrown towards buildings, automobiles, or
people. Always try to throw snow down wind.
2. Adjust the deflector on top of the discharge chute up or down to
control the distance that the snow
will be thrown. See figure 6.
A Disengage auger drive before
adjusting discharge deflector.
3. R eview the area to be cleared of
snow and establish a pattern for
the most efficient snow removal.
4. I n spect the area for possible
obstructions like gravel and rocks.
Remove, if any.
5. B egin snow removal by clearing a
path down the center of a walk or
driveway along your pattern for snow removal. Gradually widen the
path throwing snow to both sides. Allow the snow thrower to move
the snow at its own pace.
6. W hen clearing wet and heavy snow, you may have to push down the
handle and slow down. But allow engine to work at full throttle.
^^W ARNING
• Do not use
snow thrower
on surfaces
above ground
level, such as
the roof of a
building.
• Stay away
from the front
of your snow
thrower unit
when the
auger is turn¬
ing.
• Avoid picking
up gravel
with the
auger since
this could
damage the
unit and/or
cause seri¬
ous injury to
the operator.
• Always be
alert to the
hidden haz¬
ards that
might be
struck by the
auger.
• Should you
hit a foreign
object with
the auger
stop the
engine imme¬
diately,
remove key,
disconnect
spark plug and
inspect the
machine for
any damage.
• Repair dam¬
age before
operating the
unit again.
8

ADJUSTMENTS
AUGER
CLUTCH
CABLE
A
To avoid serious bodily injury on the job when performing adjustments,
maintenance or lubrication, stop the engine, remove key from the switch
and disconnect the spark plug. Follow safety instructions mentioned here
and safety labels on the unit.
REMOVING ENGINE COVER/COWLING:
In many of the adjustment and sen/ice tasks, you will have to first remove the en¬
gine cover/cowling, perform the task, and reinstall the cover.
A. Remove key from the ignition switch.
B. Remove the three screws holding the discharge chute to the rotating ring.
Remove the chute. See figure 7.
C. Remove the two hex bolts from the top of the engine cover.
D. Remove two screws and flat washers each from inside the auger housing,
rear of the cover, and both sides of
the cover.
E. Remove the fuel tank cap and lift the
cover and cowling carefully up and
away from the engine exhaust pipes.
Reinstall the cap on the fuel tank. Do
not lose the hardware.
F. During reassembly of cover and cowl¬
ing, remove fuel tank cap first. Next,
make sure that the metal grommet for
engine starter rope is in position
between cowlings. The tabs at lower
front of cover must be positioned to
the inside of belt cover on the left and
inside the lower cowling on the right.
G. Leave retaining screws loose until all
are in place, then tighten them
securely. Reinstall fuel tank cap. FIGURE 7
Note: The length of the auger clutch cable is adjustable. However, you will not have to do
this frequently since the operating tension on the drive belt is maintained by the clutch
engaging spring on the end of the cable.
• If the auger turns slowly under heavy load or you hear the drive belt squeal
when entering heavy snow, reduce the length of the cable. This will increase
the pressure applied by the idler pulley on the drive belt.
If auger continues to turn after the clutch control is released, the cable is too
tight. Increase the length of the cable so that the cable is slightly slack when
clutch control is released.
Q 3
1. Access the clutch cable adjusting nuts by removing the engine cover and cowling.
2. Measure the spring while the clutch control on the handle is in the disengaged posi¬
tion. Record this measurement.
3. Pull the clutch control against the handle and again measure the spring. Record this
measurement.
4. Compare the two measurements - the figure obtained with the spring extended
should be 7/16th inch greater than with the spring unextended. If it is not, you will
need to alter the length of the cable.
9

CARBURE¬
TOR
5. To reduce or extend the length of the
clutch cable, adjust the nuts on the clutch
cable. See figure 8. Reducing the cable
length will increase idler pulley pressure
on the belt.
Use extreme caution when mak¬
ing adjustments that require
engine to be running.
Keep hands, feet, hair and loose
clothing away from any moving
parts.
6. Start the engine and pull back on
clutch control to operate the auger.
Release the clutch control and check to
be sure that the auger stops turning.
7. Cable must have some slack when
the clutch control is released. If the
auger continues to turn after the
clutch control is released, the cable is too tight. Adjust the nuts accordingly.
8. Reinstall the engine cover/cowling and secure with the correct hardware.
• The carburetor is properly calibrated and pre-set at the factory for efficient cold
weather operation. There are no adjusting screws on the carburetor.
• If you feel, during operation of the snow thrower, that the carburetor is not providing
adequate fuel supply to the engine, contact your nearest Authorized Tecumseh Ser¬
vice Outlet for service.
10

