TURN THE CHEAPEST SNOWBLOWER ON AMAZON INTO A BEAST! Impeller Kit Install Before And After Results

#SnowBlower #Impeller #Kit
TURN THE CHEAPEST SNOWBLOWER ON AMAZON INTO A BEAST BY INSTALLING AN IMPELLER KIT. THIS VIDEO INCLUDES TEST RESULTS BEFORE AND AFTER. This 24" two-stage snowblower was $499. (Now recently on sale for $399.) Follow along as I install an impeller kit using a template located below to make this snowblower throw up to 73 feet! All the products and tools used to perform this modification are listed below. LIKE and SUBSCRIBE! Thanks for watching.
TIME STAMPS:
Impeller Kit Install: 2:44
Post Testing Impeller Kit: 23:05
CONTACT INFO:
[e-mail]
Instagram - Garagegearjb
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IMPELLER KIT RUBBER FLAP DOWNLOADABLE TEMPLATE:
drive.google.com/file/d/1sMQD...
PRODUCT LINKS BELOW:
PowerSmart Snowblower Link:
amzn.to/2vOzQK0
Rubber Flap Link:
amzn.to/2V0fPLj
Another Rubber Flap Link:
amzn.to/3kiKu0G
Another Rubber Flap Link:
amzn.to/3kboCnA
Nuts, Bolts, and Washers Link:
amzn.to/38DPwyo
Step Bit Link:
amzn.to/2P2aMpO
Lucas Oil Marine Grease for the Chute Link:
amzn.to/3bTdyHY
DeWalt Drill and Impact Driver Set Link:
amzn.to/3bS7DTd
DeWalt Corded Drill Link:
amzn.to/39ViGcK
Pittsburgh Tools 225 Piece Socket Set Link:
amzn.to/2SQcHA0

[@matt34003434]

I've hit peak quarantine, watching snow blower mods on the youtube.

[@GarageGear]

Lol! Just wait until you start filming videos of you snowblowing! 😂 Thanks for watching!!!

[@nachospopthe3rd564]

Its must do af far as mods go

[@RayNLA]

@ matt34003434 So true...I live in LA 😂

[@jeffbrent]

I too have been watching snow blower videos. lol

[@GarageGear]

@@jeffbrent no judgements held here lol!

[@pauld2502]

Nice video. I did something similar to my used snow blower about 5 years ago. I went to Tractor supply and bought a small piece of 3/8" thick rubber matting used for horse stalls and I used self tapping screws to fasten screws to each impeller. In New England with 24" of snow, I've NEVER had any clogs

[@GarageGear]

It truly does work very well! Especially in wet snow. Thanks for watching!

[@muzikmon2267]

You better off using ceramic wax that they have for cars plenty of videos on this. Last a couple years you waxed the whole unit where it's metal. Nothing sticks to it no clogging works fantastic.. But if you have a Toro snowblower their system is unbelievable I don't think of ever seen Toro snowblowers clog that much or ever. We're talking about the two stage 824, 828. With that really cool technology that sends the snow back out the impeller breaks it up again. Pretty amazing.. But again the ceramic stuff works fantastic. There's a reason why that impeller is the way it is and has the gap that it has. It could cause problems down the road wearing things out I don't think it's worth it at all.. You may get lucky it may work for a while but it won't work for everybody's.. It's a lot hotter to replace belts, gears and things. ;)

[@Pwaak]

Nice job, great video...Thank's! This modification works Champion! Snow does get tossed further, but the charm is in the way the machine handles wet/heavy/slush closer to the street. Before the mod, my rig would go a foot or two then clog. After the mod...no problem whatsoever, difference like night and day! Maybe not necessary to dump snow on neighbor...when you get up at 4am before work to clean your driveway, the paddle-growl will "dump" on neighbors sleep!

[@GarageGear]

Your absolutely right Tony! The real winner here is the machine can dig better through heavy wet snow and not clog! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@neilmoore3856]

Next time squirt 2 colors of food coloring in the snow. One color for each test. Then you could really see the change.

[@GarageGear]

Good idea! Thanks for watching!

[@ericheyes5558]

Next time throw my nabors dog in it 2 for one

[@assassinlexx1993]

@@ericheyes5558 his luck it would break the shear bolts.

[@oneson6gmailcom]

DUDE!! Brilliant, thank you! Very detailed, I am glad you mentioned that your has worked perfect for 7 years because I was going to use the self tapping screws. I surprise that you not selling the kit!

[@GarageGear]

Mebaku Black DUDE! Glad you found this helpful lol! Keep an eye out I may just do that soon! Thanks for watching!

[@mdocod]

Looking at the before/after, I think it's throwing less far after the modification. In that last attempt to clear the road and "dominate the neighbors" most of the snow only made it about 20 feet.

[@GarageGear]

I was hoping to get some wet snow to test on but we had an odd winter last year. Where those flaps really shine is with the wet and slushy snow. They really prevent clogging from occurring. Added distance is a bonus! Thanks for watching!

[@windolite]

The mods to stop snow buildup not throw snow 70 feet

[@mikekristin7201]

@@GarageGear come on to Illinois I'll let you test it on some wet snow we got 12 in last night . My auger broke and I have a 300-ft driveway. Should give you a nice test lol

[@shaggyk82]

@@GarageGear Snow storm in Boston last night would have been perfect

[@GarageGear]

@@shaggyk82 I’m in Buffalo and it seems this storm just missed us. Thanks for watching!

[@rccmrccrawlermods4517]

Great! I just bought this exact snowblower. I like your Flapper kit idea. Great video too!

[@GarageGear]

Great! Now you can get out there and dominate the neighbors!!! Enjoy your new snowblower! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@scotsmanofnewengland7713]

I have a 20 year old Craftsman 9 hp 29” and it’s a beast in the snow. My neighbors are astonished at the way it cuts throw deep snow. I spray silicon on the inside of the chute and on the augers before I use it and run it at full throttle !!! Tractor Supply has a graphite spray also that works great also on the augers and chute.

