When To Replace Snowblower Paddles

The key to your snowblower running efficiently throughout the winter season is following a proper maintenance schedule. 

But, as a beginner, it might be challenging to guess when your machine needs upkeep. One of the common queries I get is when to replace snowblower paddles. 

Worry not, as I am here to tell you everything about the signs that point towards your snowblower needing a paddle change. So, without further ado, let's get started! 

When To Replace Snowblower Paddles

Let me start by saying that it's essential to know the specific maintenance needs for your snowblower. People often neglect the user manual provided with their machine, which usually contains everything regarding maintenance. So, before getting yourself confused with the different information available from unverified sources, make sure to go through the manual. 

Remember that every brand follows a unique upkeep schedule. The manuals usually contain how frequently the paddles need to be changed and the certified parts that need to be used. You may also seek help from the customer care of the brand for more guidance. 

Now, let's look at the typical signs that point toward the need for a paddle change. 

1. Check The Wear Hole

An ingenious method snowblower manufacturers have come up with is to place a tiny hole in the rubber paddle. Once the paddle has worn out beyond the wear indicator hole, it's a tell-tale sign that you need to get it replaced. 

As soon as you get a snowblower, check if the paddles have a wear indicator hole. If they do, keep a close eye on the hole and replace the rubber paddles once it disappears. 

It's advised to check the paddles yearly before the appearance of significant snowfall. However, the actual lasting capability of a paddle may depend on factors like the frequency of snow clearance, the total area covered, and the type of snow, among others. 

Some people have shown concern about finding the hole in the rubber paddles. It usually has a size of around one-fourth inches and is placed along a side near the top of the rubber paddles. 

2. Observe The Paddles

There might be instances where the paddles of a snowblower might not have a wear hole. In that case, get your fingers behind the paddles and insert them towards the housing. If your fingers are able to slide between the housing and the paddles easily, then the latter needs to be replaced. 

That's because the snow is thrown by a snowblower when the rubber paddles rub against the housing. Without the resistance, wet snow can easily clog up the machine leading to a lousy snow removal job. 

While you're at it, make sure to check on the scraper bar, as it also needs to be changed. If you don't replace a worn-out scraper bar, it can damage the belt cover and even the housing of your snowblower. Some also suggest replacing the spark plug along with changing the paddles. Note that these stand true even for models where the paddles have a wear indicator hole. 

3. Snowblower Not Blowing Snow

One of the early signs that point towards the need for paddle replacement is the inability of the snowblower to throw snow properly. You may observe that a lot of snow is jamming the impeller or simply falling off the snowblower. At this point, you should check the paddles to see if the paddles are worn out or whether the problem lies in the impeller. 

If the impeller seems fine, I suggest replacing the paddles with the scraper and spark plug. You should immediately see a drastic improvement in the ability of the machine to move and throw snow. Otherwise, check with the brand for more information regarding troubleshooting the problem. 

Final Words

That's everything I had to tell you about when to replace the paddles in a snowblower. Note that this guide is relevant for single-stage snowblowers that use rubber paddles. 

Those who happen to have a two-stage snowblower don't have the requirement of changing rubber paddles. Instead, they just need to change the scraper bar or shave plate once worn out. 

Irrespective of the model or brand of your snowblower, make sure to check the state of its paddle and scraper bar every year before the snow hits. Regular maintenance will provide long life to your snowblower and make the rubber paddles last for at least a couple of years. 

Until next time, take care, and goodbye!