Snapper LE3171R (7085660 Operation and maintenance manual

Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
L.E. SINGLE STAGE
SMALL FRAME
SNOW THROWER
SERIES 1
MODELS
LE3171R
LE3191R
LE3191E
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
MODEL DESIGNATION
ENGINE POWER *
IL
IIE I 3I 19 II I E
II
ENGINE OPTIONS
SERIES DESIGNATION
AUGER WIDTH
L - Light Weight Frame
E - Easy Operation
3 - 3.0 (Engine Power *)
17- 17" Auger Width
19 - 19" Auger Width 1 -- Series Designation
E - 110 Volt Electric Start
R - Recoil Start
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Snow Thrower, read this manual carefully and
pay particular attention to the "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on Pages 2 -4. Remember that all power
equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance
with the operating instructions and common sense.
*Actual sustained engine power will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmentalfactors.
RATINGSon Page5 for furtherinformation.
SNAPPER.coonouoh_,_o_,_0_,
See POWER
COPYRIGHT © 2006
SNAPPER -A DIVISION OF SIMPLICITY MFG., INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED INSTRUCTION No. 7100947 (I.R. 6/26/2006)
TP 100-5205-00-SX-SN

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This powerful machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause
injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following instructions may result in serious injury to the operator
or other persons. The owner of the snow thrower must understand these instructions and, furthermore, must
allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate snow thrower. Each person operating the
snow thrower must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which
might impair vision, dexterity, or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your snow thrower which
your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER,
McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: [phone].
PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and the snow removal
activity. Never assume that the children will remain
where you last saw them.
1. DO NOT allow children in the area when snow
thrower is being operated.
2. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate
snow thrower.
3. ALLOW only responsible adults and teenagers
with mature judgment to operate the machine
and then only after being thoroughly instructed
and under the close supervision of an
experienced adult operator.
4. Keep the area clear of all persons, particularly
small children and pets.
5. Know how to STOP the snow thrower and
disengage the controls quickly.
PREPARATION
8. Survey the area to be cleared beforehand and
plan where snow is to be blown. Be prepared to
release auger/impeller clutch or to change
discharge chute direction quickly to discharge
away from windows, cars, buildings and
doorways to avoid property damage or personal
injury from hurled objects.
9. Use only approved extension cords and
receptacles in good condition and with sufficient
capacity to carry the current to the machine if
equipped with electric starting motors.
10. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
and vapors are explosive. Store only in an
approved fuel container. Never remove fuel cap
or add fuel with the engine running. Add fuel
outdoors only with the engine stopped and cool.
Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT
smoke. DO NOT run engine indoors.
PREPARATION
1. Warn everyone in advance to stay clear of area.
Keep especially watchful for children and pets
darting into area while operating.
2. Read, understand, and follow instructions and
warnings in this manual and on the machine.
Know the controls and the proper use of the
snow thrower before starting.
3. Data indicates that operators, age 60 and above,
are involved in a large percentage of snow
thrower-related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the snow thrower
safely enough to protect themselves and others
from serious injury.
4. Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral
before starting the engine (motor).
5. Wear adequate winter clothing including boots
which will give you maximum footing on slippery
surfaces. Exercise CAUTION to avoid slipping or
falling.
6. DO NOT wear loose fitting clothing that can get
caught in moving parts.
7. Before the first snow fall, check the area to be
cleared and remove all objects such as
doormats, sticks, toys, wires, rocks, etc., which
could be hurled or jam the snow thrower.
OPERATIONAL PRECAUTIONS
1. Before starting, make visual check to make sure
auger/impeller housing is clear and all guards
and shields are in place and tight.
2. DO NOT operate machine without proper guards
shields, deflectors, or other safety protective
devices in place and functioning properly.
3. Should the auger/impeller become clogged,
release the auger/impeller clutch control and, as
an additional precaution, STOP the engine
before attempting to unclog the auger/impeller
or discharge chute.
4. DO NOT attempt to unclog the auger/impeller or
discharge chute by reaching in with your hands.