[@GarageGear]

I’d be interested in trying out that spray! Thanks for sharing and for checking out my channel!

[@AlexR_44]

@@GarageGear I've heard cooking spray even works if applied before each use.

[@GarageGear]

@@AlexR_44 yep that works too!

[@cohenkevinloriqueen818]

Throw it to the neighbors driveway. lol.. I have a neighbor in MIND !!!!

[@GarageGear]

Go get ‘em!!! Have fun! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@paulcondie2520]

I did mine similar as you around 2012 and not an issue. I always have people ask about my blower! My blower will damn near pump water! Lol. Best part of an impeller kit other than throwing snow further is they don't clog up in the wettest of snow!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks A LOT for sharing Paul! It truly is an awesome modification! I get people asking about mine too. I also have a dip in my sidewalk that fill with water as the snow melts. I plow right through it and the blower will shoot water right out! AMAZING! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@osi2484]

Super job Did this to my 3x28 cub, had to grind a lip off on the inside the chute base that inhibited the paddles, works great snow or slush

[@GarageGear]

Love hearing this positive feedback! Thanks for watching osi!

[@benefitsofthisandthat3612]

Great idea!!!! Thanks for sharing. Your videos are the best.

[@GarageGear]

Thank you!!!

[@111macdruid111]

Thanks for the videos. Great tips! Something to make your marking on dark material more effective, silver metallic color Sharpies. I love them!

[@GarageGear]

Yeah thought about that after I filmed this! That would have been a big help! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@hoxha34]

very nice video. i just ordered the 2nd link for the rubber. just read the specs. its .5 thick. i dont thick that should make a difference. been wanting to do this for a while. this is probably the most detailed video and added the links helps a lot. i had purchased a mud flap but thought it was too soft for this purpose.

[@GarageGear]

You’ll be just fine with that rubber! Glad you found this video helpful! Let me know how it works for you once it’s installed!

[@hoxha34]

@@GarageGear Will do. Watching another video on putting a pvc edge on the bottom of the snow blower. trying to figure out why.

[@jonathanolsen7254]

I took a chevy 283 and mounted it on a snow blower stand got a 48 inch blower I move so much snow it looks as if there is a snow storm at my house. Even that wet heavy snow plow junk from the plow truck. Not a problem at all , I even put a set of long tube headers on it with small mufflers it sounds so cool, I keep on saying Come on Old man winter give me your best...

[@GarageGear]

That’s awesome my friend! Winter doesn’t stand a chance lol! Thanks for sharing!

[@stephenmcgowan8572]

Great video! I own a older version of this machine but I think the motor is still a 208cc. I put a impeller kit on it last year and didnt get any snow, I was crushed! This year should be different and cant wait to pummel the neighbors with snow.

[@GarageGear]

Sorry just saw this now! You’ll get em this year! Blow ‘me away!!!

[@tommak6516]

Getting no snow is the best possible scenario. Better things to do than snowblowing.

[@spavliskojr]

Ive reached the point in my adult life where i find snowblower videos completely fascinating! lol seriously, thats a cool mod.

[@GarageGear]

Haha and I’ve reached the point where I tinker with them in the middle of winter for fun lol! Thanks for watching!

[@paveltolz6601]

My second biggest frustration with my 2-stager was the constant clogging with wet snow. Especially trying to clear back the city snowplows contribution to my driveway (no across the street neighbors so why they don't push it all that way....?). It threw just fine, just clogged up. Sold it to a neighbor and got a single stage which is fine. I'll share this video with him and help him make the mod. Thankyou.

[@GarageGear]

That heavy wet street snow is no joke for snowblowers! Thanks for sharing the video! I appreciate it! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@vincentshelpfulhints4085]

I have the same snow blower i purchased last year. mine did not do well with heavy wet snow.. I will try installing this on my blower next summer

[@GarageGear]

You won’t be disappointed! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@Starwarsgames66]

I don’t think it makes enough of a difference to do that mod

[@GarageGear]

It does when your going through heavy wet snow. It never clogs up or boys down. Give it a shot! Thanks for watching!

[@MarkJacksonGaming]

-- Thumbs up. Late by 3 years to the party. Husqvarna ST224, 212cc. I'm on the fence putting a kit on this, worried about the strain. We get some heavy stuff up here on Lake Michigan, just slowing down, especially for plow snow seems to do the trick.

[@GarageGear]

Hey mark! Did an updated video on this. This should put your mind at ease. HOW TO MAKE YOUR SNOWBLOWER UNSTOPPABLE WITH AN IMPELLER KIT kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJCQc2aeo7F2h8U

[@lauretiu]

i have a snowblower that has the screws just like yours and i pushed it right against the housing and after installing all 3 of them i turned the snowblower on and let the screws chew the rubber and it works perfectly fine with 0 gab, it actually smokes(well smell like burnt rubber) a little bit but after the snow hits it will settle in and be fine

[@GarageGear]

Thank you for sharing this!👍

[@tompenn6706]

Thanks for the great video. I installed the impeller kit on my snowblower but only managed to get 1/4' of an inch of paddle to overhang edge without it hitting any parts inside. Is this going to even be enough to help ?

[@GarageGear]

That sounds like it will be perfect! 👍

[@Maine307]

i love the video.. are you upgrading the gear oil? to help with the new force being placed on the drive? .. or does the oil already support the small added pressure.. awesome vid!!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks again Midcoast! Haven’t upgraded the gear oil. No extra force to be worried about once the paddles are worn in to match the inside of the tube! You ROCK bud!

[@1ronhall]

Awesome and thanks for the demo ..... that’s throwing it!

[@GarageGear]

There ya go Ron! It really works well! Especially in wet snow! It really throws it then!

[@1ronhall]

@@GarageGear I’m gonna have to modify mine .... Big two stage Ariens ..... just need to find a few good hunks of rubber

[@GarageGear]

@@1ronhall old sidewalls of tires work well, mud flaps or the the flaps in the description will work great!

[@johnthorstad4048]

I’ve done this to my older Craftsman, and afterwards decided to keep it a few more years versus buying a new one. If done right, it’s a great life-hack!!

