7 THINGS YOU NEED FOR YOUR SNOWBLOWER

[@GarageGear]

Here are some links to the SNOWBLOWER MATS mentioned in this video! Thanks for supporting the channel! ARIENS MAT amzn.to/3Dc94dO WEATHER TECH MAT amzn.to/3DlWf0q

[@Blitzerdog2]

I came to this channel after over hearing you mention this KZbin channel in the gym locker room during a convo 😂. I have a snowblower that I haven’t run in 9 months. My future father in law is gonna kill me since they took it to get serviced already for last winter 😢

[@GarageGear]

@@Blitzerdog2 hey Blitzer! Haha small world my friend! I’ve done a few videos here on the channel on cleaning snowblower carburetors. Not a hard job. Here is a link to one. What kind of snowblower do you have?

[@Blitzerdog2]

@@GarageGear it’s a craftsman that also has an electric start

[@GarageGear]

@@Blitzerdog2 awesome man! How old is the blower? If it’s about ten years old that video should help you out. If it’s older you may have a different engine.

[@gil3green]

I feel like I owe my snowblower an apology. I’ve been treating it like a stepchild all these years, while the lawn mower gets all the love & attention.

[@GarageGear]

Hahaha that’s how I am with my pressure washer lol!

[@TheLawnLover]

Great advice JB, having spare parts laying around is always great especially when things break in a snowstorm. Nobody wants to shovel snow lol

[@GarageGear]

Right on brother! I bought those belts 3 years ago! Putting them to use finally lol! Always good to have back ups! What’s going on in the lawn this week my friend?

[@Wyn61]

Another important thing..... SEAFOAM! * I use a steady supply of it for all my little engines. Add about 1/4 Cup per Gallon in your gas-can. * Add some to the Engine oil too!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the tip and for watching!

[@davidfarris1332]

Perfect timing! Just got my new Ariens 28 inch deluxe a few days ago. Your videos have been a great help over the last few years as I transitioned into my first home. I lost my father in 2019 and have had to figure a lot of these things out on my own. Just wanted to say thanks!

[@GarageGear]

Hey David, sorry to hear about the loss of your father. I’m sure he’s looking down on you proudly knowing your tackling this on your own. Congrats on your purchase! That machine will be an absolute tank for you my friend! Thanks for watching and for being a cool fan of the channel! 👍

[@GarageGear]

@leonardo migot hey Leonardo! I’ve heard this from multiple people and online sources as well. Sad news for the lawn Industry

[@JollyGreen79]

I got the same machine last year and holy crap that thing is an absolute animal!! My condolences for your loss.

[@JollyGreen79]

Absolutely agree with everything you said on here. No power in the shed where the blower lives. So, before I fire it up I make sure the auger and the impeller aren’t jammed up. One time it was frozen up so I took it in the garage and thawed it out. I do clean it with a hand broom after every use and that really helps keep things from freezing up.

[@GarageGear]

ROCK ON Zach! Thanks for sharing and watching!

[@smallblock412]

Spare parts, that's amateur hour. I keep spare snowblowers around 😂. Next machine up!! All good tips as usual. 👍. I just had to restock on shear bolts and fluid film myself.

[@GarageGear]

Haha great minds think alike my friend! I like having two around now! Lol! Good to have extra parts and blower around! Enjoy your weekend my friend!

[@jonbedker5229]

I do about 15 driveways every time it snows. I have a Husqvarna ST227 as my primary. A Husqvarna ST230 on backup and a John Deere 1330st backing up my backup.😂

[@smallblock412]

@@jonbedker5229 that's how it's done 👍. Grab the next machine and repair the broken one when the storm's done.

[@edpowell5754]

Thanks for the tips Pal, THANKS. I'd like to pull both tires off the axle and was able only to get one of them off and grease it. How to get the other one off without pulling the axle. Its an older Ariens 1028. I change the oil n plug, and grease the auger every season. But now I'll start doing more maintenance on it as it runs pretty good and I'd like to keep it running good. THANKS PAL.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Ed! I’ve torched the axle ends before and then dumped ice cold water on them. Broke them free. Might help you out! Thanks for watching my friend!

[@vincentgregory8070]

The space heater trick is the BOMB -- did that last season and it worked so well. Great idea!!! GO BILLS!!!

[@GarageGear]

Can’t go wrong with the space heater trick Vincent! Hope all is well my friend! Thanks for watching another! GO BILLS!

[@tommak6516]

Are you really that simple that you never considered the concept of a space heater until you saw this video? That does not seem to be possible.

