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When properly maintained, a snowblower can save you time, effort, reduce risk of injury and clear snow more effectively. They can even save you money in the long run. Have you completed these essential snowblower maintenance tips recently?
Change the Spark Plug
Your snow blower’s spark plug should be changed at least once a season, or every 100 hours. To make the swap, disconnect the plug from the lead and use a wrench to remove it. Replace the plug if you see any damage or deposits. If not, go ahead and pop it back in.
Add Oil and Gas
If you own a gas snow blower, check the oil level before each use. To change the oil, let the blower warm up a bit to make the oil flow easier, then turn it off, pull the drain plug and deposit the oil into a container. Re-insert the plug and fill the blower up with oil again. Fill your snowblower’s tank up with fresh gas, adding fuel stabilizer to prevent clogs and keep the gas fresh.
Flip the Skid Shoes Over
Two stage snowblowers come with adjustable pieces known as skid shoes, which allow you to set the height of your auger, and they are often reversible. If yours is looking worn, flip it over to the other side. When that side wears out, you’ll want to replace them, but you likely won’t have to worry about this until next season.
Check the Tire Pressure
Proper tire pressure is essential for a smoothly-running snowblower. Check the tire pressure and adjust a few times throughout the year. Visual checks aren’t always reliable, so use a tire gauge and ensure both tires are properly inflated. Not keeping up with tire pressure can be costly – you may end up needing to replace the skid shoes and scraper bar before their time.
Inspect the Belts
Notice cracks, glazed sidewalls or general wear and tear on the belts? That’s a sure sign that it’s time for a replacement. Your owner’s manual will tell you exactly how to do so – we recommend taking a picture of the belt beforehand so you remember how the replacement should be set up.
Inspect the Shave Plate
The shave plate scrapes snow off your driveway, and can take a pounding during winter. For single stage snowblowers, reverse the plate if it’s getting worn. For two stage snowblowers, go ahead and replace.
Check for Damaged Shear Pins
If you notice that the shear pins, which connect the auger to the gear case, are broken, don’t worry – they’re meant to do that. It happens when the gear case and auger are overloaded and is a built-in safety feature. Keep a few replacements on hand so that you’re not left stranded if they break.
Replace the Paddles
The auger paddles take a beating on your snowblower. Keep an eye out for wear and tear, and replace them if they don’t hit the ground anymore. You may also need to replace them if your machine is discharging snow forward instead of through the chute.
Schedule Snowblower Repair at Minnesota Equipment
Minnesota winters are brutal. At some point, you will need to conduct routine maintenance or repairs. When that time comes, bring your machine to one of our four metro locations – we’ll be happy to help.
Minnesota Equipment has many service options available, including oil changes, spark plug replacements and tire pressure inspection. Complete this form to schedule your appointment.
