HOW TO ADJUST SKID SHOES ON A SNOWBLOWER (Save A Scraper Blade)

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  • Опубліковано 5 січ 2024
  • #garagegear #snowblower #maintenance
    HOW TO ADJUST SKID SHOES ON A SNOWBLOWER (Save A Scraper Blade). Don't know how to ADJUST the SKID SHOES on your SNOWBLOWER? Watch and see how I set the SKID SHOES on my CRAFTSMAN Snowblower to the RIGHT HEIGHT for my DRIVEWAY with these easy STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS. I show you how to properly position them THE RIGHT WAY so you can make your snowblower last! But was this snowblower riding TOO LOW? LIKE and SUBSCRIBE!!!
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  • Навчання та стиль

КОМЕНТАРІ • 247

  • @GarageGear
    @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +5

    Here is a LINK to the BLASTER SURFACE SHIELD used in this video! Thank you for supporting the channel! 👍
    👉 amzn.to/3S7eteH

  • @dtom1145
    @dtom1145 5 місяців тому +25

    Be sure to inflate your tires to the proper pressure first so when the skids are adjusted the four contact points (the two tires and the two skid shoes) are in the same plane. You can check this by rocking the 7nit from the handles. I also replaced the skid shoe and scrapper bar hardware with stainless steel bolts, washers and nuts. Much easier to change in the future.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +2

      Good tips here Dtom! Thanks for sharing

    • @bigeyedave100
      @bigeyedave100 5 місяців тому +2

      What psi should I inflate my tracks to they don’t say 🤦‍♂️

    • @williamallen7836
      @williamallen7836 5 місяців тому +1

      ​@@bigeyedave100 check the side of your tires. The max Psi should be printed in raised rubber. Depending on the size tires the max Psi will be different, but most 24 inch 2 stage snow blows range between 18 & 20 Psi.

  • @daledacar3650
    @daledacar3650 5 місяців тому +6

    Another option that I’ve used in the past, never thought of using a couple of pencils, is a paint stir stick and if you don’t have one or a couple of pencils, you can get a stir stick from the hardware store for free. And the stir sticks are available in two sizes, just cut the stick in half so now you have the two spacers one for each side…. Thanks JB!!!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Mother good tip! Thanks for sharing Dale!

  • @stevenjones3356
    @stevenjones3356 5 місяців тому +3

    Ive always set the scraper bar flat against the driveway, but I'll listen to you. I've reset it pencil height. I trust Garage Gear!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Hey Steven your snowblower thanks you! 👍

  • @mvg2x34
    @mvg2x34 5 місяців тому +4

    Thanks Garage Gear! 12 inches of medium weight snow today and my 18 year old snowthrower with clean oil, a good spark plug, tight controls, sharp scraper, proper shear bolts, tight drive and auger belts, and even skid plates started and took care of the job!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      ROCK ON MVG! You’re set for the season!

  • @PWbflo
    @PWbflo 5 місяців тому +3

    I’m glad to see I’m not the only one who uses the old pencil trick. It’s so simple and quick

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Can’t go wrong with it brother! Works great! Have an awesome weekend!

    • @gordbaker896
      @gordbaker896 5 місяців тому +1

      A chunk of 3/8 or 1/2" plywood works. No need to clean to grade.

  • @Joshua-sd1cb
    @Joshua-sd1cb 5 місяців тому +2

    I was able to service my own snowblower for the first time thanks to your channel! Thank you!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Awesome Joshua! Money saved my friend. 👍

  • @mitchellalexander8759
    @mitchellalexander8759 5 місяців тому +2

    I work at an OPE Dealership in MI and I love your videos. They're educational and explained in such a way that I can explain it back to my customers. Thank you for that!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Awesome Mitchell! Glad you and your customers find these videos helpful!

  • @PainterD54
    @PainterD54 Місяць тому +1

    I use the pencil idea on my small 24" blower for my concrete driveway apron and sidewalks, and my gravel driveway blower is set at 1" because it's gravel and I don't like throwing rocks.