[@kimschneidmiller224]

Does the powersmart 24" snowblower have zirks to grease on the auger? The manual says nothing about them. The only thing on the auger is cotter pins on 2 bolts.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Kim! No zerks on the PowerSmart augers. I’ll be doing a video on how to grease them soon! Thanks for watching!

[@paulmysliborski4832]

Excellent vid, JB If you are proactive with maintenance, you will rarely (if ever) encounter a problem you can't fix on the fly. Like you said....... ALWAYS have spare belts, & shear pins. But also have things like cotter pins or clips that hold your wheels onto the axles. And on models like my Troy-Bilt 3090 which uses cables to engage the drive and augers, ALWAYS have spare cables on hand. Also have spare spark plugs. Anything you can think of, have spares on hand. Same goes for mowers/riding mowers/etc. But with snowblowers, it's even more critical. If your riding mower breaks down in July, you can jump in your truck and take nice ride with the windows down and the radio on to the parts store. But, if you are clearing 2 feet of snow trying to get your truck out of the driveway and something breaks on your blower, well............ Have fun with your shovel after ordering your parts online that will arrive next Thursday ;)

[@GarageGear]

PAUL!!! Good point about the cotter pins! Spark plugs too! You’re right on. In the summer you can take a nice drive for parts. In winter, you can’t even drive lol! How’s life treating you lately? Anything happening in your garage?

[@johnm9840]

Can't wait for this season. All new belts, friction disk, and two machines to play with... Even tho I have the new Husqy, I'll probably bust out my grandfather's Ariens, just cause it's habit plus it has the new predator engine and a nice tall chute. All thanks to your ideas. 👍🏼

[@GarageGear]

Wow! John you’re more prepared than I Am! That old ariens is gonna be a beast! Thanks for watching and as always thanks for being a cool fan!

[@mikegrear5339]

Thanks for all the help. I bought a 2021 Arians 28" but haven't used it lol 😆 no snow in Ohio. 1st time I've owned one.

[@GarageGear]

Hopefully you get some snow this season if you haven’t already. Have a great holiday! Thanks for being a cool fan!

[@jeffweaver955]

Drive belt, auger belt, sheer pins, carburetor, grease gun, red n tacky, rust inhibiter, garage heater, snow blower mat. Thanks brotha! Very detailed and helpful

[@GarageGear]

You got it Jeff! Thanks for watching! 👍

[@holes02]

Great video. Seasons about to start here in Chicago, and I just picked up a 24 Deluxe.

[@GarageGear]

You’re ready to go now! Thanks for watching!

[@tedhardulak7698]

Great video about staying ahead of the problems. Only one area I did not hear you cover though. The cables. At least 2X per year I lubricate all the cables allowing a good lubricant, Usually WD-40 due to the WD which equals Water displacement. I let it run down all the cables and it makes a big difference on how things work. I have the old style shoot that is cable operated, I also lube the area that the chute pivots on before each use. I have never had a problem with the hand control for the chute. Both move very easy as do the wheel disengage levers. I believe that they went to the crank chutes now because of the cables freezing up. The snow blower is now 21 years old. I paid less than $1000. I cant believe the prices now.

[@GarageGear]

Prices are insane! Can’t believe what’s happened over the last couple of years. Thanks for sharing Ted!

[@tedhardulak7698]

@@GarageGear Something you might want to watch about eternal free fuel. Im sure you know this, but just in case and would make great material for your channel. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioK9fGCemNFog5Y. Blessings my friend!!

[@GarageGear]

@@tedhardulak7698 I did see this! Valuable information here! Thanks for sharing!

[@thisoldnew4544]

Yep ur generation really fucked everything over. And u raised kids who don’t know their own genders. How could u screw things up that bad let alone allow it to happen?

[@ronbeatty516]

It is not recommended to lubricate the cables on my Toro blowers. They have rubber seals on their ends that keep water out.

[@rshapiro24]

Would love for you to do assemblies on various Ariens snowthrowers, the Rapid track Alpine model to toss a hint your direction.

[@GarageGear]

Like the idea! 👍

[@jamesdemarco5671]

new to the channel great content JB, I pull my snowblower up on a small wood pallet in the garage and as the snow melts the blower doesn't sit in a puddle of water...

[@GarageGear]

Great plan James! Welcome to channel my friend! Thanks for watching!

[@jamesdemarco5671]

@@GarageGear I'm a W. NY'er (Rochester) too, hope you made out ok in that snow storm..