[@GarageGear]

Gettin Ready it is a great life hack! This hack can make an old machine throw way better than a new one!

[@johnthorstad4048]

Garage Gear It totally did!! While I was at it, I replaced both belts and the scrapper blade as well. My 24” Craftsman is 12 years old and now throws better than new. I sound like a infomercial 😂

[@GarageGear]

Gettin Ready I’ll consult you for future commercials lol

[@anthonybanda8192]

I've got a power smart snow blower as well but mine is bigger with more options. Mine is 30 inches wide has a headlight 3 forward speeds and 2 reverse. I bought it at home depot 7 years ago for $ 900 It steers fine and the only problem I had was the belt for the impeller was cheap from the factory and after 2 years I had to replace it . I put a better belt on and it throws snow 50 to 60 feet in decent conditions. If we get deep snow I try to clear the snow when it is fresh and in increments of 6 inches throughout the day . They work better when the snow isn't too terribly deep . I have used it in 20 inches before by only taking half passes. Here in southern Michigan we only seem to need it 2 times a year but when we do use it we usually have a decent snow storm. If you wax the inside of the blower the snow won't stick you can do the same to your mower deck . I've painted them with plow slick as well it's a paint used on farm plows to prevent the soil from sticking to them it works great . I wax ours every year along with our mower decks .

[@GarageGear]

All good tips here! Thanks for sharing and for checking out my channel!

[@1966spyderco]

Just ordered the parts up and cant wait to do this mod. Thank you

[@GarageGear]

You got it Scott! Enjoy putting it in your neighbors yard lol! Thanks for watching

[@chuckharper47]

This is the second education I’ve got today. I can not wait to try the impeller kit. Make a snow blowing mother.

[@GarageGear]

You won’t be disappointed! Thanks for watching chuck!

[@leewindham7996]

I installed wipers to my snow thrower's impeller blades (3) in about 2017 and has been working great....existing blade to cylinder bore clearance was about 3/8" plus....after wipers were installed wiper clearance to inside the cylinder bore was zero actually touching....the impeller seemed to spin very easily by hand. I sprayed WD40 liberally on the wipers and the cylinder's bore and started the engine....the tight fit worked great with no break in or seating period. The idea that a little friction from wipers will stress the belts is not a problem in my mind....the massive snow and ice cycling thru the impeller is going to stress the belts way way way more than a little friction from the wipers. My wipers move with virtually with no friction. That's my take on wipers...I hope it gives you some added perspective....great shop videos...Thank you :)

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing and adding that information about the wiper friction! Thanks for watching Lee!

[@leewindham7996]

@@GarageGear My snow thrower is a Troy-Built 28" Track Drive with 9.5HP and I use it for a 400ft gravel driveway with a very slight slope and some flat area also. Most all my friends were skeptical about me adding wipers to the impeller blades saying I will have lots of trouble with rocks getting caught and jammed in the impeller area. Just the opposite has happened...the wipers give rocks less places to fit into to get jammed. I have sheared one pin in the auger since 2006 and that was before the wipers. I don't understand why manufacturers don"t install wipers at factory. Thanks again

[@GarageGear]

@@leewindham7996 not sure why either but I’d bet it would be a great marketing tool for them if they did.

[@mcscheck2000]

Damn.. I may try this out on mine.. Cool shit...👍

[@GarageGear]

Thanks Michael! Do it! You won’t be disappointed! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@robertmarinaro7620]

I'm gonna try this tomorrow

[@GarageGear]

You won’t be disappointed Robert! Thanks for watching!

[@stacyxenakis2892]

I made my own kit years ago, it definetly works

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing Stacy!

[@terryblocker5504]

I have a one year old 24" Toro 824 QXE that doesn't throw snow as much as I like, and clogs too many times. It is a 250 CC, SINGLE STAGE with a "paddle center rotor" which already has factory installed rubber paddles. These pads have about a 1/2 inch gap from the the housing. CAN I REPLACE THEM LONGER PADS TO DECREASE THE GAP?

[@GarageGear]

Yes I would say so!

[@Rechkalov7]

I dont know if you mentionned it but you coult also spread anti stick spray inside the snow blower too.

[@GarageGear]

Yep you can do that too. Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@FSX239]

This is a great video! I have a craftsman that can use this mod! That and a new tire since one went flat this weekend.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the positive feedback FSX! Go for it! You won’t be disappointed! Thanks for watching!

[@sonicboomin]

i have a similar powersmart, i would like to add LED light to it. Hopefully you can also add one and do a video on it

[@GarageGear]

I’ll see what I can do about that! Might have to do some research beforehand. 👍

[@johnnyrocket6588]

Great video!!! Editing magic!!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks a lot Johnny! Gonna try this modification?

[@johnnyrocket6588]

@@GarageGear I have already done that with my snowblower, but I just welded an extension of steel on. Your method is much easier and simpler, but I did what I had to do.

[@GarageGear]

@@johnnyrocket6588 awesome! Bet yours works like a charm! Probably throws like a rocket!!!

[@billkrause4585]

What did you pay for the other snow thrower you have? Does the cheap model come with a owner's manual and parts list for ordering parts, and is it hard to get the parts?.

[@GarageGear]

The orange Ariens snowblower was about $950. The $400 snowblower came with a manual and their customer service can help you with any parts you need! They are very helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@tractortalkwithgary1271]

That's the one that I have J.B. I will be doing a Tim the Tool Man Taylor on it here very soon.

[@GarageGear]

Excellent! Sounds great my friend! Have fun! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@TheLonesometoad]

Here's a heads-up. Keep in mind that this mod puts a larger load on the impeller drive belt. This COULD cause some slippage and rapid wear if the belt tension is not properly maintained. Make sure your auger engagement lever has plenty of tension during operation.

[@GarageGear]

Good to know! Thanks for sharing!

[@ericheyes5558]

Ok calm down ..rember I'm your nabor ..

