Tools and Materials Needed:
- Replacement auger belt (check the owner's manual for the specific belt size)
- Socket wrench set
- Pliers
- Safety glasses
1. Park and Prepare the Snowblower:
- Park your snowblower on a level surface and ensure that the engine is turned off and cooled down.
- Engage the parking brake and disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent any accidental starting during the repair process.
2. Locate the Auger Belt Cover:
- The auger belt cover is typically located on the underside of the snowblower housing. It protects the auger belt from debris and damage.
3. Remove the Auger Belt Cover:
- Using a socket wrench, loosen and remove the bolts or screws that secure the auger belt cover in place.
- Carefully remove the auger belt cover to expose the auger belt.
4. Release Belt Tension:
- Locate the idler pulley or tensioner arm that controls the tension of the auger belt.
- Loosen the bolts or knobs responsible for belt tension. By loosening them, you're reducing the tension on the belt.
5. Remove the Old Auger Belt:
- Once the tension is released, the auger belt should be loose enough to be removed.
- Grab the belt with your hands or pliers and gently pull it off the pulleys and gears.
6. Inspect Pulleys and Idlers:
- While the auger belt is removed, take the opportunity to inspect the pulleys and idler arms for any damage, corrosion, or cracks.
- Check the alignment of the pulleys and ensure they rotate freely.
7. Install the New Auger Belt:
- Ensure the idler pulley is in its outermost position (released) before attempting to install the new auger belt.
- Place one end of the new auger belt onto the smaller drive pulley.
- Slowly rotate the drive pulley by hand while guiding the belt around the idler pulley and onto the larger driven pulley.
8. Adjust the Belt Tension:
- Once the new belt is in place, adjust the belt tension.
- Tighten the tensioner bolts or knobs until the belt has the proper amount of tension.
- Refer to the owner's manual for the recommended belt tension specification for your snowblower model.
9. Reattach the Auger Belt Cover:
- After adjusting the belt tension, replace the auger belt cover.
- Secure it back into place using the bolts or screws that you removed earlier.
10. Test the Auger Belt:
- Reconnect the spark plug wire and start the snowblower engine.
- Engage the auger control to test the functionality of the auger belt.
- Ensure the auger rotates smoothly and properly without any slipping or excessive noise.
11. Safety Check and Cleanup:
- Double-check all bolts, screws, and connections to ensure they are secure.
- Clean up any loose parts or debris from the snowblower.
- Store the snowblower in a dry and safe location.