[@jbucks166]

Im curious about a fill port. I have a 28 ariens not sure how old but fairly new. I changed oil today only to notice that theres, what appears to be two oil fill/dipsticks. Yellow oil (long stick) up top and a smaller plastic knob/stick on lower right hand side of machine. I drained and refilled from the lower hole. Only to see a video after that shows the drain tube in rear. Do some machines have 2 holes to check oil levels? Any help is great. Your videos are Excellent.. Thanks

[@GarageGear]

Hey Jbucks! A lot of machines have multiple dipsticks/ports because many of these engines are mass produced for multiple purposes. Snowblowers, generators, wood chippers, log splitters. Just cheaper production to keep everything thing the same. I usually never touch the smaller ones on the sides. Thanks for watching!

[@jeffmcgovern5674]

These videos are absolutely FANTASTIC! I have been scouring KZbin the last few years for videos on Ariens maintenance and I wish I found these videos then. Best videos I have found, BY FAR! Liked and subscribed!

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Jeff! Appreciate the positive feedback! I promise to not let you down! Thanks for watching!

[@brandon_burbach]

Great video as always JB. No more nightmares about rust and broken belts! 🤠

[@GarageGear]

ROCK ON BRANDON! Keep those extra items on hand! Thanks for watching another my friend!

[@Two_Buck]

Another great video JB. This is where I come for all my maintenance tips and reminders. Cheers.

[@GarageGear]

ROCK ON CHUCK! You Da MAN! 👍

[@chriskeller2131]

You mentioned lake effect snow in one of your videos. did you do the value home centers commercials ?

[@GarageGear]

Hahaha no I did not. I am from Buffalo and we see lake effect snow quite a bit. Thanks for watching Chris!

[@PWbflo]

Man these snow thrower videos are giving me the chills. Because we know that it’s coming… slowly but surely. Thanks for the prep tips and let’s get wings!

[@GarageGear]

No problem pdubya! It’s on its way! Right there with ya brother! Drum or flat?

[@682supersport]

@@GarageGeardrum

[@peterrudy9207]

Do you use the fluid film on the impellers so snow won't stick ?

[@GarageGear]

@@peterrudy9207 you can! I use all kinds of products. Silicone sprays, wd40, and liquid wrench rust inhibitor work well too

[@greghaefs4677]

Thank you for this video!

[@GarageGear]

@@greghaefs4677 you got it Greg!

[@v0n1b0]

The largest size dog crate liners also make great snowblower or lawn tractor mats.

[@GarageGear]

@@v0n1b0 RIGHT ON! Thanks for sharing

[@robhauser5660]

JB, great videos. I live just across the Canadian boarder from you, so very similar weather. What clothing do you wear when clearing snow?

[@GarageGear]

Usually dickies pants and a carhartt jacket! Those usually get the job done! 👍 thanks for being a cool fan Rob!

[@DoktorDetroit]

Shear pins, shear pins, shear pins...cheap and will save you so much frustration.👍

[@GarageGear]

With out a doubt! Thanks for watching!

[@kevn3621]

yeh garage gear the ariens deluxe snow blower belt came off and had to be put on. was free, the store paid for it. so im stock up on the need for snow blower

[@GarageGear]

@@kevn3621 glad to hear the store paid for it! That was helpful! 👍

[@Robphoto37]

Thank you. Subscribed

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for subscribing rob

[@BiggerDummy]

Great video as always. I'm going to pickup spares as you mention - belts, shear pins, carburator rebuild kit. As for a mat, I saved the old trunk liner from my 2004 Honda Pilot. It works well as a mat and has a continous 1" rim that contains the melt water.

[@GarageGear]

Smart my friend! Great idea with the old trunk liner! Thanks for sharing!

[@tommclaughlin1041]

Yup, my snowblower never breaks down in August. I have a detached garage and bought a salamander heater for just that day! Good advice.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing Tom!

[@jaygreen4526]

Handy tip...If you own a Honda HSS928, tilt the blower up when your done for the day. This will save the hood from sitting in any water that may have accumulated on the floor.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing Jay!

[@garydunnjr8176]

As Always good info! The mats are exactly what I’m looking for..

[@GarageGear]

ROCK ON GARY! Contain the mess! 👍👍👍

Hey there, just subscribed after watching many of your other videos and had a question. What is your opinion on using belt dressing on the auger and drive belts keeping in mind that you need to steer clear of getting it in the friction plate and or cleaning the plate up afterwards? Thanks so much in advance for responding or anyone else out there with their educated opinion? 👍👍

[@GarageGear]

I’ve used belt dressings in the past because of squeaking belts. It temporarily fixed it and made the problem worst. I would not recommend them. Just get new belts if needed👍

@@GarageGear Thanks!

[@josephlahood4647]

I admire you're shop organization.

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate you Joseph! 👍thanks for being a cool fan!

