HOW TO MAKE YOUR SNOWBLOWER LAST A LIFETIME - Easy New Snowblower Unboxing Assembly Maintenance Tips

#New #Snowblower #Lifetime
MAKE YOUR SNOWBLOWER LAST A LIFETIME. Out of the Box and into your Garage. Watch and see how I take a brand new $499 PowerSmart Snowblower from Amazon (Now on sale for $399.). and perform a few simple steps that will help it last a very long time. This snowblower was shipped to my house, unboxed and assembled. Watch the next level tips to see how to make your snowblower really last! LIKE and SUBSCRIBE! Thanks for watching.
TIME STAMPS:
Unboxing and Assembly 1:18
Next Level Tips 22:50
CONTACT INFO:
[e-mail]
Instagram - Garagegearjb
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5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil amzn.to/2PiEyXo
CRC White Lithium Grease amzn.to/2SQ4gVz
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WD-40 amzn.to/38MWxgp
Anti-Seize amzn.to/2SQM4eh
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Pittsburgh Tools 225 Piece Socket Set amzn.to/2SQcHA0
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Check out my other videos for other helpful Garage Gear Tips and Tricks.
LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE!
Questions?
Comments?
Leave them below!

[@SIAFU]

Great video! Most thorough hands down snow blower tutorial ever. Loved the pro tips, really helpful. Thanks JB.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the positive feedback Zen! I appreciate it! Glad you found this video helpful!

[@MichaelRei99]

@@GarageGeardid you end up loosening the spring tension on that chute to make it work better?

[@GarageGear]

@@MichaelRei99 you could do that but I ended up selling that unit 3 years ago!

[@jeffklaubo3168]

We lived up in Gary Indiana as a kid and every year it would snow so much, on average dropping 18" over night. My dad would shovel the driveway several times during the day and even middle of the night. Until after years of this he decided to cave and bought the best snowblower he could find, spent $1000 on it. It never snowed more than a couple inches the next 6 years we lived there. I jokingly said to him hows it feel to spend that much money on it and never just to have it sit there doing nothing and never getting to use it. Without missing a beat he said "are you kidding? Best $1000 I ever spent"

[@GarageGear]

Hahaha! My dad is the same way! Must take years of shoveling I guess to understand how easy they have it now with a big snowblower! Thanks for sharing!

[@kapaul1584]

I have an Ariens snow blower built in 1960 that I have used for about 35 years. Its crazy, this thing is 60 years old and has never broke down. It always starts on the 1st or second pull, even after sitting a summer. It has an all gear drive, so no rubber wheel to fail and no safety latches to hold down which is really nice. The only thing I have replaced on it is the pull cord and a couple shear pins when I sucked the Christmas lights off a bush.

[@GarageGear]

Wow! That’s awesome! You gotta send me a picture of this beast! My email is [e-mail]! I’d love to see this thing! Thanks for sharing!

[@GraceEngineering]

Christmas tree lights. 😂😂😂 You made my day. Lol

[@kapaul1584]

@@GraceEngineering Ever since then my wife will no longer put lights on the bushes, no trust.

[@ralphleyva4908]

Using synthetic oil is a great idea but you need to break-in the motor first. Use regular oil until the engine has been broke-in. This gives the engine time to seat the rings and the rod bearings. Synthetic oil is designed to stop the wear we actually want to happen during the engine break-in period.

[@GarageGear]

Good tip here! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@robertcrawford8180]

Ok I’ll be

[@JollyGreen79]

Agreed. My small engine guy said just stick with conventional oil in small engines.

[@jessiec99]

Thank you so much for this video!!! First time owning a snowblower and had no idea about how to do with this thing. After your video, we feel much more confident!! Thank you!!

[@GarageGear]

Glad you are more confident with your snowblower thanks to this video! I’ll have more like it coming down the road! Stay tuned!

[@Trainman0401]

Never heard of this brand but impressed on the packaging. Thanks for all the good tips.

[@GarageGear]

They’ve been around for a few years now! You got it! 👍 thanks for watching Larry!

[@saraschultz4608]

What a super helpful, easy to follow video! This same machine is due to be delivered to my home this week. I'll employ all the helpful tips! Thanks!!

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Sara! I’m excited for your purchase! I’m glad you found this video helpful! Enjoy moving snow with ease this winter! Thanks for watching! 👍

[@69voxbeetle]

Do appreciate ALL the helpful tips. I feel like I actually learned something today. Thank you.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome my friend! Take care of your equipment and it will take care of you!

[@billiebobbienorton2556]

Thanks for confirming my decision for purchasing the PowerSmart snow machine. Prior to adding the rubber pieces slushy snow clogged the chute. Afterwards, never once had a problem. I bought a "Blacktop sealer squeegee" from Lowes ~$10.00 See below. I drilled out the rivets for the rubber "flaps", and cut the metal part the same length as the flaps and placed them across the top of the flaps for extra holding, and of course bolted them in. When things warm up a bit I'll be greasing and spraying the parts I didn't do, that you suggested. Other hints: Using a paint pen I wrote the oil amount (20 oz) next to the dip stick. I shoved a block of wood in the impeller area to hold the impeller from moving during drilling (and prevent drilling thru my fingers - once in my life was enough!). Finally, although difficult to explain, I cut pieces of left over vinyl fence post to put over the metal casters (curling up the ends). It made running the machine over rough surfaces a lot easier and doesn't leave scrap marks. Depending on the amount of snow falls it lasts about 2 - 3 seasons. I added snow chains for extra traction, they helped on upward inclines. You got a GREAT deal on the snow blower!!! Love your site. Loews squeegee info (I have no financial or other interests in Lowes) www.lowes.com/pd/Blue-Hawk-1-67-in-Asphalt-Squeegee/4776237?cm_mmc=shp-cprdbdmgooglelia-103-drivewaysealers-4776237-_-0&placeholder=null&ds_rl=1286981&gclid=Cj0KCQiApsiBBhCKARIsAN8o_4guUizsgPiZQM3NE_eWwgtuezEXkrfvoGJLUPBYzojjZCbDNA4ASVwaAtkrEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

[@GarageGear]

Thanks again Billy! These are some good tips and tricks here! The PowerSmart snowblower is a decent machine!!! It’s a great value! I like your skid idea as well! Thanks for sharing!

