How to Replace Snowblower Auger Belt

Feel your snowblower isn’t clearing snow as efficiently as it used to? You should inspect the machine for any defects before it’s too late. 

Note that issues like damaged auger belts or scraper blades can prevent the machine from performing properly. If you spot such a fault, you’ll need to replace these parts. That’s why I’ve decided to help you out with this guide on how to replace snowblower auger belt. 

How to Replace Snowblower Auger Belt

Before I guide you on replacing an auger belt for a snowblower, I’d like to touch upon the signs that indicate the need for a replacement. 

Signs That You Need A New Auger Belt

During each use of the snowblower, you should be alert to notice the following signs: 

• The auger belt looks too worn out and squeals or slips when you’re using the machine
• The belt is broken and isn’t spinning the auger

If you spot either or both of these signs, it’s best not to delay replacing the auger belt. Keep in mind that the machine will stop clearing the snow either occasionally or permanently if you leave the issue unattended for longer. Now, let’s get to the deets of the procedure. 

Replacing The Auger Belt

When it comes to conducting any repair or replacement for a snowblower, you’ll have to take some precautionary measures: 

• Shut off the engine
• Let the engine cool down
• Disconnect the lead wire of the spark plug to prevent an accidental start

The tools you’ll require for the replacement are as follows: 

• Ratchet
• Socket
• Brush
• New belt 
• Electric drill

Here’s how you’ll need to proceed to replace the auger belt in your snowblower: 

Step 1

Start off by disconnecting the wire of the spark plug; you’ll have to pull it straight up and off the plug. 

Step 2

Now, use the ratchet and socket to remove the bolt that fixes the belt cover to the snowblower frame. And once you’re done, detach the cover from the frame. 

Step 3

At this point, you’ll have to remove the auger belt by detaching it from the engine pulley. 

Step 4

Move the snowblower slightly forward so that it rests against the auger housing. Then remove the screw securing the panel between the wheels. Once this panel is detached, you can access the components of the drive system. 

Step 5

The next step will be to loosen the hex nut and detach the belt keeper. 

Step 6

It’s now that you’ll have to remove the old auger belt. First of all, check the routing of the belt and depress the engagement lever using a spring clamp. This will help you take the belt off the auger pulley. Then rotate the belt at a 90-degree angle so that it slides on the pulley bolt, and pull it out. 

Step 7

Finally, place the replacement belt on the pulley. Ensure that it’s inserted into the groove entirely and not on the exterior part of the belt keeper or break tab. After that’s done, you’ll have to reinstall the belt keeper. 

Step 8

Fix the frame panel and pivot the machine upright so that it rests on the tires. 

Step 9

Next, you’ll have to roll the auger belt to align it with the engine pulley. 

Step 10

Complete the process by reinstalling the belt cover and reconnecting the wire of the spark plug. With that, the snowblower should be ready for use, so fill its tank with gas and test whether it’s operating the right way. 

FAQ

Final Words

Doesn’t replacing a snowblower auger belt seem much simpler now that I’ve explained it all? So, if a faulty belt is what’s hampering the performance of the machine, make the replacement at the earliest and see the difference for yourself. 

Till next time, take care!