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How to adjust the snowblower drive control cable video

less than a minute readNov 12Lyle Weischwill

If your snowblower isn’t moving as it should, the drive control cable may need adjustment. Over time, the cable can stretch or lose tension, causing the wheels to slip, move sluggishly, or creep forward when the drive lever is disengaged.

This quick video shows how to test your drive system and adjust the ground drive cable so your snowblower moves smoothly and safely through winter’s toughest snow.

When to adjust the drive control cable

You’ll typically need to adjust the snowblower ground drive control system when:

  • The snowblower doesn’t move when you engage the drive lever.

  • The drive slips, causing sluggish or uneven movement.

  • The snowblower creeps forward even with the drive lever disengaged.

Testing the snowblower drive system

When you engage the ground drive lever, the cable pulls the drive wheel upward to contact the friction disc. The friction disc spins the hex drive shaft, which turns the gears that move the tires.

Diagram showing how the snowblower ground drive system works

Proper cable tension ensures smooth, reliable motion. Here’s how to test it:

1. With the snowblower turned off, lift the auger housing slightly and push the machine forward.

  • The snowblower should roll freely when the drive lever is disengaged. If it doesn’t, the cable tension is too tight and needs loosening.

2. Engage the ground drive lever.

  • The wheels should lock when engaged. If they continue to roll freely, the cable tension is too loose and needs tightening.

How to adjust the ground drive cable

Follow these steps to adjust the ground drive cable for proper tension:

  1. Loosen, but don’t remove, the lower hex bolt on the ground drive cable bracket.

  2. If needed, loosen the top hex nut to allow movement.

  3. Move the bracket up to loosen the cable tension or down to increase it.

  4. Hold the bracket in position and tighten the lower hex nut securely.

Once adjusted, test the snowblower again and fine-tune the cable position if needed.

Keep your snowblower performing its best

If you prefer to have a professional handle this maintenance, schedule Snowblower Tune-Up and Maintenance Service through Sears Home Services.

For more DIY help, check out these guides:

A properly adjusted drive cable helps your snowblower operate safely, prevents unnecessary wear, and ensures dependable traction when you need it most.