Craftsman Snowblower auger not turning. A buildup of snow in the blower’s discharge chute is a common problem for many homeowners. When that happens, your snowblower may not be able to snowblower auger not turning and would need some minor maintenance.
Oftentimes, they malfunction because of several factors, such as clogged discharge chutes or worn-out augers caused by a lack of regular and proper care.
Craftsman Snowblower auger not turning
Here we will discuss some common issues and solutions for the Craftsman Snowblower auger not turning.
Shear pin breaks
A shear pin is a metal pin that blocks the axle of a snowblower. This can save the engine if an auger hits something like a rock or ice piece.
If the shear pin breaks, denting occurs in surrounding areas and can cause damage to your equipment. Inspect the shear pins and replace them as needed to avoid damage to your machine.
Defective Shear Bolt
Shear bolts are metal parts that slide through the auger axle sleeves and lock them in place with the auger drive axles.
Shear bolts are designed to break should an accident occur where an ice chunk or large rock happens to be hit by the auger; this way, there won’t be further damage to the engine, which could ultimately cause permanent harm otherwise.
If you notice a shear bolt is broken, replace it before you get to your next destination because it’s not safe for you or others around you to operate a snow thrower equipped with a faulty shear bolt.
Faulty Shear Bolt and Nut
A broken shear bolt will cause the auger to rotate abnormally. If a shear bolt is found to be cracked, rotten, or otherwise unstable, then it should be replaced.
The shear pin has broken
The shear pin is a metal pin that slides through the auger axle sleeve and locks the sleeve in place with the auger drive axle.
Shear pins are designed to break in half if the auger hits a rock or chunk of ice so as not to damage the engine. If a shear pin breaks, it won’t be able to turn. Look at it carefully now, but often check for any wear and replace it immediately if there is any sign of damage.
Damage V-Belt
The V-belt is crucial in connecting the engine to the gearbox. Without it, the auger can’t turn. To determine if the belt is broken or worn out, check to see if it has cracks or grooves on its surface.
If so, you will need to replace it and put something in place of a belt as a short-term solution. In addition to changing your belt, ensure that you adjust it (refer to “Adjusting the V-Belt” section above) correctly based on how high or low you have set your stove height (or level of shredding).
Cogged Belt issue
The cog belt is what serves as the link between the engine and the gearbox. If the cog belt is worn out, it shouldn’t be in use.
It’s important that you inspect the cog belt for any cracking or signs that it may not be working correctly.
If this rings true, then, of course, it would be in your best interest to replace the cog belt with a new one so as to ensure that proper driving force is generated during snow-blowing due to misalignment.
Failed gearbox
The gears may have failed. These gears are designed to drive the auger and ensure a consistent flow of grain or other products through the machine.
They are made up of three shafts: one connects to the drive system, and the other two connect to each half of the auger.
If only one shaft is powered and it’s powering both augers, check your equipment’s wiring harness as well as any fuses before replacing any components.
Replace Auger Cable
It’s important to remember that an auger is only as strong as the cable that spins it.
The auger cable should not be broken or disengaged if it is either one of those or both then you might have a problem. Inspect the auger cable to determine if it’s broken.
If the cable does look broken, then try another – make sure it’s holding its tension then get back to turning food scraps into sustenance.
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