EARTHWISE SN71018 18-In Snow Thrower Owner’s Manual

EARTHWISE SN71018 18-In Snow Thrower Owner’s Manual

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the owner’s manual before using this product.

Thank you for your purchase.

SYMBOLS

Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product better and safer.

• Precautions that involve your safety.

• CAUTION! Read the instruction manual and follow the warning and safety instructions!

• CAUTION! Remove plug from outlet immediately if the cable is damaged or cut.

• SWITCH OFF! the machine, wait until it comes to a complete standstill and remove plug from outlet prior to maintenance, cleaning or repair work!

• CAUTION! Always wear eye and ear protection.?

• Wear safe, sturdy, nonskid footwear!

• DANGER! objects may be thrown out at high speed when motor is running. Do not walk in front of running machine.

• Keep bystanders at a safe distance.

• Keep the electrical cord free of the auger. The auger may damage the cord and cause contact with live parts.

• DANGER! Rotating blades. Keep hands and feet at a safe distance.

• Do not place hand under auger.

• Do not place hand in front of chute deflector.

• Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
  

• DANGER! Risk of electric shock.

• Do not use in rain or electrical storms.
  

• Waste electrical products should not be disposed of with household waste. Please recycle where facilities exist. Check with your Local Authority or retailer for recycling advice.

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNINGS

TO REDUCE RISK OF INJURY: Before any use be sure everyone using this product reads and understands all safety instructions and other information contained in this manual.

CAUTION: Wear appropriate personal hearing protection during use. Under some conditions and duration of use, noise from this product may contribute to hearing loss Save these instructions and review frequently prior to use and in instructing others.

WARNING: When using electric appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury, including the following:

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL SAFETY

CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS – Before further use of the product, any part that is damaged should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting and any other condition that may affect its operation. Any part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced. For assistance call our customer service help line at 1-800-633-1501.

AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS – Do not operate in gaseous or explosive atmospheres. Motors in these products normally spark, and the sparks might ignite fumes.

KEEP CHILDREN AWAY – All visitors, children and pets should stay at a safe distance from the work area.

DRESS PROPERLY- Don’t wear loose clothing or jewelry and wear protective hair covering to contain long hair. They can be caught in moving parts.

Wear safe, sturdy, nonskid footwear. Maintain good footing at all times, especially on slopes.

USE SAFETY GLASSES – Wear safety glasses with side shields or goggles that are marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1 standard when operating this product.

DOUBLE INSULATION – The snow thrower has double insulation. This means that all external metal parts are insulated from the electrical supply. This is achieved by introducing an insulation layer between electrical and mechanical parts. The double insulation guarantees you the greatest possible safety.

WARNING: Use outdoor extension cords marked SW-A, SOW-A, STW-A, STOW-A, SJW-A, SJTW-A, or SJTOWA. These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of electric shock.

POLARIZED PLUGS -To reduce the risk of electric shock, this product has a polarized plug. Polarized connections will fit together only one way. Make sure that the receptacle end of the extension cord has large and small blade slot widths. If the plug does not fit fully into the extension cord, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, obtain a suitable extension cord. If the extension cord does not fit fully into the outlet, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not change the plug on the tool or the extension cord in any way.

EXTENSION CORD. Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord be sure it is heavy enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized extension cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The following table shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gage. The smaller the gage number, the heavier the cord.

It is possible to tie two extension cords together in a knot to prevent them from becoming disconnected during use. Make the knot as shown, then connect the plug end of the power cord into the receptacle end of the extension cord. This method can also be used to tie two extension cords together.

Use one of the plug-receptacle retaining straps or connectors described in this manual.

WARNING: Keep all connections dry and off the ground. Do not touch plug with wet hands.

Be aware of the extension cord while operating the snow thrower. Be careful not to trip on the cord. Always keep the cord away from the auger.

GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) protection should be provided on the circuit or outlet to be used for the snow thrower. Receptacles are available having built-in GFCI protection and may be used.

WARNING: Never put your hands near the auger to remove snow, sticks or other debris. Blocked auger can “spring back” when cleared and may cause personal injury even when the snow thrower is stopped. Always use a wooden stick such as a broom handle to clear blockages.

DISCONNECT UNIT from the power supply when not in use or when servicing or cleaning. Do not leave unattended.

DON’T ABUSE CORD – Never carry this product by the cord or yank the cord to disconnect from the receptacle. Keep cord from heat, oil, and sharp edges.

USE RIGHT APPLIANCE – Do not use this product for any job except that for which it is intended.

DO NOT OVERLOAD the snow thrower by using at too fast a rate to clear the snow. The snow thrower will perform better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

DON’T OVERREACH – Guide the snow thrower at a walking pace only. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

LIGHTING – Only operate your snow thrower in daylight or good artificial light.

STORE IDLE UNIT INDOORS- When not in use, the snow thrower should be stored indoors in a dry area out of reach of children.

MAINTAIN UNIT WITH CARE- Keep clean for best performance and to reduce the risk of injury. Inspect extension cord periodically and replace if damaged.
Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil.

Do not operate the snow thrower on a slope that is too steep for safe operation. When on slopes, slow down and make sure you have good footing.

Before starting the snow thrower make sure the auger is not touching any object and is free to move.

Do not attempt to clear snow from a gravel or crushed rock surface. This product is only intended for use on hard, flat surfaces free of sand, stone and debris, wires or any other objects.

Operation of the snow thrower in the hand-held position is unsafe except in accordance with the special instructions for such use provided in the operator’s manual.

CAUTION: Never throw snow towards people, pets or cars and never allow anyone in front of the snow thrower while in operation. Objects that might clog the snow thrower or cause other damage can be hidden in the snow. Clear the area of doormats, sleds, boards, wires and other debris prior to use.

If the auger strikes a foreign object, stop the snow thrower and examine it for signs of damage. Make any necessary repairs before restarting and continuing to work.

STAY ALERT – Watch what you are doing. Use common sense. Do not operate the snow thrower when you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medications.

If the snow thrower starts to vibrate abnormally, turn it off immediately and check for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

Always turn off the snow thrower, wait until the auger comes to a complete stop and disconnect from the power supply before carrying out maintenance or repairs.

Never operate the snow thrower without proper guards and other safety protective devices in place and working.

When servicing use only identical replacement parts.

CAUTION: Auger does not stop immediately after the snow thrower is turned off.

CAUTION: Risk of injury. This snow thrower is capable of causing serious injury. Do not put hands, feet or any body part or clothing near the rotating auger.

WARNING: California Proposition 65:
This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Model: SN71018

• Power supply voltage: 120V-60HZ
• Idle speed: 2000 RPM
• Power consumption: 13.5 Amp
• Weight: 26.8 pounds
• Clearing width: 18 inches (460 mm)
• Max clearing depth: 12 inches (305 mm)
• Max Clearing capacity: 700 pounds/minute
• Throwing distance: Up to 30 feet

PARTS LIST

ASSEMBLY

UNPACKING

This product requires assembly.
Carefully remove everything from the box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing list are included. Inspect all items carefully to make sure no breakage or damage occurred during shipping.
Do not discard the packing material until you have carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the snow thrower.

PACKING LIST

• Snow Thrower
• Handle Assembly
• Chute Crank
• Chute Deflector
• Owner’s Manual
• Hardware bag

INSTALLING CENTER HANDLE

• Position the center handle and make sure the bracket is pointed downward. (See Fig 1)
  

• Align the holes on the center handle with the holes in the lower handle as shown. (See Fig 2)
  

• Insert J-bolt through both handles with the threaded end at the bottom and facing inside. (See Fig 3)
  

• Install the handle knob and tighten securely to secure the bolt in place. (See Fig 4)
  

• Repeat on the opposite side to secure the center handle in place. (See Fig 5)
  
  

INSTALLING UPPER HANDLE

• Align the holes on the upper handle with the holes in the center handle as shown. (See Fig 6)
  

• Insert threaded end of J bolt through both handles with the threaded end facing inside.

