Abby’s Guide > Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) > Discussions > MTD Yard Machine 5.5 hp 
Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions | 
	
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NickM 
 
 
Joined: Feb 28, 2005 
Points: 21
 
 
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	MTD Yard Machine 5.5 hp 
	Original Message   Sep 24, 2018 7:11 pm	 | 
	
		
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I picked up a MTD 31A-3CAD762 two stage blower about a year ago.  I had it as a 2nd machine that I left by my in-law's house. It started and ran without issue.  When I tried it last year after a wet snowfall about 6-8 inches it stalled out when I hit the snow.  A family member was supposed to take it and service it but it never got done.  I decided to take it back today and looked at the belts and the auger belt looks worn.  I have both belts coming in a few days and will change them out promptly.  My issue is evaluating the machine without putting it under a load condition.  It will run fine, move forward, and turn the auger.  Any way to predict how it will work without actually waiting for a snowfall.  It runs smoothly but I am willing to change out the carb if needed. 
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NickM 
 
 
Joined: Feb 28, 2005 
Points: 21
 
 
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	Re: MTD Yard Machine 5.5 hp 
	Reply #2   Oct 13, 2018 7:58 am	 | 
	
		
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New belts and new carburetor installed, hoping for the best!  Runs smooth! 
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jtclays 
 
 
Joined: Aug 6, 2011 
Points: 16
 
 
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	Re: MTD Yard Machine 5.5 hp 
	Reply #4   Nov 11, 2018 7:06 am	 | 
	
		
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Agree with niper99 on both his posts.  Especially considering you noted a loose auger belt.  If the belt was the problem the blower would stop intermittently throwing snow when over loaded, not stall engine. Those Tecumseh 5-5.5hp flatheads will eventually need valve stems ground to give clearance, especially exhaust side.  
   
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NickM 
 
 
Joined: Feb 28, 2005 
Points: 21
 
 
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	Re: MTD Yard Machine 5.5 hp 
	Reply #5   Jan 28, 2019 4:55 pm	 | 
	
		
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Easy winter here in NJ so far.  I have not run the unit in snow yet since replacing parts.  Valve clearance check may happen in the off season. 
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