Changing Belt for Snowblower

All snowblowers bear slight differences, but one part that they all rely upon is a functioning drive belt. Most manufacturers recommend checking the drive belt on your snow thrower once a year. Over time, dry rot can set in and cause the rubber belts to become brittle. If the drive belt quits working, the snowblower's blades will quit turning. You may get caught watching the snow pile up. In a few simple, quick steps, you can change your belt for about $20 and spare yourself a more expensive trip to the shop.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Replacement snowblower belt

Instructions

1. Put the snowblower on a level surface. Remove the key from the snowblower's ignition. Pull its spark plug wire to ensure it does not accidentally start while you are servicing its belt.

2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to detach the belt cover, which typically can be found on the side of your snowblower. Lift up the idler pulley. Pull out the belt from beneath the pulley.

3. Remove the belt from around the snowblower's engine and rotor pulleys. Slip the remaining section of belt off the brake arm assembly. Discard the old belt.

4. Grasp the new belt. Thread it along the same pathway as the old one, under the brake arm assembly and around the brake pulley. Lift the idler pulley and route the belt beneath it. Release the idler pulley to put tension on the belt. Replace the belt cover to complete installation.

Tips & Warnings

• Use only manufacturer-recommended snow blower replacement belts for best results.

References

• OneCARE SMARTManuals: Toro single stage snowthrower manual