Toro Power Clear® 518 Snowthrower

Introduction

This machine is designed for residential homeowners and is primarily intended for removing snow from paved surfaces like driveways and sidewalks. It is not designed for removing materials other than snow or for clearing gravel surfaces. Using the product for purposes other than its intended use can be dangerous.

Read this manual carefully to learn how to operate and maintain your product properly and to avoid injury and damage. You are responsible for operating the product safely.

Visit www.Toro.com for product safety and operation training materials, accessory information, dealer locations, or to register your product.

For service, genuine Toro parts, or additional information, contact an Authorized Service Dealer or Toro Customer Service. Have your product's model and serial numbers ready. Figure 1 identifies the location of the model and serial numbers on the product. Write the numbers in the space provided.

Important: With your mobile device, you can scan the QR code on the serial number decal (if equipped) to access warranty, parts, and other product information.

This manual identifies potential hazards with a safety-alert symbol (Figure 2 ⚠️), which signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or death if precautions are not followed.

Figure 1 shows the location of the model and serial number. Figure 2 depicts the safety-alert symbol.

This manual uses two words to highlight information: Important calls attention to special mechanical information, and Note emphasizes general information worthy of special attention.

High Altitude Kit and Proposition 65 Warning

If using the machine above 1500 m (5,000 ft) for extended periods, ensure the High Altitude Kit is installed for optimal engine performance and to meet emission regulations. Contact an Authorized Toro Service Dealer for the correct kit and label. Remove the kit and restore the engine to original specifications when operating below 1500 m (5,000 ft).

If unsure whether the machine has been converted for high-altitude use, look for the label shown in Figure 3.

WARNING: CALIFORNIA Proposition 65 Warning

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Use of this product may cause exposure to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Contents

• Introduction
• Safety
  • General Safety
  • Safety and Instructional Decals
• Setup
  • 1 Installing the Handle
  • 2 Installing the Discharge Chute
  • 3 Installing the Recoil-Start Handle
  • 4 Adding Oil to the Engine
  • 5 Adjusting the Control Cable
• Product Overview
  • Specifications
  • Attachments/Accessories
• Operation
  • Before Operation
    • Before Operation Safety
    • Filling the Fuel Tank
    • Checking the Engine-Oil Level
  • During Operation
    • During Operation Safety
    • Starting the Engine
    • Engaging the Rotor Blades
    • Disengaging the Rotor Blades
    • Shutting Off the Engine
    • Adjusting the Discharge Chute and Chute Deflector
    • Clearing a Clogged Discharge Chute
    • Self-Propelling the Snowthrower
  • Operating Tips
  • After Operation
    • After Operation Safety
    • Preventing Freeze-up after Use
• Maintenance
  • Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)
  • Maintenance Safety
  • Checking and Adjusting the Control Cable
  • Inspecting the Rotor Blades
  • Changing the Engine Oil
  • Servicing the Spark Plug
  • Replacing the Drive Belt
• Storage
  • Storage Safety
  • Storing the Machine

Safety

General Safety

This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and of throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to avoid serious personal injury.

• Read and understand the Operator's Manual before starting the engine. Ensure everyone using the product knows how to operate it, shut off the engine quickly, and understands the warnings.
• Shut off the engine whenever you leave the operating position.
• Do not put your hands or feet near moving parts.
• Do not operate the machine without all guards and safety devices in place and working.
• Keep clear of any discharge opening. Keep bystanders, especially small children, out of the operating area.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.

Safety and Instructional Decals

Safety decals and instructions are easily visible and located near areas of potential danger. Replace any damaged or missing decals.

Decal 117-6047: Indicates cutting/dismemberment hazard from the impeller and auger. Warns not to place hands in the chute and to remove the key and read the manual before maintenance.

Decal 120-0149: Illustrates starting procedures: 1. Primer, 2. Push primer twice, 3. Push key to start, 4. Pull key to stop, 5. Remove key to lock, 6. Read manual before checking oil.

Decal 133-8061: California Proposition 65 Warning for Cancer and Reproductive Harm, directing users to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov and www.ttcoCAProp65.com.

