Snow Blower Operation

Before tackling your snowy driveway or walkway, make sure you take steps to prepare yourself and your equipment. These MTD snow blower and thrower operation tips will help you maximize your safety and the performance of your machine.

Proper attire for snow blower operation

In addition to preparing your equipment, be sure that you are dressed properly for snow blower operation. You should:

Wear clothes that are warm but not loose. Hanging garments, such as scarves, can get caught in moving parts.
Wear shoes that provide good traction to minimize the risk of slipping.
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Anti-fog lenses will help you see clearly and operate your machine safely.

Snow blower & thrower tips

Don't put your hands or feet near rotating snow blower parts, the auger/impeller housing or the chute assembly. Moving parts can cause severe injury. If your snow blower gets clogged during operation, stop the engine and use a long object, such as a stick or a chute clearing rod (sometimes included with your snow blower), to clear it.
Don't bypass the auger/impeller control lever. It is a safety device and bypassing it increases the risk of injury to the operator.
Don't operate your machine with a missing or damaged chute assembly. Prior to snow blower operation, make sure all safety devices are in place and functioning properly.
Don't run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.
Don't refuel your machine while it's running. If your snow blower is low on gas during or shortly after operation, let it cool down before refilling it.
Make sure the control levers operate easily in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged position when released.
Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel surfaces.

For more snow thrower and snow blower tips, see the operator's manual for your machine. To clear snow more easily and quickly, take advantage of MTD's selection of snow thrower accessories, including tire chains.