A snow blower that pops or backfires and then stalls when it starts throwing snow has a symptom, not a confirmed diagnosis. Fuel delivery, choke position, spark-plug condition, a blocked fuel-cap vent, and other model-specific issues can cause rough running or stalling; the sound alone does not prove the carburetor is at fault. Begin with safe checks in the machine’s operator and engine manuals, and use qualified service if the problem persists.
Why does a snow blower backfire and stall under load?
The added load may expose an engine problem that is less noticeable while the machine is idling or running without clearing snow. But “under load” can mean different things, and the title does not identify the machine, engine, fuel history, or whether the load comes from engaging the auger or throwing snow. No single failed part can be confirmed from these symptoms alone.
Use the pattern of symptoms to guide inspection rather than as proof of a diagnosis:
- Note whether the pop happens while the engine is running, as it slows or shuts down, or after it has stopped.
- Notice whether the engine dies immediately when the load begins or only after it struggles to clear snow.
- Check whether the fuel is fresh and clean, and whether the choke is fully off after warm-up.
- Use the model’s manuals to identify any specified fuel-flow, vent, spark-plug, or maintenance checks.
What does the backfire tell you?
Briggs & Stratton distinguishes a backfire—a loud bang or pop while the engine is running or shutting down—from an afterfire, which occurs after shutdown. Its FAQ says, “Backfire typically occurs when the engine is decelerated rapidly.” The same page lists possible contributors including lowering speed too quickly, gasoline with higher alcohol blends, a carburetor adjusted too lean, muffler construction, higher-than-normal engine temperature, and sensitivity in internal carburetor passages. These are possibilities, not a diagnosis for your snow blower.
#1 Best Overall
- Replaces # 640052 640054 640349
- Fits Tecumseh HMSK80 HMSK85 HMSK90 HMSK100 HMSK105 HMSK110 LH318SA LH358SA Snow Blower
- Fits Toro 38635 38640 38641 38642 38645 snow blowers; Used on MTD Cub Cadet Yard Machines snow blowers
- 640052 Carburetor for Tecumseh 640052 640054 640349 Snow Blower, used on Tecumseh 8HP 9HP 10HP engines
- Package list: 1x carburetor, 1x spark plug, 1x fuel filter, 1x fuel line (for primer bulb), 1x fuel line (for carburetor), 1x primer bulb, 1x fuel shut off valve, 1x Throttle Control Knob 35440, 1x Throttle Control Knob 35438, 2x gaskets, 2x bolts, 6x clamps
The FAQ says carburetor backfire will not harm the engine in the condition it describes. That statement does not establish that repeated popping or a separate stall under load is harmless. Follow the engine’s fuel recommendations and lower engine speed gradually where the controls and manual call for it. Do not adjust the carburetor based only on general advice.
Safe checks to make before calling for service
Use the exact snow blower operator manual and engine manual; parts and specifications vary by model. Shut the machine off before inspection, disconnect the spark plug wire as directed by the manual, and allow hot parts to cool. Do not run the machine with covers removed or attempt repairs while the engine is running.
Rank #2
- Replaces 951-12705 Carburetor Troy-Bilt 2410 2620 31AS62N2711 31AS2P5C711 31BM63P3711 Storm 2100 Snowthrower Snowblower.
- Replaces MTD Yard Machines 31AM62EE700 31A-32AD700 31AS62EE731 31AM63EF706 31AS2N1C701 Snow Blower
- Replaces Cub Cadet 524SWE 31AM53TR756 2X 24" 208cc Two-Stage Snow Blower
- Replaces Craftsman 179cc MTD 208cc Troy Bilt Storm 1024 2410 7524 US
- IMPORTANT FITMENT NOTE FOR TROY-BILT 2410: The Troy-Bilt Storm 2410 snowblower utilizes two very similar carburetors. This listing is exclusively for model PC210705, which features a METAL auto choke mechanism on the top. It does NOT have the black plastic slot for the choke arm (found on model PC210236). To avoid installation issues, please strictly compare your original carburetor's top linkage design with our gallery images before ordering.
- Check the fuel. With the engine off and cool, confirm the fuel is fresh and uncontaminated and that the fuel shutoff is open. Follow the manual for draining or replacing questionable fuel.
- Check the choke. Confirm it is in the correct starting position for a cold engine, then fully off after warm-up as specified in the manual. A choke left on can interfere with normal running.
