The
basic difference between a snow blower and a garden tiller is that
the blower uses an auger and impeller instead of tines. The auger
gathers the snow to the center of the machine and the impeller draws
it in and shoots it out. The snow blower, therefore, is actually a
snow thrower. We are talking about walk-behind snow blowers in this
article.
To
service the engine itself see my previous article entitled “Routine
Lawnmower Maintenance Saves Money”. The steps pertaining to the
lawnmower engine also apply to snow blower engines. A notable
difference is the type of motor oil used in snow blowers. Since these
machines need to be easy to start at cold temperatures, use a 10W-30
or 5W-30 regular motor oil. A 0W-30 synthetic oil can also be used.
Check your manual for what the manufacturer recommends.
Snow
blowers often have shear bolts in their auger drive systems to
prevent the drive gears from breaking should the auger jam. Do not
replace such bolts with any other type of bolt.
Before
servicing the snow blower, disconnect the spark plug wire and ground
it to the engine. Like the rototiller, the snow blower may be
equipped with v-belts that drive the transmission. Follow the same
procedure mentioned under the rototiller section to service these
drive belts. Remember that the clutch that puts tension on the belt
will not work as well wet as it does dry, so may need a little more
tension. If the snow blower has a brake that stops the auger, it also
will not work as well when wet, so adjust it accordingly too.
Remember
that snow blowers operate in a wet environment, and so all bare metal
surfaces need protection to prevent rusting. Use silicone grease on
exposed gears and a silicone spray lube on chains and other moving
parts. Also lubricate and adjust any control rods that are on the
machine. The rods will gradually wear out of adjustment over time.
Many
snow blowers use a 120-volt electric starter. Make sure your
extension cord is rated for outdoor use, is not cracked, and there
are no exposed wires. For starting, plug the cord into the snow
blower and then into the receptacle to ensure proper grounding. Store
the cord in a dry location when not in use.
Like
the rototiller, the transmission on the snow blower is a very
expensive component. Keep the transmission topped up with the
appropriate oil, recommended by the manufacturer, and check for any
leaks where the shafts come out. If there are leaks, the machine will
have to be taken to a mechanic to have the seals replaced.