Are you getting ready for winter and need to prepare your snowblower? Here are some tips on keeping your snowblower in top shape and getting the most out of it during the colder months.
Winter is almost here, and it’s time to get your snowblower ready for the cold weather! Preparing your snowblower before winter sets in will ensure that you are well-equipped for whatever the season throws at you and help save you time and money in the long run.
With a few simple steps, like cleaning off any rust or grime from last year’s use and making sure all of the parts on your snowblower are in working order, you can have peace of mind knowing that your machine is as prepared for winter as possible.
Keep reading to learn about all of the tips on how to prepare snowblower for winter!
What Will You Need?
Before you begin preparing your snowblower, it is important to ensure you have the necessary supplies for the job. A few items you will need include:
- A Phillips head screwdriver and a standard set of tools
- Oil for your machine (check the owner’s manual for how much oil is needed)
- Grease or lubricant for moving parts
- A rag or towel
Once you have all of these items, you can begin prepping your snowblower!
10 Easy Steps on How to Prepare Snowblower for Winter
Step 1. Cleaning and Rust Removal:
The first step in preparing a snowblower for winter is cleaning the machine. Make sure to remove any dirt, debris, or rust that may have formed over time from last year’s use. Be sure to pay special attention to the auger and other moving parts, as these areas are more prone to wear and tear. Use a stiff brush with soapy water and wipe down the entire surface of your machine until it is thoroughly clean.
Step 2. Check Parts for Wear & Tear:
After cleaning your snowblower, check all the parts for signs of wear and tear. This includes the auger, skid plates, chute control cables, and any other moving parts that may need to be replaced or tightened up. Pay special attention to how these parts move to ensure they function properly.
Step 3. Inspect Belts & Pulleys:
Next, inspect the belts and pulleys on your snowblower. Ensure that all the belts are not frayed or cracked and that all the pulleys are spinning freely without binding up when turned by hand. If you need to replace any of the belts, be sure to get the correct size for your snowblower.
Step 4. Change Oil & Check Oil Level:
Change the oil in your snowblower and ensure it is at the correct level. This will ensure that your machine runs as smoothly as possible during winter. Additionally, use a quality oil that is recommended for your snowblower model.
Step 5. Inspect Spark Plugs & Air Filters:
Inspect the spark plugs and air filters on your snowblower to ensure they are in good condition and free of dirt or debris. Replace them if necessary. Also, check to see how old they are. If they’re more than a few years old, consider replacing them with new ones before winter sets in.
Step 6. Grease Moving Parts:
Grease all the moving parts on your snowblower to help ensure your machine runs smoothly during winter. If you are using a lubricant, use one specifically designed for snowblowers and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding how often it should be applied. It will help keep your snowblower running at peak performance.
Step 7. Check Tire Pressure:
Check the tire pressure on your snowblower to make sure they are properly inflated and ready for winter conditions. This will also help reduce wear and tear on the tires over time and improve your machine’s performance in snowy conditions. Don’t forget to check the pressure of your chainsaw’s tires too.
Step 8. Sharpen Auger Blades:
Use a file or grinder to sharpen the auger blades on your snowblower. This will help ensure that your machine can easily cut through snow and ice during winter storms. Be sure to wear protective gloves when sharpening blades, as they can be very sharp.
Step 9. Check Fuel System:
Make sure that the fuel system on your snowblower is in top condition. If you use a gas-powered machine, check the fuel tank for cracks or leaks and replace any damaged parts if necessary. Ensure that all of the hoses are tight and securely connected to their respective parts and that no debris clogs any of the lines.
Step 10. Test Your Snowblower:
Finally, make sure to test your snowblower before you use it in the winter months. Start it up and let it run for a few minutes to ensure that all of the parts are running smoothly and that there are no problems with how it is operating. Now that you’ve gone through these steps to prepare your snowblower for winter, you can be confident that your machine will be ready when the first snowflakes start to fall!
With proper maintenance and preparation, your snowblower should last many seasons. Be sure to keep up on regular maintenance throughout the winter as well so you can be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
1. If your snowblower has been stored away for a while, make sure to check the oil and gas levels before using it. If necessary, replace the old oil with new oil and fill up the gas tank.
