Toro Power Clear 721 R Won’t Start? Your Ultimate Fix Guide
Nothing is more frustrating than a snowblower that refuses to start when a winter storm hits. Your Toro Power Clear 721 R is a powerful machine, but like any small engine, it can face starting issues. This guide will walk you through every step to diagnose and fix the problem, getting you back to clearing snow quickly.
We will cover everything from the most basic oversights to more advanced engine diagnostics. Follow these steps methodically to identify the culprit and bring your snowblower back to life. Most starting problems can be resolved with simple tools and a little patience.
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First Things First: The 60-Second Checkup
Before diving into complex repairs, let’s cover the simple mistakes anyone can make. These quick checks often solve the problem in less than a minute. Taking a moment to verify these basics can save you a significant amount of time and effort.
Verify the Essential Controls
First, ensure the safety key is fully inserted into its slot. This is a common oversight and will prevent the engine from starting. Next, confirm the run/stop switch is in the “On” or “Run” position. Many models require this to enable the ignition system.
Also, check that the fuel shutoff valve is in the “Open” position. If you stored the machine correctly, this valve was likely closed. Forgetting to open it will prevent any fuel from reaching the engine.
Check Your Fuel and Choke Settings
Is there fresh gasoline in the tank? Gas that has been sitting for more than 30-60 days, especially ethanol-blended fuel, can go stale and clog your carburetor. If the fuel is old, it’s the number one suspect for a no-start condition.
For a cold start, the choke lever should be set to the “Full” or “Start” position. This restricts air intake, creating a richer fuel mixture necessary for a cold engine to fire. Once the engine warms up, you can move it to the “Run” position.
Finally, press the primer bulb three to five times. You should feel some resistance and see fuel moving in the primer line. If the bulb feels brittle or cracked, or if it doesn’t return to its shape, it may need replacement.
The Big Three of No-Start Issues: Fuel, Spark, and Air
If the quick checks didn’t solve the problem, your issue likely lies within one of the three core systems required for combustion: fuel, spark, or air. We will systematically troubleshoot each one. A logical approach is the key to an efficient repair.
Fuel System Troubleshooting: The Most Common Culprit
Over 80% of small engine starting problems are related to the fuel system. Stale fuel is the primary enemy, leaving behind gummy deposits that obstruct critical components. This section will guide you through cleaning out the entire system.
Draining Old Fuel
If the gas in your tank is more than a month old, it must be replaced. Use a siphon pump to safely remove all the old fuel from the tank. Dispose of it properly according to your local regulations.
Once empty, refill the tank with fresh, high-octane (87+) gasoline. For best results and to prevent future issues, use ethanol-free gasoline if available and add a quality fuel stabilizer to every tank.
Cleaning the Carburetor
The carburetor is where fuel and air mix before entering the engine. Its tiny passages, especially the main jet and pilot jet, are easily clogged by old fuel varnish. A thorough cleaning is often the definitive fix.
First, turn off the fuel valve and place a container under the carburetor. A single bolt at the bottom holds the carburetor bowl in place. Remove this bolt to drain any remaining fuel and carefully lower the bowl, being mindful of the rubber gasket.
Inside, you will see the float. Carefully remove the pin holding the float and the attached needle valve. Spray all parts and the inside of the carburetor body with carburetor cleaner. Pay special attention to the main jet (the central tube) and the pilot jet (a smaller, often recessed jet). Use a very thin wire or a jet cleaning tool to gently clear any blockages from the tiny holes. Reassemble everything carefully once clean.
Ignition System Checks: Is There a Spark?
If the fuel system is clean and you’re using fresh gas, the next step is to verify the ignition system is producing a spark. Without a spark, the fuel-air mixture cannot ignite. This process is straightforward and requires only a couple of basic tools.
Inspecting and Replacing the Spark Plug
First, disconnect the spark plug wire. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plug. Examine the tip of the plug. If it is black and sooty, oily, or has white deposits, it needs cleaning or replacement.
The correct spark plug for the Toro Power Clear 721 R is typically an NGK BPR6ES or a Champion RN9YC. Ensure the gap is set correctly according to your owner’s manual before installing a new one. A new spark plug is an inexpensive and highly effective fix for many starting issues.
Performing a Spark Test
To be certain the ignition system is working, use an inline spark tester. This tool connects between the spark plug and the plug wire. When you pull the starter rope, a light in the tester will flash if a spark is being generated.
If you don’t have a tester, you can carefully hold the threaded base of the spark plug against a metal part of the engine block while it’s connected to the wire. Have someone pull the starter rope and look for a blue spark across the electrode gap. If there is no spark, the issue could be a faulty ignition coil or a problem with the kill switch wiring.