[@josephlahood4647]

Thnks doing cast iron gear box with Synthetic Valvoline gear oil after work and now I'll look behind skids and scraper now that I watched this. I have some PB Blast er Corrosian Spray I'll use after WD40. Good tips looking out.

[@GarageGear]

@@josephlahood4647 you’re gonna be all set my friend!

[@gregbryan6465]

Just bought my first snowblower. Used Craftsman 5hp but so far getting the job done. Thank you for all this great info as I am learning as I go.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Greg! Plenty of content to get lost in here lol!

[@illjttn4705]

Excellent video JB. On the new Ariens snowblowers are the engines made by Ariens?

[@GarageGear]

@@illjttn4705 thanks ill! No the engines are made in China by another manufacturer. They typically outsource their engines lately

[@The_Mace]

Old car / truck winter (rubber) floor mats work for parking snowblowers, too...just place the auger housing on them. :)

[@GarageGear]

Yep definitely a good way to reuse old car mats! Thanks for sharing Mace! Hope you had a good weekend!

[@BenNawrath]

I wish it was easier to find JUST the carb bowl seal to have on hand! I've found those rebuild kits are only a couple bucks cheaper than a whole carb.

[@GarageGear]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@tommak6516]

I agree with you, I do not know how they make those carbs so cheap, but it seems like the lowest cost alternative over buying kits and parts. If you can just clean a carb w/o replacing anything that might be worthwhile, but anything more than that just replace it. If you were in the repair business the labor to clean would outweigh the cost to just replace.

[@tunblimbli]

First year that I have adopted a snowblower, your videos have become an addiction and I take more care of the snowblower than my wife. Thanks for the all the tutorials and information.

[@GarageGear]

Hahaha Carlos you are in good company my friend! The garage gal is always wondering why I’m outside in the garage for long hours! Thanks for being a cool fan! 👍

[@RicardoRodriguez-gp2cq]

Great video. I have one dumb question. Should I use both the Liquid Wrench Rust Inhibitor and the Fluid Film or just one of either? Keep up the great work.

[@GarageGear]

Both work great my friend! I like to use fluid film on heavier rust spots. I found it tends to cling on a bit better. Either one will work great! I tend to use a combination of the two! Thanks for watching!

[@skyemac8]

Get extra belts for that lake effect snow belt. Great advice.

[@GarageGear]

A small investment that’s well worth it! Thanks for watching skyemac! Hope you’re doing well bud!

[@dm7097]

I have a wooden handled snow brush where I park my blower. After every use, I brush the snow off of my blower, and it fits all the tiny crevices.

[@GarageGear]

Perfect my friend! Lots of people I know have their own dedicated snowblower brush lol! Thanks for watching!

[@tommak6516]

So the fact that it has a wooden handle is relevant in the effectiveness of the brush? How so?

[@steventaylor1058]

I've been using a work spot light to melt the snow off. They put off some good heat and the light helps when I'm working on my ariens and also is a reminder to shut the light off after a few hours. By the way I'm picking up another vintage trac team snow blower and the shredder attachment today. I'll let you know how it works out

[@GarageGear]

Those lights can do the trick. Plenty of heat coming off of those. Awesome Steven let me know how you like it! Classic machines! Thanks for watching my friend!

[@steventaylor1058]

@@GarageGear so the ariens shredder is amazing. My son and I shredded a bunch of leaves and other garden debris. Even handles wet leaves. Just need to run dry leaves to clear it out every so often

[@GarageGear]

@@steventaylor1058 awesome Steven! Thanks for sharing! I’ll be keeping an eye out for the attachments!

[@wildmanofthewynooch7028]

JB Valvoline synthetic moly blend grease is good to -40 So it will work even in the coldest temperatures of winter without getting hard and gummy. Marine grease and red tacky is good too.

[@GarageGear]

I will look into this! Thanks for sharing my friend!

[@tomdrew5608]

Just discovered your channel, sir. Already enjoying it. I've got an old john deere 47 inch blower on the tractor (x485). Problem is, that the shear pins go in the ends of the auger, too tight to get my arms & hands in there to put them. Any ideas to work around this.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Tom I guess I’d have to see it in person to see what you mean exactly. I have you tried wrench extensions? Thanks for checking out the channel!

[@stephenjackman6163]

Maintenance is definitely a good thing. I am still using my 1972 Ariens 7H.P. X 24 cut. It has endured 50 snowy winters in NorthEastern Massachusetts. Not many machines have reached this bench mark. Full disclosure, this Sno-Thro has moved to lighter duty in Northern Virginia as of this year.

[@GarageGear]

It’s a nice break for it after all those years! Thanks for sharing Stephen!