[@leadnsteel1428]

I just spray turtle wax inside mine it doesen't clog lol

[@firstplt]

last year i installed this mod on my snow blower and it worked wonderfully. Today i went to clear the snow and the impeller and auger would not turn, i leave the snow blower running for a while and out of no where it would work but as soon as i hit wet snow it would stop working. Anyone know what do i should look into in order to fix this issue? i'm an old man with back problems and i can't shovel that much snow.

[@TheLonesometoad]

@@firstplt : Belt slipping from the increased load?

[@johncritch6812]

Ive seen a few videos like this. Your is the best.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks John! Appreciate the positive feedback!

[@rzl07375]

Great stuff. Looking ordering the same snowblower off Amazon you think its worth it after some time with it?

[@GarageGear]

Definitely! If you have a small to medium size driveway it’s perfect! If your driveway is bigger I would consider stepping up to a larger size! Check the link I provided. It should be priced right. Thanks for watching! Happy snowblowing season!

[@sebastianquiros8436]

I've been using this same blower for a year now and for the price you can'tgo wrong. The unit is very reliable and I have used it to clear a 4ft berm and 2-3 ft of snow more than once, only issue is it needs more power. This blower comes with a 2 year warranty, broken belts or parts will be shipped out to you once you register the unit with powersmart. Hope this helps.

[@ptravers9077]

I feel like with the rubber flaps it spread out to much .. kinds feel like the loose snow would be a more of a issue than help .. fine bloing snow is the worst when the wind is blowing .. I will leave mine as is I dont need any more than the 40 feet I already get but cool idea and do see a good use for slush and mixed snow

[@GarageGear]

It’s absolutely awesome in wet snow! Especially at the end of the driveway! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@ariip]

The throwing in both cases was just a plume of dust. You can not tell much of where the snow goes. That is why I prefer my 30 year old snapper big frame 10/30 machines. Maybe it is the chute design or whatever, but if I keep the head down a little the snow comes out in a stream even 30 feet it contained within a small area. That is much more useful when trying to control where it goes. I have an impeller kit installed.

[@GarageGear]

Older machines with an impeller kit work great! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@brianbanks3044]

i wonder if you notched the rubber paddles where the chute bolts hit if that would increase the performance a little more....then you could put the rubber almost touching the impeller wall AND clear the bolt heads...just thinking like you ...great video as always

[@GarageGear]

Good tip with carving out some notches! Believe it or not they actually made their own grooves after a few short uses. Pretty cool! Great minds think alike! 👍

[@joed1244]

It will self cut , so you can out the rubber all the way to the housing and in a little bit it will cut itself . You'll feel the vibration go away

[@miguelruiz8132]

Very good thanks

[@GarageGear]

👍thanks for watching!!!

[@M.TTT.]

Impressive, I may need to add a kit to mine.

[@GarageGear]

I’ve got another video coming out on this this weekend MTTT! Stay tuned! 👍

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

Why did you use such long bolts? Wouldn't shorter just to meet the depth be better? Wouldn't longer lend it to accumulate icing as I see in there without this mod?

[@GarageGear]

Good question! When I ordered this unit I was unsure of how deep the impellers would be so I ordered some slightly longer bolts. I suppose I could have ordered a variety pack of bolts now that I think about it. I have longer bolts on my Ariens too, no worries whatsoever about icing! I guess if you leave the unit outside all the time perhaps that could be an issue. I wouldn’t over think it. It’s never even been a thought for me lol! Thanks for watching!

[@x1124x]

With a 4 fin/wing impeller could you get away with adding the rubber to 2 of the fins? One on each side?

[@GarageGear]

Yes you could do that and it would work well! Thanks for watching !

[@davidcoudriet8439]

Excellent!!

[@GarageGear]

ROCK ON DAVID! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@shawnfuton6746]

Every video I've watched so far is in an area with barely any snow down. We got 35 cm the past three days and the plows, plus drifting, made it all nearly 3 feet high. The plows compact it denser too at the end of your driveway. IDK how that would work here.

[@GarageGear]

I think it actually works best at the end of the driveway! Never clogs up with that impeller kit! It’s works great! If you give it a shot let me know how it works for you!

[@20083500HD]

I have a husqvarna st330p 13 hp snow thrower and it has a cast iron impeller not a sheet metal one will this mod still work

[@GarageGear]

Should work. Drilling may be a little tough get a good bit and you should be good to go! Let me know how it goes. Thanks for watching!

[@racoon5266]

Impressive, thanks for that improvement, just picked up a cub cadet 2 stage, 377 28'' where does one get rubber conveyor belts from. and what is the size you need to cut. what else can one use and that will last. and great Job, Dan

[@GarageGear]

Hey Daniel, there’s some links to some rubber flaps that you can use in the video description. There is also a template link too for sizing. You could also use a mud flap or the sidewall of a tire. Thanks for watching!

[@racoon5266]

@@GarageGear Well my uncle had an old rubber mat about 3/4 thick, I done my two blowers, Cub Cadet and Craftman, with the recent snow we had my cadet blew snow across the yard into neighbors place. Did not try on slush yet, but snow twice as far and eats up any snow pile in front of me.. I had more problems with the Craftman. Even had a step bit. but had to apply lots of pressure to get it done.. I'm very pleased with it all. Bring on the wet Snow....merci

[@GarageGear]

@@racoon5266 Awesome! Glad to hear this worked so well for you! Looks like the thicker rubber flap worked well! Some companies could use a different grade steel on their impellers. Could be the reason for the longer drill time? Excited to hear your results. Just watch out for windows lol!

[@racoon5266]

@@GarageGear Lol, I also do most of my back yard as i have a fire pit, and a black lab with has a cloth line going all the way back for him to run around, plus 4 tempo's so i need to have that all cleared up. When I used to clear it, the snow would go to the a wooden fence, now it blows it past like 10 feet, lol,, hope he does not say anything.. as We are in the country and lots of back yard space. I loved seeing the snow fly out of the cadet, I had a big grin on my face.. I think I probably should wait until they go to bed.. lol again great upgrade. i watched quite a few vids but loved yours the best with the slot cut to fasten the screws in lots of room for adjustments.

