How To Properly Prepare Your Snow Blower For Winter

With winter on its way, now is the time to make sure your snow blower and Briggs engine are in peak condition. A well-prepped machine can make all the difference when snow starts piling up, helping you get the job done efficiently without any hassle.
 

Inspect Spark Plugs:

The spark plug is crucial for reliable starts, especially in cold weather.

Check the condition: Look for signs of wear or damage. A worn-out spark plug should be replaced to ensure smooth ignition.

Clean or Replace: Use a wire brush to clean off any carbon buildup or, if the plug appears corroded (black/rusty), replace it altogether. A clean spark plug gives you better combustion, efficiency, and performance.
 

Check Fuel System:

Fuel quality can degrade over time, leading to poor performance or even engine damage if not properly managed.

Drain Old Fuel: If there’s leftover fuel from last season, drain it completely. Old fuel can lead to carburetor clogs and engine starting problems.

Add Fresh Fuel with Stabilizer: Fill the tank with fresh, clean fuel, ideally with fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from degrading over the season.
 

Change the Engine oil:

Oil is vital for the engine’s smooth operation, and using the right type is even more critical in cold temperatures.

Drain Old Oil: If you haven’t changed the oil since last season, now is the time. Drain out any old oil to ensure that dirt and contaminants don’t affect your engine.

Add Winter-Grade Oil: Cold weather can make oil thicken, reducing lubrication. Opt for a high-quality, winter-grade oil, such as Briggs & Stratton’s 5W-30, designed for cold starts and smooth running even in frigid conditions.
 

Inspect Belts and Augers:

A worn belt or broken auger can put a stop to your snow-clearing efforts mid-job.

Examine Belts: Check for cracks or fraying on drive and auger belts. If any signs of wear are visible, replace the belts to prevent any sudden failures.

Check Auger and Shear Pins: Ensure the auger moves freely without obstruction, and inspect shear pins. These pins are designed to break if the auger encounters an obstruction, protecting your engine and drive system, so keep a few spares on hand.
 

Lubricate Moving Parts:

Cold, dry winter air can cause metal parts to seize if not properly lubricated.

Apply Lubricant to Key Areas: Use a suitable lubricant on the drive gears, cables, and control levers. This will ensure smooth operation and reduce wear and tear.

Grease the Auger Shaft: Check your owners manual for instructions on lubricating the auger shaft, which should be greased at least once per season.
 

Adjust the Skid Shoes and Scraper Blade:

To prevent damage to your driveway and ensure effective snow removal.

Set the Skid Shoes: Adjust the skid shoes to the appropriate height for your driveway surface, especially if you have gravel. This keeps the auger from picking up rocks and debris.

Inspect the Scraper Blades: The scraper blade should be close to the ground to clear snow effectively but not so close that it scrapers the surface. Adjust or replace depending on if it shows wear and tear.
 

Keep Your Snow Blower Covered:

After a thorough winter prep and inspection, protect your blower with a cover. This will shield it from moisture, dust, and temperature fluctuations, helping it stay in optimal condition throughout the season.