Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I have a new Craftsman 536.881501 single stage snow thrower. Used it for the first time today. The thrower will not shut off. I had to open the spark plug compartment and pull the wire. The key is worthless, doesn't do anything when I turn it off and pull the key out. Sears can't help until JANUARY.  Anyone have ideas to fix my situation ?

thanks

SInce you said it was NEW, return it.......................DI

The "ignition" switch is just a normally closed switch that connects the spark plug to ground, thereby shorting out the ignition system. When you put the key in it breaks the circuit and your ignition system works again.

There could be several problems but its probably a loose connection either to ground or to the ignition system. It could also be that the switch is not working.

Is there a throttle on the blower, if so then turning it "Off" (  "Turtle" on mine ) should cause it to stop. Some engines also have a fuel shutoff valve that you can turn off. It takes longer for the engine to use up the gas in the carburettor but it does work. I tend to do that when I'm finishing for the day. Once the engine stops I put the throttle to Off and pull out the key.