[@GarageGear]

@@racoon5266 don’t worry about your neighbors. I put all of my snow in their yard lol! That slot definitely helps with mounting adjustments. You ROCK Daniel!

[@JohnD-JohnD]

I just bought that exact same snowblower from Walmart ($380 with free shipping) Replacing 20 year old craftsman, and waiting for the next snowfall to finally see how it does. Biggest issue I see so far is the chute direction binds up.. Might do some tinkering to see if I can make that work better.. It looks like you did the same thing I did and put some grease on the chute base to see if that helped.. but no, it still hangs up. (Gear teeth poorly mesh and to much play in the design) Other thing I noticed was the sticker on the auger cover shows 40" (101cm) throw? Seems like a typo in a very visible location.. lol And the other issue is the motor documentation is almost non-existent. BUT... Hoping it works well.. Could not even come close to the price, and if it works as yours does, it's well work the qwerks.

[@GarageGear]

Hey John, yes the chute is still kind of an issue. I’m going to try loosening the spring but under the chute control gear to see if that helps. It’s a great 24” blower other than that.

[@MikeTerran1976ova]

How do you like the blower I had a craftsman blower from sears it gave me problems since day one I finally finished it off today with five shots from my Glock give me a review on the blower thank you my friend

[@Andy-im3kj]

Yup I had brand new Craftsman that gave me hell from day 1. Got rid of that piece of junk for an Ariens. Locally made and glad I switched. Never again!

[@GarageGear]

The snowblower works great. Runs and throws just fine! Pumps that stuff right across the street! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@maxxonetwo3]

Thank you Ladies & Gentlemen and now for my next trick. Only kidding.. Nice video.

[@GarageGear]

Lol thanks a lot max! A lot of people have been commenting on the “ladies and gentlemen” saying that they enjoy hearing it. It’s not really said much anymore. Keepin the formalities alive lol! Thanks for watching

[@billiebobbienorton2556]

COOL! ! ! Literally!

[@GarageGear]

I know right?!!!

[@justme8340]

Let me thank you for not blocking the approach to the mailbox 📬 for your Letter Carrier. Even not knowing anything else about you, you are a superior human being, sir!

[@GarageGear]

I look out for the them! You ROCK just me!

[@AndreOutlaw]

I always try to clear the area in front of my mailbox. But I think the plow drives have a beef with you guys. The drift in front of my driveway will only give me a bit of an issue. The one in front of the mailbox seems to be made of permafrost. I actually broke part of the first auger trying to clear it out last year (which is why I'm here watching snowblower videos).

[@mobetterg]

Hello from Harrisburg Pennsylvania 🇺🇸 I have a new Ariens Professional 32” RapidTrak Snowblower will this work on my snowblower also do you have a Amazon link ?

[@jakesonne8109]

If I were you I would keep that snow blower stock. If it ain't broke don't fit it.

[@GarageGear]

All the links are down below in the video description. This modification will work on just about any snowblower! I did this to my Ariens about 8 years ago and it’s worked great ever since! Thanks for watching!

[@bobs6789]

Would shorter bolts decrease any chatter and possibility anything getting caught or are they to counterbalance the newly added flaps or am I overthinking it? Going to try this on a 1993 Craftsman 2 stage.

[@GarageGear]

I wouldn’t really over think it! I just use the same kinds of bolts on all impellers to keep it balanced. Never had an issue with anything getting caught. I don’t think the bolt length plays into it much. Give this modification a whirl and I promise you, you won’t be disappointed! Thanks for watching!

[@joed1244]

Some of the vibration will go away.....if the rubber is hitting the bolts, it will self cut to shape on anything it may be hitting. The vibration will go away.

[@GarageGear]

@@joed1244 thanks for commenting Joe! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@joed1244]

@@GarageGear great video. I enjoyed the detail you went into. Keep up the good work.

[@GarageGear]

@@joed1244 you got it bud!

[@DJ_Driven]

Great 2-stage mod, but I would space it out or use a Dremel grinding wheel or take it to the bench grinder and cut a notch in that washer so it doesn't overlap.

[@GarageGear]

Not a bad tip Dan! This mod works awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@tomtheplummer7322]

Use EOD after snowplow goes by. (End of Driveway). My street never gets plowed. My truck Big Dirty gets into FX4 and makes the trail...

[@GarageGear]

When I filmed this we got very little snow so the timing was a little tough. Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@Andy-im3kj]

I think it's pretty cool to see the only online review of that Powersmart snowblower.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the positive comment Andy! Appreciate it! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@wesmonahan8488]

My stock powersmart does that without that and has Ben a bad ass machine had for two years now zero issues

[@GarageGear]

Glad it’s working well for ya! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@tnttim1973]

Fyi, Silver Mettallic sharpies show up great on black rubber. Also a tri-point drill bit cut a perfect hole in rubber.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing!

[@nycredneck]

I’ve been wanting to do this to my 28” Ariens for several years and my question is why use 1.5” bolts when it seems like 1” or perhaps 3/4” would be long enough?

[@martyfield694]

I used the self tapping screws. I have 4 seasons on them and they are all still there.

[@GarageGear]

I just happened to order those. You could go smaller if need be. 👍

[@GarageGear]

Yep those work well too!

[@rickrick7895]

When the snow turns to slush my yardman clogs up or barely throws it out the shute, this mod might help this issue. thanks.

[@GarageGear]

This will definitely help you out here! It prevents clogging. Mine hasn’t clogged in 9 years since I put it on! Thanks for watching!

[@BIG_JV]

Any reason you are using 1 1/2" long bolts? Seems too long for this modification...Great video! Thanks for sharing! I'll let you know how it goes on my Ariens ST5524E Snowblower!From the Big Apple! 🍎

[@GarageGear]

You could use shorter bolts. Those are just what I happen to have at the moment. Excited to hear about your results! Keep me posted! Just watch out for your neighbors windows lol!