[@willfreiwah3773]

Very thorough as usual. As a current owner of an older powersmart snowblower (Model # DB7651-24) I have found the following : handles for movement and auger vibrates a lot. Use electrical tape on main handles to insulate where they touch. Paint on my bucket fell off due to rust after 2nd year (clean, use rust paint). Scraper bar rusts like crazy. Its a very good workhorse (nicknamed it the Beast) but realize its cheap for a reason :-). BTW Amerisum Customer service is reasonably good !!!!

[@GarageGear]

Hey William, I will make note of this. I raised the scraper bar up a quarter of an inch to avoid so much ground friction. I have contacted their customer service department and they are very helpful! Thanks for the comment. You ROCK!

[@Bostonaholic]

Bought a couple of those form-a-funnels thanks to this video and your links! These will definitely come in handy!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for supporting my channel Matthew! I greatly appreciate it! I use those form a funnels for so many jobs in the garage it’s crazy! 1 tool 1,000,000 uses! Thanks for being a cool fan!

[@batboy242]

Thank You ,wonderful info!

[@GarageGear]

Glad you found this video helpful! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@howellj77]

Thanks JB, just got one of these units from my kids for Christmas. Thanks especially for the pro tips. Very helpful!

[@GarageGear]

Very cool Jeff! I’m finding that this snowblower is gaining popularity! Glad you found this video helpful and thanks for checking out the channel! 👍

[@cliffhill5058]

JB ...Very cool.Thanks

[@GarageGear]

You got it my friend! Thanks for watching cliff!

[@kenczerwinski3006]

When I buy fresh gas, as soon as I get home, I put Stabil in the gas. That way, even if it sits in the snowblower for a couple months, it is still good. I also spray down all surfaces, auger, chute, impeller, etc. with automotive silicone spray - snow doesn't stick. Spray it a few times each season. I have a 45 year old 20" Toro single stage and a 21 year old Craftsman 26" two-stage, both still running strong. Good maintenance is critical. I'm in the northern Illinois area so get quite a lot of snow. I enjoyed the video. Thanks.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing and for watching Ken! 👍

[@hermanwooster8944]

I came here after watching a bunch of videos on electric snowblowers. I can appreciate the design and power that gas snowblowers have. Very fascinating, although I fear we're going to forget these tuneup skills in about 50 years.

[@GarageGear]

These tune up skills are already becoming a thing of the past if you ask me! No one likes to get their hands dirty anymore lol. Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@TheOzthewiz]

50yrs? Try 10yrs!

[@yaoypl]

It's the most useful video I have seen about the snowblower. Thank you!

[@GarageGear]

Glad you found this video useful! Thanks for watching Michael!

[@CM-dc3ly]

Better than the official videos, thank you.

[@GarageGear]

Glad you found this video helpful CM! Thanks for watching!

[@bobgrantavp4735]

A very informative and practical video. Thank you so much for taking the time to provide. The comments provided by others was also helpful.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the positive feedback Bob! Appreciate it! Thanks for watching!

[@JMillStead26]

Thank you so much. I watch about 10 tutorials before I found yours Grrr lol I was very confused, Took me 2 days of 4 hours each, one to unbox. lol Found yours right before I was starting on the last day, but so glad I did because if it weren't for you it would still be sitting unused. You were the only one who I could see hook the two cables up. Also, I had to use the WD40 to get the tiny screw on the auger cable to work or I would not have been able to attach the center ends together. Big THANK YOU🤩👍🏼.. Really appreciate your tips So I hope to not burn any more up lol. This is my third one in 12 years. 😫

[@GarageGear]

Hey Mae, glad you found these tips helpful! Awesome job on yours! If you have any more questions feel free to reach out! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@f62darkstar]

Believe it or not I went to put anti-seize on my new craftsman 28" snow blower axles after seeing this tip and the factory had already done it! I was surprised....Thanks for the tips.

[@GarageGear]

Wow can’t believe they did that! Thanks for watching Lou!

[@kensmith6708]

Hey J.B. I put grease on all the nuts and bolts on any bare metal. I put grease on the wheel shafts and the shaft inside the gear box too and even coat the gear with a light film. I oil my wheel bearings too there brass the new ones are plastic my snowblower is 26 years old and still looks and runs like new. I really like your videos they're nicely done and you cover everything. Thanks for sharing.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Ken! Really cool that your snowblower is still going strong 26 years later. Sounds like you do a great job caring for it. Appreciate the positive feedback my friend! A lot of time goes into each video! Thanks for being a cool fan of the channel! 👍

[@wildmanofthewynooch7028]

Very informative moving from a temperate climate of no snow to one of getting several feet of snow. Using a snow shovel at my age wasn’t an option. They don’t sell Ariens near me. I didn’t want to buy from a box store. So my options were Toro or Cub cadet. I went with Toro since my lawnmower is a Toro and I had it since 1990. Anyway thanks for all the break In tips to keep it running for ever. Oil is cheap a blower isn’t. I changed my oil after break in and after three hours of use. Now change it in the spring.