Use the clean-out tool or similar implement to
unclog.
5. DO NOT attempt to unclog the auger/impeller or
discharge chute with the engine running. STOP
engine and remove key. Wait for all motion to
STOP.
6. STOP engine (motor) and remove key before
leaving the operator position for any reason.
DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all
times.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATIONAL PRECAUTIONS
7. Start engine onlywhere exhaust fumes will be safely
dissipated. Allow a brief warm-up period, and
practice operation of controls outside before putting
the machine to work.
8. After striking a foreign object, STOP the engine
(motor), remove the key, and remove the wire from
spark plug. Thoroughly inspect the snow thrower
for any damage, and repair the damage before
restarting and operating the snow thrower.
9. STOP the engine if the machine starts to vibrate
excessively as this normally indicates mechanical
problems. Remove the key and disconnect the
spark plug wire to prevent unintentional starting
before servicing or repairing the machine.
10. Exercise extreme CAUTION when operating on
slopes.
11. DO NOT clear snow across the face of slopes.
Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing
direction on slopes. DO NOT attempt to clear steep
slopes.
12. DO NOT leave machine unattended with the engine
running. STOP engine and remove key to prevent
unauthorized operation.
13. Release clutch control and make sure
auger/impeller has STOPPED before rotating
discharge chute, adjusting deflector, or placing
hands near auger/impeller.
14. DO NOT use snow thrower on surfaces above
ground level,such as, a roof of a building.
15. DO NOT direct the discharge toward people or areas
where property damage can occur. Keep children
and others away.
16. Exercise extreme CAUTION when operating on or
crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for
hidden hazards or traffic.
17. DO NOT overload the machine capacity by
attempting to clear snow at too fast a rate.
18. Never operate the machine at high transport speeds
on slippery surfaces. Look behind and use care
when backing.
19. Disengage power to the auger/impeller when snow
thrower istransported or not in use.
20. Use only attachments and accessories approved by
the manufacturer of the snow thrower (such as
wheels weights, counterweights, cabs and the like).
21. Never operate the snow thrower without good
visibility or light. Always be sure ofyour footing, and
keep a firm hold on the handles. Walk; never run.
22. DO NOT touch a hot engine or muffler.
CLEARING A CLOGGED DISCHARGE CHUTE
Hand contact with the rotating auger/impeller inside the
discharge chute is the most common cause of injury
associated with snow throwers. DO NOT use your hand
to clean out the discharge chute. To clear the chute:
1. STOP the engine. Remove the key.
2. Wait 10 seconds to be sure the auger/impeller
blades have stopped rotating.
3. Always use the clean-out tool. DO NOT use your
hands.
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline isextremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
2. Use only an approved fuel container.
3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.
5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
such as on a water heater or other appliances.
6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
the containers on the ground away from the vehicle
before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel equipment using a portable
container, rather than a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in enclosed
vehicles or trailers.
9. 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
10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
11. DO NOT overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and
tighten securely.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1. DO NOT store machine or fuel container inside where
fumes may reach an open flame, spark, or pilot light
as in a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other
gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before storing
machine in an enclosure. Store fuel container out of
reach of children in a well ventilated, unoccupied
building.
2. Keep machine and engine free of excess oil, grease
and spilled fuel to reduce fire hazard.
3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved
container outdoors and away from open flame.
4. Inspect all bolts, nuts and screws frequently and
keep properly tightened.
5. Use only recommended shear bolts (if equipped) to
prevent possible damage to machine.
6. Service engine and make adjustments only when
engine is stopped. Remove key, remove wire from
spark plug, secure wire away from plug, and
disconnect cord from electric starting motors to
prevent accidental starting.
7. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or
overspeed engine.
8. DO NOT test for spark by grounding the spark plug
next to spark plug hole. Spark from the plug could
ignite gas exiting engine.
9. Have machine serviced by an authorized SNAPPER
dealer at least once a year and have the dealer install
any new safety devices.
10. Maintain safety and instruction labels as necessary.
11. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to
assure that original standards are maintained.