[@jamesstakeontheworld9724]

Do I spray liquid film after every snow blowing or just before the season? I have toro almost the commercial version so want it protected right

[@GarageGear]

I usually coat mine after every other use really quick! Quick spray down and she’s good to go! Thanks for watching James!

[@Makete100]

Great advise and video. What do you use to knock out busted shear pins that get stuck? Sometimes it can be a real pain to line up the broken shear pin with the opposite hole.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Melvin! I had one get stuck a while back. I pried it with pliers on one side and tapped it with a heavy hammer on the other. Pb blaster was my friend too! Thanks for watching!

[@Makete100]

@@GarageGear Thanks. Sometimes my shear pins break off flush on both ends, nothing to grab onto.

[@GarageGear]

@@Makete100 can you push the remnants through?

[@Makete100]

@@GarageGear I have used a nail to help. Just wondering what others use and maybe a better and easier way of doing it.

[@lornesmallwood1649]

Garage Gear thanks for the great tips! Used WD40 on my Ariens 28" SHO Deluxe to get ready for this winter and now using a portable heater to melt the snow and ice after blowing. signed Happy in snowy, windy and cold Ottawa Canada

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Lorne! You’re ready for winter! Thanks for watching!

[@423co]

JB, I have everything except for item #8......SNOW🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🙏❄❄❄❄❄❄❄❄❄❄❄

[@GarageGear]

Hahaha don’t worry… you’ll get it! Thanks for watching William!

[@elzaeicher]

I'm picking up a brand-new Craftsman Select 24" today, do I have to grease them before use ?

[@GarageGear]

It’s usually not a bad idea! You never know who assembled them and how they go about doing it! Thanks for watching

[@angelomendola7464]

Great videos. Question: the silicon spray do you only use that inside the auger and where the blades are? Rather than using liquid wrench?

[@GarageGear]

Hey Angelo! You could use either one! I use everything under the sun pretty much. I haven’t seen any difference in terms of level of protection or slickness. Just get one on there to coat it. Thanks for watching!

[@angelomendola7464]

@@GarageGear Thank you. Appreciate your response

[@marks8052]

right now lots of snow today. anyways I don't have any broken shear pins but my cub cadet seems to push the snow, especially on the wet side. any ideas

[@GarageGear]

@@marks8052 have you check your belts to ensure your augers are spinning like they should?

[@marks8052]

@ yeah I ordered a both belts, hopefully that will do the trick. Wish I had kept my old old Ariens, was heavy and good in wet snow. I had helped several neighbors then the engine blew, when I got to my driveway

[@marks8052]

@ I don’t have any grease fittings on the auger shaft, the ends or the wheels

[@GarageGear]

@@marks8052 let me know how the belts work for you

[@richardaquino1640]

Just a question that gets pros and cons for storage purposes only over the summer fogging oil or not?

[@GarageGear]

You can do it but I never found it necessary. Probably not a bad idea if you are storing it for a super long time!

[@Richard-go7jr]

What do you think of DuPont nonstick dry-film lubricant for snowblower

[@GarageGear]

I haven’t tried it but know someone that uses it and no complaints from them! Been using snowjet lately and that’s working great! Thanks for watching

[@HipaStore]

That's really a cool idea to perepare several carburetors for emergency and clean the dirty ones when you get spare time to keep the snowblower working during the winter.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Hipa! I just have one carb on back up just in case. Peace of mind for me! Thanks for watching!

[@HipaStore]

@@GarageGearI just shot you an email talking about the possibility of working together on yard machine maintenance.

[@GarageGear]

@@HipaStore I will take a look a for it! Appreciate you! 👍

[@jerryschneider145]

Use non-ethanol gas and you will not have carb problems. I can get it at the pump, I know in some states you cannot.

[@rickmuir7616]

I’ve seen your video & heard your comments on the addition of impeller kits. Both seem to be in favour of the modification. I own a 2020 Ariens Classic 24 with the 9.5 engine. Don’t these kits add additional stresses on the drivetrain? Should I wait til next fall to add them so I’m beyond the warranty period of 3 years? What is the minimum gap you use?

[@GarageGear]

Hey Rick no stress to my snowblowers. I have had mine on for ten years now with no issues. Done it to a few brand new snowblowers as well! You could wait if you want. That’s up to you. I typically get the flaps as close as possible to about 1mm away from the impeller housing wall. Thanks for watching

[@js12278]

As usual great video worth great information! What’s your thoughts on Honda announcing that they’re getting out of the walk behind mower business?? I know you like your Honda

[@GarageGear]

Thanks JS! Sad news my friend! I was looking forward to maybe getting another in the near future to review too! I wonder if the resale value on a used Honda is going to skyrocket? Thanks for watching!

