Nothing ruins a winter morning faster than a snow blower that refuses to start, especially when the driveway is buried under fresh powder. If you own a Toro Power Clear snow blower, getting it running smoothly comes down to following the correct sequence of steps. Whether you rely on electric start or a recoil pull, cold weather demands proper choke use, correct fuel mixing, and a few key safety checks before ignition. This guide walks you through exactly how to start your Toro Power Clear snow blower, covering model-specific steps, fuel requirements, and common mistakes to avoid. You will learn how to prime, choke, and ignite your machine with confidence on every cold morning.
Pre-Start Safety and Setup
Before pulling the cord or pressing the start button, take a few moments to prepare your snow blower for safe operation.
Insert Key Fully
For models like the 721 E and 518 ZE, the engine will not start unless the key is fully inserted into the ignition. Push it all the way in until it clicks or seats completely. On the 518 ZE, you must push the key switch fully in to activate the starter. A partially inserted key is one of the most common reasons the engine fails to turn over.
Plug Into a Grounded Outlet
If using electric start, plug a standard three-prong extension cord into a grounded outlet. Then connect it to the red electric start port on the machine. Make sure the connection is secure, since loose cords prevent starting and pose electrical hazards. Always use a grounded outlet to protect yourself and the machine.
Switch Ignition to “On”
Locate the on/off switch on the unit. The arrow points to “on” while the opposite direction indicates “off.” Flip it to “on” before attempting to start. On Arctic engine models, this switch is critical. If it is off, no amount of pulling or priming will bring the engine to life.
Set Choke for Cold Start
The choke enriches the fuel mixture for cold engines. Set it correctly based on your specific model to ensure a smooth ignition.
721 E: Choke Lever to the Left
For the Toro 721 E, move the choke lever to the left. This is the full choke position, which restricts airflow and allows more fuel into the carburetor, making cold starts easier.
518 ZE: Choke Lever to the Right
On the 518 ZE, swing the choke lever to the right to engage full choke. This is the opposite of the 721 E. Do not assume all Toro models use the same direction.
Arctic Engine Models: Engage Choke Underneath
Some two-cycle Arctic engine models have the choke located underneath the unit. Make sure it is engaged before attempting to start the engine.
Prime the Engine Correctly
Priming pushes fuel into the carburetor so the engine fires quickly on the first pull.
Press Primer Bulb 3 Times (Most Models)
For the 721 E and 518 ZE, press the primer bulb three times. You should see fuel moving through the lines. This preps the engine for ignition and reduces the number of pulls needed.
Press Primer Bulb 2 Times (Arctic Engine Models)
Models with the standard two-cycle Arctic engine only need two presses. Over-priming can flood the engine, especially in colder temperatures, making startup even more difficult.
Watch for Fuel Flow
If the bulb feels soft or empty, press it slowly until it firms up. This indicates fuel is reaching the system. If it stays hard or leaks, inspect the bulb for cracks or clogs before continuing.
Starting the Engine
Now that everything is set, it is time to bring your Toro Power Clear to life.
Electric Start: Press Red Button Briefly
- Ensure the extension cord is plugged into a grounded outlet.
- Press the red start button for no longer than 5 seconds.
- Release and wait 5 seconds if the engine does not start.
- Try again. Repeated long presses can overheat the starter.
On the 721 E and 518 ZE, this method is quick and reliable when the outlet is functioning properly. Once the engine turns over, immediately unplug the extension cord.
Recoil Start: Pull Cord Firmly
- Stand behind the blower with both feet clear of the auger housing.
- Grip the recoil handle firmly.
- Pull the cord in one smooth, strong motion. Do not yank or jerk.
- Repeat as needed, allowing the cord to rewind completely between pulls.
On the 518 ZE, pull steadily until the engine catches. Cold engines may require 3 to 5 pulls before firing.
Post-Start Choke Adjustment
Once the engine starts, do not leave the choke engaged.
Move Choke to Run Position
- 721 E: Move the lever to the right (run position).
