MTD 31AH7L3G701, Operator'S Manual

5

SECTION 2:  ASSEMBLING YOUR SNOW THROWER

NOTE: 

References to right or left side of the snow

thrower are determined from behind the unit in the
operating position. The “operator’s position” is defined
as standing directly behind the snow thrower, facing the
handle panel.

Unpacking

•

Remove screws from the top sides and ends of the 
shipping crate.

•

Set panel aside to avoid tire punctures or personal 
injury.

•

Remove and discard plastic bag that covers unit.

•

Remove any loose parts included with unit (i.e., 
Operator’s Manual, etc.).

•

Roll unit out of crate.

Loose Parts

The augers are secured to the auger shaft with two 
shear bolts and flange lock nuts. If you hit a foreign 
object or ice jam, the snow thrower is designed so that 
the bolts may shear. Two replacement shear bolts and 
nuts are provided for your convenience. Store in a safe 
place until needed. See Figure 1.

Figure 1

Assembly

WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug
wire and ground it against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.

•

Remove the 

lower

 two plastic wing knobs, cupped 

washers and carriage bolts from each side of the 
lower handle. See Figure 2.

Figure 2

•

Raise the upper handle assembly until it locks over 
the lower handle. 

•

Look at the lower rear of snow thrower frame to be 
sure both cables are aligned with cable roller 
guides.

•

Secure the upper handle and lower handle with the 
two plastic wing knobs, cupped washers and 
carriage bolts previously removed and tighten the 
upper two plastic wing knobs. See Figure 3.

Figure 3

•

Slide the shift rod connector down over the end of 
the lower shift rod. Tap the connector until it 

locks

on the lower shift rod. See Figure 3.

NOTE: 

If the connector is not properly assembled, the

shift rod will pivot and you will not be able to change
speeds or change directions.

•

If not already attached, slip the cables that run from 
the handle panel to the chute into the cable guide 
located on top of the engine. See Figure 4.

Figure 4

•

Unwrap the headlight wire, which is attached to the 
headlight beneath the handle panel.

•

Wind the headlight wire around the right handle 
until excess slack is removed. 

•

Plug the wire from the headlight into the wire lead 
coming from the right side of the engine, beneath 
the fuel tank.

Shear Bolts

Flange Lock
Nuts 

Handle
Panel

Lower
Handle

Upper Handle

Wing Knobs,
Washers, & Bolts

Upper
Shift Rod

Shift Rod
Connector

Wing Knobs

Lower
Shift Rod

Cable Guide