How to Change the Belt on an MTD Snowthrower

When you've got 6 inches or more of snow on your driveway, you want your snowblower in top working condition. But a failed drive belt on your MTD snow thrower can wreak havoc on your best-laid snow removal plans, leaving you no other option but the snow shovel. Over time, your drive belt can become brittle and snap. When that happens, the snow thrower stops shooting out snow from the blower chute. Fortunately, if you have a spare belt on hand, changing the belt takes no longer than 10 minutes.

Phillips screwdriver
Replacement drive belt

Instructions

- 1
  Disconnect the spark plug wire so the snowblower won't accidentally start while you are servicing the belt. Disengage the clutch.
- 2
  Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the five hexagon screws that hold the belt cover in place on the left side of the auger housing. Grab the idler bracket and push up to create slack in the drive belt. Remove the belt from the engine pulley.
- 3
  Let go of the idler pulley and allow to swing down. Remove the drive belt from the auger pulley and discard.
- 4
  Route the replacement belt around the auger pulley. Grasp the idler bracket and push upward while placing the drive belt around the engine pulley. Gently release the idler bracket.
- 5
  Reinstall the belt cover by tightening the five hex screws that hold the auger housing in place. Reconnect the spark plug wire.

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