How to replace a snowblower skid shoe

By Lyle Weischwill

The snowblower's auger housing has a skid shoe on each side that controls the height of the auger housing, which contains the augers and shave plate. When set at the correct height, the skid shoe prevents the augers and shave plate from scraping against the ground. Each skid shoe is reversible, so when one side wears out, you can flip it over and use the other side. When both sides wear out, it’s time to replace the skid shoe. This step-by-step repair guide shows how to do install a new snowblower skid shoe. Replace a worn or broken skid shoe with a manufacturer-approved replacement part. We recommend replacing both at the same time, to ensure they're the same thickness.

Use this basic procedure to replace skid shoes on Craftsman, Ariens, Husqvarna, Troybilt, MTD, Murray, Snapper, Poulan and Noma snowblowers.

Quick links

Instructions

Tools required

1/2-inch wrench

Corrugated cardboard

Repair difficulty

Time required

15 minutes or less

Instructions

01.
Disconnect the spark plug wire
Pull the wire straight up and off of the spark plug.
02.
Remove the skid shoe
Loosen and remove skid shoe mounting nuts. Pull the skid shoe off of the housing.
Tip: If the bolts are rusted, soak them with penetrating oil.
Remove the skid shoe mounting nuts.
Remove the skid shoe.
03.
Attach the new skid shoe
Position the new skid shoe on the mounting bolts and finger tighten the nuts.
04.
Set the height of the skid shoe
Place corrugated cardboard under the scraper blade to hold the blade about ¼-inch off the ground. Lower the skid shoe so that it contacts the ground. Tighten the mounting nuts with the ½-inch wrench.
Use cardboard as a spacer.
05.
Reconnect the spark plug wire
Push the wire back onto the spark plug. Start the engine and confirm that the skid shoes keep the blade slightly off the ground.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.