Decal 117-7713: General warning to read the manual (1). Cutting/dismemberment hazard, impeller—shut off engine and wait for auger to stop before leaving machine (2). Thrown object hazard—keep bystanders away (3). Explosion hazard—do not tip machine (4). To engage auger, squeeze control bar (5). To disengage auger, release control bar (6).

Setup

1 Installing the Handle

No Parts Required. Procedure involves attaching the handle assembly using provided hardware, as depicted in diagrams A and B.

2 Installing the Discharge Chute

No Parts Required. Procedure involves attaching the discharge chute to the machine body, as shown in diagrams A and B.

3 Installing the Recoil-Start Handle

No Parts Required. Procedure involves attaching the recoil-start handle to the upper part of the machine, as shown in diagrams A and B.

4 Adding Oil to the Engine

No Parts Required. Procedure involves checking and filling the engine oil, as illustrated in diagrams A through I, including using 5W-30 oil and waiting 3 minutes.

5 Adjusting the Control Cable

No Parts Required. Refer to the 'Checking and Adjusting the Control Cable' section on page 15 for detailed instructions.

Product Overview

Specifications

Attachments/Accessories

Toro-approved attachments and accessories are available to enhance the machine's capabilities. Contact an Authorized Service Dealer or distributor, or visit www.Toro.com for a list. Use only genuine Toro replacement parts and accessories for optimum performance and safety; using other manufacturers' parts could be dangerous and void the warranty.

Figure 8 labels the main components: 1. Control bar, 2. Recoil-start handle, 3. Spring cover, 4. Fuel-tank cap, 5. Chute handle, 6. Chute-deflector trigger, 7. Chute deflector, 8. Discharge chute, 9. Rotor blades.

Figure 9 labels key operational parts: 1. Spark plug, 2. Oil-fill cap, 3. Oil-drain plug, 4. Choke lever, 5. Primer, 6. Key, 7. Electric-start button (electric-start model only), 8. Plug-in for electric start (electric-start model only).

Operation

Note: Determine left and right sides from the normal operating position.

Before Operation

Before Operation Safety

General Safety

• For electric-start models: Use specified extension cords and receptacles. Inspect cords for damage before use. Unplug when not starting.
• Wear appropriate clothing: eye protection, long pants, slip-resistant footwear, hearing protection. Tie back long hair, secure loose clothing, and do not wear loose jewelry.
• Thoroughly inspect the area of use and remove foreign objects like doormats, sleds, boards, wires, etc.
• If any shield, safety device, or decal is damaged, illegible, or missing, repair or replace it before operation. Tighten loose fasteners.

Fuel Safety

Fuel is flammable and explosive. Handle with care to avoid fire or explosion.

• To prevent static charge ignition, place the fuel container and machine on the ground before filling, not in a vehicle or on an object.
• Fill the fuel tank outdoors when the engine is cold. Securely replace the fuel cap and wipe up spills.
• Do not handle fuel while smoking or near open flames or sparks.
• Store fuel in an approved container, out of reach of children.
• Tip the machine only as directed when fuel is in the tank.
• If fuel spills on clothing, change immediately.

Filling the Fuel Tank

• Use clean, fresh (under 30 days old) unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
• Oxygenated fuel with up to 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE is acceptable.
• Do not use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol (e.g., E15, E85), as it may cause performance problems or engine damage not covered by warranty.
• Do not use gasoline containing methanol.
• Do not store fuel over winter unless using a fuel stabilizer.
• Do not add oil to gasoline.
• Do not fill above the bottom of the fuel tank neck (Figure 10).

Important: Purchase only the fuel quantity expected to be used within 30 days. Use fuel stabilizer/conditioner for longer storage.

Checking the Engine-Oil Level

Service Interval: Before each use or daily. Figure 11 illustrates the procedure for checking the engine oil level.

