A snowblower, also known as a snow thrower, is a powerful tool that is used to clear snow from driveways, sidewalks, and other surfaces. Snowblowers typically have a rotating auger or impeller that breaks up the snow and throws it out of the machine through a chute.

However, sometimes the auger or impeller can hit a solid object, such as a rock or piece of ice, and this can cause the snowblower to break a shear pin.

A shear pin is a small, cylindrical piece of metal that is designed to break under high loads or pressures. Shear pins are commonly used in snowblowers and other machinery to protect the machine from damage.

When the auger or impeller hits a solid object, the shear pin will break, allowing the auger or impeller to stop rotating. This prevents the auger or impeller from being damaged or bent, which could cause the snowblower to malfunction or fail.

Why Does my Snowblower Keep Breaking Shear Pins?

Why Does my Snowblower Keep Breaking Shear Pins?

However, if the snowblower keeps breaking shear pins, it can be frustrating and costly. Here are some possible reasons why your snowblower might be breaking shear pins:

  1. You are using the wrong size shear pin:

Snowblowers are designed to use specific sizes of shear pins, and using the wrong size can cause the shear pin to break more easily. Make sure to check your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the correct size of a shear pin to use.

  • You are not using high-quality shear pins:

Shear pins are a critical component of your snowblower, and using low-quality or cheap shear pins can cause them to break more easily. Make sure to use high-quality shear pins that are designed to withstand the loads and pressures of your snowblower.

  • You are hitting solid objects:

As mentioned above, hitting solid objects with the auger or impeller can cause the shear pin to break. Try to avoid hitting rocks, ice, and other solid objects with your snowblower, and use the reverse function to back away from any obstacles.

  • You are using the snowblower incorrectly:

Snowblowers are powerful machines, and using them incorrectly can cause damage and breakage. Make sure to read the owner’s manual and follow the instructions for using your snowblower correctly. Avoid overloading the machine, and use the correct speed and angle for the snow conditions.

Can I use a bolt instead of a shear pin?

No, you should not use a bolt instead of a shear pin in a snowblower. Shear pins and bolts serve different purposes in a snowblower, and using a bolt instead of a shear pin can cause serious damage to the machine.

Shear pins are designed to break under high loads or pressures, such as when the auger or impeller of a snowblower hits a solid object. When the shear pin breaks, it allows the auger or impeller to stop rotating, protecting the machine from damage. Shear pins are made of soft, brittle metal that is designed to break easily under high loads, and they are typically inexpensive and easy to replace.

In contrast, bolts are used to hold parts together and provide structural support. Bolts are made of strong, durable metal, and they are designed to withstand high loads and pressures without breaking.

Using a bolt instead of a shear pin in a snowblower would cause the bolt to absorb the impact of the auger or impeller hitting a solid object, rather than allowing the pin to break and protect the machine. This could cause the bolt to bend, break, or become loose, which could damage the snowblower or cause it to malfunction.

Therefore, it is important to use the correct shear pin in your snowblower, rather than trying to substitute it with a bolt. Using the correct shear pin will protect your snowblower from damage and ensure that it functions properly.

Conclusion:

Overall, if your snowblower keeps breaking shear pins, it is important to identify and address the underlying cause. Make sure to use the correct size and quality of shear pins, avoid hitting solid objects, and use your snowblower correctly to prevent damage and breakage.

Victoria Peterson
Author

I am a passionate gardener who wants to help you create and maintain your dream yard. I know that it can be daunting to take on a project like this, but I am here to help. I have been gardening for years and have learned a lot along the way. I want to share my knowledge with you and help you create the perfect yard for your home.

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