2. Clean off any debris that may be on your snowblower (including dust and leaves). This will help ensure your machine performs well during wintertime.
3. Inspect all components of the snowblower to identify any potential issues or problems, such as worn-out belts, cracks in plastic parts, or broken handles. Fixing these now can save you time and hassle during the winter months when you’ll most likely need your snowblower!
4. Sharpen the blades of your snowblower if they are dull. This will ensure the blades are cutting efficiently and your snowblower performs at its best.
5. Make sure you have all the accessories on hand for your snowblower, such as oil, gas cans, spark plugs, etc. Having these items nearby can make a big difference in how quickly and easily you get your snowblower ready for winter!
Follow these tips and tricks to make sure your snowblower is prepared for winter weather!
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Never Leave Gas: Gas can quickly evaporate over time, so empty any gas from the tank if your snowblower has been sitting idle for an extended period.
2. Don’t Skip Lubrication: Regularly lubricating your snowblower will help ensure it runs smoothly during winter months.
3. Avoid Neglecting Maintenance: Make sure to keep up with regular maintenance throughout the winter season, such as inspecting hoses and belts, checking tire pressure, and more. Neglecting these tasks could lead to costly repairs down the line.
4. Don’t Forget Safety Items: Be sure to have safety items on hand, such as goggles, gloves, earplugs, and masks, if you plan to use your snowblower in cold, icy conditions.
5. Never Leave Your Snowblower Unattended: Even if you think it is a safe place, it’s always best practice to keep an eye on your machine while it is running. This will help reduce the risk of accidents and potential damage to your property or yourself.
By following these tips and avoiding the above mistakes, you can make sure that your snowblower is prepared for winter! Have fun enjoying the season with a properly maintained machine!
What Do You Coat a Snowblower With?
The best way to protect your snowblower from rust and wear is to coat it with a protective material. The most popular coating for snowblowers are given below:
1. Wax: Waxing your snowblower will help protect it from the elements and keep it running smoothly.
2. Varnish: A varnish coat can also protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion.
3. Oil: Oil is a great option for coating engine parts, as it helps reduce friction between moving parts and prevents wear over time.
4. Grease: Grease can be applied to other areas, such as the sprockets, pulleys, belts, and augers, to ensure they are adequately lubricated during use.
5. Rust-inhibiting Spray Paint: Applying a protective layer of rust-inhibiting spray paint can help shield metal parts from rust and corrosion, ensuring your snowblower stays in good condition for years to come.
By taking the time to coat your snowblower in one or more of these materials, you can help ensure it is ready for use this winter! Happy snow blowing!
Can a Snowblower Be Left Outside in Winter?
In general, leaving your snowblower outside in winter is not recommended. Snow blowers are designed to operate in cold temperatures and may be damaged if left exposed to the elements for extended periods of time.
If your snowblower must be stored outside during winter, there are a few steps you should take to protect it from potential damage:
1. Cover It: If possible, cover your snowblower with a waterproof tarp or plastic sheeting. This will help keep moisture out and protect against corrosion.
2. Lubricate Parts: Ensure all moving parts, such as pulleys, belts, and augers, are adequately lubricated before storing them outdoors. This can help reduce the risk of wear and tear.
3. Empty the Tank: Before storing your snowblower outside, empty any gas from the tank as this can quickly evaporate in cold temperatures.
Following these steps can help ensure that your snowblower is protected during winter storage.
Conclusion
It’s important to take the time and follow a few steps on how to prepare snowblower for winter. Taking a few minutes for maintenance can go a long way in preventing downtime and costly repairs. Do yourself a favor, pick up the necessary supplies before you really need them, and use our instructions above to make sure you can hit the ground running when your first storm of the season hits.
By following this advice, you can conquer any snowfall without worry! Remember always to be cautious while operating your snowblower; it’s not worth putting your safety on the line. With some care and attention, your snowblower will be ready to tackle anything winter throws its way easily!