During Operation

During Operation Safety

General Safety

• Shut off the engine before unclogging the machine; use a stick or snow-cleanout tool.
• Stay behind the handles and away from the discharge opening. Keep body parts away from moving parts.
• Never direct the discharge toward people or property.
• Use full attention; avoid distractions.
• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling, especially when backing up. Maintain firm footing and grip. Walk, do not run.
• Exercise extreme caution on slopes.
• Do not operate without good visibility or light.
• Look behind and use care when backing up.
• When not clearing snow, disengage power to the auger.
• Exercise extreme caution on walks or roads; be alert for hazards or traffic.
• Never attempt adjustments while the engine is running, unless instructed.
• After striking an object, shut off the engine, remove the key, and inspect for damage before restarting.
• If the machine vibrates abnormally, shut off the engine and check for the cause.
• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust fumes are dangerous.
• Do not overload the machine by clearing snow too fast.
• Shut off the engine when leaving the operating position, before clearing clogs, or when making repairs/inspections.

Starting the Engine

Electric-Start Model:

Note: Remove glove when priming to prevent air escape.

Important: Do not use primer or choke if the engine is hot. Excessive priming can flood the engine.

For electric start, connect a UL-listed, 16-gauge outdoor power cord (max 15 m / 50 ft) to the machine and a GFCI outlet.

WARNING: Electrical cords can be damaged, causing shock or fire. Inspect cords carefully. Replace or repair damaged cords immediately.

Important: Run the electric starter no more than 10 times (5 sec on, 5 sec off). Allow starter to cool for 40 minutes if the engine doesn't start. Contact a dealer if it still doesn't start.

If the recoil starter is frozen, thaw it before attempting to start.

CAUTION: If plugged in, someone could inadvertently start the machine. Unplug when not starting.

Figure 12 illustrates the electric-start procedure.

Standard Model:

Note: Remove glove when priming.

Important: Do not use primer or choke if the engine is hot.

Figure 13 illustrates the standard model starting procedure.

Engaging the Rotor Blades

To engage the rotor blades, hold the control bar against the handle (Figure 14).

Disengaging the Rotor Blades

To disengage the rotor blades, release the control bar (Figure 15).

Shutting Off the Engine

Pull the ignition key outward to the OFF position (Figure 16) or move the choke lever fully to the right (refer to Figure 13, part B).

Adjusting the Discharge Chute and Chute Deflector

To adjust the discharge chute, move the chute handle as shown in Figure 17.

To adjust the chute deflector angle, press the trigger on the deflector and move it up or down. Release the trigger to lock it in place (Figure 18).

Clearing a Clogged Discharge Chute

• Shut off the engine.
• Wait 10 seconds for rotor blades to stop rotating.
• Always use a clean-out tool; never use your hands.

Self-Propelling the Snowthrower

Lift the machine handle until the wheels are just off the ground and the scraper and rotor blades touch the ground. The machine will propel forward (Figure 19).

Note: Varying the lifting force on the handle controls forward speed. In heavy snow, push forward if needed, but let the machine work at its own pace. Avoid lifting the handle more than necessary.

Operating Tips

WARNING: Rotor blades can throw objects, causing serious injury. Keep the area clear of objects. Keep children and pets away.

• Remove snow as soon as possible after it falls.
• Overlap each swath for complete snow removal.
• Discharge snow downwind when possible.
• If the machine does not propel well on slippery surfaces or in heavy snow, push forward on the handle, but let the machine work at its own pace.
• The machine may leave temporary rubber marks on new or light-colored concrete. Test in an inconspicuous area first.

After Operation

After Operation Safety

General Safety

• Never store the machine with fuel in a building where ignition sources are present (e.g., water heaters, furnaces). Allow the engine to cool before storing in an enclosure.
• For storage over 30 days, refer to the Storage section (page 20).
• Run the machine for a few minutes after use to prevent freeze-up of the collector and rotor.

Preventing Freeze-up after Use

• Let the engine run for a few minutes to prevent moving parts from freezing. Shut off the engine, wait for parts to stop, and remove ice and snow.
• Clean snow and ice from the base of the chute.
• Rotate the discharge chute left and right to free it from ice buildup.
• With the key removed, pull the recoil-start handle several times or connect the electric cord and push the electric-start button once to prevent starters from freezing (electric-start models).
• In cold conditions, controls may freeze. Do not use excessive force. If controls are difficult to operate, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.

