Owner’s manual
Is a 2 stage or 3 stage snowblower better?
A 2-stage snowblower is the better choice for most owners because it handles typical driveway snowfalls well and is simpler to maintain; a 3-stage is better when you regularly face deep, heavy, end-of-driveway plow piles and want maximum intake speed. For MTD model 31AS6AEE700, use the 31AS6AEE700 owner's manual to confirm your machine’s stage design and operating features.
- Choose 2-stage if you clear 2 to 10 inches of snow most storms and want proven reliability.
- Choose 3-stage if you often clear 10+ inches, wet snow, or dense plow berms.
- Choose 2-stage if you prefer easier service access (belts, cables, shear pins).
- Choose 3-stage if you prioritize faster snow intake over simplicity.
- Choose either type with proper skid shoe adjustment for your surface (pavement vs gravel).
| Feature | 2-stage snowblower | 3-stage snowblower |
|---|---|---|
| Snow intake | Auger feeds impeller | Accelerator plus auger feeds impeller |
| Best for | Most residential storms | Deep, heavy, packed snow and plow piles |
| Maintenance | Typically simpler | Typically more moving parts |
| Cost | Usually lower | Usually higher |
- Shear pins: If the auger stops after hitting ice or debris, check and replace shear pins (use the correct type for your machine).
- Skid shoes and shave plate: Set skid shoes for gravel and keep the shave plate from wearing unevenly.
- Cables and engagement: If the auger or drive does not engage crisply, inspect cable condition and adjustment.
- Lubrication: Seasonal lubrication of the drive system and axles helps prevent sticking and poor traction.
Stage count affects how quickly the machine pulls snow in, but real-world results depend just as much on setup and upkeep. Keeping wear items (like shear pins, skid shoes, and the shave plate) in good shape helps your MTD 31AS6AEE700 throw snow consistently and protects the gearbox and auger system.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the best month to buy a snowblower?
The best time to buy a snowblower is typically late winter into early spring (often February through April), when many retailers discount remaining inventory after peak snowfall season. For your MTD snow thrower model 31AS6AEE700, this timing can also make it easier to plan off-season maintenance using the 31AS6AEE700 owner's manual.
Snowblower pricing usually follows demand. When demand drops after the heaviest snow months, discounts and clearance pricing become more common.
- Late winter to early spring (Feb to Apr): best chance for clearance deals
- Early fall (Sep to Oct): best selection of models and accessories
- First big storm window (Nov to Jan): highest demand, fewer discounts
- End-of-season: good time to bundle parts like skid shoes and shave plates for next year
| Time of year | Typical pricing | Typical selection | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb to Apr | Lowest | Limited | Best price on a snowblower |
| Sep to Oct | Medium | Highest | Best choice and fastest delivery |
| Nov to Jan | Highest | Medium to low | Urgent replacement |
Even when the price is right, we recommend confirming the basics so the machine performs well and wears evenly.
- Match the snowblower size to your driveway and average snowfall
- Confirm you can store it safely and keep fuel stabilized in the off-season
- Check tire pressure and keep both tires equal (uneven pressure can affect tracking and wear)
- Plan for routine seasonal care (oil change, spark plug check, lubrication)
- Stock common wear items ahead of time (shear pins, skid shoes, shave plate)
Buying off-season can save money, but it also gives you time to set up the snowblower correctly and do preventive maintenance before the first storm. That helps reduce mid-season breakdowns and uneven wear on items like the shave plate and tires.
Last updated: January 2026
How much should I spend on a snowblower?
For an MTD snow thrower like model 31AS6AEE700, most homeowners spend about $500 to $1,500 for a new gas snowblower, depending on clearing width, engine size, and features. If you already own this model, investing in maintenance parts often costs far less than replacing the whole machine.
- Clearing width and intake height: wider and taller costs more and clears faster.
- Drive system: self-propelled and multiple forward/reverse speeds add cost.
- Build and traction: heavier housings, better tires, and skid shoes typically raise price.
- Convenience features: electric start, headlight, heated grips, and easy chute controls.
- Snow conditions: wet, heavy snow usually justifies a higher-capacity machine.
If your 31AS6AEE700 starts and runs well, repairing common wear items is usually the best value. Use the 31AS6AEE700 owner's manual to match adjustments and maintenance intervals to your exact setup.
| Situation | Best spend | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Engine runs strong, auger or drive feels weak | $20 to $150 | Often cables, belts, or adjustments |
| Unit scrapes poorly or leaves snow behind | $30 to $80 | Skid shoes or shave plate wear |
| Frequent auger jams or sudden stops | $5 to $25 | Shear pins are designed to break first |
| Major gearbox or housing damage | $300+ | Replacement can approach used-machine cost |
- Annual oil change and spark plug check
- Fresh fuel practices (stabilizer, clean storage)
- Shear pins on hand for mid-storm fixes
- Skid shoe and shave plate wear on gravel or uneven pavement
- Tire pressure checks (many models run best around 15 to 20 PSI)
Spending the right amount is about matching your snow depth, driveway size, and surface type. Overbuying wastes money; underbuying leads to slow clearing, clogging, and extra wear on parts like the auger system and drive components.
Last updated: January 2026