[@js12278]

@@GarageGear the Lowes near me has the Honda mowers stacked this past season. My opinion, you’ll notice less of them next season. It is really too bad.

[@GarageGear]

@@js12278 it’s sad to see. Smart shoppers will buy them up

[@tommak6516]

Honda could stay in that business if they used Predator engines.

[@melrosemiddleschool2]

First time snow blower owner here bought a brand new platinum ariens, What is the difference between marine grease and red n tacky grease? Thanks!

[@GarageGear]

Hey Brendan! You’re gonna love that Ariens! Great purchase! Marine grease is a bit more hydrophobic! Doesn’t rinse away as easily! I actually undercoated a car with it before! No rust under there at all lol! Enjoy your new snowblower! 👍

[@AntLive29]

Great video JB!! However I moved to the South to escape the snow haha

[@GarageGear]

Lucky you my friend! You get to enjoy mowing season a bit longer too! Appreciate the positive feedback!

[@michaelmiller6843]

Great video!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks Michael! Appreciate the positive feedback bud! 👍👍

[@Huntersprojects]

I caught a can of starting fluid in my impeller… let’s just say it didn’t go over well And my trick to not have to keep any parts or stuff on hand is to have 3 so if one breaks then you have another

[@GarageGear]

Haha I imagine that didn’t go over well! Lol

[@raymondcampbell2346]

Not to change the subject but I just heard on Chicmecanic channel that Honda is going to quit manufacturing their Honda mowers September 2023. It also sounds like all their lawn equipment also. Parts will still be made and available.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Raymond! Heard this as well! Sad news since they have been such an awesome contender in the lawn mower market! I wonder if they will sell out quick once the word gets out?

[@star-load6388]

Dude I honestly can’t believe you have more subscribers this is quality blower content!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks Star-Lord! I appreciate the positive feedback! I imagine that this winter we’ll see a big spike in subscribers. Every winter the channel grows a lot!

[@tannerc900]

Thank you for emphasizing not to put bolts in place of shear pins… I cringe when I hear people say it’s no big deal or see peoples snow blowers with them 😭

[@GarageGear]

Something had to be said lol! Thanks for watching Tanner!

[@tommak6516]

How can you tell just by looking at an installed bolt whether or not it is a shear pin or regular bolt?

[@tannerc900]

@@tommak6516 usually a regular bolt will have three lines on the head which will indicate it’s a grade 5 bolt which is the usual culprit that people use to replace for shear pins

[@GarageGear]

@@tannerc900 thanks for sharing Tanner!

[@chriswagner6310]

I've seen a lot of people use regular bolts. When I fix somebody else's snow blower they used regular bolts they destroyed the gearbox

[@GarageGear]

Yeah I see it too!

[@chriswagner6310]

That makes me angry. I know it makes you angry too good morning

[@I_Stack_Metal]

Could you do a video on how to adjust the speed on the ariens? My first gear is to fast for deep snow.

[@GarageGear]

Possibly down the road yes! Try adjusting your gear shifting rod at the bottom near the dive system. Unhook the pin and rotate it up or down a few threads. This may help you out. Thanks for watching!

[@davidbuckwitz5408]

Excellent advice as always! Thanks JB.

[@GarageGear]

Hey David! Thanks for the positive feedback my friend! 👍

[@tommak6516]

You can cut those mats up and use the rubber on your impeller.

[@GarageGear]

Those are my mats that I park my snowblowers on. Not cutting those up.

[@PogoMath]

I'm not sure if I'm in the right place to ask this but, for a husqvarna, what type of gear goes into the gearbox? I broke mine because I didn't put the shear pins in. I didn't know that until I saw this video🤦‍♂️😳 I looked through many sites but couldn't find any clear information

[@GarageGear]

Hey pogo! this is a tough one to answer because they vary by machine and model! Usually gear oil or 00 grease works best.

[@PogoMath]

@@GarageGear thank you for the answer. But I'm talking more about the gear inside the gearbox🤭. But doesn't matter, I noticed that it's the impeller that isn't run. It's probably the strap that gave way. (Husqvarna ST330)

[@GarageGear]

@@PogoMath oh ok if you’re speaking of the gear itself then you’ll need to search the model number of your snowblower to find the part. There are two gears. A worm gear and an auger gear usually . If one is worn it will need to be replaced!

[@andrews6007]

What’s the shelf life on these belts if they’re not in use?

[@GarageGear]

They last quite a while. I would imagine over ten years. Only seen one dry out before but it was ancient.

[@andrews6007]

@@GarageGear Thanks JB! Keep up the great content.

[@GarageGear]

@@andrews6007 you got it Andrew! Thanks for being a cool fan!

