8hp Tecumseh-powered snowblower revved too high

[55Test]

When I went and started my 8hp Tecumseh SnowKing-powered snowblower earlier today, at first it would barely idle, then as it thawed out a bit it started revving way high. Adjusting the throttle didn't make any difference in engine speed unless I closed the throttle completely. It did that for maybe a minute, then I guess it thawed out a bit more and settled down to its normal running speed. Is there a mechanical linkage/governor that maybe got iced up a bit? It's never done that before (the revving too high thing). Other than being a little hard to start it's a good running machine so I don't want it to blow up or something.

 

[bepperb]

Is there a mechanical linkage/governor that maybe got iced up a bit?

Yes there is. It should be easy to find. There is also an external spring that may have picked up some snow/ice and though the arm is traveling fine the spring isn't forcing the butterfly to comply with it.

 

[JosephHarmon]

It would be very common for ice or snow to pack linkage.
Get a pitcher of hot water and pour it on the linkage being careful not to get much near the gas cap vent. It should be enough to met ice or wash away snow pack.

 

[yeehaw1960]

Sometimes a little corrosion will build up on the surface of the linkage rod. Work the governor back and forth and see if the rod is rubbing (binding on) something. A very (very) small tweak (bend) of the linkage rod may be all that is required to give it more clearance. I worked on a blower for about two hours one day (many years ago) before I noticed the simple fix.

 

[JimPghPA]

Some WD-40 would not be a bad idea. Like the old chicke soup for a cold. Won't hurt, and might help.