The provided manual describes the Yardworks 12 Amp 16 Inch Snow Thrower, model SN70016-1 (SKU # 270-3286). This is an electric snow thrower designed for clearing snow from hard, flat surfaces.
Function Description:
The Yardworks snow thrower is intended for sweeping snow from sidewalks, steps, patios, decks, and paved driveways. It operates by rotating an auger that collects and throws snow. The device is designed for use on hard, flat surfaces free of sand, stone, debris, or wires to prevent damage. It can clear snow up to 8 inches deep in one pass. For deeper drifts, the user is instructed to use a swinging or sweeping motion to shave off the top layer in multiple passes. The snow discharge direction can be adjusted by pulling up and turning an adjust knob, allowing snow to be directed to the right or left. The snow thrower is equipped with a thermal safety switch that automatically shuts off the motor if it overheats, requiring a cool-down period before resuming operation.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model: SN70016-1
- SKU: 270-3286
- Power Supply Voltage: 120V-60Hz
- Idle Speed: 4500 RPM
- Power Consumption: 12 Amp
- Weight: 14.5 lbs.
- Sweep Width: 16 in. (406 mm)
- Max Clearing Depth: 8 in. (200 mm)
- Throwing Distance: Up to 30 ft.
- Clearing Capacity: 430 lbs./minute
- Double Insulation: Yes, meaning all external metal parts are insulated from the electrical supply for enhanced safety.
Usage Features:
- On/Off Switch: The snow thrower is started by holding it firmly with two hands, ensuring the auger is not touching any surface, pressing the Safety Lock Off Button, and squeezing the On/Off trigger switch. Releasing the trigger turns the device off.
- Extension Cord Management: The manual emphasizes the use of outdoor extension cords (SW-A, SOW-A, STW-A, STOW-A, SJW-A, SJTW-A, or SJTOWA) and provides a table for selecting the correct American wire Gage based on cord length and ampere rating to prevent power loss and overheating. It also suggests tying two extension cords together in a knot to prevent disconnection. The extension cord should be looped through a cord hook on the rear handle to prevent accidental disconnection during operation.
- Safety Precautions:
- Always read and understand the owner's manual before use.
- Wear appropriate personal hearing protection, safety glasses with side shields or goggles (complying with ANSI Z87.1), and safe, sturdy, nonskid footwear.
- Keep hands and feet away from the auger and rotating blades.
- Do not place hands under the auger or in front of the chute deflector.
- Keep bystanders, children, and pets at a safe distance from the work area.
- Keep the electrical cord free of the auger.
- Do not operate in rain, electrical storms, or gaseous/explosive atmospheres.
- Do not use on graveled surfaces unless adjusted for such use.
- Avoid operating on steep slopes; maintain good footing and balance.
- Do not force the snow thrower; let it operate at its designed rate.
- Clear the area of doormats, sleds, boards, wires, and other debris before use.
- If the auger strikes a foreign body, examine for damage and repair before continuing.
- If abnormal vibration occurs, turn off immediately and check for the cause.
- Always turn off the snow thrower, disconnect from power, and wait for the auger to stop before maintenance or repairs.
- Do not use hands or feet to unclog the chute; use a wooden stick.
- Do not carry the plugged-in snow thrower with a finger on the switch.
- Ensure all fasteners are fully tightened before starting.
- Operating Patterns: The manual suggests specific patterns for clearing snow efficiently, such as starting in the middle of a long driveway and throwing snow to both sides (Pattern A), or starting on the opposite side if snow can only be thrown to one side (Pattern B).
- Snow Clearing Technique: Lift the auger slightly before starting, then tilt the snow thrower forward until the scraper blade contacts the ground. Push at a comfortable rate, slow enough to clear the path completely.
- Post-Operation: Run the snow thrower for a few minutes after clearing to prevent ice from freezing on moving parts, then switch off, wait for all parts to stop, and wipe ice/snow with a clean rag.
Maintenance Features:
- Regular Cleaning: After each use, clean ice and debris from the ventilator, its slots, the auger, and the housing using a cloth soaked with hot water and a soft brush. Do not wet or spray water directly on the machine, and avoid detergents or solvents.
- Storage: Store the appliance indoors in a dry area, out of children's reach. Lightly oil metal parts to prevent corrosion during long storage periods.
- Part Inspection: Periodically inspect the extension cord for damage and replace if necessary. Check the auger for wear and tear.
- Belt Replacement: Instructions are provided for replacing both the large (17) and small (13) drive belts, which involves removing covers, screws, washers, and the pulley frame.
- Auger Replacement: Instructions detail how to replace the auger (26) by removing the cover, friction plate, screws, washer, pulley frame, belt, and loosening a nut to dismount the pulley and auger axle.
- Scraper Blade Replacement: The scraper blade (25) is a wear item. Replacement involves removing three screws from the bottom of the blade, sliding the old blade forward, installing a new one, and securing it with screws.
- Fastener Check: Emphasizes checking all fasteners before each use, as a loose auger can cause excessive vibration and damage.
- Repair Parts and Service: Users are advised not to return the product to the store for operating, assembly, parts, or service questions. Instead, they should visit americanlawnmower.com or call 1-800-633-1501 (Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM EST). A list of common repair kits/items with their part numbers is provided, including Auxiliary Handle Kit, Adjust Knob Kit, Wheel Kit, Wheel Bracket Kit, Drive Belt, Small Belt, Scraper Blade Kit, and Auger Kit. Users are encouraged to record their serial number for assistance.
Warranty Policy:
The product comes with a 2-year limited warranty for personal, household, or family use, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty is voided if used for commercial/industrial purposes or due to operator abuse, negligence, failure to follow instructions, or immersion in water. It does not cover wear items (e.g., belts, blades, augers, power cables), battery wear, damage from environmental extremes, normal deterioration of exterior finish, or products purchased through unauthorized channels. Incidental, indirect, or consequential losses are not covered. Installation, assembly, and normal adjustments are also not covered. Proof of purchase (original dated sales receipt) is required for all warranty claims.
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