• Install the handle knob and tighten secure.

• Repeat on the opposite side.

• Secure the cable clip to handles. (See Fig 7)
  
  

INSTALLING CHUTE CRANK

• Install the upper chute crank through the bracket located on the center handle . (See Fig 8)
  

• Align the holes in the upper and lower cranks and insert the cotter pin through the holes as shown to secure. (See Fig 9 and Fig 10)
  
  

• Turn the lever left and right to verify the proper functioning of the crank and the chute.

INSTALLING CHUTE DEFLECTOR

• Take the washer out of hardware bag. (See Fig 11)
  

• Position the washer onto the discharge chute. (See Fig 12)
  

• Position the chute deflector over the discharge chute. Align the holes and place the washer between the deflector and chute. (See Fig 13)
  

• Secure tightening the knobs firmly. (See Fig 14 – 15)
  
  
  

OPERATING

Turning On and Off

WARNING: The auger starts rotating immediately after the snow thrower is switched on. Keep hands and feet away from the auger.

To switch ON, make sure the auger is not touching any surface. Press down and hold the safety lock off button

1. While holding down the button pull back on bail wire
2. Once the snow thrower is started you can release the safety lock off button.

To switch off simply release the bail wire.

Removing snow

Before starting work, thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all doormats sleds, boards, wires and any other foreign objects.

Check the condition of the snow thrower before operating it to ensure that the auger turns freely.

Check the auger for wear and tear at regular intervals.

Make sure all fasteners on the snow thrower (screws, nuts, etc.) are fully tightened.

Position the discharge chute so that snow will discharge in a safe direction. Do not direct the discharge towards people or areas where property can be damaged. Keep children, pets and others away for the work area. Do not walk in front of the snow thrower when it is running.

Direct the discharge to the right or left by turning the discharge chute with the chute crank. The chute can be adjusted up to 180 degrees.

The chute deflector on the top of the discharge chute controls the height of the discharge. Loosen both of the knobs to raise or lower the deflector to the desired height and tighten the knobs to secure the deflector.
NOTE: Do not over-tighten the knobs.

For the most efficient snow removal throw the snow downwind and slightly overlap each swath.

Push the snow thrower forward at a comfortable rate of speed, yet slow enough to clear the path completely. The width and depth of the snow determines your forward speed.

Start your clearing path near the electrical outlet and work outward, throwing snow in a back and forth motion.

When turning at the end of a swath, step over the cord and turn the snow thrower. Use the wheel on one side as the pivot point. Slightly tilt the snow thrower on this pivot point while turning.

The snow thrower can remove up to 12 inches deep in one pass. To shave down larger banks of snow, lift the snow thrower by the primary and auxiliary handles and place the snow thrower on the bank. Let the weight of the snow thrower shave down the bank by rocking it in a back-and-forth motion.

When clearing steps, hold the snow thrower by the primary and auxiliary handles and use a swinging or sweeping motion.

Clear snow often, before it gets too deep. It is best to remove the snow as soon as possible after it falls.

Some parts of the snow thrower may freeze under extreme temperature conditions. If parts freeze while the snow thrower is in use, stop the snow thrower, unplug the extension cord and inspect for frozen parts. Free all parts of ice before restarting or operating the snow thrower. Do not attempt to operate the snow thrower with frozen parts or try to force controls that are frozen.

After clearing the snow, continue to run the snow thrower for a few minutes to prevent ice from freezing on moving parts. Then switch off the motor, wait for all moving parts to stop, and wipe the ice and snow from the snow thrower with a clean rag.

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury, do not use hands or feet to unclog the chute.

