Snowblower Wimped Out

(Here’s how to fix it before your driveway turns into Narnia.)

You’re in your boots.
It’s -10°C.
And your snowblower just won’t play nice.

The auger spins in the air…
But stops the second it touches snow.
You curse.
You yank the lever again.
Nothing.

Here’s the truth:
It’s not broken.
It’s just loose.

This is one of the most common winter shop calls I get.
Snowblower auger hits snow — then stops spinning.
Looks dramatic.
But it’s almost always the same thing:

Loose auger belt.

No tension = no grip.
No grip = no snow-firing glory.

The fix?
Take 10 minutes, check the belt, and tweak the tensioner.

Boom. Done.

Let’s break it down like a mechanic:

First, pop the hood

Well… the belt cover.
→ Remove two bolts (10mm or 13mm).
→ Wiggle it loose.
→ Unplug the spark plug while you’re at it — safety first.

Next, eyeball the auger belt

It’s the big one, closest to the front.
Now pull the auger lever (or clamp it on).

Is the belt tight?
Push it with your finger.
If it sags like soggy spaghetti, it’s too loose.

Target deflection? About 3/16 inch per foot of span.
But honestly… trust your gut.
If it feels loose, it is.

Check the belt’s condition

Cracks?
Glazing?
Flat spots?
If it looks worn — replace it.

Old belts get hard.
Hard belts slip.
Worn belts don’t throw snow — they just squeal.

Adjust the tension

Most snowblowers have a cable adjuster at the handle.
→ Find the nut
→ Adjust to tighten
→ Check deflection again
→ Lock it down

If your belt’s still sad, it might be toast.

Replace the belt

You’ll need:

• The right belt (OEM or high-quality Kevlar — don’t cheap out)
• A couple of tools
• Patience

Here’s the short version:

1. Kill the engine. Gas off. Plug out.
2. Remove the belt cover and belt keeper.
3. Slowly crank the engine while slipping the belt off.
4. Tip the blower on its nose (auger housing).
5. Remove the belly pan and pulley guide.
6. Swap belts.
7. Reassemble in reverse.
8. Adjust tension again.
9. Fire it up and let it rip.

Pro tip: Replace the drive belt while you’re in there. It’s right beside it and saves you doing this dance again next winter.

I’ve covered this before in detail, including step-by-step pictures. Check it out – Snowblower Stops when it hits snow.