[@f62darkstar]

Just did this mod to my snow blower....is it normal for the impellar drive belt to slip/chirp slightly when you first engage the augers? The impellar made a hell of a noise for the first 15-20 minutes...I was about ready to remove them then it started to quiet down....but the belt chirps when you first engage the auger....it didn't do that before....I assume it will get better as the rubber breaks in further? Would it also be a good idea to clean out the rubber build up in the impellar housing once it's fully broke in?

[@GarageGear]

What’s up Lou! All normal things happening here. Everything should quiet down as you use it more. My belts chirp when engaged from time to time too! The rubber flaps could be tight to the impeller housing but these should break in. If the impeller isn’t spinning when you pull the lever the flaps are extended out too far or blocked by the exit hole for the snow. The rubber marks should also disappear over time. No need to worry about them. I still have some of mine. 👍

[@f62darkstar]

@@GarageGear Thank you Sir....Too bad I have to wait until next winter to try it out....no more snow in the forecast :'(

[@GarageGear]

@@f62darkstar that’s pretty much what happened to me here with this snowblower. Used it one good time and then it was over for the season! You’ll be dominating right away next year!

[@chrissund4889]

Why not set the tolerance for those flaps tighter to housing and just notch out the flaps for those bolt heads?

[@GarageGear]

You could do that! Thanks for sharing

[@coldbloodedking6517]

The for your 212 CC powersmart setup video I got the damn thing and the directions Sucked I had no idea where the cables went and a few other things until I seen your video. We are getting snow now I live in Northern NY 1/12/2021 I am hoping to use it as the lady next door hired me to do hers too....

[@GarageGear]

It’s a great machine for its size! You won’t be disappointed! Thanks for watching!!! Glad the video came in handy too!

[@coldbloodedking6517]

@@GarageGear I subbed too bro

[@GarageGear]

@@coldbloodedking6517 👍 plenty more content coming your way!

[@kiddbrother3]

looks great👍👍👍👍 maybe make can color red the snow with red food die! looks like long island ny! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@GarageGear]

Hey Tim, I did think of this same idea after I filmed this video. Next time around! I’m actually in Buffalo, NY! Thanks for watching! 👍

[@kiddbrother3]

@@GarageGear you get alot of snow!! 👍 On Long island we have been getting more than we use to get ❄️❄️❄️❄️

[@Falinzin]

Eh, my Airens 24" Platinium SHO was only twice as expensive (Paid $1100) buying during the summer from a local dealer, and it'll throw 18 inches of compacted ice and snow 55 feet, plus I can trust it season after season. This looks pretty solid for $500 and some mods... but I think for a long term investment anyone would be better off buying an Airens first, they last.

[@GarageGear]

Ariens does make a sturdy machine! I got one sitting in the background! Well built! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@MrMattDat]

Nice video! Why not just groove the flaps to allow clearance over those bolt heads? It looked like you would still get considerable contact between the bolts.

[@GarageGear]

Not a bad idea! Everything is worn in properly at this point. Throws like a beast! Thanks for watching Matt!

[@azzir325]

One suggestion for your impeller installation. Notch the impeller blades for the bolt heads inside the chute for closer tolerance.

[@GarageGear]

Good tip! Thanks for sharing

[@johngalt97]

I'd guess manufacturers leave a gap for rocks, branches, and frozen chunks, and the impeller is one piece to avoid projectile parts.

[@GarageGear]

I think you’re right! Thanks for watching!

[@davidgoodwin5354]

I bought a Powersmart MOWER on amazon it kicks serious ass with power and a nice clean cut. It out performs any snapper! Snow Blower Olympics, anyone?

[@GarageGear]

I’m tempted to give one of their mowers a shot. Thanks for the info. I’d be down for the snowblower Olympics lol! Thanks for watching David!

[@doanadengle7994]

Wipe on car ceramic paint sealer on all parts that come in contact with snow including the shute , snow and ice will not stick for the whole season

[@GarageGear]

Good tip! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@iffykidmn8170]

Fleet Farm or Tractor Supply usually has rubber baler belt for sale by the foot in different widths.

[@GarageGear]

Good to know! Thanks for sharing! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@Crewsy]

“Pro” Tip #1 Leave the long length of rubber for your non dominant hand to hold while using the knife to cut the rubber. “Pro” Tip #2 Use a silver Sharpie when trying to show marks on black metal. As for how well it worked. You may have thrown ice chunks further but the wide angle camera shot clearly shows most of the snow only going about the same distance as without the rubber flaps.

[@chrisb9960]

I noticed the stray bits going just as far on the first run as well. I don’t see any benefit to this modification. If the snow builds up inside of where the blades are it will only build up so much. I wouldn’t want to have the rubber flaps put undue wear on the bearings either. It would void the warranty.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for watching

[@kjell-richardlvdal373]

I see the rubber flap is out of stock, do you have an other link to where i can buy rubber flap, and what shore it isthinking of doing the same on my Canadiana 1032 old workhorse

[@GarageGear]

Hey bud, I added 2 more rubber flap links. They must be restocking the other at the moment. Thanks for the heads up!

[@richardcdldriver]

Mud flap

[@joed1244]

Go to your local auto parts store and buy a quality mud flap and cut it out of it.

[@witherow321]

I did this for the first time in about 1996 with a semi truck mud flap it will stop build up and shoot plugging for sure

[@GarageGear]

It’s a big help in heavy wet snow! Thanks for watching!

[@K1DTC]

Wonder why they have a gap from the factory!!!?? How many CC is that machine

[@GarageGear]

Haha I think it’s an unsolved mystery! 212cc! Thanks for watching!

[@firstplt]

last year i installed this mod on my snow blower and it worked wonderfully. Today i went to clear the snow and the impeller and auger would not turn, i leave the snow blower running for a while and out of no where it would work but as soon as i hit wet snow it would stop working. Anyone know what do i should look into in order to fix this issue? i'm an old man with back problems and i can't shovel that much snow.

[@GarageGear]

I think you need to give your belts a check possibly. If nothing is turning that could be the reason why. Thanks for watching!

