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Hard starting Ariens ST-824 snowblower

3K views 9 replies 7 participants last post by  Copper116 
#1 ·
I have an Ariens ST-824 snowblower that is a 2005 model. It started good last Fall, on the first pull, but since the colder weather is here in Northern Minnesota, it has become very cold blooded. I can get it to start with the electric start, after quite a few spins, not cranking to long each time, and when the engine starts, it runs just fine. I pulled out the spark plug, connected the wire and grounded the plug. The spark look rather weak, not the big blue spark like it is supposed to have. I did it in the dark so I would be able to see the intensity of the spark. Needless to say, it isn't up to par, in my humble opinion. Could I have a weak coil? Or does this unit have solid state ignition? I'm not a small engine mechanic so I am just guessing.

Can anyone offer some help, please?
 
#3 ·
Before anything I would buy a new spark plug it could have a small unseen crack, then you might to look further.
Buy NGK they are the best.
Good Luck
 
#4 ·
Thanks for the reply. I replaced the plug with a Champion RJ-19LM, which the owner's manual suggests. I tried the spark test, and the spark is real weak, yellow colored and there is no "snapping" sound when the plug fires. I had the dealer pick it up today and he will go through it. A good reputable dealer/repairman. He will fix it.
 
#9 ·
You know, I had not thought of that primer hose having a hole, but it did come to mind that it might just be old and dried out and have enough dry cracks that it's useless. A hole would be even worse. Good call, he should check that out for sure !
 
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