Your Toro Power Clear 518 ZE Won’t Start? Let’s Fix That
You’ve pulled your Toro Power Clear 518 ZE out of the garage, the first big snow is falling, and you’re ready to clear your driveway. You turn the key, pull the recoil, and… nothing. Or maybe it sputters and dies. It’s a frustrating moment every snow blower owner faces eventually.
Starting a two-stage electric start snow blower like the 518 ZE should be straightforward, but several small things need to be just right. Unlike simpler single-stage models, this machine has specific safety interlocks and a more complex engine system that must be engaged properly.
This guide will walk you through the exact, step-by-step process to start your Toro Power Clear 518 ZE, whether you’re using the electric starter or the manual recoil backup. We’ll also cover the most common reasons it won’t start and how to troubleshoot them, so you can get back to clearing snow quickly and safely.
Pre-Start Checklist for the Toro 518 ZE
Before you even attempt to start the engine, run through this quick safety and preparation checklist. Skipping these steps is the number one reason for startup failure.
Ensure the machine is on a flat, clear surface, away from buildings and flammable materials. Check that the discharge chute is pointed in a safe direction, away from people, windows, and cars.
Verify your fuel. The Toro Power Clear 518 ZE uses unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. It is crucial to use fresh fuel; gasoline older than 30 days can degrade and cause starting and running issues. If the fuel is old, drain it and refill with fresh gas.
For two-cycle oil, the 518 ZE uses a 50:1 gas-to-oil mix. Confirm you are using a high-quality air-cooled engine two-cycle oil. An incorrect mix can cause poor lubrication or excessive smoke and will prevent starting.
Check the oil level in the four-cycle engine crankcase using the dipstick. It should be between the “Full” and “Add” marks. Do not overfill.
Finally, visually inspect the auger and impeller area. Make sure no ice, rocks, or debris are jammed in the intake or discharge chute. A locked rotor will prevent the engine from turning over.
Engaging All Safety Controls
The Toro 518 ZE has multiple safety switches that must be engaged for the electric starter to work and for the engine to run. If any are disengaged, the engine will not start.
Locate the auger control lever, usually on the left handle. You must press and hold this lever against the handle to start and run the engine. This is a deadman switch; releasing it will kill the engine.
Find the drive control lever, typically on the right handle. For starting, this lever should be in the disengaged (released) position. You do not need to hold it to start.
Ensure the ignition key is inserted fully into the key switch. The key must be in the “On” or “Run” position. On some models, turning it to the “Start” position activates the electric starter directly.
Set the engine speed control, or throttle, to the “Fast” position. The choke control should be in the “On” or closed position for a cold start.
Step-by-Step Starting Procedure
With the pre-checks complete, follow this sequence exactly. The order of operations matters for both electric and manual starting.
Starting with the Electric Starter (Recommended)
This is the primary and easiest method. Ensure your 120-volt extension cord is rated for outdoor use and is plugged into a grounded outdoor outlet.
Connect the female end of the extension cord to the power cord on the snow blower’s electric starter motor. You should hear a faint click from the starter solenoid when you plug it in if the key is on.
Stand behind the machine in the operator’s position. With your left hand, press and hold the auger control lever firmly against the handle.
With your right hand, turn the ignition key to the “Start” position. Do not hold it for more than 5 seconds at a time. The engine should crank and start.
If the engine cranks but doesn’t start after 2-3 attempts, stop. Turn the key to “Off.” Wait 60 seconds, then move the choke lever to the “Half” or open position and try again. If it still fails, proceed to troubleshooting.
Once the engine starts, immediately release the key so it returns to the “Run” position. You can then unplug the extension cord from the starter motor. Continue holding the auger control lever to keep the engine running.
Allow the engine to warm up for a full minute at half-throttle before engaging the auger or drive. Then, move the choke lever fully to the “Off” position.
Starting with the Recoil Starter (Manual Backup)
Use this method if you have no power outlet available or if the electric starter fails. The safety steps are identical.
Complete all pre-start checks. Hold the auger control lever against the handle with your left hand. Set the throttle to “Fast” and the choke to “On.”
Grasp the recoil starter handle firmly. Pull the rope out slowly until you feel resistance—this is the engine’s compression stroke. Let the rope rewind slightly.