Maintenance

Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)

Maintenance Safety

Read the following safety precautions before performing maintenance:

• Before servicing, adjusting, or cleaning, shut off the engine and remove the key. Contact an Authorized Service Dealer for major repairs.
• Always wear eye protection to protect from foreign objects.
• Check all fasteners regularly for proper tightness.
• Do not change engine governor settings.
• Purchase only genuine Toro replacement parts and accessories.

Checking and Adjusting the Control Cable

Checking the Control Cable

Service Interval: After the first hour; Yearly.

Important: Check and adjust the control cable before first use.

Move the control bar back toward the handle to remove slack (Figure 20). Ensure a gap of 2 to 3 mm (1/16 to 1/8 inch) exists between the control bar and handle (Figure 20).

Important: The control cable must have slack when disengaged for the rotor blades to stop properly.

Adjusting the Control Cable

1. Slide up the spring cover and unhook the spring from the adjuster link (Figure 21).
2. Move the Z-fitting to a higher or lower hole on the adjuster link to achieve the 2 to 3 mm gap. Moving the Z-fitting higher decreases the gap; lower increases it.
3. Hook the spring to the adjuster link and slide the spring cover over it.
4. Check the adjustment by referring to the 'Checking the Control Cable' section (page 15).

Note: The belt may slip in wet conditions. To dry the drive system, start the rotor and run it without a load for 30 seconds.

Inspecting the Rotor Blades

Service Interval: Yearly. Inspect rotor blades for wear. When a rotor-blade edge wears down to the wear-indicator hole, have an Authorized Service Dealer replace the rotor blades and scraper (Figure 22).

Changing the Engine Oil

Service Interval: After the first 2 hours; Yearly.

Run the engine for a few minutes before changing oil to warm it, as warm oil flows better and carries more contaminants.

Engine Oil Specifications

Engine oil capacity: 0.35 L (12 fl oz)*

Oil viscosity: Refer to Figure 24.

API service classification: SJ or higher.

*There is residual oil in the crankcase after draining. Do not pour the entire capacity into the crankcase.

1. Ensure the fuel tank is not overfilled (refer to Figure 7) and the fuel cap is secure.
2. Move the machine to a level surface.
3. Place an oil-drain pan under the oil-drain plug (Figure 9). Remove the plug and tip the machine backward (handle down) halfway to drain the used oil.
4. Important: Do not tip the machine all the way back, or fuel may leak out.
5. Return the machine to the operating position.
6. Install and tighten the oil-drain plug securely.
7. Clean around the oil fill/dipstick (Figure 9).
8. Unscrew and remove the dipstick.
9. Carefully pour about 3/4 of the engine capacity of oil into the oil-fill tube.
10. Note: To determine the proper oil level, refer to Figure 23. You may tip the machine forward slightly to make adding oil easier. Return the machine to the operating position before checking the level.
11. Important: Do not tip the machine all the way forward onto its nose, or fuel may leak out.
12. Wait 3 minutes for the oil to settle.
13. Wipe the dipstick clean.
14. Insert the dipstick into the oil-fill tube (do not screw it in), then remove it to check the oil level.
15. If the oil level is too low, add a small amount of oil, wait 3 minutes, and recheck. Repeat until the level is correct.
16. If the oil level is too high, drain excess oil until the level is correct.
17. Important: Running the engine with incorrect oil levels can cause damage.
18. Install the dipstick securely.
19. Recycle used oil properly.

Figure 23 shows how to read the oil level on the dipstick: 1. Maximum level, 2. Too high (remove oil), 3. Too low (add oil).

Figure 24 provides a chart for selecting the best oil viscosity based on outdoor temperature.

Servicing the Spark Plug

Service Interval: Yearly. Service or replace the spark plug if necessary. Use a Toro spark plug (Part No. 119-1961).

1. Shut off the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Figure 9).
3. Clean around the spark plug.
4. Remove the spark plug from the cylinder head.
5. Important: Replace cracked, fouled, or dirty spark plugs. Do not clean electrodes, as grit can damage the engine.
6. Set the spark plug gap to 0.76 mm (0.030 inch) as shown in Figure 25.
7. Install the spark plug and torque to 27 to 30 N·m (20 to 22 ft-lb).
8. Connect the wire to the spark plug.

