A snowblower is one of the most important tools you rely on during winter. When heavy snowfall hits, the last thing you want is a machine that won’t start, bogs down, or struggles to clear your driveway or property. Regular upkeep can make all the difference between a smooth snow-clearing experience and a long, frustrating morning in the cold. At Reliable Aftermarket Parts, we’re here to help you keep your snowblower in peak condition with the parts and tips you need all season long.
Start With a Pre-Season Check
Before the first big snowfall, give your snowblower a quick inspection so you’re not scrambling mid-storm. Look for:
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Loose bolts or hardware
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Cracked or worn belts
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Worn-out scraper bars or skid shoes
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Frayed cables or damaged wiring
Catching small issues early ensures your machine is ready when you need it most.
Replace Worn Belts
Belts play a major role in driving the auger and impeller. Cold weather can cause older belts to slip, crack, or snap. If your snowblower feels weaker than normal—struggling to throw snow or lacking power—it may be time to replace the belt. Keeping a spare on hand is always a good idea during heavy winter months.
Inspect the Auger & Impeller
These components do the heavy lifting. Over time, they can become worn, bent, or damaged by rocks or ice. Check for:
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Worn edges
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Bent blades
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Loose shear pins
Shear pins are designed to break before major damage occurs, so always keep extras around. Replacing worn auger components helps maintain smooth operation and maximum throwing distance.
Check Skid Shoes & Scraper Bars
Skid shoes and scraper bars take a beating, especially on rough or uneven surfaces. When they wear down, you risk damaging your driveway and your snowblower. Fresh skid shoes keep the machine elevated at the proper height, while a solid scraper bar ensures clean, even clearing.
Refresh the Fuel System
Old fuel becomes a major winter headache. To keep your snowblower running reliably:
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Use fresh, stabilized fuel
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Replace fuel filters if equipped
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Clean or replace your carburetor if the machine runs rough
If your snowblower is hard to start or surges during use, fuel system maintenance is often the solution.
Don’t Forget the Spark Plug
A clean, properly gapped spark plug makes cold starts much easier. If your snowblower is more than a season old, replacing the spark plug is a quick and inexpensive way to restore performance.
Tires, Cables & Controls
Make sure tires are inflated and check for cracks or dry rot—cold temperatures can cause older rubber to fail.
Inspect control cables for fraying, stretching, or stiffness. Smooth controls make snow blowing safer and far less tiring.
End-of-Storm Care
After each use, let the machine run for a few minutes to dry out the engine and clear the chute. Brush off snow and ice, and store your snowblower in a dry location to reduce corrosion.
Reliable Replacement Parts All Winter Long
From belts and scraper bars to shear pins, spark plugs, cables, and more, Reliable Aftermarket Parts offers the components you need to keep your snowblower in top shape. Our wide selection and fast shipping mean you’ll always have the parts you need—right when you need them.