NOTE: Specifications are correct
at time of printing and are subject
to change without notice.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1 - IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .......................... 2-4
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................. 5
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ....................................... 6-10
Pre-start Checklist ........................................................................................... 6-7
Starting & Stopping Engine (Recoil Start Models) ........................................ 8-9
Starting & Stopping Engine (Electric Start Models) ................................... 9-10
Starting & Stopping Auger ............................................................................ 9-10
SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS .................................... 11
Checking Auger Drive Belt ................................................................................ 11
Checking Auger Flite Shoes .............................................................................. 11
Checking Clutch Control Cable ........................................................................ 11
Annually- End of Each Season ........................................................................ 11
Engine ........................................................................................................... 11
Spark Plug .................................................................................................... 11
Storage Procedure ............................................................................................. 11
SECTION 4 - REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENTS .................................... 12-14
Auger Drive Belt Adjustment ...................................................................... 12-13
Auger Drive Belt Replacement .................................................................... 13-14
Auger Flite Shoe Replacement ......................................................................... 14
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................. 15
SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................. 15
Maintenance/Replacement Parts ...................................................................... 15
WARRANTY AND PRODUCT REGISTRATION ................................ 16-17
Technical Information
Power Ratings
The power rating labels for individual gas engine models are initially developed by starting with SAE (Society of
Automotive Engineers) code J1940 (Small Engine Power & Torque Rating Procedure) (Revision 2002-05). The above
values may not necessarily represent the maximum gross power output of a gas engine per SAE J1995 Engine Power
Test Code -- Gross Power Rating. The maximum gross power output of these gas engines may be significantly higher
in accordance with the SAE J1995 standard. Given both the wide array of products on which our engines are placed,
and the variety of environmental issues applicable to operating the equipment, it may be that the gas engine you have
purchased will not develop the rated power when used in a piece of power equipment (actual "on-site" power). This
difference is due to a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the following: differences in altitude, temperature,
barometric pressure, humidity, fuel, engine lubrication, maximum governed engine speed, individual engine to engine
variability, design of the particular piece of power equipment, the manner in which the gas engine is operated, gas
engine run-in to reduce friction and clean out the combustion chambers, adjustments to the valves and carburetor, and
other factors. The power ratings may also be adjusted based on comparisons to other similar engines utilized in similar
applications, and will therefore not necessarily match the values derived using the foregoing codes.

Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST
Make the following checks and perform the service
required before each start-up.
2.1.1. Check guards, chutes, deflectors and covers to
make sure all are in place and securely tightened.
2.1.2. Check auger control to insure it works freely.
See Figure 2.1.
AUGER
CONTROL
STANDARD FLUID MEASUREMENT (50:1 Ratio)
GASOLINE 2 CYCLE OIL
(Gallons) (Ounces)
0.25 .64
0.50 1.3
0.75 1.9
1.00 2.6
1.25 3.2
1.50 3.8
2.00 5.1
METRIC FLUID MEASUREMENT (50:1 Ratio)
ENGAGE AND
DISENGAGEAUGER
CONTROLTOINSURE
PROPER OPERATION
FIGURE 2.1
2.1.3. Check chute operation. Rotate chute to
insure smooth rotation throughout its range.
WARNING
Use approved fuel container. DO NOT smoke near
open fuel container. DO NOT fill fuel tank indoors or
when engine is running. Allow engine to cool for at
least ten minutes before refilling. Wipe off any
spilled fuel before starting engine. DO NOT run
engine indoors.
GASOLINE 2 CYCLE OIL
(Liters) (Cubic Centimeters)
0.50 10
1.00 20
1.50 30
2.00 40
2.50 50
3.00 60
4.00 80
FIGURE 2.2
(Continued on Next Page)
2.1.4. Mix fresh, good quality unleaded gasoline
and SNAPPER 2-cycle engine oil or equivalent. Mix
fuel and oil to a 50:1 ratio. See Figure 2.2.
2.1.5. Add premix fuel to tank after pushing the
machine outside where fumes can safely dissipate.
