Want your Cub Cadet BB230 blower to provide years of reliable service? Here’s everything you need to know from fixing common problems to storing your blower in the off season.
Safety
Unless the instructions specify the engine must be running, let it cool down completely before working on it. Disconnect the spark plug wire before performing repairs, reconnecting only to start the motor or when repairs have been completed.
If any fuel is spilled, wipe it up immediately. Move the blower at least 30 feet (10 meters) away before starting to prevent ignition.
When storing, make sure the blower is in a place where it can’t be reached by children.
Maintenance Schedule
With a maintenance-free impeller and fuel-based lubrication, there are just two things that need to be done to keep this blower running:
The air filter needs to be cleaned after every 10 hours of operation.
The spark plug should be checked after every 25 hours of operation.
Problem: Engine Won’t Start, Idle or Accelerate
Fuel: Make sure the tank has properly mixed fuel in it that is no more than 30 days old.
Primer bulb: Slowly press the primer bulb 10 times. Fuel should be visible inside the bulb once fuel is reaching the carburetor.
Spark plug: Check the spark plug for fouling and damage, cleaning or replacing it as necessary.
Air filter: Check for clogging and damage. Clean or replace as necessary.
Idle speed: Check and adjust the idle speed.
If these steps didn’t solve the problem, have your blower looked at by a professional mechanic.
Problem: Engine Stalls or Lacks Power
Fuel: If the fuel is more than 30 days old, replace it with fresh gas.
Spark plug: Check the spark plug for fouling and damage, cleaning and replacing as necessary.
If these steps didn’t solve the problem, have your blower looked at by a professional mechanic.
Cleaning the Air Filter
1. Open the air filter cover, located directly above the fuel tank. To do this press the tab on the side and swing it away from the blower.
2. Remove the filter underneath.
3. Wash the filter in detergent and water. Allow the filter to dry fully.
4. Soak the filter in clean SAE 30 motor oil. Squeeze out any excess oil.
5. Reinstall the filter. The cover should make an audible snap when it clips into place.
Adjusting Idle Speed
The idle adjustment screw is above the air filter cover and below the engine cover. It can be turned with a #2 cross head (Phillips) screwdriver.
1. Start the blower and let it run at a high idle for at least a minute to warm up the engine.
2. Move the cruise control to the “SLOW” position and let the engine idle. If the engine stops, turn the idle screw 1/8 of a turn clockwise. If the engine is running too fast, turn the screw 1/8 of a turn counterclockwise.
3. Try running the engine again: if the engine still dies or runs too fast with the cruise set to “SLOW,” repeat the process.
Inspecting the Spark Plug
1. Disconnect the plug wire from the end of the spark plug.
2. Unscrew the plug using a 5/8 inch spark plug wrench or socket.
3. Clean the plug. Never scrape or sand the electrodes: this can leave loose grit that can damage the engine.
4. Check the gap: the distance between the electrodes should be 0.025 in. (0.635 mm)
5. Reinstall the plug, torquing it to 110-120 in-lbs. (12.3-13.5 Nm.) Over-tightening could prevent the plug from creasing a tight seal in the combustion chamber.
6. Reconnect the spark plug wire.
If the plug is damaged, replace it with a Cub Cadet recommended spark plug.
Cleaning
Use a small brush to clean the outside of the blower. Don’t use strong detergents, household cleaners that contain aromatic oils like pine and lemon, or solvents like kerosene: these can damage the plastic housing and handle. Wipe off any moisture to prevent rust.
Short Term Storage
Let the blower cool completely before storing. If there is still fuel in the tank, make sure the device is kept away from areas where an open flame or spark may occur, such as a heater or a bench grinder.
To further reduce the chance of fire and protect the blower against rust and corrosion, keep it in a dry, well ventilated area.
Long Term Storage
Some preparation is required before putting the blower away for the season:
1. Remove all fuel from the fuel tank.
2. Start the engine and let it run until it stalls to ensure all fuel has been removed from the blower.
3. Allow the engine to cool.
4. Remove the spark plug and add 5 drops of 2-cycle or standard motor oil through the plug hole. Slowly pull the starter handle to turn over the engine, distributing the oil through the inside of the cylinder. Reinstall the plug.
5. Clean and inspect the device, tightening down any loose components and repairing any damaged parts.
From here, you can follow the tips for short term storage.
Where to Buy Cub Cadet Blower Parts
Whether you need an air filter or a whole new engine, www.cubparts.com carries exactly what you need. Ordering is simple thanks to online parts diagrams, and items can be shipped anywhere in the U.S. or Canada.