MAINTENANCE
To prevent accidental starting of engine during
maintenance or service, always remove ignition key
from switch.
Removing Belt Cover
In many of the maintenance tasks, you will have to first remove
the belt cover, perform the task, and reinstall the cover.
A. Remove key from the ignition switch.
B. Remove the four screws from the side cover.
C. Remove the cover.
D. Lubricate the pivot point and reinstall the cover in
reverse order.
LUBRICATE
LUBRICA¬
TION
REPLACING
DRIVE BELT
1 .
2 .
3.
5.
6 .
1.
2 .
3.
4.
5.
6.
Apply a few drops of light machine oil to the upper end of the
clutch control cable. Wipe off any excess oil. This will ensure free
movement of cable through outside casing. See figure 9A.
The drive pulley end of auger shaft is supported by a sealed
ball bearing and requires no lubrication. The ball bearing on
the other end of the auger shaft is also sealed and will not
require lubrication.
At the beginning of each snow throwing season, remove dis¬
charge chute and generously lubricate the steel flange at the
back of the rotating ring with light grease such as Lubripiate.
Rotate the ring with crank to distribute the grease. See figure 9B.
Remove the belt cover and lightly apply oil to the pivot point
for the idler pulley arm. MAKE SURE THAT YOU DO NOT
SPILL OIL ON THE BELT OR THE PULLEYS. See figure 9C.
The two-cycle engine used on this snowthrower is lubricated
by the gasoline/oil mixture. Observe recommended gasoline to
oil mixture ratio shown on pages 4 & 5.
The drive belt idler pulley has a sealed bearing that requires
no lubrication.
Remove key from the ignition switch and disconnect spark
plug.
Remove the belt cover.
Remove the engine cover/cowling following instructions on
page 9.
Move the auger control bail on the han¬
dle and slip the belt out from between
the brake lever and the roller and away
from the idler pulley. See figure 10.
Remove the belt from the engine and the)
auger pulleys.
Install the new belt around the engine
and auger pulleys and underneath idler
pulley. THE RIBBED SIDE OF THE
PULLEY MUST BE INSIDE, AGAINST
THE AUGER AND ENGINE PULLEYS.
Slip belt into place between the brake
lever and the roller.
LUBRICATE
FIGURE 9B
11

REPLACING
SHAVE
PLATE
SERVICING
SPARK
PLUG
8. Start engine; engage and disengage auger clutch control to be sure that the auger
stops turning when the clutch control is released.
9. If the auger does not stop turning when control is released, adjust the tension on the
clutch control cable following instructions on page 6.
10. Reinstall the belt cover and the engine cover/cowling.
1. Remove key from ignition switch.
2. Remove the three screws and nuts
securing the shave plate to the
auger housing. Save the hardware.
See figure 11.
3. Remove the worn blade.
4. Install the new blade and secure it
with the three screws and nuts ear¬
lier removed.
1. Remove key from the ignition switch.
2. Remove the engine cover following
instructions on page 11.
3. Disconnect wire from the spark plug
and remove the plug. See figure 12A.
4. Inspect the plug and clean carbon
deposit from the electrodes with a
wire brush.
5. If the plug is burned or pitted, replace it
with a new plug (part # 731 -0732) as
recommended in the engine manual.
6. Adjust the gap between electrodes to
.030 inch using a wire feeler gauge.
See figure 12B.
7. Install the plug and tighten it firmly.
Reconnect the plug wire.
8. Reinstall the engine cover/cowling.
Spark
12

