Quck answer
Changing the oil in a Craftsman snowblower is a simple process that can help maintain the machine’s performance and prolong its lifespan. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Gather the necessary tools and materials: a drain pan, a socket wrench, a new oil filter, and the recommended type and amount of oil.
2. Locate the oil drain plug underneath the snowblower’s engine. Place the drain pan underneath.
3. Unscrew the drain plug using the socket wrench and allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan.
4. Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.
5. Locate the oil filter and remove it. Install the new oil filter in its place.
6. Add the recommended amount of fresh oil into the snowblower’s oil fill tube, checking the oil level with the dipstick.
7. Start the snowblower and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
By following these steps, you can easily change the oil in your Craftsman snowblower, ensuring its optimal performance and longevity.
Sold by Sears, Craftsman is a brand of hand tools, power tools, and power equipment. All gasoline-powered equipment, including Craftsman snowblowers, require lubricating oil for operation. Craftsman recommends changing the oil in their snowblowers after the first five hours of use and every 50 hours thereafter. If you don’t use your snowblower for 50 hours a year, change the oil after each snowblowing season.
Items Needed:
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Open-end wrenches
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Oil container
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Small engine oil with detergent
How to Replace the Oil in Your Craftsman Snowblower
Step 1: Prepare the Engine
Run the snowblower engine until it runs out of gasoline and comes to a complete stop. If you’re changing the oil after five hours of use or during the snowblowing season and you plan to use the machine again, warm the oil by running the engine for a few minutes before stopping it. To prevent accidental start-up, stop the engine and pull the rubber boot from the spark plug by gently grasping it.
Tip:
This same procedure prepares the snowblower for off-season storage.
Step 2: Find the Oil Drain Plug
Locate the hex head nut-capped oil drain plug, which is usually on one side of the large, round recoil starter housing.
Step 3: Position a Drip Pan
Place an approved used-oil container underneath the drain plug. These containers are specifically designed to hold used oil and are labeled as such.
Step 4: Loosen the Drain Plug
Secure the tube that ends with the drain plug using an open-end wrench. Use another open-end wrench to turn the drain plug. Some engines only have a small drain plug at the end of a rigid metal tube, which only requires one wrench to remove.
Step 5: Drain the Oil
Allow the used oil to flow into the container once you’ve removed the drain plug. Remove the dipstick from the oil fill tube to improve oil flow and prevent suction.
Step 6: Reinstall the Drain Plug
Replace the drain plug once all the oil has drained from the snowblower. Tighten the plug using the two wrenches, just as before.
Step 7: Add Engine Oil
Fill the snowblower engine with clean, fresh oil. Consult your owner’s manual to determine how much oil your Craftsman snowblower needs. Some require 20 ounces of lubricating oil, while others may need up to 40 ounces if they have a larger-capacity engine. Use oil that is blended with detergent. Craftsman warns that using non-detergent oil or 2-stroke engine oil could shorten the life of your engine.
Tip:
Fill the oil in small increments, checking the dipstick as you go to avoid overfilling the oil reservoir. Overfilling the reservoir can cause excessive smoking during engine startup and other issues.
Step 8: Prepare for Startup
If you plan to use the snowblower soon, reconnect the spark plug boot and add gasoline to the engine. If you’re storing the machine for the season, don’t refill the gas tank; it’s best to store it without gas.
Step 9: Getting Rid of the Used Oil
Properly dispose of the used oil at a recycling center that is authorized. You can find many auto shops that will be pleased to accept your used oil. Some of them have public recycling containers that are easily identifiable. Do not pour the oil on the ground or discard it in the regular waste bin, as both of these actions can result in contaminated drinking water and soil pollution.
FAQ
1. Can I change the oil in my Craftsman snowblower myself?
Yes, you can change the oil in your Craftsman snowblower yourself. It is a relatively simple process that can be done with basic tools and some oil. Just make sure to follow the instructions in your snowblower’s manual for the specific steps and oil type needed.
2. How often should I change the oil in my Craftsman snowblower?
It is recommended to change the oil in your Craftsman snowblower at least once a year or after every 25 hours of operation, whichever comes first. This will help maintain the performance and longevity of your snowblower’s engine.
3. What type of oil should I use for my Craftsman snowblower?
For most Craftsman snowblowers, a 5W-30 or 10W-30 oil is recommended. However, always refer to your snowblower’s manual for the exact oil type and specifications. Using the wrong oil can cause engine damage and void your warranty.
4. Do I need to warm up the engine before changing the oil?
No, you do not need to warm up the engine before changing the oil in your Craftsman snowblower. In fact, it is safer to work on a cold engine to prevent burns. Just make sure the engine is turned off and cool before beginning the oil change process.
5. Are there any other maintenance tasks I should perform while changing the oil?
While changing the oil in your Craftsman snowblower, it is a good opportunity to perform other maintenance tasks. These may include cleaning or replacing the air filter, inspecting the spark plug, and checking the condition of the belts and cables. Refer to your snowblower’s manual for a complete list of recommended maintenance tasks.