• Check gas and oil levels
• Point the snowmachine in a safe direction
• Be ready to start it by kneeling or sitting on the machine, or by standing next to it
• Check the throttle by depressing it at least once to be sure it isn’t frozen. When released it should return quickly to the idle position. Remember that this will send gasoline to the engine though, so once should be enough
• Check all important switches like key and safety switches, which should be in the “on” positions
• Depending on the machine, choke or prime the engine as is appropriate to the temperature
• If your machine starts electrically, turn the key to the ”start” position and release the choke as soon as the engine starts
• If your machine is a manual start, pull the recoil starter cord until you feel resistance, then pull vigorously, but don’t let the handle snap back

Starting machine using left arm.

Starting machine using right arm.

Don’t flood the engine when starting the snowmachine. If the choke is used and the engine is resisting an “easy start”, stop using it before so much gas accumulates in the cylinders that the spark plugs get wet. Wait a minute or two, and then try to start the engine again without the choke. With enough practice you will develop a feel for the proper amount of choke to use. If you think the engine is flooded, remove the spark plug and allow the cylinder to dry out. You can also warm up the sparkplug by removing it and using a lighter on it. Watch for unburned gasoline!