Summerize Your Snowblower: Oil, Fuel, Spark Plug

Putting a snowblower away dirty, fueled, and with old oil is how next winter’s headaches start. A quick summerization now prevents gummed carbs, hard starts, and worn parts.

What you’ll get:

• A simple end-of-season checklist that actually protects your machine
• Practical tips on oil, fuel, and friction points
• A quick note on spark plug sanity

Drain or stabilize: pick a lane

For small engines like a snowblower, draining is a clean choice. Pump out the tank with a transfer pump, then run the engine outdoors until it stalls. This clears the carb and lines. If you normally run ethanol-free, you’re already ahead—but an empty system won’t varnish on you.

Change the oil the right way

Block the machine up on 2x4s and drain fully. Reinstall the cap before tilting for underside work to avoid drips. Confirm capacity in your manual; fill, then verify on the dipstick rather than guessing. SAE matters: SAE 30 is typically for 40°F and warmer. For snow service, a 5W-30 small engine oil makes cold starts and lubrication happier.

Lube what moves, clean what drives

Pop the bottom cover and inspect the belt and drive system. A light coat of white lithium grease on exposed gears helps, but keep it off the friction drive wheel—grease there kills traction and attracts grit. Use silicone on rubber contact components: apply to a rag first, then wipe, keeping mating surfaces clean.

Spark plug: crisp in, crisp out

Pull the boot before spinning wrenches. Replace a cooked plug, or at least confirm a 0.030 in gap. If you’re unsure of the exact spec for your engine, note what you pulled and match it until you can confirm with the manual or manufacturer. Reconnect the boot after filling oil and button-up.

Final clean and protect

Wash, dry, and add a quick spray wax on painted metal to fight corrosion. Plastic polish refreshes shrouds; a touch of silicone on the chute helps snow slide next season. Bag and store removable accessories to prevent tears.

A snowblower put away empty, freshly oiled, lubricated, and protected is a snowblower that lights on the first pull next winter. Ten careful minutes now beats an hour in the first storm.