Before unclogging the chute, shut off the snow thrower and disconnect from the power supply. Wait for the auger to stop turning. Clean out the chute with a wooden stick such as a broom handle.

If the snow thrower should start to vibrate abnormally, immediately stop the motor and check for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. Look behind and use care when backing up with the snow thrower.

For large areas a definite pattern of operation is required to thoroughly clean an area of snow. These patterns will avoid throwing snow in unwanted places as well as eliminating a second removal of snow.

• Pattern A: Throw the snow to the right or left side where it is possible. For areas such as a long driveway it is advantageous to start in the middle. Plow from one end to the other, throwing snow to both sides.
• Pattern B: If the snow can only be thrown to one side of the area to be cleared, start on the opposite side.
  

Overload Protection

The over current protection will automatically turn off the snow thrower when the circuit overloads. If the motor stops, you can restart the snow thrower in 1 to 3 minutes.

MAINTENANCE

Before carrying out maintenance operations, disconnect power supply.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your snow thrower will ensure efficiency and prolong the life of the product.

Check all fasteners at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure the snow thrower is in safe working condition.

After each use, let the motor run for a few minutes so that moving parts do not freeze. Then shut off the motor, wait for all moving parts to stop, and wipe the ice and snow from the snow thrower. Rotate the chute crank several times to remove snow.

Only use a cloth soaked with hot water and a soft brush to clean the snow thrower. Never wet or spray water on the machine!

Do not use detergents or solvents as these could cause irreparable damage to the snow thrower. Chemicals can destroy the plastic parts.

To protect the snow thrower from corrosion when storing for long periods, lightly oil the metal parts.

Store the snow thrower in a dry area out of reach of children.

For the user’s safety, worn or damaged parts must be replaced. Replace with original replacement parts only. Parts from another snow thrower may not fit properly causing an unsafe situation.

Lubricating the snow thrower

You do not need to lubricate the snow thrower. All of the bearings are sealed and were lubricated at the factory for the life of the snow thrower.

Replacing the plates on auger

Detach the worn plate by removing the two sets of nuts, bolts, and washers used to secure it.

Install the new plate.

Insert the bolt with the small flat washer into the corresponding holes on each end of the plate. Use a large flat washer and locknut to secure the bolt on each end.

Install the other plate in the same manner.

Replacing the scraper

The scraper is located at the base of the snow thrower beneath the auger housing.

Remove the screws that secure the scraper to the snow thrower.

Install the new scraper and fasten it securely with the screws. (See Fig 16)

Replacing the auger belt
Contact Earthwise for new belts and installation kit.

Under normal operating conditions it should not be necessary to replace the auger belt. However, should the auger jam or malfunction the belt could be damaged. To replace the belt follow these instructions.

Belt drive system structure (See Fig 17)

1. Open the left side plate by removing three screws. (Fig. 18)
   
   

2. Use your right hand to turn the rib side of the belt up and pull upwards while turning the auger pulley counterclockwise with your left hand. The belt can be easily removed from the pulley. (Fig. 19 – 20)
   
   
   

3. Put the belt on the drive pulley first and then place the belt at the lower end of the auger pulley. (Fig. 21)
   
   

4. Use right hand to press the belt with ribbed side down. (Fig. 22)
   
   

5. While holding the belt down with your right hand use your left hand to turn the auger forward so that the auger pulley rotates in a clockwise direction. (Fig. 23)
   
   

6. Keep pressure on the belt with your right hand (rib side down and flat side up) while rotating the auger. The belt will be gradually pushed down onto the pulley. When the belt is seated on the pulley, adjust it so that the ribs of the belt match the grooves on the pulley. (Fig. 24 – 27)
   
   
   
   
   

7. After belt is installed, replace the side plate and secure it with the three screws. (Fig. 28)
   
   

STORAGE

Run the snow thrower for a few minutes to melt away any snow on the snow thrower.

