CRAFTSMAN Select 24" Two-Stage Snow Blower (Model 31AS6K1EB93) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your CRAFTSMAN Select 24" Two-Stage Snow Blower, Model 31AS6K1EB93. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine to ensure proper use and to prevent injury or damage.

The CRAFTSMAN Select 24 is equipped with a 208cc 4-cycle OHV engine and features a 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch intake height. It includes a push-button electric start, self-propelled drive with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, and 12-inch sawtooth steel augers for effective snow and ice removal. The 200-degree chute rotation allows for controlled snow discharge up to 40 feet.

Figure 1: CRAFTSMAN Select 24" Two-Stage Snow Blower, Model 31AS6K1EB93. This image shows the complete snow blower from a front-side angle, highlighting its red body, black engine, and large wheels.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before operating this snow blower. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death.

Potential hazards associated with snow blowers include rotating parts, carbon monoxide poisoning from gasoline models, and the need for appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection. Always adhere to manufacturer guidelines for handling, operation, and storage.

General Safety Rules:

• Always wear appropriate eye and hearing protection.
• Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from moving parts.
• Never operate the snow blower indoors or in poorly ventilated areas due to carbon monoxide risk.
• Ensure the area to be cleared is free of obstacles before starting.
• Do not allow children or untrained individuals to operate the machine.
• Turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance or clearing clogs.
• Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine off and cool.

3. Setup and Assembly

Your snow blower may require some assembly upon arrival. Refer to the separate assembly guide for detailed instructions. Key steps typically include:

1. Handlebar Assembly: Attach the upper handlebar to the lower handlebar using the provided hardware. Ensure all cables and wires are routed correctly and not pinched.
2. Chute Assembly: Secure the discharge chute and its rotation mechanism. Verify smooth operation of the chute control lever.
3. Skid Shoes Adjustment: Adjust the poly skid shoes to the desired height. For most conditions, set them slightly below the auger housing to prevent scraping the surface.
4. Fluid Checks:
   • Engine Oil: Check the engine oil level and fill with recommended oil (refer to engine manual for type and capacity).
   • Fuel: Fill the fuel tank with fresh, unleaded gasoline. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

Figure 2: Product dimensions of the CRAFTSMAN Select 24" Snow Blower. This image illustrates the overall length (44.75"), width (26.75"), and height (32.8") of the unit, useful for planning storage and transport.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Pre-Operation Checklist

• Ensure all nuts, bolts, and screws are tight.
• Check engine oil and fuel levels.
• Inspect the area for debris that could be thrown by the auger.
• Verify that the discharge chute is clear and properly aimed.

4.2. Starting the Engine

The CRAFTSMAN Select 24 features a push-button electric start, eliminating the need for manual pull-starting.

1. Connect Power: Plug an extension cord into the electric start receptacle on the engine.
2. Prime Engine: Press the primer bulb 3-5 times (more if temperature is below 0°F).
3. Set Choke: Move the choke lever to the "FULL CHOKE" position.
4. Start: Press and hold the electric start button until the engine starts (maximum 5 seconds).
5. Disconnect Power: Once the engine starts, release the button and unplug the extension cord.
6. Adjust Choke: Gradually move the choke lever to the "RUN" position as the engine warms up.

Figure 3: Detail of the push-button electric start mechanism. This image shows the electric start receptacle and the red push-button, simplifying engine ignition in cold weather.

Figure 4: Close-up of the fuel cap and primer bulb. This image highlights the components used for fueling and priming the engine before starting.

4.3. Operating the Snow Blower

The snow blower features a self-propelled drive system with multiple speeds and adjustable chute control.

• Engage Drive: Squeeze the drive control lever to engage the self-propelled wheels.
• Select Speed: Use the speed selector lever to choose from 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds. Adjust speed based on snow depth and density.
• Engage Auger: Squeeze the auger control lever to activate the augers and impeller.
• Adjust Chute: Use the chute control crank to rotate the discharge chute up to 200 degrees, directing snow away from cleared areas. The durable steel chute can throw snow up to 40 feet.

Figure 5: Detail of the chute control mechanism. This image shows the crank used to adjust the direction of snow discharge, offering up to 200 degrees of rotation.

Figure 6: The 12-inch sawtooth auger actively clearing snow. This image demonstrates the snow blower's capability to cut through and clear heavy snow and ice.

Figure 7: A person operating the CRAFTSMAN Select 24" Snow Blower to clear a driveway. This image shows the snow blower in action, demonstrating its ease of use and effective snow removal.

4.4. Stopping the Engine

To stop the engine, release both the drive control lever and the auger control lever. Then, move the engine switch to the "OFF" position.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your snow blower.

5.1. After Each Use

• Clear any snow or ice from the auger housing and discharge chute.
• Wipe down the exterior of the machine.
• Check for loose fasteners.

5.2. Seasonal Maintenance

• Engine Oil Change: Change engine oil after the first 5 hours of operation, then every 25 hours or annually.
• Spark Plug: Inspect and clean or replace the spark plug annually.
• Fuel System: At the end of the season, drain the fuel tank or use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation. Run the engine until it runs out of fuel if not using a stabilizer.
• Lubrication: Lubricate all moving parts as indicated in the full owner's manual.
• Skid Shoes and Scraper Bar: Inspect for wear and replace if necessary.

5.3. Storage

When storing the snow blower for extended periods:

• Clean the machine thoroughly.
• Perform all seasonal maintenance.
• Store in a dry, protected area, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Ensure the fuel tank is either empty or filled with stabilized fuel.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For more complex problems, consult a qualified service technician.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The CRAFTSMAN Select 24" Two-Stage Snow Blower (Model 31AS6K1EB93) comes with a three-year limited warranty. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or visit the official CRAFTSMAN website.

For technical assistance, parts, or warranty claims, please contact CRAFTSMAN customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the CRAFTSMAN website or in the packaging materials.

Manufacturer: MTD Products