When it comes to snowblowers, load testing plays a crucial role in determining their capabilities and performance. Traditionally, load testing involves running the snowblower in snowy conditions to assess its power and efficiency. But have you ever wondered if the same testing can be done without snow? In this article, we will explore the concept of load testing a snowblower without snow and analyze its effectiveness.
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Snowblowers are essential tools for clearing snow during the winter season. To ensure that your snowblower operates efficiently, it is important to have a properly adjusted carburetor. The carburetor plays a crucial role in the engine’s performance by regulating the fuel-air mixture. If the carburetor is not adjusted correctly, it can affect the snowblower’s overall functionality.
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When snow starts to pile up, having a reliable snowblower becomes essential for clearing driveways and walkways. Snowblowers typically have a choke system that helps start the engine, especially in cold weather. Understanding how to use the choke properly is crucial for a smooth start and optimal performance. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of starting a snowblower with a choke, whether it’s a manual or electric start. We will also discuss the importance of choke usage, troubleshooting common issues, and maintenance tips for easy start-up.
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Snowblowers are essential tools for clearing snow during the winter season, but what happens when yours won’t stay running? It can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially when you’re in the middle of clearing snow. However, there are several common reasons why a snowblower may experience this issue. In this blog post, we will explore mechanisms of a snowblower, understand the role of fuel, carburetor, fuel line, and filter, identify common causes for breakdown, and provide solutions for these issues.
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14×36 Timber Frame Greenhouse

A huge priority for us regarding the homestead is beginning crops as soon as possible so that we can start to sustain our family. Living in northern Minnesota has its drawbacks – mainly the shortened growing season. We’ve always wanted a greenhouse to prolong our growing season and perhaps allow us the opportunity to grow some crops that we otherwise wouldn’t be able to. This greenhouse I designed as a step up from the firewood shed. It measures 14×36 on a slab. We figured that we would have some raised beds inside and the slab would help to radiate the sun’s heat to maintain the temperature. The rafters are spaced 2′ on center as it is sometimes easy to find cheap glass in that width. However, the rafters can be spaced to pretty much whatever dimensions you require. The posts and beams are a bit overkill to compensate for the lack of structural roof support. Because of the larger timbers, this project is a step up from the firewood shed. If you’re looking to build a greenhouse, I hope you’ll consider supporting us by purchasing these plans. Plans come with elevation drawings and a materials list.
*Update: I have decided to discontinue sales of our plans. I hope to relist them in the future when the time is appropriate.
6×16 Timber Frame Firewood shed
I designed this shed as an easy introduction to working on timber frame structures. The municipality that I live in allows structures up to 100 square feet without a building permit. This shed measures 6’3.5″x16′ and is meant for storing firewood. The skids on the bottom are due to the fact that once built, I will have to move it in the future. It is constructed with mortise and tenon joinery. Due to the small spans, smaller lumber is used than a normal timber frame. With that in mind, it is an excellent chance to learn valuable timber framing skills.
*Update: I have decided to discontinue sales of our plans. I hope to relist them in the future when the time is appropriate.