STORAGE
DRAIN CAR¬
BURETOR
DRAIN FUEL
CLEAN UNIT
LUBRICATE
STOP COR¬
ROSION
SERVICE
PARTS
STORE UNIT
Note: If the unit is to be left unused for 30 days or more, or if the unit
is to be stored for the offseason, prepare the snow thrower following
these instructions for storage.
1. Locate the bowl
drain below the
carburetor. See
figure 14.
2. Press upward on
bowl drain and
drain the carbure¬
tor. (This is appli¬
cable only when
your unit is so
equipped.)
WARNING
FIGURE 14
A
• Never store
H unit with fuel
3
W-
in tank in'
Handle gasoline carefully.
Drain fuel in approved container outdoors and away
from open flame.
Do not smoke.
1. Remove all fuel from carburetor and fuel tank to prevent gum
deposits.
2. Drain fuel into approved container outdoors and away from any
open flame. Make sure that the engine is cool to the touch. Do
not smoke. Dispose off the fuel in an EPA-approved place.
3. Run engine until the fuel tank is empty and the engine stops
due to lack of fuel.
4. If you had used gasohol, follow the above steps, then put 1/2 pint
of fuel-oil mix (mixed according to chart on page 4) and run engine till
fuel tank is dry. For more details, consult engine manual.
1. Clean your snow thrower unit thoroughly.
2. Wipe all surfaces with a rag.
1. Lubricate wheel hubs, auger clutch control bar with oil.
2. Lubricate discharge chute flange. Follow instructions on page 8.
1. Pull starter handle slowly until you feel a resistance from com¬
pression pressure.
2. Stop pulling the handle. Release the starter tension slowly to
prevent engine from reversing from compression pressure.
3. This position will close the intake and exhaust ports and pre¬
vent corrosion of the piston and the cylinder bore.
1. Inspect unit for damaged or missing parts and replace these as
needed. Follow the illustrated parts list to order parts.
1. Store the snow thrower unit indoors, if possible, and cover to
keep off dust and dirt.
©poorly venti-
i: lated enclo- ''
|§ sures, where
I fuel fumes
SSSAfgMSS*?-'' •' r-. ■ •••
may reach an
^open flame, ' -
spark or pilot
Slight ason fur-
nace,water !
y-;:- ■
aheateivcfothes
* dryer, etc:
• Gasoline is ;
highly flamma¬
ble and care- i
ff less use
a can fit*
result _
S in serious fire
T hazard result- \
ling in damage;
%o person and/i
j^pppropwty.1.
•“ Drain fuel into
- approved con¬
tainer out- j
-doors and away
f/foom any open i
flame. f.\\
• Make sure that
? the engine is 1
cool to the i
- touch before |
you start ■ ' <
draining the
T'&r " " ‘
wuete&mpt
-5
-i
v-: • vi -5
i
13

TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE
REMEDY
Engine does not start 1. Key not in ON position
2. Choke in OFF position
3. Fuel tank empty
4. Old “stale” fuel mixture
5. Faulty spark plug
6. Engine not primed
Turn key to ON position
Move choke to ON position.
Fill fuel tank with fuel-oil mix.
Drain the stale fuel mixture;
refill with fresh fuel mixture.
Replace spark plug. See page 12.
Push primer button two or three
times following starting instructions.
Engine runs erratic, sputters
1. Incorrect spark plug gap
2. Choke in ON position after
engine has warmed up
3. Fuel contaminated with
water and/or dirt particles
4. Gas cap vent hole plugged
Adjust gap to .030”.
Move choke to OFF position.
Drain and refill with fresh fuel mixture
Clean vent hole or replace cap.
Unit does not throw snow 1. Loose or broken drive belt
2. Incorrect control cable
adjustment
3. Discharge chute clogged;
foreign object lodged in auger
4. Carburetor not supplying
enough fuel
Adjust or replace belt. See page 11.
Adjust cable length. See pages 9
and 10.
Stop engine, remove key and clean
the discharge chute.
Contact the nearest Tecumseh
service outlet
Auger does not stop turning
when control is released
1. Incorrect adjustment of
control cable
Adjust cable length. See pages 9
and 10.
Unit vibrates excessively 1. Loose parts
2. Damaged auger
Stop engine, remove key and check.
Make necessary repairs; tighten bolts.
Take snow thrower to an authorized
service dealer.
Unit loses power 1. Spark plug wire loose
2. Gas cap vent hole plugged
3. Exhaust port plugged.
Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
Remove ice and snow from cap, and
make sure that the vent opening is clear.
Clean the exhaust port; see engine
manual for instructions.
Follow step-by-step instructions and observe safety rules to make adjustments and
repairs on your snow thrower.
14

