Although it feels like winter won’t quit, the good news is
that spring will be upon us soon. Before switching from snowblower to
lawnmower, it’s a good idea to prepare your snowblower for next winter. It’s a fairly simple process and it will keep your
snwoblower running for many years. The following steps should be completed each
season.
1.
Fuel used in small engines should always be
treated with stabilizer. Ethanol contained in today’s gasoline causes trouble
with the carburetor and headaches for the owner. If you don’t treat fuel year
round, at least consider adding to the fuel and running the machine before
storing.
2.
Inspect the snowblower for worn or loose parts.
The scraper blade and skid shoes are designed to wear so if anything looks
questionable, just make the repair. Crashing into large snowbanks and throwing
heavy snow will weaken shear pins and loosen bolts all over the snowblower.
Tighten bolts and replace where necessary.
PROTIP – While you are at it – change the oil and spark plug! Check
your owner’s manual for machine specific instructions, but a 5W30 oil should do
the trick.
3.
When
storing the snowblower – remember it should stay covered and dry. Clear room
inside the shed or even pick up a cover. Either way, make sure it’s secure because
it makes a nice home for pests!
Preventative maintenance is straight forward, so a homeowner
can complete in less than an hour. Just make sure to have the correct
replacement parts on hand before starting the project. Order the replacement
parts online at ProPartsDirect.net or call us with questions at 800-305-9255.
Think spring!