  • @DCSPORTSTER
    @DCSPORTSTER 5 місяців тому +2

    Great tips on setting the skid plates on your snowblower. Here’s another tip that I do with the metal skid plates. I just weld two beads of weld on the bottom. When the weld wears down, I just re-weld. Your skid plates will now last as long as the blower.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Not a bad plan! 👍

    • @gordbaker896
      @gordbaker896 5 місяців тому +1

      I bolted a 1x1" x6" long chamfered at each end 45° to the Skid Plate. Good for stone or hard driveway.

  • @edwintaber6465
    @edwintaber6465 5 місяців тому +3

    The Armor skids work well on grass surfaces. I had about 50 feet of grass to get to my shed and the armor skids saved the aggravation of fighting a bucking bronco snowblower. I have my machine set for 1/8 inch for the paved driveway and city sidewalk. On certain types of wet snow they will want to ski up. In this very rare situation I had to wiggle the machine. I would say that they are a very good investment. You still have to be smart in setting the scraper height.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing this information with the community Edwin! 👍

    • @williamallen7836
      @williamallen7836 5 місяців тому +1

      If you run into the front of the blower wanting to rise a lot, you can order a universal front weight kit that will help prevent this. The front end is pretty light without a weight kit.

  • @jiriesatrash9965
    @jiriesatrash9965 3 місяці тому +1

    Thank you , great explanation, better than the manual .

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  3 місяці тому

      Appreciate the positive feedback jirie!

  • @mattie3595
    @mattie3595 5 місяців тому +2

    Got my ArmorSkids yesterday in the courier.
    Awesome, overbuilt design.
    If you’re THAT guy…..you need to have them.
    Thx for turning me onto them JB.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      You got it, Mattie! You’re smooth sailing now!

  • @chrispixx
    @chrispixx 5 місяців тому +3

    I put armor skids on my 24 year old craftsman 28-inch. With the normal smaller skids I was having problems with the bottom corners of the bucket bending. So far so good with the armor skids.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Yeah, small skids will lead to front end damage. Thanks for watching.

  • @paularamirez9057
    @paularamirez9057 5 місяців тому +2

    Newbie to using a snowblower. Living back in Maine after 20 years in the south. I greatly appreciate your channel.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Awesome, my friend! Thanks for watching and welcome back to the snow !

  • @andyslawncareandoutdooradv
    @andyslawncareandoutdooradv 5 місяців тому +1

    Finally got around 2" of snow just outside of chicago, looking at potentially a big snowstorm this upcoming tuesday. Gonna check the skid shoes on my craftsman dual stage before the storm hits!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Happy snowblowing!👍

  • @Rebel9668
    @Rebel9668 5 місяців тому +2

    I just finished making custom skids for mine using 1x3's and 1/8th inch thick x 2 inch wide aluminum flat stock. I cut the boards in a curve at the front and then bent the aluminum to match the curves. Bought new carriage bolts and fender washers at Ace along with lock washers and nuts as the fender washers will spread the load further out on the wood boards when tightened up. Mated the flat stock to the bottom of the boards with JB Weld. Painted the whole set up Ariens orange, lol. Seems to glide real well over the gravel now. Even if I had used the original skid shoes though, instead of coating the old bolts with fluid film I'd have just bought new bolts, nuts, etc. and then sprayed on the fluid film.
    I did figure out how to replace the hard plastic tires but that's going to have to wait until spring. I have to take the wheels off, grind out the 6 rivets on each wheel that hold them to the axle sleeves, split the rims, mount either new flat free tires, or use pneumatic tires and tubes and drill a hole for the valve stem, then bolt the split rims and axle sleeves back together and look for some tire chains that will fit. Wish me luck on that endeavor, lol.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Sounds like you got a good pan there rebel

  • @douglaslippertindy
    @douglaslippertindy 5 місяців тому +1

    Woke up this morning to snow…but just a little. Not enough to fire up the 1985 7 HP 2-stage Simplicity. But…it’s ready to go when I need it. As always, thanks for your excellent videos, JB.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      You got it Douglas! Thanks for watching

  • @josephforgione6207
    @josephforgione6207 5 місяців тому +1

    Every time I watch your newest video, I go out and work on my snowblower. I'll bet they could have used hundreds of snowblowers at Highmark Stadium on Monday.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Haha you should see all the things I’m doing to these when I’m not on camera! Lol!