Simplicity
SIMPLICITY/AGCO ALLIS
OWNER WARRANTY POLICY
AGCO ALLIS
EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 1996
Replaces all Warranties dated before MAY 1, 1996
Outdoor Power
Equipment
Outdoor Power
Equipment
LIMITED WARRANTY
Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that each new product listed below is
merchantable and free from defects in workmanship and material. This warranty is effective for the time
periods listed below and is subject to the conditions that are provided in this policy. NO OTHER WARRANTY
OR IMPLIED WARRANTY BY SIMPLICITY MANUFACTURING, INC. EXISTS EXCEPT WHERE
REQUIRED BY LAW. THE COMPANY’S LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF WARRANTIES, REPRESENTA¬
TIONS, INSTRUCTIONS, OR DEFECTS FROM ANY CAUSE, SHALL BE LIMITED EXCLUSIVELY TO
REPAIR OR REPLACING PARTS UNDER THE CONDITIONS IN THIS WARRANTY, AND IN NO EVENT
WILL THE COMPANY BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. SOME STATES
DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES,
SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES
YOU SPECIFIC RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS THAT VARY FROM STATE TO
STATE.
WARRANTY PERIOD
PRODUCTS CONSUMER USE COMMERCIAL USE
GARDEN TRACTORS 2 YEARS
1 YEAR
2 YEARS ON SUNSTAR/1900
SERIES ONLY
LAWN TRACTORS
2 YEARS
1 YEAR
RIDING MOWERS 2 YEARS
1 YEAR
WALK-BEHIND SNOW THROWERS 2 YEARS
90 DAYS
FRONT CUT MOWERS 2 YEARS
1 YEAR
CHIPPER/SHREDDERS &
CHIPPER VACUUMS 2 YEARS
90 DAYS
COMMERCIAL CHIPPER/SHREDDERS 1 YEAR
90 DAYS
WALK-BEHIND MOWERS 2 YEARS
90 DAYS
ATTACHMENTS 2 YEARS
1 YEAR
REPAIR PARTS (NO LABOR)
90 DAYS 45 DAYS
BATTERIES
1 YEAR 1 YEAR
15

WARRANTY PERIOD:
1. Repair parts installed on products receive the same warranty period remaining for the product or 90 days
consumer use and 45 days commercial use, whichever is longer.
2. All riding products and two-stage walk-behind snow throwers used for personal household use will be
allowed a one time pickup and delivery allowance not to exceed $25.00 during the two year warranty
period for warranty repairs only. (WITHIN U.S.A. & CANADA ONLY)
OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES:
To qualify for warranty service, the purchaser of a Simplicity/AGCO Allis product must:
1. Have sent in the Warranty Registration Card to Simplicity/AGCO Allis at the time of purchase.
2. Notify a Simplicity/AGCO Allis Dealer as soon as possible after discovery of a possible defect. (If you are
not aware of your nearest Simplicity/AGCO Allis dealer, write for such information to Simplicity Mfg., Inc.,
Attn.: Service Dept., 500 N. Spring St., Port Washington, Wl 53074-0977 or refer to the yellow pages of
your telephone directory under Lawn & Garden Equipment.)
NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY:
The following are not covered by this Limited Warranty:
1. Transportation charges to and from dealers except as noted above under Item #2 in the Warranty Period
concerning the one time pickup and delivery allowance.
2. Damage caused by misuse of the product or by operating the product in excess of recommended
capacities.
3. Damage caused by negligence or accident.
4. Products which have been altered or repaired in a manner not authorized by Simplicity/AGCO Allis.
5. Engines, electric starters and some transaxles are warranted separately by their respective manufactur¬
ers, except Simplicity/AGCO Allis agrees to make available to the owners whatever warranty benefits
may be made available to Simplicity/AGCO Allis by the manufacturers.
6. Normal maintenance and/or replacement of maintenance and wear items such as oil, filters, blades,
belts, brake and clutch linings.
7. Problems caused by the use of non-Simplicity/AGCO Allis repair parts.
8. Products which have been sold to a second owner.
WARRANTY IS AVAILABLE ONLY THROUGH AUTHORIZED SIMPLICITY/AGCO ALLIS DEALERS.
16

