How to Change the Oil in a Craftsman Snowblower

Run the snowblower engine until it is out of gasoline and comes to a full stop. This step also prepares the snowblower for off-season storage. If you are changing oil after five hours of operation or during the snowblowing season and you plan to run the machine again rather than store it, run the engine for a few minutes in order to warm the oil. Stop the engine and pull the rubber boot from the spark plug by grasping the boot and pulling it gently. This helps guard against accidental start up.

Locate the oil drain plug. It is typically on one side of the large, round recoil starter housing. The plug is capped with a hex head nut.

Place an approved used-oil container under the drain plug. Approved containers are designed to accept used oil and are labeled as such.

Hold an open-end wrench on the tube that terminates with the drain plug. This secures the tube in place. Turn the oil drain plug with a second open-end wrench.

Remove the drain plug and allow the used oil to flow into the container. Remove the dipstick from the oil fill tube. This allows some back air pressure, which improves the flow of oil from the blower.

Replace the plug once all the oil has drained from the snowblower. Tighten the drain plug with a wrench.

Fill the snowblower engine with clean, fresh oil. Check your owner’s manual to determine the correct amount of oil needed for you Craftsman snowblower. Some require 20 ounces of lubricating oil, but larger-capacity engines may need up to 40 ounces. Use an oil brand that is blended with a detergent. Craftsman cautions that non-detergent oil or 2 stroke engine oil can shorten engine life.

Dispose of used oil at an approved recycling center. Many auto shop will be happy to take your used oil; some have public-use recycling vats that will be clearly marked. Avoid pouring the oil on the ground or disposing of it in regular trash, both of which can contaminate drinking water and pollute the ground.