[@gv8262]

Worn out Worm gear maybe

[@GarageGear]

@@gv8262 that could very well be the problem as well! Listen carefully for any noise or grinding next time you run it.

[@mtcman42]

If you have an Ariens snow blower, there is a possible reason for this. #1 - They only have one belt driving the impeller and so they make a dual belt kit to correct a slipping problem and #2 - They have a problem with water coming off of the back of the engine and it drips down onto the impeller drive belt. They make a little deflector plate to stop the water from getting to the belt. So, if you have a single drive belt and no defector plate, that could be your problem. I installed both on my Ariens 926LE along with the impeller mod and no more problems. I can fill my neighbor's pickup across the street. If you leave your snowblower outside after use, snow can freeze behind the impeller and that will keep it from turning. Do you smell burning rubber, or hear squealing? It could be the adjustment for the idler pulley needs attention. Belts will stretch over time.

[@GarageGear]

@@mtcman42 thanks again for sharing this information and helping us all out mtc!

[@wilsonchandler]

Really like this option you introduced here, noticed you live in New York what part of NY are you in if you don’t mind me asking ?

[@GarageGear]

I’m just outside of Buffalo! Usually we have more snow than this but last season was weird with snow! You from NY?

[@wilsonchandler]

No I’m originally from Alabama moved to Florida now me and my family live here in the Syracuse area and I have that same exact snow blower I like the pencil method you showed I am gonna have to try that

[@GarageGear]

Welcome to the world of snow lol! It’s a good snowblower! Gets the job done! Yep that pencil trick works great! Don’t want to damage that gear box and plus it gives you equal clearance! Nice to have ya as a nearby neighbor! Thanks for being a fan of the channel!

[@wilsonchandler]

@@GarageGear you’re welcome and I sent you a email as well

[@josephpuchel6497]

Hey Nice video I have thought about this but my snowblowers already throw snow pretty far without modification. I do say I spray silicone , WD 40 , Fluid Film inside the auger box and chute and it helps out tremendously

[@GarageGear]

Hey Joseph! Spraying it down is a good idea! Keeps things moving inside. Thanks for watching my friend! 👍

[@waynem.7226]

I was almost ready to jump on Amazon's Buy Now button for this machine but realized inflation, demand and/or greed has hit this sticker price too. Maybe it will be cheaper than $700 in June. Good detailed video bud.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks a lot Wayne! I caught a deal on mine once February rolled around. Keep an eye on it. Thanks for your positive feedback my friend! 👍

[@Navigator777777]

Buying cheap, IMHO, is the most expensive. Buy a Honda!

[@magicmark456]

Handy hint: Why not grease the shroud that the shoot sits on while you have it off?

[@GarageGear]

Good tip! Thanks for sharing!

[@mtcman42]

I've done this mod to about a half dozen snow blowers in my neighborhood and have changed my method a little each time. (Still cutting rubber pads from the same truck sized mud flap I got off the side of the road many years ago.) I stopped drilling holes in the metal impeller and using bolts and nuts a long time ago. Now I just fit the rubber to the impeller blade, drill one 1/4" dia. hole in it and attach it to the impeller blade with a 1" dia. fender washer and a 5/16" regular self-tapping screw. Never had one come off because the force is pressing the rubber against the blade and not pulling it away. Another little trick was to chamfer the leading edge of the rubber a little on a belt sander to ease the seating in and help prevent it from initially catching on any uneven edges while it wears in. I use a little silicone spray for initial startup, and that's it. GL

[@GarageGear]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing this mtc!

[@biblethumpr2161]

Apply spray on wipe off car wax on all contact areas for super slip. surfaces.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing!

[@nachospopthe3rd564]

I will be doing this but cutting notches in the pads for those bolts

[@GarageGear]

Good idea! Keep me posted on your results! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@nachospopthe3rd564]

@@GarageGear hey dude I just got it done works fantastic just clipped a small notch for those bolts and the rubber fits nice and flush

[@GarageGear]

@@nachospopthe3rd564 that’s awesome nacho! Now go toss all that snow over to your neighbors house! Lol! Have fun plowing! 👍

[@nachospopthe3rd564]

@@GarageGear high five dude ! Best instructions ever

[@GarageGear]

@@nachospopthe3rd564 you ROCK nacho!

[@SELondonUSA]

Another thorough "how to" video from JB. Seven years doing a perfect job is impressive. For the less capable or poorly-equipped handymen out there, I wonder why snowblower manufacturers or enterprising mechanics don't provide kits tailored for the machines. Many things to consider, including different impeller designs, templates for the impeller holes, and the rubber blades and hardware. A big question is how will this modification affect the life of any given brand and type of blower and the manufacturer's product liability insurance. Even bigger question is what liability rests on the owner (using a kit or making one him/herself) if the mod and/or the machine itself breaks apart and causes bodily injury or property damage. Sh!t happens! Any knowledge of such, JB?

[@jimmcgovern8783]

People sell them on Amazon.

[@GarageGear]

Hey SEL! Done this procedure on dozens of snowblowers over the years.. No issues to report whatsoever! If anything were to happen I’ll be the first to shoot a video on it! I’ve actually seen some kits out there now but still think it’s easier to make your own given the differences in many models! You ROCK bud!

[@SELondonUSA]

@@GarageGear Thanks to you and Jim McG for the replies. Followed your winter prep routine to the letter and had a chance to use the machine during December 16/17 snowstorm in Northern New Jersey. Did it it two passes 4" and 4". Handled the light and fluffy stuff and the frozen concrete stuff that the dang snowplows throw on my driveway to a depth of at least 10". Slow and steady is the winning technique on the latter. No clogs whatsoever. I will rig the impeller flaps before next season - no garage. Keep up the great work!

[@GarageGear]

@@SELondonUSA Glad that blower worked like a champ for ya! Wait until you put that impeller Kit on. You’ll wonder why you didn’t put it on sooner.

[@khwajaahmadhasan9388]

Hi, I just bought this exact snow blower. When I was doing a trial run, I had a hard time with steering. Even in neutral, both the wheels want to turn only one way. Either both forward or both backwards. Do you have the same issue? Do you have a solution for it?

