DIY snowblower repair
A gas snowblower is a lot like insurance: You hope you never have to use it, but when you do, you're glad you have it. If your snowblower isn't working as expected—maybe the auger isn't turning, the chute isn't shooting, or it just won't start—Sears PartsDirect has troubleshooting guidance.
Follow the tips in our snowblower engine won't start video to get your gas snowblower going when it's being difficult. Our snowblower chute won't turn video troubleshoots problems with the snowblower's chute control system. Check out our articles and videos page for additional troubleshooting help and advice on other gas snowblower issues.
Learn how to figure out which parts that you need to select from a snowblower diagram to fix common problems. Our DIY snowblower troubleshooting help gives you a clear path to solutions for major failures.
Our DIY repair guides show you how to complete common snowblower repairs with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions. To find the owner’s manual or a complete list of replacement parts for your snowblower, search for your model number.
Symptoms for gas snowblowers
Repair guides for gas snowblowers
You need a spark to fire up the engine of your snowblower, and that spark comes from a spark plug. You can replace one in minutes.
Replace the fuel filter on your snowblower if it's clogged or damaged.
Adjust the engine valve lash on your snowblower to keep the engine starting and running smoothly.
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.
To prevent damage to your snowblower auger, replace the skid shoes when both sides of the shoe are worn. It's an easy repair that you can handle yourself.
Follow the 7 easy steps in this repair guide/video to replace a worn out shave plate on your snowblower.
Rebuild the carburetor on your snowblower if the engine isn't getting fuel.
Replace the 4-way chute control assembly on your snowblower if it’s damaged.
Replace the stop switch on your snowblower if your engine won't start.
The friction disc is one of the components of the drive system. If it's worn or damaged, the snowblower won't self-propel. These step-by-step instructions show how to replace the friction disc yourself, in about half an hour.
Replace the fuel line on your snowblower if it's cracked or damaged.
Replace the electric starter on your snowblower if it doesn't work.
Squealing snowblower? Probably a worn auger belt. To keep your snowblower blowing snow, replace it.
A loose or snapped auger drive cable can prevent the auger from rotating. Follow this step-by-step guide to replace the cable
Replace the chute control gearbox on your snowblower if it's stripped or damaged.
The shear pin breaks if you hit hard-packed snow, to protect the engine from damage. Your snowblower auger won't rotate until you fix it. You can replace it in about 10 minutes.
Articles and videos for gas snowblowers
See how to replace the auger belt and ground drive belt on a snowblower at the same time.
Find answers to questions many people ask about snowblowers.
This video shows how to adjust a snowblower's shift cable.
Learn how to operate the drive control on your snowblower. Engaging the drive allows you to move forward and in reverse.
This video shows how to how and where to lubricate the auger shaft on a snowblower.
Learn how to replace a worn skid shoe on a snowblower, before the shave plate can be damaged.
Learn how to start a snowblower engine, whether it has a pull starter or electric starter.
This video shows how to adjust a snowblower's auger control.
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.
This short video shows how to lubricate a snowblower drive hex shaft.
Find easy DIY tips to fix your snowblower when it won't start
Learn how to set up and use drift cutters on your snowblower or snow thrower.
See how to periodically adjust the skid shoes on a snowblower so they are flush with the ground.
See how to check the spark plug for spark, to make sure it's clean and correctly gapped.
Learn the steps to take to adjust and maintain your snowblower so it lasts longer.
Learn about major functional parts of your snowblower and when to replace them.
Get an overview of the main steps in a snowblower tune-up and click to videos with more details.
This chart will help you find the right carburetor for your Craftsman snowblower, tiller or log splitter.
This chart can help you find the right carburetor kit for your Craftsman snowblower, tiller or log splitter.
Keep these 5 things on hand so you’re ready for the next big snowstorm.
Get your snowblower ready for winter before winter arrives, so you don't have to mess with it while snow piles up.
Install this kit to prevent shocks by static electricity that builds up in the snowblower chute.
Learn how to replace the chute control assembly and gearbox if the chute on your snowblower won't turn.
Check out these tips for getting your snowblower to start.
Find out how to clear chute obstructions, replace shear pins and adjust or replace your auger engagement cable if your snowblower won't blow snow.
Learn about the differences between a single-stage snowblower and a dual-stage snowblower.
Use these tips for making your snowblower operation easier and faster.
This short video shows how to remove and lubricate the wheels on a snowblower.
See how to put a snowblower together, from taking it out of the carton to adjusting the tire pressure.
See how to replace the chute control rod on a snowblower.
Protect your snowblower's engine and body by preparing it for after-season storage.
Learn how to replace a snowblower shave plate.
This video shows how to change the snowblower oil.
This video shows how to operate a snowblower's basic controls, including the shift lever, choke, throttle, primer and more.