Air System: An Engine Needs to Breathe
The final component for combustion is air. While less common, a blockage in the air intake or a malfunctioning choke can prevent your engine from starting. Ensure the path for air is clear and unobstructed.
Checking the Air Intake
Unlike lawnmowers, most snow blowers do not have a user-serviceable air filter, as they operate in clean, cold air. However, you should check the air intake area for any obstructions. Rodents sometimes build nests in this area during the off-season, which can completely block airflow.
Verifying Choke Operation
The choke lever on the outside connects to a plate inside the carburetor’s throat. When you move the lever to the “Full Choke” position, this plate should close, restricting airflow. Visually inspect that the linkage is connected and the plate moves correctly as you operate the lever. A stuck or disconnected choke will make starting very difficult.
Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Problems
If you’ve addressed the fuel, spark, and air systems and your Toro 721 R still won’t start, the problem may be more mechanical. These issues are less common but are important to consider when the basics fail. These steps may require more specific tools or professional assistance.
The Overlooked Sheared Flywheel Key
The flywheel key is a small, soft metal piece that aligns the flywheel with the crankshaft. If the snowblower’s auger hits a hard object like a large rock or a curb, the sudden stop can shear this key. This is a built-in fail-safe to protect the engine from major damage.
When the key shears, it throws off the engine’s timing, meaning the spark happens at the wrong moment. A classic symptom is the pull cord yanking back sharply out of your hand. Replacing this key is a more involved repair but is critical if timing is the issue.
When Gas Gets in the Oil
Another subtle issue can be a leaking carburetor needle valve. If the needle valve fails to seal properly when the engine is off, gasoline can slowly leak from the tank, through the carburetor, and down into the engine’s crankcase, mixing with the oil.
Check your oil level. If it seems unusually high and smells strongly of gasoline, this is likely the cause. You must perform an oil change immediately and repair the carburetor’s needle and seat to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Quick Troubleshooting Reference Table
Use this table for a quick summary of common symptoms and their solutions. It provides an at-a-glance reference to help you diagnose the issue with your snowblower efficiently.
| Symptom | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine doesn’t turn over at all | Safety key is out, run switch is off | Insert safety key, turn switch to “On” |
| Engine cranks but won’t fire | Old/bad fuel, clogged carburetor | Drain tank and replace with fresh fuel, clean carburetor |
| Starts with starting fluid but dies | Fuel delivery problem | Clogged carburetor main jet is the most likely cause. Perform a thorough cleaning. |
| Pull cord jerks back hard | Sheared flywheel key | Inspect and replace the flywheel key |
| No spark at spark plug | Fouled plug, bad ignition coil | Replace spark plug, test ignition coil |
| Engine sputters or surges | Water in fuel, partially clogged jet | Use fresh fuel, re-clean carburetor pilot jet |
| Oil level is high and smells of gas | Leaking carburetor needle valve | Change oil immediately, repair or replace carburetor |
Preventative Maintenance: Your Best Defense
The best way to fix a starting problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Proper maintenance and storage are crucial for ensuring your Toro 721 R starts on the first pull every winter. These simple habits are the key to reliability.
End-of-Season Storage is Crucial
At the end of winter, never store your snowblower with fuel in the tank without a stabilizer. The best practice is to run the engine completely out of fuel. Start it up and let it run until it stops on its own. This empties the tank, fuel lines, and, most importantly, the carburetor bowl, preventing varnish buildup.
Changing the engine oil before storage is also a good practice. Used oil contains contaminants that can damage internal engine parts over time. Store the machine in a clean, dry place like a garage or shed to protect it from the elements.
How Does the 721 R Compare?
The Toro Power Clear 721 R is a fantastic single-stage snowblower, but it’s part of a competitive market. Understanding its place can help you appreciate its strengths. Its straightforward design makes troubleshooting issues like a no-start condition manageable for most owners.
For those with smaller areas, the Toro 518 ZE offers a more compact solution, though it shares many of the same reliable engine principles. When looking at the broader market, many homeowners find themselves weighing the differences between Cub Cadet and Toro for their specific needs. Similarly, the Toro vs. Troy-Bilt debate often comes down to brand loyalty and specific features available at different price points.
Getting Your 721 R Back in Action
By following this comprehensive guide, you have the knowledge to tackle nearly any starting issue with your Toro Power Clear 721 R. Start with the simplest checks and work your way methodically through the fuel, spark, and air systems. Remember that fresh, stabilized fuel and a clean carburetor are the keys to a reliable machine.
With these steps, you can confidently diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs. You will save money, gain valuable mechanical skill, and ensure your snowblower is ready to dominate the next snowfall. Don’t let a no-start issue leave you stranded this winter.