  • @richardkawucha1232
    @richardkawucha1232 4 місяці тому +1

    I've used a pair of 1/8" thick fender washers to set my scraper.

  • @GeometryWars
    @GeometryWars 5 місяців тому +1

    Very timely video. I will be adjusting mine in the morning

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      ROCK ON GeometryWars! Thanks for watching my friend!

  • @RealSuburbanCowboy
    @RealSuburbanCowboy 5 місяців тому +1

    A grinder will take those bolts right off. Thanks for posting this! As for the beefy skids, I just welded 1/4 steel to the bottom of my regular skids and BOOM, beefy skids.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Like where your head is at cowboy!

  • @Broken_Arrow58
    @Broken_Arrow58 5 місяців тому +1

    Thanks to these videos, I'm no longer taking my Ariens for granted. Will check out those armor skids as recommended or maybe just flip the existing ones. Read the Bills' game was postponed due to Buffalo getting a foot of snow. A snow blower is practically mandatory there!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Oh yeah they’re Mandatory here! Lol. Thanks for watching broken arrow!

  • @debreardon3975
    @debreardon3975 5 місяців тому +1

    Hey Garage Gear Guy! Really like your helpful videos. Thought I’d share an idea that I came up with for my skids. I noticed from driving a tow motor that the forks are basically impervious to damage or wear…so I got a couple 1/4” thick pieces of case-hardened steel and welded them to my blower skid shoes. I’ve had them on for more than 11 years…NO wear showing and scraper blade is still like brand new! When there’s typical wear you have to ‘re-adjust’ the height level occasionally, and your blade is prone to wear as well…..not a problem anymore! Case hardened steel just doesn’t wear down easily….11 years and counting!😁👍

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      11 years is pretty good 👍 thanks for sharing

  • @jazzcat7300
    @jazzcat7300 5 місяців тому +2

    Hey man, thanks for the info. I'm going to get an ariens 24" classic.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Awesome! You won’t regret it!

  • @lylemorton8641
    @lylemorton8641 5 місяців тому +1

    I bought a used Ariens that had flat bar bolted to the bottom of the skids to act as “extenders” and prevented wear to the skids. Been seven years this winter and I will need to replace the flat bar but they have worked wonders.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      That’s pretty cool! Thanks for sharing lyle!

  • @The_Mace
    @The_Mace 5 місяців тому +2

    There goes that Powersmart endorsement deal.... 😆
    Also, I'd like to see a video about the one-sided skid bending trick in the vise, if possible. Good content, JB!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Lol It’s cool I’ll still sleep at night mace! They didn’t reach out to me this year about snowblower videos…🤷‍♂️oh well… was it something I said???
      I like that idea a lot actually! Like where your head is at!

  • @vicrod74
    @vicrod74 5 місяців тому +1

    Had my snowblower for years and I never knew you can do that! 😂😂😂 thank you.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Knowledge is power my friend. Thanks for watching. Have a nice weekend!

  • @smallblock412
    @smallblock412 5 місяців тому +1

    Thank goodness you mentioned the fluid film. I was about to have a panic attack 😂😂. And poor PowerSmart 🤣

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Yep no need to panic Smallblock! PowerSmart has some work to do! Lol! Have a good weekend bud!

  • @cuffy69
    @cuffy69 5 місяців тому +1

    Great video. Antiseize on the bolts helps alot. One more thing about armor skid shoe is they a much heavier. Helps to keep the front down

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Right! The extra weight can help!