Figure 25 shows the spark plug components: 1. Center-electrode insulator, 2. Side electrode, 3. Air gap.

Replacing the Drive Belt

Replace the drive belt if it is worn, oil-soaked, cracked, frayed, or otherwise damaged.

1. Remove the 4 bolts holding the drive-belt cover (Figure 26).
2. Note: The lower front corner of the cover is secured with a smaller bolt, washer, and locknut.
3. Remove the belt from the rotor pulley.
4. Press down on the idler arm and remove the belt from between the tab on the idler-arm brake and the rotor pulley.
5. Note: The belt guide for the engine pulley is close; the belt may not fit through the gap.
6. Twist the belt out in front of the belt guide so it is wedged between the guide and the engine pulley.
7. Insert a screwdriver into the belt guide hole and flex the guide toward the rotor pulley to pull the belt through the gap (Figure 27).
8. Note: Do not distort or damage the belt guide.
9. To install a new belt, reverse the steps.
10. Important: Ensure the drive belt sits above the 2 tabs on the idler arm and below the idler-arm brake (Figure 28).
11. Install the drive-belt cover with the fasteners removed in step 1.

Figure 26 shows the drive-belt cover (1).

Figure 27 shows the belt guide (1) and engine pulley (2).

Figure 28 shows the belt routing: 1. Rotor pulley, 2. Idler-arm brake, 3. Drive belt, 4. Idler arm, 5. Idler pulley, 6. Engine pulley, 7. Tabs on the idler arm.

Storage

Storage Safety

• Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all movement to stop. Allow the machine to cool before servicing, cleaning, or storing.
• Fuel fumes are flammable and explosive. Do not store the product in an area with open flames.
• Do not store the machine in a house, basement, or any area with ignition sources (e.g., heaters, dryers, furnaces).
• Do not tip the machine forward or backward with fuel in the tank, as fuel may leak.
• Do not store the machine with the handle tipped down, as oil may leak into the engine cylinder and prevent starting.

Storing the Machine

1. On the last refueling, add fuel stabilizer to fresh fuel as directed by the manufacturer.
2. Important: Do not store fuel longer than recommended by the fuel-stabilizer manufacturer.
3. Run the engine for 10 minutes to distribute conditioned fuel.
4. Shut off the engine, allow it to cool, and siphon the fuel tank or run the engine until it stops.
5. Choke or prime the engine, start it a third time, and run until it stops.
6. Drain fuel from the tank and carburetor:
   • Loosen the fuel-tank cap.
   • Unscrew, but do not remove, the small screw on the side of the carburetor fuel bowl (Figure 29) until fuel drains.
   • Important: Do not remove the carburetor bowl bolt.
   • Wait for fuel to drain, then install the fuel cap and tighten the small carburetor screw.
   • Note: Use a Phillips screwdriver. Overtightening may cause leaks.
7. Dispose of unused fuel properly according to local codes or use it in your automobile.
8. While the engine is warm, change the engine oil (refer to page 16).
9. Remove the spark plug.
10. Squirt 10 ml (2 tsp) of oil into the spark-plug hole.
11. Install the spark plug by hand and torque to 27 to 30 N·m (20 to 22 ft-lb).
12. With the key removed, pull the recoil-start handle slowly to distribute oil inside the cylinder.
13. Clean the machine.
14. Touch up chipped surfaces with paint from an Authorized Service Dealer. Sand affected areas and use rust preventative.
15. Tighten any loose fasteners. Repair or replace damaged parts.
16. Cover the machine and store it in a clean, dry place out of reach of children. Allow the engine to cool before storing.

Figure 29 shows the carburetor fuel bowl: 1. Carburetor bowl bolt (do not remove), 2. Small screw on carburetor.

California Proposition 65 Warning Information

This section explains the California Proposition 65 warning, which may appear on products sold in California. It details what Prop 65 is, why it applies, how it compares to federal limits, why some products carry it and others don't, and why Toro includes it (to provide consumers with information and to comply with potential legal requirements).