It’s that time of year again – we’re all pulling the snowblowers out of storage. To ensure a smooth season of snow removal, we’re here to walk you through getting your snowblower ready for use. From visual inspection to flipping the skid shoes, we’ve got a checklist to get your snowblower working when you need it.
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A walk-behind snowblower may be smaller than your compact tractor, but it still requires the same care and attention to keep it functioning in top condition. That’s why your inspection at the beginning of the season is the key to clearing snow not just this winter but for many winters to come.
Refer to Your Owner’s Manual
First things first: take a look at your owner’s manual for any tips specific to your machine. This is your go-to for any questions you may have regarding your equipment that may not be addressed below.
Prepare Your Work Area
Clear a workspace and gather your equipment for inspection. To ensure safety, remove the battery and disconnect the spark plug so the equipment can’t engage unexpectedly. Make sure all controls are disengaged.
Visual Inspection
Take a walk around your machine to check for damage. Double-check that there’s no debris buildup.
The Nuts and Bolts
Check and tighten all bolts, levers, handles, cables, fasteners, shear pins, and knobs. These can easily come loose over seasons of sitting in storage.
Belt Inspection
Check all belts for wear, cracks, or general issues. Much like bolts and fasteners, belts can become stiff or cracked due to seasons of no use, as well as continued heating and cooling.
Auger Paddles and Shave Plate
Inspect your auger paddles and shave plate. Most auger paddles have wear indicator holes: if your paddles are worn to the holes, it’s time to replace them. Visually inspect your shave plate for any wear or damage. A worn shave plate won’t effectively scoop snow into the augers, and you’ll end up leaving it behind.
Check Tires
Check that your tires are properly inflated. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions on your machine.
Install Spark Plugs and Battery
It’s time to reinstall spark plugs and batteries. With a properly charged battery and well-connected spark plugs, you should experience no trouble in starting, accelerating or idling your machine.
Oil and Fuel
Did you change your oil at the end of last season? If not, now’s the time to complete an oil change. Once done, fuel up your snowblower.
Review Safety Manual
Before operating your machine, take a few minutes to look over the owner’s safety manual. Whether you read it last year or not, this is an important step to be familiar with all safety precautions.
Flip Skid Shoes
If your machine is equipped with skid shoes, be sure to flip those before operating. Skid shoes will help protect your concrete and your snowblower.
Clear the Snow
You’ve completed a basic and thorough inspection of your equipment. It’s time to get out there and clear the snow!
Experiencing Trouble?
If you’re having trouble with any of the steps above, or if you’ve found that you’re needing new auger paddles, spark plugs or any other parts, reach out to your local United Ag & Turf.