Disconnect the extension cord from the snow thrower.

Examine the extension cord thoroughly for signs of wear or damage. Replace it if it is worn or damaged.

Examine the snow thrower thoroughly for worn, loose, or damaged parts. Check connections and screws and tighten if necessary. To repair or replace parts, contact our customer service help line at 1-800-633-1501.

Store the snow thrower, along with the disconnected extension cord, in a clean, dry place out of reach of children. Cover loosely with a tarp for added protection.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Plug in the unit. Check power supply.Check cable. Repair or replace if required.
Poor results| Drive belt worn or damaged. Auger worn or damaged.
Discharge chute blocked.| Replace the drive belt.Replace the plates on auger. Ensure the screws and nuts are properly tightened.Switch off the snow thrower and clean the discharge chute.
Abnormal vibrations| Drive belt worn or damaged. Auger worn or damaged.
Scraper blade worn or damaged.| Replace the drive belt.Replace the plates on auger. Ensure the screws and nuts are properly tightened.Replace the scraper blade. Ensure the screws are properly tightened.
Motor shuts off during operation| Current too high| Restart the snow thrower after 1 to 3 minutes.

CALL US FIRST !!

Call us first with questions about operating or maintaining your product at 1-800-633-1501 between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, or get assistance on americanlawnmower.com

PARTS AND SERVICE

SERVICE
For parts or service, please call 1-800-633-1501 or visit us online at americanlawnmower.com. Be sure to provide all relevant information when you call or visit.

REPAIR PARTS
The model number of this tool is found on a plate or label attached to the housing. Please record the serial number in the space provided below.

• NAME OF ITEM Snow Thrower
• MODEL NUMBER SN71018
• SERIAL NUMBER

Always mention the model number when ordering kits/items for this tool.

WARRANTY POLICY

Two (2) year limited warranty on Earthwise outdoor power equipment.

Earthwise warrants to the original owner that each new product and service part is free from defects in materials and workmanship and agrees to repair or replace any defective product or part for the warranty period as stated above from the original date of purchase except for the conditions and circumstances listed below:

This warranty applies only to the original purchaser at retail and may not be transferred.

Warranty applies if the product is used for personal, household or family use. Warranty is void if product is used for commercial, industrial or rental purposes.

Warranty does not include repairs necessary due to operator’s abuse or negligence (including overloading the product beyond capacity or immersion in water), or the failure to assemble, operate, maintain or store the product according to the instructions in the owner’s manual.

This warranty is not transferable and only applies to product sold directly from an authorized retailer. This warranty does not apply to any product, new or used, purchased through unauthorized third-party channels.

ANY INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS, DAMAGE, OR EXPENSE THAT MAY RESULT FROM ANY DEFECT, FAILURE OR MALFUNCTION OF THE PRODUCT IS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.

Products sold damaged or incomplete, sold “as is”, or sold as reconditioned are not covered under the warranty.

Damage or liability caused by shipping, improper handling, improper assembly, incorrect voltage, improper wiring, improper maintenance, improper modification or the use of accessories and/or attachments not specifically recommended is not covered by this warranty.

Expendable items that become worn during normal use are not covered by the warranty.

Warranty does not cover damage caused by cold, heat, rain, excessive humidity, corrosive environments and materials, or other contaminants.

Warranty does not include installation, assembly or normal adjustments explained in the owner’s manual.

The expense of delivering the product to the vendor and the expense of returning the product or replacement parts to the owner is not covered by the warranty.

The warranty does not cover normal deterioration of the exterior finish, including but not limited to scratches, dents, paint chips or any corrosion or discoloration caused by heat, abrasive and chemical cleaners.

Proof of purchase, original dated sales receipt, must accompany all warranty claims.

Support

American Lawn Mower Company
The Great States Corporation
7444 Shadeland Station Way，
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Phone 1-800-633-1501
www.americanlawnmower.com

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