[@jamesyeager5835]

the chute angle cable on my 30" 3X snowblower freezes every time the temp. gets below freezing - is there a simple way to fix this? Also, how can I check and fill the gear box since there is no fill plug?

[@GarageGear]

@@jamesyeager5835 hey James, you can try spraying wd40 all around the chute deflector and then take a spray straw and shoot wd40 down the cable ends. You may have to do this a couple of times and it can get messy but it should keep everything moving. I just shot a video on how to maintenance this 3x gearbox. That video will be out in 2 weeks👍

[@michaelwalsh90]

Appreciate mentioning me on whiteboard

[@GarageGear]

You got it Michael! Thanks for being a cool fan! 👍

[@mckill32]

Hi JB what is your opinion on WD40 specialist quick drying silicone? Is it basically the same as the liquid wrench you use?

[@GarageGear]

Hey my friend! It works just fine! Gets the job done! 👍

[@donjohnson3701]

GG: another great tip loaded segment! Yeah, the best time to get prepared for winter is when it is warm before you drag out the lawnmower! Good tip on the belts and carb parts! Imagine needing a belt when there is a foot of snow!

[@GarageGear]

Hey Don! Lots of information jam packed in that video. That would be a problem I wouldn’t want to face! Thanks for watching bud!

[@Randy-ul5hy]

Those darn rolled up newspapers are deadly! I rolled over one a few years back and it took me hours to clean that mess out of the unit.

[@GarageGear]

Definitely deadly! 👍

[@laser31415]

In the tail end of 2023 I can't find 00 Grease anywhere local or Amazon. My 'troy-bilt' auger gear box just has the plastic cap at the top, no drain plugs. What is an alternative lubricant. With a makeshift dipstick it comes up dry. At this point I nearly ready to try Lucas "Red and Tacky SPRAY grease" and just spray it in till it's full.

[@GarageGear]

Hey laser I’m pretty sure you can get it at tractor supply! Thanks for watching!

[@ryanhaywood7522]

How do you stop the auger on a belt from from smoking

[@GarageGear]

Hey Ryan I’d have to see you situation my friend. Sounds like your belt is frozen or stuck. Thanks for watching

[@daves3396]

The videos are great! thanks for posting all this useful information and recommendations. What are the skid shoe brand that you have on your Ariens, please? I have an Ariens 28 SHO and am clearing an unpaved driveway with gravel. I definitely need clearance. What would you suggest?

[@GarageGear]

Hey Dave! I have info on those skids in this video! They would work on gravel! Know a guy with them in your situation. Works well for him! Here’s the video link. THE OFFICIAL SNOWBLOWER PRESEASON CHECKLIST (Avoid Issues) kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6u8fnxnoZxoa7M thanks for watching

[@chriswagner6310]

I get everything at Lowe's

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing Chris

[@chriswagner6310]

You are very welcome

[@dand3975]

I know a guy who was a professional engineer ( not Freight train driver), he substituted grade 8 SAE bolt instead of a shear pin. I tried to explain to him the reason why shear pins need to be softer bolts.......just cant reason with some people.

[@GarageGear]

@@dand3975 some people need to learn the hard way 🤷‍♂️

[@brandonray191]

How about battery power snow blower most are made of plastic?

[@GarageGear]

Hey Brandon! There are still metal parts in places on those machines and it’s a good idea to still coat those. From what I’ve seen the auger housings are still made of metal. Coat them and protect them! Thanks for watching!

[@appleztooranges]

We need to do a side by side comparison between my Honda 1332 vs your new ariens with the tall chute. How far are you from new england lol?

[@GarageGear]

That would be AWESOME bud! I’m about 8-10 hours away depending on where you are. Buffalo NY for me.👍

[@appleztooranges]

@@GarageGear damn not too bad. I’m in Massachusetts. Hopefully we get hammered this year. We can do a combined KZbin video haha

[@GarageGear]

@@appleztooranges that would be cool to do! Sounds like we’re gonna have a busy winter!

[@mehrzadrashidkhani3250]

،you are the best. 🤟😎🤟

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the positive feedback Mehrzad!!!

[@mehrzadrashidkhani3250]

@@GarageGear Excellent, perfessional explanation of the facts, cool personality.

[@GarageGear]

@@mehrzadrashidkhani3250 ROCK ON my friend!

[@QuickJuggernaut]

What is brand of the skid shoes you have installed?

[@GarageGear]

Hey Juggernaut! I mentioned the details on them in this video! Check them out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6u8fnxnoZxoa7M 👍

[@claresmith7227]

For heavy use, I just bolted angle galvanized metal with pointed fronts. Very strong and helps my chains break ice. Also, helps support the trailer hitch on top of bucket in case I move jetski.

