How to replace a snowblower auger belt
This DIY repair guide shows how to replace a snowblower auger belt. Replace the auger belt if the snowblower won’t throw snow because the belt broke and won’t spin the auger. Also replace it if the auger drive belt is so worn that it slips or squeals when you use the snowblower. Use the manufacturer-approved snowblower part to replace the auger belt.
This basic repair procedure works for many Craftsman, MTD, Murray, Husqvarna, Toro, Snapper, Troybilt, Ariens and Noma snowblowers.
This video explains how to replace the auger belt on a snowblower.
Instructions
- 01.
Disconnect the spark plug wire
Pull the spark plug wire straight up and off the plug.
- 02.
Remove the belt cover
Using a socket and ratchet, remove the bolt that fastens the belt cover to the frame of the snowblower. Detach the belt cover.
PHOTO: Remove the belt cover bolt.
PHOTO: Remove the belt cover.
- 03.
Remove the belt
Pull the auger belt off of the engine pulley.
PHOTO: Remove the auger belt.
- 04.
Remove the frame panel
Tip the snowblower forward so it rests on the auger housing. Remove screws that secure the frame panel located between the wheels. Detach the panel to access the drive system components.
PHOTO: Tip the snowblower on its nose.
PHOTO: Remove the frame panel.
- 05.
Remove the belt keeper
Loosen the hex nut and remove the belt keeper.
PHOTO: Remove the belt keeper.
- 06.
Remove the belt
Note the routing of the belt before removing it. Depress the drive engagement lever with a spring clamp or have a helper hold it closed. Remove the belt from the auger pulley. Rotate the belt 90 degrees so that it slides over the pulley bolt and pull it out.
PHOTO: Remove the belt from the auger pulley.
PHOTO: Rotate the belt 90 degrees and slide it over the pulley bolt.
PHOTO: Pull out the auger belt.
- 07.
Install the new belt
Insert the new belt on the auger pulley. Check that the belt is fully inserted in the pulley groove and not on the outside of the break tab or belt keeper.
Reinstall the belt keeper.
- 08.
Reinstall the frame panel.
Reinstall the frame panel. Pivot the snowblower upright so it rests on its tires.
- 09.
Install the belt on the engine pulley
Position the belt on the engine pulley and roll it in place. Reinstall the belt cover.
- 10.
Test the snowblower
Reconnect the spark plug wire. Fill the tank with gas and test the snowblower.
Symptoms for gas snowblowers
Choose a symptom to see related snowblower repairs.
Main causes: broken shear pins, worn or loose auger drive belt, auger drive cable failure, damaged auger, bad gear case…
Main causes: clogged chute, snow build-up in auger housing, broken auger shear pins, auger drive belt needs adjustment, …
Main causes: stale gas, clogged carburetor, clogged or broken fuel line, dirty spark plug, bad rewind starter, incorrect…
Main causes: punctured tire, damaged rim…
Main causes: clogged chute, damaged auger blades, broken shear pins, worn auger belt, damaged gear case, engine problems…
Things to do: replace the spark plug, change the oil, rebuild the carburetor, adjust valve lash, adjust or replace the b…
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…
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.…
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.…
How to rebuild a snowblower carburetor
Rebuild the carburetor on your snowblower if the engine isn't getting fuel.…
Effective articles & videos to help repair your snowblowers
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your snowblower.
Learn the steps to take to adjust and maintain your snowblower so it lasts longer.…
Learn about Sears Technical Institute and the advanced technical content being developed for aspiring appliance techs.…
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…