Properly adjusted skid shoes are crucial for the performance and longevity of your snow blower. They control the height of the auger housing, ensuring efficient snow clearing while protecting your machine and the surface you're working on. Whether you're clearing a gravel driveway or a smooth pavement, correctly set skid shoes make a big difference.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to adjusting the skid shoes on your snow blower.
What You’ll Need:
A flat, level surface
A ¼-inch or ½-inch spacer (such as a piece of cardboard or wood)
Wrenches or socket set
Steps to Adjust Your Snow Blower’s Skid Shoes
1. Prepare Your Snow Blower
Place the snow blower on a flat, level surface.
Turn off the engine and ensure the machine is cool. Disconnect the spark plug for added safety.
2. Position the Auger Housing
Lift the front of the snow blower slightly so the auger housing is resting evenly on the ground.
Slide a spacer under the scraper bar (the metal bar across the bottom of the housing).
Use a ¼-inch spacer for smooth surfaces like paved driveways.
Use a ½-inch spacer for uneven surfaces like gravel, preventing the auger from picking up debris. Some surfaces with coarser rocks may require more clearance and you may want to use a thicker spacer but a ½-inch spacer is a good starting point.
3. Loosen the Skid Shoe Bolts
Locate the skid shoes on either side of the auger housing.
Use a wrench or socket set to loosen the bolts holding the skid shoes in place. Do not remove them completely—just loosen them enough to allow movement.
4. Adjust the Skid Shoes
Slide the skid shoes up or down until they are level with the ground and aligned with the spacer under the scraper bar.
Make sure both skid shoes are adjusted evenly to prevent uneven wear or performance issues.
5. Tighten the Bolts
Once the skid shoes are in the desired position, tighten the bolts securely. Double-check that both shoes are aligned and stable.
6. Test Your Adjustment
Remove the spacer and reconnect the spark plug. Start the snow blower and test it on the intended surface to ensure it clears snow effectively without scraping or digging into the ground.
Why Skid Shoe Adjustment Matters
Protect Your Surfaces: Proper adjustment prevents the scraper bar from damaging your driveway or lawn.
Increase Efficiency: A correctly set snow blower clears snow more effectively.
Extend Machine Life: Skid shoes reduce wear and tear on the auger housing and scraper bar.
When to Replace Your Skid Shoes
Skid shoes wear down over time, especially when used on rough surfaces. Inspect them regularly, and replace them if they’re too thin to provide adequate protection.
Need Help? Visit Us at Cumberland Power Equipment!
If you’re unsure about adjusting your skid shoes or need replacement parts, we’re here to help! At Cumberland Power Equipment, we carry quality skid shoes for all major snow blower brands and can assist with any maintenance questions.
Stop by today and ensure your snow blower is ready to tackle winter’s toughest storms!
