I inherited a Craftsman snowblower that needed some work. I have replaced parts and have it running; but must be missing something on the electrical side. I took my best guess at replacement wiring for the "key" mechanism. It runs fine, but neither the on/off rocker switch or the "key" will stop the engine.

Engine 12E114 0268

Jim, December 2007

I am in the same situation as Jim but with a Craftsman 8HP and the same goes for the wiring. When I got the machine I noted the saftey wires hanging down from under the cover. From what I can figure out thus far it looks as if the key (plastic) just creates a gap between the spring (connected to the wire) and the chasis. Thus remove the key the spring touches the frame and stops the machine. There is a second wire broken off, I assume it should be connected to a spring at the bottom of the throttle which notes fast, slow and off. I do have a question as both wires lead to a plate and then back into the engine. Is this plate original equipment? and should it be grouded or isolated when connected to the chasis? Help here would be greatly appreciated.

Brian, December 2007

one of the wires going to switch needs to be grounded.the switch may be shot.ground the right wire and it WILL STOP !

jr, December 2007

This is a diffulcult one not having seen the engine ! But most of these type of engines rely on a wire going down to earth to stop it .Look at any loose wires and reconect.

Good Dave, December 2007