

Each season, both before you start and when you put it away for the winter, inspect your snow blower for signs of wear and tear. Check all belts, screws, and nuts and bolts to ensure that they are in good condition and tightly fastened, etc. Depending on the type of blower you have, it will have either one or two belts that need to be in good condition for the machine to run efficiently. If any belt has signs of wear or cracking, it should be replaced. Check the starter cord for any fraying as well. Check the tires. If pressure is low, add air until the tires are at the manufacturer-recommended pressure. If the tires are worn, replace them. Tire chains should also be inspected for any damage or wear.
Replace any shear pins that are broken. If there are, don’t worry — that’s what they’re supposed to do. These pins, also known as shear bolts, connect the blower’s auger to the auger shaft, and break when the blower encounters too much torque, preventing potential damage to the whole machine.
Helpful Tip
Keep extra shear pins around so you can replace them when needed during peak operating season.
Check the scraper bar for any damage or excessive wear and replace it if need be. Also, take a look at the skid shoes to be sure they aren’t worn down.