- 518 ZE: Move the lever to the left to turn off the choke.
- General Rule: Gradually disengage the choke as the engine warms up.
Leaving the choke on causes excessive fumes, poor performance, and wasted fuel. Let the engine run for 15 to 30 seconds with choke engaged, then disengage it.
Unplug Power Source Immediately
After starting, unplug the extension cord. Leaving it connected risks tripping hazards and electrical damage over time.
Fuel Requirements and Mix
Using the right fuel prevents starting problems and protects your engine from long-term damage.
Use 50:1 Pre-Mixed Fuel
The Toro Power Clear uses a two-cycle engine, which means there is no separate oil reservoir. Oil must be pre-mixed with gas at a 50:1 ratio.
- 1 gallon gas + 2.6 oz oil
- 5 gallons gas + 12.8 oz oil
This ratio is marked on the gas cap. Check it before every fill-up to avoid mixing errors.
Choose Ethanol-Free or Low-Ethanol Gas
For the 518 ZE, use unleaded gasoline with no more than 10% ethanol. Higher ethanol content attracts moisture, degrades fuel, and harms engine seals over time.
Consider TruFuel for Best Results
TruFuel 50:1 pre-mixed fuel is available at Home Depot and Lowe’s. It offers these advantages:
- Lasts up to 2 years in the tank
- Resists gumming and varnish buildup
- Eliminates mixing mistakes entirely
Refuel Safely and Correctly
Refueling the wrong way can cause leaks, spills, or even fire hazards.
Locate Fuel Tank by Model
- 721 E: Tank is on the side of the unit
- 518 ZE: Tank is at the rear of the unit
Refuel Steps
- Turn off the engine and let it cool completely.
- Unscrew the fuel cap.
- Fill with fresh, properly mixed fuel.
- Screw the cap back on tightly to prevent leaks.
Never overfill the tank. Leave a small amount of room for fuel expansion.
Operate Auger and Controls
Once running, use the controls properly to clear snow efficiently.
Engage Auger with Handle
Pull the auger control handle located on the front handlebar to start the auger and impeller. Release it to stop. There is no separate switch, and the auger stops immediately when you let go.
Adjust Snow Direction
- 721 E: Use the control handle and lever to adjust both left/right direction and near/far throw distance.
- 518 ZE: Rotate the handlebar for direction. Use the blue lever to adjust distance:
- Pull back = far throw
- Push forward = near throw
Clear a Stuck Chute
If the chute control button sticks:
- Turn off the engine
- Clear snow and ice from the mechanism
- Spray silicone lubricant on the chute track
- Move the chute manually to free it
Maneuver Without Self-Propel
The Toro Power Clear is a single-stage snow blower with no self-propel feature.
Lift Handle Slightly for Traction
Lift the back of the handle just enough to press the rubber paddles into the snow. This creates traction and helps the blower pull itself forward, reducing the effort needed to push it.
Lifting too high lifts the paddles off the ground and reduces your control over the machine.
Maintenance for Reliable Starts
Keep your snow blower ready with simple, consistent upkeep.
Check Belt Tension
Feel the belt tension. It should have noticeable springiness. A loose belt slips and reduces auger power. Replace it if cracked or visibly worn.
Lubricate Before Each Use
Spray silicone lubricant in these key areas:
- Inside the chute
- Around the auger housing
- On all moving parts
This prevents snow buildup and improves overall performance.
Clean After Each Use
Remove snow and ice from these areas:
- Auger housing
- Discharge chute
- Skid plates
A clean blower starts easier and lasts significantly longer.
Troubleshoot Common Starting Issues
If your Toro refuses to start, run through these quick checks before calling for service.
Engine Will Not Turn Over
- ✅ Is the key fully inserted?
- ✅ Is the ignition switched on?
- ✅ Is the choke in the correct position?
- ✅ Was the primer bulb pressed enough times?