  • @demetriosa7646
    @demetriosa7646 5 місяців тому +3

    Great channel ❤

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Appreciate you Demetrios

  • @RSole9999
    @RSole9999 5 місяців тому +1

    On my Ariens Deluxe SHO I found that aftermarket plastic skids cannot be tightened enough to prevent them from slipping upwards. The plastic crushes and then the snow blower quickly drops and scrapes the ground. I even added washers to spread the load of the tightening nuts to no avail.
    I ended up welding large strips of scrap steel (curved up at both ends) to the original Ariens skids and those work perfectly.
    Instead of pencils to set the gap , I used four paint stir-sticks, two thick under each side (my driveway is gravel).

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Great tips thanks for sharing sole!

  • @stevemlejnek7073
    @stevemlejnek7073 2 місяці тому +1

    I use a wood yardstick as my lift rather than a couple pencils. Achieves a similar amount of lift.

  • @josephs.7496
    @josephs.7496 5 місяців тому +1

    Awesome recommendation on the armor skids. Just what I was looking for!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      They make some good ones! 👍

  • @Jim12291958
    @Jim12291958 5 місяців тому +1

    Good video, thanks. I just ordered a pair of the ARMORskids. I'm tired of the plastic ones wearing out after a couple of seasons.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Those will last you for many years!

  • @diverm2371
    @diverm2371 5 місяців тому +2

    Could you do a full video on adjusting the scraper blade firstly, then adjusting each skid plate.
    Not sure. If we have this correct.
    Thanks

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      I’ll see what can do! What kind of snowblower do you have?

    • @diverm2371
      @diverm2371 5 місяців тому +1

      SNOWBLOWER YB6770 - 26″ 2-Stage Snow Blower wDashboard
      Did you ever hear of this one ?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      @@diverm2371 hey diver I’ve seen them before. Scraper blades vary from model to model. Not sure if there is any adjustment room on this one. Some have slots and some have just a bolt hole. Either way set it as low as you can go. 👍

  • @PainterD54
    @PainterD54 Місяць тому +1

    My old skid shoes just get some 1/4" flat stock welded to the bottom of them so they will pretty much last for the life of the unit. I set my sidewalk unit to 1/4" off the surface with a 1'4" piece of wooden trim to set the height f the skid shoes. My other larger unit is set a 1" off the surface because I have a class 5 gravel driveway so I don't get any rocks thru my blower.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  Місяць тому

      Awesome thanks for sharing painter!

  • @robertm7717
    @robertm7717 5 місяців тому +1

    My craftsman mentioned it in the manual states to use the spare shear pins one each under the scraper for smooth surfaces

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      If that’s what they call for go for it

    • @robertm7717
      @robertm7717 5 місяців тому +1

      @@GarageGear adjusted Friday during the snow storm here in NJ..

  • @Wagonman5900
    @Wagonman5900 5 місяців тому +1

    I found out about this six years ago when I started using my grandfather's snowblower. The skies were long gone and housing was worn all the way to the augers. I noticed at the end of last year that the skies are wearing out again. I was supposed to do my homework and buy those armor skids for it, but with hardly any snow, I keep forgetting.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Grab yourself a pair and you’ll be happy! 👍

  • @flyjarrett
    @flyjarrett 5 місяців тому +1

    I use paint stir sticks that you can get for free from your local hardware store to set the scraper blade gap.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Yep those work well! 👍

  • @TecumsehRulesbcserk
    @TecumsehRulesbcserk 5 місяців тому +1

    We finally got some big snow this weekend JB! So much that nearly every neighbor was out using their snowblowers like me. In fact, one of my neighbors was using a Kubota tractor to get his driveway cleared.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Lucky you my friend! Only got about an inch here! How many inches of snow did you get?

  • @rob_v_nj
    @rob_v_nj 5 місяців тому +1

    Solid advice.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching Rob!

