A snowstorm is no time for your snow blower to break down. Heavy use and harsh conditions can push even the most reliable machines to their limits, and a small part failure can bring everything to a stop. To avoid being stranded mid-storm, it’s essential to know which parts are most likely to fail—and to have spares ready for quick repairs.
Here’s a guide to the most common snow blower parts that can fail during a storm, including why they fail and how to be prepared.
1. Shear Pins: The Most Likely to Break
What They Do: Shear pins connect the auger to the drive shaft, allowing it to rotate. They are designed to snap if the auger hits something solid, protecting the rest of your machine from damage.
Why They Fail: Shear pins often break when the auger encounters rocks, ice, or other debris hidden in the snow.
Solution: Keep several spare shear pins on hand. They’re inexpensive, easy to store, and simple to replace, ensuring you can quickly get back to work.
Tip: Keep some grease on hand to apply when installing new shear pins, this will help prevent them from seizing in the shaft.
2. Auger Belts: A Vital Power Link
What They Do: Auger belts transfer power from the engine to the auger, enabling it to gather and throw snow.
Why They Fail: Heavy snow and ice can put extra stress on auger belts, causing them to slip, stretch, or snap. Over time, wear and tear from regular use also weakens the belts.
Solution: Stock a spare auger belt for your snow blower model. Inspect belts regularly for signs of cracking or fraying and replace them before they fail.
Tip: Familiarizing yourself with the replacement process ahead of time can save you valuable minutes in an emergency.
3. Drive Belt: Essential for Mobility
What They Do: Drive belts power the wheels or tracks, helping your snow blower move forward and backward.
Why They Fail: Like auger belts, drive belts can wear out or snap under heavy use, especially in icy or slushy conditions.
Solution: Keep a spare drive belt along with your auger belt. Replacing these belts during a storm can be tricky but is manageable with basic tools and preparation.
4. Control Cables: The Lifeline of Operation
What They Do: Control cables operate critical functions like auger engagement and self-propulsion, ensuring smooth and responsive operation.
Why They Fail: Freezing temperatures, ice buildup, or general wear can cause cables to stretch, fray, or snap.
Solution: Have spare control cables ready for quick replacements. To extend their lifespan, inspect cables regularly and apply lubricant to prevent freezing and stiffness.
5. Springs: Small But Crucial
What They Do: Springs provide tension in the control system, ensuring proper operation of levers and other mechanisms. The most common one we see fail is the auger tension return spring.
Why They Fail: Springs can lose tension over time or snap under the stress of repeated use, especially in freezing conditions.
Solution: Keep a few replacement springs for your snow blower model. They’re inexpensive and take up little space in your emergency kit.
Be Storm-Ready: The Essential Spare Parts Kit
To avoid downtime and frustration during a snowstorm, make sure your spare parts kit includes:
Shear Pins: Have at least three spares with some grease to use when installing them.
Auger Belts: A replacement for your specific model.
Drive Belts: A spare to ensure mobility.
Control Cables: At least one for auger engagement and one for drive control.
Springs: A few spares to maintain tension in the control system.
Preparation Is the Best Defense
Snow blower breakdowns often happen at the worst possible time—like during the heaviest snowfall of the year which will most likely occur on a holiday or weekend. By keeping these essential parts on hand and performing routine maintenance, you’ll be ready for whatever winter throws your way.
At Cumberland Power Equipment, we stock all the replacement parts you need to keep your snow blower in top condition. Whether you need auger belts, shear pins, or expert part advice, our team is here to help.
Visit us today to stock up on spare parts and keep your snow blower running smoothly all season long. Don’t let a small failure stop you—be prepared for the storm!