Electric Start Fails
- ❌ Do not hold the red button longer than 5 seconds
- ❌ Do not retry immediately. Wait 5 seconds between attempts
- ✅ Test the outlet with another device
- ✅ Inspect the extension cord for damage
Flooded Engine
If you smell gas or the engine sputters:
- Set choke to run position
- Hold throttle wide open
- Pull the recoil cord 5 to 6 times to clear excess fuel
- Wait 5 minutes, then retry with no choke and no priming
Winter Storage Tips
Avoid next-season starting problems by storing your machine properly.
Drain Fuel or Use Stabilizer
- Best option: Drain the tank before storing
- Alternative: Add fuel stabilizer and run the engine for 2 minutes to circulate the treated fuel
Never leave untreated fuel in the tank over the summer. It degrades and clogs the carburetor.
Store Indoors
Keep the blower in a dry, covered area. Moisture causes rust and electrical issues that can prevent startup next winter.
Model Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | 721 E | 518 ZE | Arctic Engine Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start Method | Electric or recoil | Electric with recoil backup | Recoil |
| Primer Presses | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| Choke (Start) | Left | Right | Underneath |
| Choke (Run) | Right | Left | Off |
| Fuel Mix | 50:1 | Max 10% ethanol | 50:1 |
| Fuel Tank | Side | Rear | Side |
Quick Start Cheat Sheets
Electric Start (721 E)
- Insert key fully
- Press primer 3 times
- Choke lever to left
- Turn ignition on
- Plug in extension cord
- Press red button (max 5 sec)
- Move choke to right when running
- Unplug cord
Recoil Start (518 ZE)
- Choke lever to right
- Press primer 3 times
- Push key in fully
- Pull cord firmly
- Move choke to left when warm
Arctic Engine Models
- Switch to “on”
- Press primer 2 times
- Engage choke underneath
- Pull cord firmly
- Disengage choke after warm-up
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Toro Power Clear Snow Blower
Why will my Toro Power Clear not start even when the cord is plugged in?
The most common causes are a key that is not fully inserted, an ignition switch left in the “off” position, or a loose extension cord connection. Verify each of these before assuming a mechanical failure. Also confirm the outlet is working by testing it with another device.
How many times should I press the primer bulb before starting?
For the 721 E and 518 ZE models, press the primer bulb three times. For Arctic engine models, press it two times. Over-priming can flood the engine, which makes starting harder, not easier.
How long can I hold the electric start button?
Hold the red start button for no longer than 5 seconds. If the engine does not start, release the button and wait 5 seconds before trying again. Holding it longer can overheat and damage the starter motor.
What fuel mix does a Toro Power Clear require?
The Toro Power Clear uses a 50:1 fuel-to-oil ratio, which means 2.6 ounces of oil per gallon of gas. This ratio is printed on the gas cap for easy reference. Alternatively, you can use a pre-mixed fuel like TruFuel to eliminate any mixing errors.
Should I leave the choke on after the engine starts?
No. Move the choke to the run position once the engine has warmed up for 15 to 30 seconds. Leaving the choke engaged causes excessive fumes, poor performance, and wasted fuel.
How do I store my Toro Power Clear over the summer?
Drain the fuel tank completely or add a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for 2 minutes to circulate it. Store the blower in a dry, covered area to prevent rust and electrical issues from moisture exposure.
Key Takeaways for Starting Your Toro Power Clear Snow Blower
Starting your Toro Power Clear snow blower is quick and reliable when you follow the correct sequence. Insert the key fully, set the choke for your specific model, prime the engine the right number of times, and ignite using either the electric button or recoil cord. Once running, disengage the choke promptly and unplug the extension cord if applicable.
Always use fresh 50:1 pre-mixed fuel or a quality product like TruFuel, lubricate moving parts before each use, and store the machine properly during the off-season. With these habits in place, your Toro Power Clear will fire up on the first try, even in freezing temperatures. Print the quick-start cheat sheet above and keep it near your machine for fast reference on the next snowy morning.