Then, pull the rope briskly and smoothly straight out. Do not yank it at an angle or pull it all the way to the end of its travel. A short, sharp pull is more effective.
If the engine doesn’t start on the first pull, allow the rope to fully retract, then repeat the process: slow pull to resistance, then a brisk starting pull. Do not let the rope snap back; guide it back in.
After 3-4 pulls, if the engine hasn’t started, turn the choke to “Half” and try 2 more pulls. If it still fails, the engine is likely flooded. Turn the ignition key and fuel valve to “Off,” wait 5 minutes, set the choke to “Off,” and try starting again with no choke.
Why Your Toro 518 ZE Won’t Start and How to Fix It
If you’ve followed the procedure correctly and the engine still refuses to start, one of these common issues is likely the culprit.
No Crank with Electric Starter
When you turn the key to “Start” and hear nothing, or just a single click, the issue is likely electrical.
– Check that the extension cord is firmly plugged in at both ends and the outlet has power.
– Ensure the auger control safety lever is being held down completely. This switch often fails or gets out of adjustment.
– Inspect the battery if your model has one for the electric start system. A dead battery will not engage the starter solenoid.
– The ignition key switch itself can fail. Try wiggling the key slightly while turning it.
– Corroded or loose connections on the starter motor terminals can prevent current flow.
Engine Cranks But Won’t Fire
The starter works, but the engine doesn’t run. This points to a fuel, spark, or air issue.
– Old or contaminated fuel is the most common cause. Drain the fuel tank and carburetor float bowl. Refill with fresh, properly mixed fuel.
– A clogged carburetor jet, especially from stale fuel, prevents gas from reaching the engine. This may require a carburetor cleaning kit.
– Check the spark plug. Remove it, reconnect the wire, and ground the metal body against the engine. Crank the engine; you should see a bright blue spark. If not, replace the plug.
– A closed or blocked fuel valve will starve the engine. Make sure the valve under the tank is in the “On” position.
– If the engine is flooded (smelling strongly of gas), follow the un-flooding procedure: key off, choke off, throttle fast, hold auger lever, and crank for 10 seconds.
Engine Starts Then Immediately Dies
The machine runs for a few seconds and then stalls. This usually indicates a problem with ongoing fuel delivery or a safety switch.
– The most likely cause is a dirty carburetor that can’t supply fuel at idle. Cleaning the carburetor is necessary.
– A faulty fuel cap that isn’t venting can create a vacuum in the tank, stopping fuel flow. Try running the engine with the cap slightly loosened.
– Ensure you are continuing to hold the auger control lever. Releasing it will kill the engine.
– A weak spark from a failing ignition coil can cause the engine to die under load.
Essential Maintenance to Prevent Future Problems
Proper end-of-season storage is critical for easy starts next winter. Never just run the tank dry and put it away.
Add a fuel stabilizer to a full tank of fresh gas and run the engine for 5 minutes to circulate treated fuel through the carburetor. This prevents varnish and gum deposits from forming.
Disconnect the spark plug wire. Drain all fuel from the carburetor bowl by using the drain screw if equipped, or by running the engine until it stops after turning the fuel valve off.
Change the engine oil if your model is four-stroke. Check and clean the spark plug, replacing it if the electrode is worn.
Lubricate all control cables, pivot points, and the auger shaft. Scrape off any packed snow and ice, and wipe the entire machine dry before storage.
Store your Toro Power Clear 518 ZE in a clean, dry place. Cover it with a breathable cover to keep dust off, but avoid plastic tarps that trap moisture.
Getting Back to a Clear Driveway
Starting your Toro Power Clear 518 ZE is a systematic process. The key is methodically following the safety sequence and preparation steps. Most non-start issues come down to stale fuel, a disengaged safety lever, or a lack of spark.
Begin with the electric starter procedure, double-checking each control. If that fails, switch to the recoil starter and apply the troubleshooting steps for your specific symptom—no crank, crank no start, or starts and dies.
For persistent mechanical issues like a clogged carburetor or a failed ignition component, consult your owner’s manual for part numbers and consider seeking service from an authorized Toro dealer. With this guide and a little patience, you’ll have your reliable two-stage snow blower running smoothly, ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way.
