How to Replace a Drive Belt on a Snow Blower

Turn off the snow-blower engine and let it cool down. Attempting maintenance on an operating engine can result in serious burns or injuries.

Disconnect the spark plug and ground it to the engine. This will prevent accidental start up while you are working on the machine.

Locate the snow blower's access panel. This is usually on the rear or bottom of the machine, depending on the model. Undo the screw or bolts that hold the panel in place and remove the panel. Keep the panel and bolts close by so you won't lose them.

Locate the worn belt. Some models have multiple belts. In addition to the drive belt there will be one to operate the auger and there may be one that allows the snow blower to go in reverse. Your owner's manual will have a graphic showing which is the drive belt and how it is looped in the machine.

Remove or loosen belt guards and remove the belt. These are metal rods that hold the belt in place and are located next to the pulley. Check the pulley wheels to make sure they can turn freely without wobbling. If they aren't, you'll need to repair them before replacing the belt.

Pull back on the idler pulley and loop the belt through the pulley system. When the belt is in place release the idler pulley. The idler pulley will add tension to the belt. Check again to see the belt is in place and not rubbing on any other parts. Replace and tighten the belt guards.

Replace the access panel and reattach the spark plug. Start the engine. Listen to the engine to make sure it sounds normal and the belt isn't running against anything and make sure there isn't the smell of burning rubber. If everything is running right, you can use your snowblower.