  • @kencurtis228
    @kencurtis228 5 місяців тому +1

    TY for Sharing

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      You are so welcome, Ken! Thanks for checking out the channel!

  • @apexiumim2741
    @apexiumim2741 5 місяців тому +1

    Had 25cm heavy snow this past Tuesday then rained for 6 hours. Ahh.. the perfect test… I’d say 50/50 snow and water mix. My Ariens Platinum SHO blasted through that stuff throwing it at least 20’. Ya, no need for impeller mod at this point. My neighbor has a new Yamaha on tracks… his chute clogged constantly. Not saying it’s a bad machine… it’s just not the King of Snow! 😂
    Expecting the exact weather starting tonight into Sunday morning only a bit more snow. Calling for 30-35cm. Fun stuff!!
    Looks like an awesome snow game this Sunday to boot…
    Go Bills!!!!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for sharing Apex! Should be a fun weekend with all this snow coming! Big plans for all the machines! Big game this weekend! Have an awesome weekend bud!

  • @michaelotoole1807
    @michaelotoole1807 4 місяці тому +1

    i raised my snow blower blade from 1/8 inch to about 1/4 inch. it worked well but after 20 years of throwing snow the 2 weld points underside of the chute fatiuge cracked from the snow packing into the bucket and flexing the front end down into the ground. maybe i was to aggressive in charging into the snow pack at the end of the driveway. anyhoo i disassembled the bucket drilled out the ends of the fatiuge cracks brought it to a welder and for 30 bucks he did a fine job welding it back up and put a nice thick metal bead grinded clean for repaint. now all i need is the snow......

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  4 місяці тому +1

      Awesome my friend! Glad you got it back into shape! Happy snowblowing!

  • @allenthomas2739
    @allenthomas2739 5 місяців тому +2

    Cheers from Abbotsford British Columbia Canada 🇨🇦

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching Allen! Have a good weekend!

  • @rayschoch5882
    @rayschoch5882 5 місяців тому +1

    That's a little more clearance for the scraper than I like. I use a 1/8"-thick flat aluminum bar to accomplish the same thing as in the video - scraper not quite touching the surface. I've had the snow blower 10 years, replaced the scraper this year.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing ray

  • @waltwhite1646
    @waltwhite1646 5 місяців тому +1

    Happy New Year JB from Rochester,ny (just started to snow )6pm - another great video ! Possibly a video for near future for replacing the snowblower scraper blade for 30 yr old rusted-dented MTD and maybe place to find a replacement ! Keep Up the good work that You support us with ! Go Bills !

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      That’s a good idea. I have been thinking about replacing the scraper bar on my Craftsman. Thanks for being a cool fan. Patiently waiting for the snow over here. Go Bills!

  • @JohnCardillo
    @JohnCardillo 5 місяців тому +1

    Perfect timing JB - I have new composite shoes for my asphalt driveway to install.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      You’re ready to install them now John! Have a good weekend bud!

  • @mikeswink1031
    @mikeswink1031 5 місяців тому +2

    I love your choice of poly skids . They should last longer and make turning easier

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      They last! Thanks for watching mike!

  • @ecttreker9816
    @ecttreker9816 5 місяців тому +1

    👍👍 great advice

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Appreciate you ECT! Have a good weekend

  • @timpmuldoon736
    @timpmuldoon736 5 місяців тому +1

    JB .. Big Snow ❄️ Storm coming to Chicago 1-9 -24 thru 11th … & 2 more behind this 1
    New Ariens all set ready to go I swap out factory skid for Hard Poly Shoes gave her test run & I have tires@ 18psi..👍🏼
    My wife told me I’m like a little kid @ Christmas waiting for Storm..😂

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Hahahaha I’m the same way and the garage gal says the same thing lol! You’re ready to go!

  • @jerryq1000
    @jerryq1000 5 місяців тому +1

    Great stuff!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching Jerry!

