How to Adjust a Snow Thrower

Preparation

• 1

  Disconnect and ground the spark plug cable. This prevents the unit from starting up while you are working on it and should always be done as a safety measure before performing maintenance.

• 2

  Wrap plastic wrap around the gas tank cap to prevent leaks during maintenance.

• 3

  Rest the unit on a secure stable surface.

Adjusting the Skid Shoes

• 4

  Raise the auger housing to an appropriate height by sliding wood or cardboard underneath the shave plate. If the snow is on an even surface, use 1/8-inch wood or cardboard. If the snow is on uneven ground such as gravel, choose something thicker than the largest bump you expect to encounter.

• 5

  Loosen the bolts securing the skid shoes using a screwdriver or wrench as appropriate (depending on the hardware).

• 6

  Slide the skid shoes down until they reach the floor.

• 7

  Tighten the bolts back up to secure the skid shoes in their new position.

Adjusting the Drive Belt

• 8

  Remove the cover housing the drive belt, which is usually secured by screws or bolts.

• 9

  Loosen the idler pulley using a wrench. The belt should now be slack.

• 10

  Lift the belt off the pulleys and clean it with a damp cloth.

• 11

  Replace the belt, making sure it is centered on the pulleys. Ensure a good belt tightness before refastening the idler pulley.

• 12

  Fix the housing back onto the unit.