April 20, 2023

Snowblower articles

These snowblower articles and how-to videos from Sears PartsDirect can help you use your snowblower effectively and safely. From how to troubleshoot why your snowblower won't start or blow snow to how to adjust skid shoes or change the oil, we have the advice and tips to help you keep your equipment running for years. For more DIY advice, check out our snowblower repair help section for troubleshooting guidance and step-by-step repair instructions.

Gas Snowblowers

Articles and videos common to all gas snowblowers

January 9, 2023
How to replace a snowblower belt video.

See how to replace the auger belt and ground drive belt on a snowblower at the same time.

January 5, 2023
Snowblower common questions

Find answers to questions many people ask about snowblowers.

January 3, 2023
How to engage a snowblower drive video.

Learn how to operate the drive control on your snowblower. Engaging the drive allows you to move forward and in reverse.

December 18, 2022
How to replace snowblower skid shoes video.

Learn how to replace a worn skid shoe on a snowblower, before the shave plate can be damaged.

December 14, 2022
How to start a snowblower engine video.

Learn how to start a snowblower engine, whether it has a pull starter or electric starter.

December 12, 2022
How to adjust a snowblower auger control video.

This video shows how to adjust a snowblower's auger control.

December 9, 2022
How to adjust a snowblower drive control video.

Learn how to tighten a snowblower drive control if the drive slips or doesn't engage, and how to loosen it if the snowblower creeps when you disengage the drive.

December 8, 2022
How to lubricate a snowblower drive hex shaft video.

This short video shows how to lubricate a snowblower drive hex shaft.

December 6, 2022
Introduction image for article that describes 4 easy DIY fixes for your gas snowblower when it won't start.

Find easy DIY tips to fix your snowblower when it won't start

December 1, 2022
Introduction image for DIY YouTube video and article on installing drift cutters on a snow blower or snow thrower.

Learn how to set up and use drift cutters on your snowblower or snow thrower.

November 29, 2022
How to check a snowblower spark plug video.

See how to check the spark plug for spark, to make sure it's clean and correctly gapped.

November 21, 2022
Introduction image for article on making your snow blower or snow thrower last longer.

Learn the steps to take to adjust and maintain your snowblower so it lasts longer.

November 17, 2022
Introduction image for article on the main parts of a snow blower or snow thrower.

Learn about major functional parts of your snowblower and when to replace them.

October 1, 2019
How to tune up a snowblower video.

Get an overview of the main steps in a snowblower tune-up and click to videos with more details.

January 1, 2016
Snowblower chute won't turn: troubleshooting chute control and gearbox problems video.

Learn how to replace the chute control assembly and gearbox if the chute on your snowblower won't turn.

Symptoms for gas snowblowers

Choose a symptom to see related snowblower repairs.

Main causes: dirty carburetor, clogged fuel filter, dirty spark plug, incorrect valve lash, leaky engine gaskets
Main causes: dirty carburetor, stale fuel
Main causes: loose drive clutch cable, damaged drive clutch cable, worn friction disc, scraper blade scraping the ground, engine problems
Main causes: punctured tire, damaged rim
Main causes: broken shear pins, worn or loose auger drive belt, auger drive cable failure, damaged auger, bad gear case
Main causes: stale gas, clogged carburetor, clogged or broken fuel line, dirty spark plug, bad rewind starter, incorrect valve lash
Main causes: clogged chute, snow build-up in auger housing, broken auger shear pins, auger drive belt needs adjustment, auger cable problems
Things to do: replace the spark plug, change the oil, rebuild the carburetor, adjust valve lash, adjust or replace the belts
Main causes: clogged chute, damaged auger blades, broken shear pins, worn auger belt, damaged gear case, engine problems

Repair guides for gas snowblowers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your snowblower.

How to replace a snowblower fuel filter

Replace the fuel filter on your snowblower if it's clogged or damaged.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to adjust snowblower skid shoes

To prevent snowblower auger and shave plate damage, adjust the skid shoes regularly to keep the shave plate ¼-inch high. It's an easy adjustment that you can handle yourself.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to rebuild a snowblower carburetor

Rebuild the carburetor on your snowblower if the engine isn't getting fuel.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 45 minutes or less