[@GarageGear]

You got it wild man. What kind of toro mower have you had since 1990? Thanks for sharing and watching!

[@wildmanofthewynooch7028]

@@GarageGear personal pace with a Briggs and Stratton 6 horse power. My wife talked me into buying a new one. Since my old one likes to smoke a bit. But if one does the simple things like you showed in the video any piece of equipment will last.

[@JollyGreen79]

All in all a great video and very valuable info. I usually just run my machine for a month and change the oil on a new machine. This all depends on how much I use it. I generally run it a couple hours or so at first then change the oil. After that I just change it once a season when I put it away. Also, you don't want your tires quite so full. My snow removal buddy told me to only put about 4-6 psi in the tires. It grips a lot better and I have way better traction. As far as coating your auger housing I recommend using a ceramic coating. It lasts A LOT longer. Maguires makes a great spray on ceramic coating.

[@GarageGear]

Great tips here Zach! I’ll check out the McGuiars spray coating! Thanks for watching!

[@loufresquez8031]

Great video very informative first time home owner will use the tips to help mine last longer. Thanks

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Lou! These tips are good for most snowblowers! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@kjell-richardlvdal373]

this was actually a very good instruction to follow when I get my new snowblower

[@GarageGear]

Kjell-Richard Løvdal glad you found this helpful! I tried to cover as much as possible.

[@brucesteger2699]

First off, I bought my Troy Bilt model 2410 for $599 assembled with the engine already broken in full of oil at Home Depot 1 1/2 years ago! Second, it is fully made in America with Tecumseh of Wisconsin making the engines to Troy Bilt spec's! Third, it is one of the most reliable snow blower made comparing it the the top five brands. Fourth, parts are easy to get if something does break because it's made in America. Fifth, my neighbor here in Lake Tahoe has an older version of my snow blower going strong after 20 Sierra Nevada Mountain winters. And six , WD 40 is the worst lube to use as it eventually will evaporate and it is banded from all Ryder truck shops as it is crap! Silicone with Teflon spray is the bomb. The grease you used is great!

[@madhav0821]

Awesome unboxing Video with Install instructions + Maintenance TIPS "all" in ONE video. I bought this same brand 24" 2 stage Snow blower 2 years ago (wish this video was published then ;) After seeing your Video, just went through those Maintenance Tips. Much Appreciated.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome my friend! Cool thing is most of these tips are good most other snowblowers too! 👍

[@tasminisgenious]

That’s very detailed instruction man. Thank u indeed.

[@GarageGear]

Glad you found this helpful! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@gordonloewen7194]

Thanks JB. Exactly the tips and tricks I was hoping to find.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Gordon! Came to the right spot. Thanks for watching!

[@Jared_Albert]

Thank you

[@GarageGear]

You got it Jared thanks for watching!

[@benstr8156]

At the beginning of every Fall, I come back here to review what I need to do. Thanks!

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Ben! Appreciate you bud! Thanks for watching as always bud!

[@mangbeloy]

Great video just assembled mine today now praying that we good snow here in Jersey.. Happy new year!!!

[@GarageGear]

You won’t be disappointed! Thanks for checking out my channel and same to you!

[@thomasdixon262]

Great review. Finally found someone who had the same unit as mine. One point - in the manual it says that you measure the oil without screwing the cap on - just supposed to set the dipstick in without screwing it in. Also I noticed that when you took off the left and right wheels, there was only a washer on the right wheel axle, just like mine. I had PowerSmart send me a washer for the left side wheel. I've been very impressed with PowerSmart's support team.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Thomas, thanks for the tips! Enjoy your new snowblower and yes they do have a great support team! Thanks for watching!

[@RM-ub1xd]

Awesome video man! Your a smart guy it's all about preventive maintenance. You just helped me out alot!

[@GarageGear]

Hey RM, glad you found this video helpful! Appreciate the positive feedback! Thanks for checking out my channel! 👍

[@ohenry4834]

Thanks...

[@GarageGear]

👍 you got it! Thanks for watching!

[@evictioncarpentry2628]

I had a new state of the art blower and I sold it. I've still got my original craftsman thats pushing 20 years old. Runs like a top. Probably only changed the oil in it 2 or 3 times. Has Electric start, but I don't even need to use it. Starts first or second pull. Replaced the tires with new ones. Replaced useless halogen with a 6inch LED light (capacitor mod to stop flickering) nearly zero rust on it surprisingly. I plan to add an electric actuator for chute angle control, I'll use it until the motor blows up.

[@GarageGear]

Runs like a champ! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@edgardomatos6923]

great refresh course . nice jb.thank u

[@GarageGear]

You got it edgardo! Thanks for watching!

[@JJ-bz9tk]

Awesome THANK YOU

[@GarageGear]

👍 you got it! Glad you liked the video! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@goaheadmakeourdayscooterpe9644]

Using a good synthetic engine oil and on mine on housing for the 2 main auger bushings I drilled and tapped for grease fittings. Have a MTD 1028 still going strong bought in 1995.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing and for checking out my channel!

[@wtbvideofan]

Great video. I have the same PowerSmart 24 In 2 Stage. I just broke-in the engine and it runs great. I'll do the hacks you mentioned in the video. Great stuff. I haven't had as much trouble with changing the direction of the chute. Yes, it clicks, but much smoother than what you're experiencing. It doesn't seem right. I'll be keeping your video as a favorite. Thanks.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome wt! Thanks for watching!

[@barewallpaintingj6545]

Picked that up on clearance at home Depot yesterday for 150. Great machine

[@GarageGear]

That’s awesome! What a deal! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@dgordon130]

Great tips sir!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks D for watching!