Make sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to
Engine Owners Manual for specifications.
2.1.6. Check auger housing, must be free of all
obstructions. Clean engine of any accumulation of
spilled fuel, dirt, etc.
2.1.7 Make sure the clean-out tool is mounted in
the storage position on the snow thrower.

Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST
(Continued from Previous Page)
Make the following checks and perform the service
required before each start-up.
WARNING
DO NOT use an electrical extension cord that is
damaged. A damaged electrical extension cord could
cause a shock or fire. Thoroughly inspect electrical
extension cord before using machine. If cord is
damaged, do not use and do not operate machine.
Replace damaged cord immediately. Contact your
SNAPPER service dealer for assistance. To reduce
the risk of electric shock, use only with an extension
cord intended for outdoor use having a cord type:
SW-A, SOW-A, STW-A, STOW-A, SJW-A, SJTW-A or
SJTOW-A.
2.1.7. Check and make sure extension cord is in
good condition. Extension cord should not have any
broken insulation or exposed wires. Use an
extension cord that is heavy enough to carry the
correct amount of current to the machine. See
Figure 2.3 for correct size to use depending on cord
length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt,
use the next heavier gauge cord.
MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD SETS
120 Volt Total Length of Cord in Feet
Rating-Amps 25"I S0" I100"IlS0"
More Not More ,_ ,,...A.W./'_.
Than Than
0 6 18 16 16 14
6 10 18 16 14 12
10 12 16 16 14 12
12 16 14 12 Not
Recommended
DANGER
DO NOT clean out discharge chute with hands.
Contact with moving parts inside chute will cause
serious injury. Use clean out tool provided with
machine.
2.1.9 Check to make sure that the clean-out tool is
attached to the handle on the machine. Do not
operate the machine without the clean-out tool
properly stored on the handle.
CLEARING A CLOGGED DISCHARGE CHUTE
Hand contact with the rotating auger/impeller inside the
discharge chute is the most common cause of injury
associated with snow throwers. DO NOT useyour hand to
clean out the discharge chute. To clear the chute:
1. STOP the engine. Remove the key.
2. Wait 10 seconds to be sure the auger/impeller blades
havestopped rotating.
3. Always use the clean-out tool. DO NOT use your
hands.
CLEAN-OUT
TOOL
FIGURE 2.3
2.1.8. Check the AC electrical outlet that will be
used and make sure it is a polarized outlet. The
machine has a polarized plug (one blade of plug is
wider than the other blade) that will accept a
polarized extension cord. The extension cord will fit
into a polarized outlet (receptacle) only one way. If
plug does not fit fully into your outlet, reverse the
plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified
electrician to install a proper polarized outlet. DO
NOT modify or change this polarized plug in any
way.
IMPORTANT! Electric Start Kit optional
accessory on some models.
FIGURE 2.4

Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2 STARTING, STOPPING & OPERATION
(RECOIL START MODELS)
2.2.1. ENGINE & AUGER
1. Move choke control to the choke "ON" position.
See Figure 2.5.
NOTE: Stop the auger by releasing the auger control.
Stop the engine by turning the key switch to the "OFF"
position.
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
TURN KEY TO THE "ON"
PUSH PRIMER
THREE TIMES
WARNING
Release auger clutch control and make sure
auger/impeller has STOPPED before rotating
discharge chute or adjusting deflector. DO NOT place
hands near auger/impeller while engine is running.
2.2.3. DISCHARGE CHUTE and DEFLECTOR
ADJUSTMENT
1. Release auger control and allow auger to come to
a complete stop before performing any adjustments.
2. Loosen deflector knob and position deflector to
desired angle. Retighten knob.
3. Rotate discharge chute in desired direction. See
Figure 2.7. MOVE AUGER CONTROL
AGAINST HANDLE TO
ENGAGE AUGER
PULL ROPE
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
MOVE CHOKE TO THE "ON"
POSITION
FIGURE 2.5
2. Turn ignition key to the "ON" position.
3. Push primer button three times to start a cold
engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start
warm engine.
