Snowblower won't blow snow: troubleshooting chute and auger issues video

Tools and parts needed

• Work gloves

• Clean-out tool

• Shear pins

• Socket wrench

• Auger belt

• Auger engagement cable

Hi, this is Wayne from Sears PartsDirect. Today, we're going to talk about troubleshooting a snowblower that won't blow, throw or even toss your snow.

Make sure your snowblower is on a level surface and remove the key from the ignition to keep it from starting while your troubleshooting. The first thing we’re going to do is check the chute for obstructions. You've probably already done that, but you'd be surprised how many times people forget.

Check for clogs, broken shear pins

With the engine shut off, rotate the chute to where you can look down inside. If the chute's clogged, clear it out using the chute clean-out tool or a broom handle.

The next thing we’ll check is the shear pins. Shear pins intentionally break to help save the auger and drive system from major damage if the auger hits something solid and not made of snow, like a rock. You can usually find a spare right near the handle. Be sure to order some more so you’ll be ready the next time you need one. Remember, always use a manufacturer-approved shear pin or you could damage your snow blower. These are easy to replace, just locate the hole on the auger, line up the holes of the auger and the auger drive shaft, insert the shear pin then install the cotter pin and that's it.

Check for auger belt, engagement cable

The next thing we’ll look at is the auger belt. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts and take a look under the cover. A worn or loose belt can slip and keep the auger from turning when you’re in snow, but it’ll turn just fine when you’re in the garage and there’s no snow weighing it down. If the belt is worn or broken, replace it. Here's a video that will show you how to do that.

The last thing we’ll check is the auger engagement cable. The auger engagement cable connects the control lever to the auger drive system. Take a look and make sure it’s not damaged or broken. If it is, it won’t engage the pulley into the auger belt to turn the auger blades. If your cable is broken, check out this video to learn how to replace it. If the cable's intact but loose, tighten the cable by loosening this bolt and adjust the bracket to eliminate excessive slack in the engagement cable. With the auger control lever disengaged, the cable should have very little slack. After adjusting the cable, test the snowblower to make sure that the auger engages and disengages properly.

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