[@r.d.8480]

Thanks alot JB, just got my Powersmart i’ll lube it up tomorrow! Awesome video! 5 stars !

[@GarageGear]

Thanks a lot RD! Let me know how it throws for you! 👍

[@hanisameer774]

Thank You

[@GarageGear]

You’re welcome! 👍

[@ferdinandmartin147]

it was a very good and educational instructions and tips

[@GarageGear]

Glad you found this helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@carldale7048]

Great video! Had mine delivered yesterday and wish they had sent this along with the instructions that include very small sketches. Most of the steps are fairly intuitive, but this was super helpful for a couple that I couldn't quite figure out. Thanks.

[@GarageGear]

Excellent!!! Glad you found this video very helpful! I have a few other videos here on my channel to check out with plenty more tips! Be sure to subscribe! Thanks for watching!

[@nachospopthe3rd564]

O.p. highly recommend the impeller kit video he did on this model

[@Dawt_Calm]

I've had one of these Powersmarts for a few years. 1. Check the gear box by the auger blades. Mine only had a smear of grease in it when I got it. Fill it with gear oil to make it last longer. 2. Keep plenty of shear bolts on hand. (I swear mine starts throwing shear bolts when I look at a stick while using it) 3. Keep a couple of replacement valve stems on hand for the tires. Those stems are cheapo and will crack and leak within the first couple years. 4. DON'T overfill the oil. Get it exactly as shown in this video. If you overfill these engines, even a little, you'll have nothing but headaches trying to run it. 5. Make sure you know how to adjust OHV valves. It's not hard. These engines are very temperamental about valves. If your valves go out of whack a bit the engine wont start. Mine felt like it had no compression at all. (I only had to adjust mine once during the first season. Been okay since then) 6. I found some of the gaskets to be sub par, they wear out. Like the gaskets on the float bowl ring and retaining bolt. They were cheap plastic that crushed easily and didn't sit quite right when you go to put the float bowl back on. (They might have changed that I dunno) 7. Great suggestion using lithium grease on those auger blades. It might sound like a pain the butt, but if you bought a Powersmart you bought cheapo, you should disassemble the auger blades, take them apart and grease the hell out of it if you want one of these units to last. They use cheapo plastic spacers in between the auger blades that need every bit of help you can give them. (I made a rubber nipple that goes onto the shear bolt hole so I can pump grease into it while putting my finger on the opposite side. Works with any machine actually) 7B. Learn exactly how the auger blades look/align with each other, because they can bend from time to time. If they do bend they'll start grinding on the housing, you'll hear it when it happens. Learn to bend them back. 7C. Pack the bearings at each end of the auger blades well. 8. If you're not using non ethanol gas, use stabilizer. At the end of the season run it out of gas, empty the float bowl. These engines are prone to rust. corrosion and buildup if you leave fuel in them in the off season. The fuel tank seems to do okay, but the carb is temperamental if you leave fuel in them. Just like any engine. These Amerisun/Powersmart engines are designed with cast iron piston sleeves. It's a cost saving process for manufacturing, but it also makes for a long lasting engine as long as they don't overheat. So be careful about running these engines in warm temperatures in the off season. The break in period is VERY important, don't skip it. What you're doing is grinding the cast iron piston sleeve and piston ring to fit each other. You don't want to overwork the machine during that break in period. He did it right here. Only thing I'd add is that I use a rare earth magnet down at the base of the engine by the drain during the break in period. I do that on all new machines. That way all the metal flakes get pulled down into the drain. Remove the magnet just before draining and the metal comes out during the first change. I just use some rare earth magnets I got from an old computer hard drive.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing this! 👍

[@chuckbatdorf7393]

Very good video! My Powersmart has been in use for two winters now and its a great machine. I too had a problem with the gear box for the for changing the chute direction. Why the manufacturer did not address the is a mystery. My machine is a different model (7124) and the gear assembly is a sprocket (not teeth) that is controlled by a worm. It had lots of friction at the gear and the seat for the chute. I solved the problem by adding a plastic washer between the mount and the assembly arm. This raised the chute slightly taking the full weight off of the seat. I lubed the worm, and chute seat and the problem was solved. It's also a good idea to check all bolts and nuts after first use and at the start of each season, more often if the use is heavy.

[@GarageGear]

Thank you for the positive feedback Chuck! I appreciate it! Also, thanks for sharing your chute tips. It seems it’s just a poor design. Thanks for watching! 👍

[@rickp3374]

Great vid. I bought a can of WD-40 Big Blast last year dedicated for the snow blower. It's nice to quickly apply a wide, even coating to the augers, impeller, housing, chute etc.

[@GarageGear]

Works great! 👍

[@RAMPHD]

Brilliant - think of the cost of time/materials - and life of machine! I have an Ariens Delice 28 beast. 2012 I believe. Eats snow. Now to keep her humming beyond my usual full synthetic oil changes and waxing! Thank you for sharing!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the positive feedback Richard! I appreciate it!

[@papiwe1]

Very helpful

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for watching Pap!

[@paulvoong0905]

thank you JB! very useful pro tips! love all your videos!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks Paul! Plenty more content coming your way! 👍

[@user-qx6iq9xs1p]

JB, thank you for this video. I had been looking for a snowblower for this year's winter and had seen this model on Home DePot's website. When researching this make and model I found your video. I watched it 2 times and decided to make the purchase. Setting it up was such a breeze because of how thorough your instructions were. Great job, I'm all set up for this Winter. Brian

[@GarageGear]

That’s Awesome Brian! Glad you found this video helpful! That machine should hold up for a very long time! I’m excited for you to give it a shot when the flakes start to fly! Thanks for checking out my channel! 👍

[@wingerrrrrrrrr]

@@GarageGear is it now $699 for the same model now?