4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.
5. After engine starts, move the choke control to
the no choke "OFF" position. Allow a brief warm-up
until engine runs smooth.
WARNING
Objects can be thrown by the snow thrower while it
is in operation. Thrown objects could cause serious
injury to the operator or bystanders. Always wear
safety goggles or other suitable eye protection.
Keep people and pets away from area.
2.2.2. ENGAGING AUGER
1. Pull auger control against handle to engage
auger. See Figure 2.6.
ROTATE CHUTE TO
CHANGE
DIRECTION OF
DISCHARGE
FIGURE 2.6
DEFLECTOR
CHUTE
LOOSEN DEFLECTOR
KNOB & MOVE TO
DESIRED POSITION
FIGURE 2.7

Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2.4. STOPPING
Stop the auger by releasing the auger control.
Stop the engine by turning the key switch to the
"OFF" position. Always remove key from key
switch before leaving machine unattended.
See Figure 2.8. RELEASE AUGER
CONTROL TO
TURN KEY TO THE "OFF"
POSITION TO STOP ENGINE -'7
2.2
FIGURE 2.8
STARTING, STOPPING & OPERATION
(ELECTRIC START MODELS)
2.2.5. ENGINE & AUGER
1. Connect the power cord to the starter switch box
on machine's control panel then plug the other end
into 120 volt AC receptacle.
2. Turn ignition key to the "ON" position.
3. Move choke control to the choke "ON" position.
See Figure 2.9.
4. Push primer button three times to start a cold
engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start
warm engine.
5. Push the electric starter button. DO NOT hold
button for more than 20 seconds to avoid damaging
the starting motor. See Figure 2.9.
6. After engine starts, move the choke control to the
no choke "OFF" position. Allow a brief warm-up until
engine runs smooth.
7. Disconnect power cord from AC receptacle.
Disconnect power cord from machine and remove
cord from area where machine will be in operation.
NOTE: Stop the auger by releasing the auger control.
Stop the engine by turning the key switch to the "OFF"
position.
PUSH PRIMER
THREE TIMES
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
TURN KEY TO THE "ON"
POSITION
,) PUSH STARTER
BUTTON
INTO STARTER
(SHOWN IN "OFF POSITION)
MOVE CHOKE TO THE "ON"
POSITION
•kWARNING
DO NOT use an electrical extension cord that is
damaged. A damaged electrical extension cord
could cause a shock or fire. Thoroughly inspect
electrical extension cord before using machine. If
cord is damaged, do not use and do not operate
machine. Replace damaged cord immediately.
Contact your SNAPPER service dealer for
assistance. To reduce the risk of electric shock,
use only with an extension cord intended for
outdoor use having a cord type: SW-A, SOW-A,
STW-A, STOW-A, SJW-A, SJTW-A or SJTOW-A.
FIGURE 2.9

Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Objects can be thrown by the snow thrower while it
is in operation. Thrown objects could cause serious
injury to the operator or bystanders. Always wear
safety goggles or other suitable eye protection.
Keep people and pets away from area.
DANGER
DO NOT clean out discharge chute with hands.
Contact with moving parts inside chute will cause
serious injury. Use clean out tool provided with
machine.
2.2.6. ENGAGING AUGER
1. Pull auger control against handle to engage
auger. See Figure 2.6.
WARNING
Release auger clutch control and make sure
auger/impeller has STOPPED before rotating
dischargechute oradjustingdeflector.DO NOT place
hands nearauger/impellerwhileengine isrunning.
2.2.7. DISCHARGE CHUTE and DEFLECTOR
ADJUSTMENT
1. Release auger control and allow auger to come
to a complete stop before performing any
adjustments.
2. Loosen deflector knob and position deflector to
desired angle. Retighten knob.
3. Rotate discharge chute in desired direction.
See Figure 2.7.
2.2.8. STOPPING
Stop the auger by releasing the auger control.
Stop the engine by turning the key switch to the
"OFF" position. Always remove key from key
switch before leaving machine unattended. See
Figure 2.8.
10