Craftsman snow blowers, sold for decades and now built under the Stanley Black and Decker banner on Briggs and Stratton or LCT engines, use a conventional starting layout with a turn key, a choke lever, a primer bulb and, on most two stage models, 120 volt electric start. There is no unusual quirk to trip over, but the order still matters, especially the first cold morning of winter after the machine has sat all summer. This guide walks it step by step.

Craftsman Controls and Engines

Modern Craftsman snow blowers run Briggs and Stratton or LCT engines with a standard control cluster: a fuel shutoff valve, a choke lever or dial, a primer bulb, a throttle and an ignition. Unlike Ariens and Toro, most Craftsman machines use a conventional turn key or an on and off switch rather than a push in or insert key. Two stage models add a starter button and a socket for a 120 volt extension cord.

Starting a Craftsman Step by Step

Warm Restart on a Craftsman

If the Craftsman ran recently, do not prime it. Set the choke to run or half, confirm the fuel valve is on and the key is set to on, and start. Priming a warm Craftsman engine is the fastest way to flood it. If it does flood, open the choke, wait a few minutes, and try again with no primer.

When a Craftsman Will Not Start

The usual reason a Craftsman will not start after summer is old fuel that gummed the carburetor. Check the fuel valve, the key or switch, and the primer bulb for cracks. If the engine cranks on the starter or recoil but will not fire, plan on a carburetor cleaning, which our carburetor guide walks through. A Wildwood technician can also handle the whole diagnosis in your driveway.

Frequently Asked Questions