[@GarageGear]

@@wingerrrrrrrrr thanks for sharing! I heard the price went up. Yikes glad I got mine when I did!

[@dtom1145]

Thanks for the tips! The clunky discharge chute is due to no backlash between the gears and also being off center.. If there is no other adjustment to separate the gears then bend the long metal shaft up slightly.

[@GarageGear]

Good thinking D Tom! Thanks for watching!

[@mikehellekson]

There is a tension adjustment under the driven gear that can be loosened or tightened as well. Might try loosening that a turn or two to ease chute movement

[@loubandini6510]

Strong believer in every product you use in this video Northeast Ohio winters can suck here

[@GarageGear]

Hi Lou! Thanks for your positive feedback!

[@willfreiwah3773]

Great video, very thorough, its what I've done to my powersmart. Thanks again :-)

[@GarageGear]

Thanks a lot William! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@willfreiwah3773]

@@GarageGear If I can pick your brain since I have the same snow blower earlier edition. Reverse gear #1 does not work, #2 does. Everyone says to tighten / loosen cable, no difference for me no matter what I try. Gear/disk / rubber inside has been cleaned / replaced/lubricated. Any suggestions ?

[@midwestraven1366]

Thanks for the video! I got this snow blower on a good deal from Walmart. Com.. used wifes discount.. didn't pay over $400 for this same model...I used your tips and she works like a dream! Lol Thanks again

[@GarageGear]

Looks like you found an awesome deal! Glad you found the video helpful! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@whitieinvermont]

Thanks for your time and video. I'm fascinated by your videos. You make things look so easy and you give tips and links to everything you use.

[@GarageGear]

Whitie in Vermont Hey Whitie thanks for being my biggest fan! My goal is to show everyone how to do everyday things around the garage! I try to provide as much help along the way with tips and tools as possible. If you ever have any video suggestions please let me know. You ROCK bud!

[@whitieinvermont]

@@GarageGear you rock brother! I am not asking you to make a video but I wouldn't complain if you made a video on a replacing a pull start cord on a snowblower and also a video on cleaning a (I'm guessing) carburetor on a snowblower that is surging until it is warmed up and eventually dies. That's the reason I purchased a brand new craftsman snowblower and will be putting my impeller pads on. I will be running the snowblower for 15 to 30 minutes before using and draining the oil to put in new oil. I need to get to Walmart to get some synthetic oil and I also need to get a flexible funnel. It looks like you are using a cake tin to drain your oil in. Easy enough to find at a garage sale this spring. Thanks for the heads up on putting a pencil under the machine to make sure the cleats are not down to far. I asked the guy at Lowe's where I should adjust them too and he said it doesn't matter that they should be fine. I'm stoked that I found your channel before doing anything with my new snowblower.

[@GarageGear]

Whitie in Vermont I’ll see what I can do about a pull cord and carburetor that surges. Maybe someone near me has one that stalls and I could do a video cleaning it. A lot of the items you’ll need are below. I’m not sure if the form-a-funnel is at Walmart. It’s kind of a specialty item. But if you do go and find it let me know.

[@whitieinvermont]

@@GarageGear will do!

[@kjell-richardlvdal373]

@@whitieinvermont , donyboy73 has a lot of video on how to clean carburators an pullcord videos

[@onepickymen1]

Great videos thank you for sharing. Rhomeowner

[@GarageGear]

You got it my friend! Thanks for watching!

[@CDLNEPA]

Just ordered one from Home Depot for $459. Thanks for the tips

[@GarageGear]

You got it my friend! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@uiagraphics-customprinting975]

Awesome tips Dude... I just bought a new one today. I'll definitely lube it just like that. Thanks

[@GarageGear]

ROCK ON my friend! 👍

[@paulehd]

Have the same snowblower Powersmart has its own Shear pins, Dill them out to take a 1/4In MTD you can buy easily at the big box stores. Cheaper and find them everywhere. They are quick instal with just a cotter clip instead of nut and bolt

[@GarageGear]

Good tip! Thanks for watching Paul!!!

[@scurfie2343]

Try FluidFilm on the lubrication areas. It will last much longer than WD-40 and it will help rustproof too. It's amazing stuff.

[@GarageGear]

Fluid film does work well! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@SELondonUSA]

Very well executed and informational video! Just purchased a lightly used 2018 model from a friend who is heading South. I will now go and apply the "tuning" tips that you provided. Thanks from Northern New Jersey.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks a lot SEL! Glad you found this video helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@SELondonUSA]

@@GarageGear Quick "dumb-ish" question. I have all your recommended products but before I start working, I see that you have tipped the unit on its front to access the transmission to grease the drive shaft. Is it okay to tip it over like that? Maybe I have an irrational concern about the engine oil going where it shouldn't. Thanks

[@GarageGear]

@@SELondonUSA if you make sure your oil fill spout it snugged down you should be fine with no leaks. If you are worried about it leaking, drain the oil, then tip it up. Other than that you should be fine. Have fun!

[@walterbordett2023]

@@GarageGear Watch out for gas spilling out from the gas cap. Often a rubber glove between the cap and the neck of the tank will stop that. Or, just siphon out the tank before putting the unit up on the front. Use fresh ethanol free gasoline with fuel stabilizer.

[@GarageGear]

@@walterbordett2023 good tips here bud! Thanks a lot!