[@GarageGear]

@@claresmith7227 thanks for sharing!

[@paulsccna2964]

However, if you sealed your garage floor during the summer, then all the water will just run off into the drain, and sealing the garage floor prevents rust and all those pits in the floor.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Paul! Sealing may help but my garage doesn’t have a drain. Most in my neighborhood don’t. Thanks for watching!

[@paulsccna2964]

@@GarageGear FYI, I really enjoy your channel and you provide great tips and info. Thanks. And, you need to seal that garage floor this summer (hey, can make an another video or two about it...). Smirk

[@GarageGear]

@@paulsccna2964 possibly! Got lots of content coming this summer! Stay tuned Paul!

[@pjfan173]

Did you do a video on those aftermarket skid shoes?

[@GarageGear]

Hey pj! I did a segment on them at the end of this video! Thanks for watching! THE OFFICIAL SNOWBLOWER PRESEASON CHECKLIST (Avoid Issues) kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6u8fnxnoZxoa7M

[@pjfan173]

@@GarageGear Thanks for the reply. I had watched that video while binge watching your channel, LOL, and missed it. You have a very good and informative channel. I’m just about to buy an Ariens and pretty much decided on the 24 deluxe. It’ll be used at the cabin and with a gravel driveway, I plan on putting those skid shoes on it.

[@kevinmills4252]

LOL, the clip of her yelling at you for the grease stain.....hahaha

[@GarageGear]

That’s not the first time either! I warn her to not get close! But even I forget too!

[@CarolHoffstetter-d7e]

I live in south buffalo where should I buy ariens snow blower

[@GarageGear]

@@CarolHoffstetter-d7e check out Schaub in west Seneca and tell them JB sent you 👍

[@brucebonkowski9568]

Why not use simonize furniture wax in a yellow can wipe on it protection like waxing your car I use silicone spray inside my impeller the chute I even spray the snowblower snow slides off I reapply on the chute

[@GarageGear]

Another good product my friend! Always a good idea to give everything a coat or two! Thanks for watching!

[@Ladysman_217]

Simonize is basically cheap carnuba wax. Its ok but protection doesnt last long with snow and salt. Use Colonite wax, season long protection. Silicone works but is messy. Try usung a dry lube. Its ugly because it dries white but for me last 2 or 3 snows before having to re-apply.

[@GarageGear]

@@Ladysman_217 good tips here IVXX! Thanks for sharing!

[@kensmith6708]

Awesome video I do everything you said in this video. I'm going to buy the rust inhibitor I've always used wd40 but want to try something new. Thanks again JB for sharing your wealth of knowledge with us here on utube.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the positive feedback Ken! The rust inhibitor works well! Can’t go wrong with it! Knowledge is power and is useless if you don’t share it! Thanks for being a cool fan!

[@AlwaysBeSmart674]

man I love your videos but I feel like you’ve covered pretty much everything on general snowblower stuff and all these new videos are just reiterating the same things. But I get it’s for views around this time of year; still a awesome video

[@GarageGear]

Don’t you worry Smart! Got some different snowblower content coming soon! Some repair videos and unboxing videos coming in a few weeks! Thanks for being a cool fan!

[@SpaceCadet4Jesus]

When he started putting on medical gloves, I got worried he was going to say he wanted to inspect my .......!

[@GarageGear]

Lol… we’ll I do have a big box of them… 😉 Enjoy your weekend Space Cadet! 👍

[@jaybooth4815]

Great video JB! Excellent tips, especially the shear pins. Can never have to many of those. Some blowers have shear pins on the impeller too. My JD tractor does. I gotta look into that mat. That big one! What's up for the weekend? Cheers my friend! Go Bills!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks JAY! Shear pins are a must! Break at the weirdest times. Got some shopping to do. Possible bike ride! How about you bud? Shoot me an email. We’ll set up a garage visit. Got some garage gear for ya! GO BILLS!

[@jaybooth4815]

will do JB. Looking forward to meeting you. Email address?

[@GarageGear]

@@jaybooth4815 click on any of my videos, go down to the video descriptions you’ll find it there. Don’t want to leave it here for spammers. 👍

[@jaybooth4815]

@@GarageGear 👍

[@jerryschneider145]

I don't have spare parts for my snow blower, I have spare snow blowers. P.S. Never blown a belt on a snow blower.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing my friend.

[@joespamerton7686]

How often do you use your snowblower?

[@GarageGear]

About 20 to 30 times a season Joe! Thanks for watching!

[@markgabriel5797]

This guy's page is legit.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks Gabriel! Appreciate the positive feedback! Thanks for being a cool fan!