Get Your Snow Blower Ready From The Ground Up

You know the feeling of stepping out of a car after a long road trip? Stiff joints, sore back, creaky neck — a sprint down the block probably isn’t in the cards. That’s because your body has been idle for a long period, allowing your muscles to contract, limiting your joint motion and decreasing blood flow. A short stretch can go a long way in helping your body get back to baseline.

Now, I’m no physiologist, but I do know a thing or two about snow blowers, and pulling a snow blower straight out of storage isn’t all that different. The components and mechanisms that have sat idle for six months need a quick tune-up before tackling a foot of snow.

The Toro CompanyStart with the basics: check the oil, refresh the fuel and inspect the spark plug, but don’t stop there. Some of the most important preseason maintenance involves the components that actually meet the ground, including skid shoes, scraper bars and rubber paddles. They all play a major role in clearing performance, as well as equipment and surface protection. Inspecting them before winter arrives can help prevent unnecessary wear and keep your snow blower running like it should.

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Check the Ground-Contact Components

On two-stage snow blowers, pay close attention to the skid shoes that help maintain clearance between the auger and the surface. It’s a safe bet that you’re working on concrete or asphalt most of the time, so adjust the skid shoes on a flat surface and maintain about 1/8 in. of clearance between the scraper blade and the ground. Many scrapers are also adjustable and may need to be adjusted prior to use. 

If you’re clearing stamped concrete, pavers or another surface that’s especially susceptible to scratching, non-marking poly skid shoes can provide added protection. They typically wear faster than steel, so inspect them regularly throughout the season.

If you’re taking on a gravel job, you’ll need more clearance. Start with the skid shoes set higher and make small adjustments downward as needed to avoid pulling up and throwing loose rock or gravel.

Inspect Paddles & Scraper Bars

The Toro CompanyFor single-stage snow blowers, the rubber paddles and scraper bar deserve the same amount of care. Because the paddles make direct contact with the ground and help propel the machine forward, wear can affect both clearing efficiency and throwing performance. Plus, worn components can also expose the lower housing to additional wear.

Inspect the scraper bar for even wear and check the paddles before first use. If the paddles have worn down to the wear indicator hole, replace them to help maintain proper performance and protect the machine.

Give the Rest of the Machine a Once-over

Once those commonly overlooked components are covered, finish with a broader pre-season inspection.

• Check belts for cracking, fraying, or stretching
• Look for loose or missing fasteners.
• Inspect and adjust cables to factory spec
• Inspect the machine for rust or chipped paint.
• On two-stage models, grease the wheel shafts as recommended.
• Always (always!) refer to your operator's manual for model-specific maintenance requirements, adjustment procedures, and replacement intervals.

A little preseason maintenance can make a big difference once the snow starts falling. By checking both the usual engine items and the components that take the most direct abuse, you’ll be better prepared for the first storm — and the rest of winter.