[@22globex]

I would also antiseize the shear bolts. tedious job but it 's worth the trouble. Take each one out and put antiseize on them so when they do break its easier to get out of the shaft and are not fused in place by rust

[@GarageGear]

Great idea! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@Dat_Sun]

I have found that motorcycle chain wax is by far the best product for rust prevention and lubrication on these things. Goes on as a thin liquid but sets up like a wax. And chain wax will not fling off of the rotating parts. Grease does prevent rust but it also makes one heck of a mess, especially over 10 or 20 years. Motorcycle chain wax can easily be cleaned off with chain cleaner before servicing and inspections.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing this tip Dat Sun! I will look into this! 👍

[@howwon]

Excellent video. One thing that I would like to mention. Cardboard that has been contaminated with oil, is NOT recyclable. Cheers from Canada.

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate it! Thanks for the tip! Thanks for watching!

[@MrJamespcastle]

God help us when this is actually a concern worth making a comment.

[@frankcastle5294]

$399 on sale? OMG. Great vid Sir. You covered every single thing.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for watching Frank!

[@BigDaddysGarage]

Absolutely nailed it! The only thing I do differently is where you used Wd-40 I use Fluid film. And these comments of using Pam?!? Pfft! ONLY if that's the only thing you can find in your purse!! 😂 Have a great day!

[@GarageGear]

Flint Layfield hey bud! I regularly use wd-40 but at the end of the season before I store it I’ll spray it down with fluid film. I like fluid film a lot but it’s double the cost but you do get double the quality/protection I found.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

Haha I wipe mine down with vegetable oil every year,it's ten years old and there's absolutely no rust on it.

[@TheChewy78]

Yoy couls spray doqn a mix of diesel fuel and wd40 like we do one our farm for rust proofing

[@larsord9139]

I use silicon spray.

[@cameronridley5839]

I do this kind of stuff every day working at a small engine shop we only wish some people would grease and lube some of the points only think I would change is the tire pressure the tires might be able to take 24 psi bug you should really only have 10-15 psi in that size they put extra air in the tires during shipping to keep it from bouncing around

[@GarageGear]

Great tip! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@thefixer4892]

For the oil drain . One elbow, straight pipe, going to the rear than a plug. Much easy to change the oil .

[@GarageGear]

Hey Fixer, been looking for an elbow but can’t seem to find one. I did find a drain hose though. Thanks for watching!

[@brucesteger2699]

First off, I bought my Troy Bilt model 2410 for $599 assembled with the engine already broken in full of oil at Home Depot 1 1/2 years ago! Second, it is fully made in America with Tecumseh of Wisconsin making the engines to Troy Bilt spec's! Third, it is one of the most reliable snow blower made comparing it the the top five brands. Fourth, parts are easy to get if something does break because it's made in America. Fifth, my neighbor here in Lake Tahoe has an older version of my snow blower going strong after 20 Sierra Nevada Mountain winters. And six , WD 40 is the worst lube to use as it eventually will evaporate and it is banded from all Ryder truck shops as it is crap! Silicone with Teflon spray is the bomb. The grease you used is great!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for watching Bruce! Sounds like you take good care of your equipment! Older equipment was definitely made better everything nowadays is a “throw away”!

[@brucesteger2699]

@@GarageGear I'm a retired Ryder Mechanic and I have a Degree in Mechanical Engineering power train that I only worked at for a year at Mercury outboards/stern drives. I found out I liked diagnosing and repairing engines/trucks/refrigeration systems than the boring job of testing-testing-testing that engineering really is. My comment about WD 40 is true that it was a God send during WWII when it was developed, but now it is living off it's past and it can't compete with lube sprays silicone spray with Teflon is what most shops use today.

[@GarageGear]

@@brucesteger2699 good to know! Thanks for sharing!

[@luisdomingodiaz3035]

Excellent job, I'm having mine delivered on Friday and now I am ready. Thank You !!

[@GarageGear]

👍 excellent!!! Have fun and thanks for checking out my channel!

[@johnzima9505]

What a total nice video! After I have finished repairing my old Sears Craftsman 22Inch Dual Stage snow thrower I had the same problem. Started fine ran for two seconds and died! After all that excitement I forgot to gas it up, it was cold outside so, I moved it indoors so no gasoline smell. Do not forget the gas when doing all this good stuff!!!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks Jan! Even better let’s use ethanol free gas! That way it won’t gum up the carburetor! Thanks for checking out my channel! 👍

[@laurentcaron9970]

Laurent Caron you forgot to grease the driving gear and put lubricant in the auger box.For the shaft of transmission i personnaly lubricate it with white grease ,it is better against cold weather .Excuse me for english language im from Quebec and I don't speak English often but you do a great job.🙂

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the tips Laurent! Thanks for watching!

[@wyosundancer]

Really great video. A lot of good tips. Form a funnel idea really good. Do the Chinese design machines to put oil all over everything? I used cardboard on an air compressor to do the same, but had slight oil leak.

[@GarageGear]

That’s a good question unfortunately I don’t have a good answer for you! That form a funnel is a great tool!

[@SFCRambo60]

I have been using cheap vegetable spray for years, found out besides being cheap it is better for the environment. I use it on all my lawn equipment for stopping things from getting clogged up and helps lub, I use lubricant where it is needed but use the vegetable Spray for the other.

[@GarageGear]

Great tip! Do you get it in a spray can? Or do you coat it on with a brush of some kind?

[@willfreiwah3773]

@@GarageGear I've also used it. Went to grocery store, comes in a spray can and you just spray it on. go with the cheapest one you can find as I doubt it that your snowblower will need virgin olive oil :-)

[@GarageGear]

@@willfreiwah3773 I will be giving this a shot as well. Thank you!