- Inspect the spark-plug lead and plug. Check that the lead is secure and look for obvious damage or fouling. If replacement is needed, use the plug type and gap specified for the exact engine; there is no universal snow blower specification.
- Look for a blocked fuel-cap vent. Some troubleshooting guides list a plugged cap vent as a possible cause of erratic running or stalling. Inspect or service it only as the model manual directs.
- Check cooling cleanliness and oil as directed. Keep cooling fins clear, and verify oil level using the method in the manual. A reviewed snow blower manual lists oil-level issues among possible causes of erratic running, stalling, or low power, but it may not apply to your machine.
That same model-specific manual also lists contaminated or stale fuel, a blocked fuel line, a dirty carburetor, and spark-plug faults as possible causes, and directs owners to the engine operator’s manual for engine problems. Treat its checklist as relevant only if it matches your machine.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When the carburetor or another repair needs a technician
A dirty or poorly adjusted carburetor is one possible cause, but a backfire does not establish that the carburetor is responsible. Cleaning, adjustment, and replacement procedures—and the correct parts—depend on the exact engine. If the basic checks do not resolve the problem, or the work requires carburetor adjustment, internal engine testing, or a procedure you are unsure about, contact an authorized dealer or qualified small-engine repair service.
Rank #3
- Carburetor fits Craftsman 247.889701 247.886910 247.887200 247.889571 247.88955 247.881720 247.886940 247.881980 247.889550 247.881723 247.881732 247.881721 247.881731 247.88691 Snow Blower
- Carburetor fits Craftsman 247.887791 247.889570 247.883940 247.889703 247.889702 247.88957 247.88199 247.887890 247.887550 247.881722 247.985370 247.886914 247.985360 247.881730 Snow Blower
- Replaces Part # 951-12705 951-10974 951-10974A 951-10974 951-10974A 951-12705 951-10368 951-10638A 751-10638 751-10638A 951-14026A 951-14027 951-14023A
- Replaces MTD 270-QU 952Z265-SUA ZS365-SUA EngineHuayi 170SA 170SB Carburetor
- Package Includes: 1 x Carburetor as Pictured, 3 x Gaskets, 2 x Oil Tubes, 1 x Fuel Filter, 1 x Primer Bulb , 2 x Clamps, 1 x Shut Off Valve, 1 x Spark Plug, 2 x Shear Pins
Keep gasoline and vapor away from flames, sparks, and other ignition sources. DR Power Equipment advises allowing the engine to be off and cool before refueling, disconnecting the spark plug wire, and letting parts cool before maintenance. It also cautions: “Never tamper with the engine’s governor setting.”
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 640084B Snow blower carburetor carb compatible for Tecumseh 5HP MTD 632107A 632107 640105 640299 640084 640084A. Mtd snow blower carburetor compatible with Craftsman Toro 38035 38052 38054 38052C 38035C 38056 3521 421 521 Snow Blower.
- The 640084B Carburetor compatible with HS50 HSK40 HSK50 HSSK40 HSSK50 HSSK55 LH195SA LH195SP OHSK110 OHSK120 OHSK125 models.
- The 5hp snow blower carburetor used on Snowblower, Snow Thrower, Pressure Washer, Generator, Chipper and Shredder etc.
- This snow blower carburetor kit package includes: 1x carburetor, 1x gasket, 1x primer bulb, 1x spark plug, 2x fuel line, 1x fuel shut off valve, 4x clamps.
- Please check for the details to make sure this part will fit, If you have any questions about our snow blower carburetor, please contact us.
Rank #4
- Carburetor Replace number: 640052 640054 640349 640058 640058A
- Fit Engine number:HM80 HMSK80 HMSK85 HMSK90 HMSK100 HMSK105 HMSK110 LH318SA LH358SA
- Appropriate engine power:8hp 8.5hp 9hp 10hp
- Fit TRX24 TRX26 TRX27 TRX32 TRS22 TRS24 TRS26 TRS27 TRS32 Snow Blower Thrower
- Fit 1032 1028 826 38078 38635 38640 38641 38642 38645 snow blowers
Sources for model-specific guidance
- Briggs & Stratton: Why Does My Engine Backfire or Afterfire? (updated April 6, 2026)
- Briggs & Stratton: How do I troubleshoot & repair common small engine problems? (updated January 29, 2026)
- DR Power Equipment: DR Snow Blower Support
- Snow blower operator manual, DB7659A_PS.fm (model-specific; it may not match your machine)
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