mirnd) (mm.
©
HEX CAPSCREW
TTTTTTTrrrm* t i -%% 9 , » n i ■ / 7 \
mil) (muwL-.
CARRIAGE BOLT
PLAIN WASHER
LOCK WASHER
NUT
STANDARD
FASTENER
IDENTIFICATION
CHART
Hardware sizes are given
throughout this manual.
If a washer or nut is identified
as “washer, 1/2” or “nut, 1/2”,
this means the 'inside
diameter is 1/2 inch.
If a screw is identified as
“screw, 1/2 x 2”, this means
the shaft diameter is 1/2 inch
and the shaft of the screw is
2 inches long. If a screw is
identified as “screw, 1/2-16 x
2”, the number “16” means
that the screw has 16
threads per inch.
SAMPLE:
SCREW IDENTIFICATION
HEX CAPSCREW IDENTIFICATION
Shown below are actual size hex heads for standard screw
sizes. Example: a 1/4" screw has a 7/16 head and thus requires
a 7/16 wrench. To measure length, use the scale below.
3/4“ Head 5/8" Head 9/16" Head 1/2" Head 7/16" Head
screw with screw with screw with screw with screw with
1/2" S.D. 7/16" S.D. 3/8" S.D. 5/16" S.D. 1/4" S.D.
S.D. = Shaft Diameter
WASHER AND NUT IDENTIFICATION
Place the washer or nut on the above scale to determine the in¬
side diameter. The actual inside diameter can vary 1/16 inch.
Use the scale for comparison.
Shaft
Diameter
Shaft / ^—Screw
Diameter —«' Length
SAMPLE:
NUT IDENTIFICATION
Inside
17

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS FOR
STANDARD MACHINE HARDWARE
TOLERANCE ±20%
SIZE
SAE GRADE #2
o
SAE GRADE #5
0
SAE GRADE #8
0
ln./Lbs.
ln./Lbs.
ln./Lbs.
Ft./Lbs.
Nm.
Ft./Lbs. Nm.
Ft./Lbs. Nm.
8-32
19 2.1
30 3.4
41
4.6
8-36
20
2.3
31
3.5
43 4.9
10-24
27 3.1
43 4.9
60 6.8
10-32
31
3.5 49
5.5
68 7.7
1/4-20
66
7.6
8 10.9
12
16.3
1/4-28
76
8.6
10
13.6
14
19.
5/16-18
11
15.
17 23.1
25 34.
5/16-24
12
16.3
19
25.8
25 34.
3/8-16
20
27.2
30
40.8
45
61.2
3/8-24
23
31.3
35
47.6
50
68.
7/16-14
30
40.8
50
68.
70 95.2
7/16-20
35
47.6
55 74.8
80
108.8
1/2-13
50
68.
75 102.
110
149.6
1/2-20
55
74.8
90 122.4
120 163.2
9/16-12
65 88.4
110 149.6
150 204.
9/16-18
75
102.
120
163.2
170 231.2
5/8-11 90
122.4
150
204.
220 299.2
5/8-18
100
136.
180 244.8
240
326.4
3/4-10
160
217.6
260 353.6
386
525.
3/4-16
180
244.8
300 408.
420
571.2
7/8-9
140
190.4
400
544.
600
816.
7/8-14
155
210.8
440 598.4
660
897.6
1-8
220
299.2
580 788.8
900 1,224.
1-12
240
326.4
640
870.4
1,000
1,360.
NOTE:
1. These torque values are to be used for all hardware ex¬
cluding: lock nuts, self-tapping screws, thread forming
screws, sheet metal screws and socket head setscrews.
2. Recommended seating torque values for lock nuts:
a. For prevailing torque lock nuts—use 65% of grade 5
torques.
b. For flange whizlock nuts (and screws)—use 135% of
grade 5 torques.
3. Unless otherwise noted on assembly drawings all torque
values must meet this specification.
BOLT HEAD MARKING
S.A.E. GRADE:
2 o
5 0
8 ©
18