[@GarageGear]

Hey khwaja I’m pretty sure that is the way they are designed. They are a cheap snowblower in every sense of the word. The wheels are not designed to spin independently. So they only roll forward or backward making turns awkward. Some of their higher models have that easier steering capability. Thanks for watching!

[@j887276]

Only thing I noticed that might affect performance is the tire shape. These tires are round, whereas the expensive ones are flat and wide. I wonder if that will affect traction?

[@j887276]

Not sure about dominating the neighbor, but I've owned my house almost 9 years now. Every winter we have been shoveling the driveway and parking the cars close to the road so they don't get stuck. Not going to lie, when it's 3 feet of snow I did feel sad seeing the neighbor with a snowblower while I was out there shoveling in the freezing cold for hours. I hope this snowblower works good and lasts a long time.

[@GarageGear]

Some snowblowers have track systems like you see on a tank. Those are generally better for gravel driveways. I think those are what you’re referring to. Thanks for watching!

[@GarageGear]

@@j887276 hey Matthew, I think you’ll be more than happy when you get hit with a lot of snow and you’re clearing your driveway quickly! Thanks for watching my friend!

[@johndii2194]

27:20 Did they just repave the road? Why is it so clean? We have salt and sand on our roads after a snowstorm.

[@GarageGear]

The street was wet! Trust me we got plenty of salt on the roads too!

[@franekwojciechowski9382]

I’m assuming modifying your snowblower in this manner, may void your warranty ?

[@GarageGear]

Possibly? Is your blower still under warranty?

[@l337pwnage]

TBH, the best mod I ever did was change the impeller pulley on my old one. When from a 9" to a 6" giving me about a 30% overdrive. I thought about the impeller mod, but I just didn't need it anymore. At first I thought the overdrive might cause the blower to plug more, but the opposite was true. Plus, my old blower already had about an 1/8" gap stock. When I got my new blower (years ago now, lol), I noticed it had about a 3/4" in gap, so, again, I thought about the impeller mod. Now, as a background, when I'm done blowing, I brush it off, brush out the inside of the housing, run it to clear it out, then put it in an unheated garage with the front up on 2x4's. I do not put it away spotless. The smaller impeller one wouldn't freeze up every time from that, but often enough that I would have to check the impeller to see if it was frozen before starting it. With the larger gap, my new one has not frozen yet. So I tolerate the disadvantages of the larger gap, which is chiefly that in very low amounts of snow, it hardly throws it at all. You need enough snow to fill the machine for it to throw max distance, which, at my current place, can reach the neighbors lot, lol.

[@GarageGear]

Sounds like that new pulley really worked out for you and can really chuck it! Was the pulley expensive or hard to find?

[@l337pwnage]

@@GarageGear No, I think it was only a few dollars at a farm store. I got lucky. That old Ariens was built in such a way that the stock pulley bolted, with 3 bolts, onto the bracket that went on the blower shaft. So, all I had to do was buy a generic farm pulley, make sure to drill the 3 bolt holes in it so that it was centered when bolted on, and I was all set. I also did modify the "safety" brake so that it would still work, kinda, but those brakes, especially those early versions, didn't really do much. Some brands, Husqvarna is one, sell "overdrive kits" for some of their blowers, but they increase the size of the engine pulley so that it does not affect the brake, which is on the blower pulley. I believe the Airens SHO's use an "overdrive" also, but I don't think you can get that as a kit, and those blowers also use a stronger impeller and larger engines with the speed increase. It worked great, but it did have one down side. It threw snow far, but it through rocks *really* far. I learned to not run the deflector wide open anymore, I always had it deflected down at least the slightest bit. That was another thing I noticed with my newer large impeller gap blower that I bought after that one. It would not throw rocks or ice chunks as far because they would slide off the end of the paddle and bounce around before popping out. It made a racket, but it usually didn't send it flying. Although ice it would sometimes because an ice chunk can be really light sometimes.

[@tcap7917]

Overdriving the impeller sounds good in theory but what about the consequences if any? The impeller isn't balanced and probably isn't a concern with its intended design rotation speed (and this is made worse by adding rubber and hardware). Increasing the rpm of the impeller beyond its design may cause excessive wear to bushings/bearings. Failure of a bad weld on a blade could let go. Just be mindful and careful.

[@GarageGear]

@@tcap7917 thanks for sharing this information! It is important to be mindful of what could happen!

[@l337pwnage]

@@tcap7917 well, they are no more balanced than a lawn mower blade. They are not very high speed. That is something someone should always consider. In the case of those old flat head engines, they typically run around 3,600 rpm. Based on that, I estimate I increased the impeller speed from 1,200 rpms to 1,800 rpms, not exactly setting the world on fire, but enough to make a large difference when using it. Keep in mind also, this was an older Ariens when they still used ball bearings on the impeller and auger shafts which will handle higher rpms much better than bushings. These people that do modern engine swaps on old blowers and notice the performance increase, some don't realize that partly comes from the fact that some of these newer OHV small engines turn about 4,100 rpms instead of the 3,600 rpm engine they replaced. Speaking of balance and broken impellers, I had a friend with an old Gilson and one of the blades was broken off their 4 blade impeller. He had the impeller replaced, but the machine failed in the driveling a few years later. He regretted replacing the impeller, but I asked, "didn't it vibrate like crazy?" He indicated it didn't vibrate enough to bother him, which surprised me.

[@pana19561]

Like mostly that it will clear wet snow. I dont think the distance matters, point is to get the snow blown away from your driveway...CAUTION if a problem occurs mod done may void warranty...

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for watching!

[@archangel20031]

A perfect example of fixing something that was not broken!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for watching!

[@archangel20031]

@@GarageGear You should try fixing something more like my Craftsman 5/20 tread blower, that thing is freaking anemic! It throws the snow something like 10 or 15 feet!

[@GarageGear]

@@archangel20031 I’ll see what I can! Perhaps I can grab one on Craigslist for cheap! Thanks for checking out my channel!