[@MarkJacksonGaming]

Hey, nice Jeep. Think we have the same one. I broke in for 5 minutes (mobile 1 full synth) then 30 minutes: same. Next 5 hours of regular usage. Husqvarna ST224, 212cc. I doused my axels/cables/friction disk axel (not the disk or components but the 'axel' it slides across gear to gear) in anti-seize and Lucas low temperature grease. Next, fluid film behind the wheels, on the wheels, pretty much everywhere but the in the auger/impeller deck. There I used automotive acrylic. Writing this at 25:00 so not sure what all you've done. Really here to see about lubricating the auger/impeller. Thumbs up. EDIT: Well I wouldn't use WD-40 on the cables. But if it works, hey. I used graphite and low temp lithium grease where you used the 40. And for the auger, I used low temp white grease again. Regular lithium grease can gel up when it gets cold. (Old motorcycle tricks) Ultimately great tutorial. We just do things a little different. Thanks.

[@GarageGear]

Hey mark! Thanks for sharing! Check out this weeks video on lubricating the augers! 👍👍

[@BarryB382]

You can also use a hose that attaches onto the oil outlet and guide the hose to the right location to drain the oil

[@GarageGear]

Yep good tip. Got one of those on my edger and it works well. Thanks for sharing Chuck! 👍

[@bentalcott68]

Love this video , I used all the tips but one . I was amazed at all the metal parts in the oil I changed . That would have not been good for the engine . Thank you !!!

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Ben! No matter what brand of snowblower I always see a ton of metal I. The oil when I do a break in oil change! Always blows me away. Thanks for watching!

[@bobmcl2406]

I was impressed that this machine has the "old style" transmission. That's the one that you can keep running forever just by replacing the rubber wheel once in a while. Many of the new North American machines use sealed plastic transmissions. When they wear out, the machine is junk.

[@GarageGear]

Yeah I was expecting different when I opened it up. Nice to see the old style transmission underneath. Thanks for checking out my channel.

[@brucesteger2699]

First off, I bought my Troy Bilt model 2410 for $599 assembled with the engine already broken in full of oil at Home Depot 1 1/2 years ago! Second, it is fully made in America with Tecumseh of Wisconsin making the engines to Troy Bilt spec's! Third, it is one of the most reliable snow blower made comparing it the the top five brands. Fourth, parts are easy to get if something does break because it's made in America. Fifth, my neighbor here in Lake Tahoe has an older version of my snow blower going strong after 20 Sierra Nevada Mountain winters. And six , WD 40 is the worst lube to use as it eventually will evaporate and it is banded from all Ryder truck shops as it is crap! Silicone with Teflon spray is the bomb. The grease you used is great!

[@1955gaylord]

Get a ariens , lifetime machine made in the USA. Why support this China built stuff .

[@scottkaiser8589]

Try "pam " cooking spray in the Housing and shute. It works

[@GarageGear]

That’s another good option! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@stanleykeith6969]

I have tried this and it works. Thanks for Sharing.

[@kevinmiller4486]

Cooking spray works great.

[@GarageGear]

@@kevinmiller4486 yes it does!

[@TheRealSmithFamily]

I use a 1977 John Deere 832 to this day. I just maintain it with oil changes and I use motorcycle chain lube on the chains and some Belray waterproof grease on everything else. It's been in the family since new. It doesn't have sheer pins, it has a cast iron gear assembly and it will toss you side to side when you hit something immovable. 😂 We bought a battery-powered single-stage PowerSmart for the wife and the back patio. Works well, but it's a throwaway unit. I can still get parts for the Deere, I can't for the 3-year-old PowerSmart. 🙄 Is that a plastic or phenolic main gear? 😲

[@GarageGear]

I had to call PowerSmart directly before and they were pretty helpful so if you need parts contact them. They can help you out. Not sure about the gear. I sold this unit to a friend and I’m unable to check!

[@Rebel9668]

Having a gravel driveway I think I'll set the back up on a 1" board, then, instead of using the metal skid shoes I'll take a 1x4 and rip it down on the table saw to a 1x2.5 and crosscut it to make 2 of them about 6 inches long. Then I'll either scrollsaw or bandsaw the front of the boards into a curve and line up the boards with the holes on the frame of the machine for the skid shoe bolts, drill the holes out and then put in slightly longer carriage bolts with fender washers and lock washers and nuts. Remove the 1" board from the back (where your pencils are) and hopefully have some shoes that will glide more easily over the gravel and not throw gravel into the yard. I did buy that Ariens like your old one. Have to replace the tires as they're shot but found the tractor style tread tires and wheels on Amazon for $76.95, so with the new Predator engine and belts I'm figuring about $350 altogether. :) Of course, when I get the wheels off I'll remove the bottom cover and lubricate everything, etc.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing this rebel! You’re on a mission now!

[@billkrause4585]

Not to use Synthetic Oil as break in oil. Thanks for sharing, and nice Jeep..I like to get a cheap snow thrower, but I only need it to shoot 20 to 30 feet.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks Bill! Thanks for watching!

[@dennissteinerd1548]

Great Video. I do exactly the same except use silicone spray on the entire machine. Much better for the rubber boots and components. Keeps them from drying out. Also use silicone in the auger and chute when I'm blowing snow.

[@GarageGear]

Dennis Steinerd Great tips! I’ll give those a shot! Thanks for watching!

[@brucesteger2699]

First off, I bought my Troy Bilt model 2410 for $599 assembled with the engine already broken in full of oil at Home Depot 1 1/2 years ago! Second, it is fully made in America with Tecumseh of Wisconsin making the engines to Troy Bilt spec's! Third, it is one of the most reliable snow blower made comparing it the the top five brands. Fourth, parts are easy to get if something does break because it's made in America. Fifth, my neighbor here in Lake Tahoe has an older version of my snow blower going strong after 20 Sierra Nevada Mountain winters. And six , WD 40 is the worst lube to use as it eventually will evaporate and it is banded from all Ryder truck shops as it is crap! Silicone with Teflon spray is the bomb. The grease you used is great!

