snowblower runs for 10 minutes then dies

I have a snowblower that has been faithfully running this winter during rather frequent snowfall. Now, it dies after about 10 minutes. In the past it would die after 40 minutes. I thought it just overheated.

I drain the gas at the end of each season. I had the snowblower tuned last winter.

I even put some of that fuel stabilizer in the tank even though the gas is only 45 days old. finally, i just went and bought new gas and put it in the tank. This is a gas/oil mix and I've been mixing the oil into the gas can.

I have about 3 inches of snow in my driveway (manageable) and I don't want to send it off to the shop and wait several weeks.

Check the carburator mounting bolts. I have simular problems but the other way around. Hard to start. Found carb was loose thus sucking in air. Also did you check spark plug? And air intake filter as if dirty or wet may be freezing blocking air intake. Worst case you may have to rebuild carb, they sell kits for them at repair shops. Gaskets and most important the rubber gas flap which regulars gas flow between heavy use and idle modes.

If the snow blower will start about 15-20 minutes after it dies check the coil.
Coils stop working when they get hot.


You will need the engines model number and serial number. If its a Brigg and Stratton motor of other make. You will need a multimeter to check the continuity of the coil (the have an operating range). You will have to search (on internet) or call a small engine shop for specs.

you can go to briggsandstratton.com and get a manual for that engine, just click on maintenance and repair, on column on the lower right click on "Manuals, Parts Lists, and Wiring Diagrams".

If this it an old snow blower get the electronic ignition conversion kit for only about 5-10 extra bucks.

I drained the fluid in the tank and carburator to eliminate water. No improvement. I'm able to get about 5-10 minutes of use each day. I finally gave up and took it in for repair. They cleaned the carburator and replaced the fuel line. I haven't tried it yet, but it should be fixed. Thanks everyone.