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

Non-mechanical genius here. Need some advice. I have a Craftsman 9hp snow blower purchased in 2001. I checked it out in November prior to the season (lubed, oil, started, etc.) and it ran fine. When I went to start it yesterday for the first time for action, the electric starter just "whirrs". I can start it with the pull cord so it runs. since it "whirrs" it seems to be getting power, but something isn't connecting to the motor to turn it over. I am assuming I need to get a new starter but thought I would check with some experts first. Any help out there? Thanks in advance.

I've seen many where the starter mounting bolts fall out.  Check these first.

My ariens had the same issue. Your starter is probably ok and as KDEZ mentioned it is probably the gear.

Mine was cast and quite "chewed up". the gear was cheap and easy to replace. it aint rocket science. easy DYI project. get your hands dirty