[@frankm2588]

Pencils to set the scraper height a good idea, I usually use 2 shims this way you can position them to set height at any level.

[@GarageGear]

Yep that works too! Someone taught me a long time ago with two pencils! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@demetriosa7646]

I used paint mix sticks to set blade height!

[@GarageGear]

@@demetriosa7646 another good idea! 👍

[@jaypeerobot3745]

The bolt with the square plug is called a carraige bolt. Farm equipment like combines and balers are loaded with these.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for the tip! Thanks for watching!

[@donaldstevens9324]

good tips, only thing I do that you didn't is to grease the auger shaft. I also like to spray the housing and chute but I use Fluid Film instead of WD40, lasts longer and is more like a wax coating.

[@GarageGear]

Good tips here! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@daddysapp1111]

There is an adjustment screw with a spring on it under the chute gearbox to tighten/loosen the action...

[@GarageGear]

Yep figured that one out shortly after filming. Thanks for the tip tho! And thanks for watching! 👍

[@paulwojtala6425]

Nice video. This Powersmart snowblower for $400 is a good deal but you get what you pay for. This unit satisfy's a certain price point, it's not really offering the consumer quality or reliability at least not in the long term. We have the same thing for sale here in Ontario Canada and we sometimes do get pretty heavy snowfalls too. This unit will be ok for a few yrs but I don't think it'll last, as usual it'll let you down when you've had the heaviest snowfall. I would pay the extra money and get a proven brand like Ariens, Toro, Troy-Bilt etc. You can get away with a cheap lawn mower, who cares if you haven't cut your lawn in a few days but with a snowblower you'll want something that won't let you down when you need to clear your driveway after a bad storm and after the plow comes by and fills in your driveway. Better to spend a little more in my opinion.

[@GarageGear]

Agreed! Better to spend a little more and get something better!

[@USCGCoasttoast]

Pop the wheels and grease the axles when you are draining the oil.Just a thought

[@GarageGear]

Not a bad idea! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@walterbordett2023]

I notice the big boy in your garage is an Ariens. I live in Syracuse NY. We average 120 inches of snow annually. A record year is about 180 inches of snow. In 1980 I paid $900.00 for a new Ariens 8HP 24 inch wide snow blower. I used that until 2004 when I traded it in for a 9HP 26inch deluxe Ariens, which is still my regular winter machine. This model will clear its own chute by pumping out the solid slush plug. That machine gets regular maintenance annually and repairs when needed. I expect to use it for many more years. Parts for Ariens machines, even ancient ones, are available. All manuals are online and KZbin is full of videos showing you how to do your own repairs if you wish. I would find this machine too light duty for a big storm in Syracuse, but if you get a lot less snow and have more time to clear it away, this unit could be a good alternative. If you have no local source for parts, I would stock belts, shear pins, and a carb rebuild kit, or replacement carburetor. Maybe buy a replacement set of bearings and bushings while they are available.

[@GarageGear]

Good tips here! Thanks for watching!

[@JeffinTD]

Pleasant surprise to see a friction wheel drive instead of one of those black plastic sealed transmissions.

[@GarageGear]

Yeah I was surprised too! I’ve found those black plastic ones to be junk! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@MrMattDat]

I've found that spray silicone is more effective (lasts longer) than WD-40. I give the auger and shoot a spray down before every use. 20 years later, still running along with my old Ariens ST824

[@GarageGear]

What brand of spray do you use?

[@MrMattDat]

@@GarageGear CRC Heavy Silicone via Amazon for $3/can

[@GarageGear]

@@MrMattDat awesome bud! Thanks I’m going to check this out!

[@joeycmusic]

Don't know if it was mentioned...When storing your snow blower or any thing that has air tires. .I found lifting the blower off the ground to prevent tires from getting flat spots on them...nice video too!

[@GarageGear]

That’s a great tip 👍 never thought of that! I will definitely give this a shot! Thanks for sharing and for checking out my channel!

[@MICHIGANMIKE12]

When is good time to change oil? Just before you use for season or when you store it away in shed in the Spring? Will moisture get in the oil and ruin good oil when in storage? I always remove spark plug and shoot a dab of 30w oil down the hole and pull starter rope couple times when i store too..put plug back in loose until next season.. how about oil changes though ....

[@TheOzthewiz]

Good video, but you missed a few things that should be done if you REALLY care about maintaining that snowblower. First of all, remove the augers and put some anti-seize on the auger shafts. Once those shafts start rusting, you won't need those shear pins. The augers will be PERMANENTLY attached to the shafts. Another thing that I just did on my 40yr old Honda HS55 was to put anti-seize on EVERY bolt, save for the engine, on the entire machine. This will ensure easy removal of the fasteners without need for heat or cutting. Also, use something more permanent for coating the inside of the 'bucket', like *fluid film*. WD-40 is not heavy duty enough!

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing these tips ojars!

[@tombeckett4340]

I hope you can get parts for your new blower if needed. Cheers 🇨🇦👍

[@GarageGear]

Tom Beckett I already contacted the company to see if parts are readily available and they said yes. Thanks for looking out for me.

[@JessicaSimonson1976]

They test these motors after being built.....and then drain oil. I use to work for a company that built motors. We filled and tested, and drained evey motor built before packaging.

[@GarageGear]

Good to know thank you for sharing Jessica!

[@paule.maurice1521]

I like dripping some 90 WT Gear Oil on the Hex Shaft, and Axle Bearings .

[@GarageGear]

Great idea! Thanks for sharing paule!