  • @KJ-rm3je
    @KJ-rm3je 5 місяців тому +1

    Was looking for this! Thank you!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Awesome my friend! You’re good to go now! 👍

  • @paulmysliborski4832
    @paulmysliborski4832 5 місяців тому +1

    Armor skids are a must. I actually ordered my last pair through Home Depot. And at the same price as the A.S. website. 😊

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Awesome Paul! How was the fit? Heard ordering them from Home Depot doesnt always workout so well and they won’t fit.wonder if they’re sending the wrong pair? Have a great weekend bud!

    • @paulmysliborski4832
      @paulmysliborski4832 5 місяців тому +1

      @@GarageGear Mine fit perfectly.😎
      Keep on rocking, JB!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      @@paulmysliborski4832 thanks for letting me know bud!

  • @TheLawnLover
    @TheLawnLover 5 місяців тому +2

    I'm just here watching snowblower videos since it won't snow in NE Indiana 😂

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Ran out of things to tinker with in the garage?

    • @TheLawnLover
      @TheLawnLover 5 місяців тому +2

      @@GarageGear Accessorizing the new mower waiting for snow!

  • @jaybooth4815
    @jaybooth4815 5 місяців тому +1

    That pencil trick is a great tip JB! I gotta get those Armor skid plates for my JD snowblower. How’s that garage heater working out? Have a great weekend my friend. GO BILLS!!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      You got it Jay! Those skids are the best! They take bumps like a champ! The heater is pumping as we speak! Heating her up so I can film out there! Have an awesome weekend as well my friend! Go Bills!

    • @jaybooth4815
      @jaybooth4815 5 місяців тому +1

      I'll text you with some questions I have on those Armorskids. If that's ok?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      @@jaybooth4815 totally cool my friend👍

  • @f62darkstar
    @f62darkstar 5 місяців тому +1

    supposed to get 8 to 10 inches snow today....first real snow in 2 years.... finally get to try out my old track drive I restored 2 summers ago...fingers crossed we get it.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Fingers crossed for you Louie! Let me know how she runs!

    • @f62darkstar
      @f62darkstar 5 місяців тому +1

      Will do​@@GarageGear

    • @f62darkstar
      @f62darkstar 5 місяців тому +1

      ​​@@GarageGear today was a bust...only got like 3 inches and it switched to sleet/freezing rain...just my luck 😢

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      @@f62darkstar you’ll get more at some point👍

  • @kencurtis228
    @kencurtis228 5 місяців тому +1

    I'm Ken Curtis.

  • @fromex2lsturbo
    @fromex2lsturbo 5 місяців тому +1

    Here is northern new york, got a panic call from my neighbor, couldn’t get his 1yo snowblower to fire, could I help? Quick undo of bowl bolt out came a stream of piss! Cleaned out bowl, reinstalled, fire in the hole! He was amazed! Got a bottle of liquor out of the deal! Thanks for all the info JB!! 🤘

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Hahaha awesome bud! Knowledge is power my friend! Good work!

  • @SpaceCadet4Jesus
    @SpaceCadet4Jesus 5 місяців тому +1

    I replaced the dragging skid pads with rolling wheels and adjust the blade height with a long wooden flat ruler. I haven't had a standard No. 2 pencil in the house for years, let alone two of them. You must be rich.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Hahaha I guess just lucky lol! Good plan with those rolling wheels! Bet they work well! What’s the plan for the weekend?

    • @SpaceCadet4Jesus
      @SpaceCadet4Jesus 5 місяців тому +1

      @@GarageGear Work repairing computers, clean up the house a little and find a little free time. You?
      Minnesota vs. Lions tomorrow.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      @@SpaceCadet4Jesus kinda cold here. Editing videos and maybe cleaning up the garage a little bit. It’s a mess behind the camera lol!

  • @Adrenergic22
    @Adrenergic22 5 місяців тому +1

    Awesome tips. I have an Ariens compact 24. My skid shoe bolts were rusted and when I went to flip one of them, the bolt actually stripped/deformed the auger housing so the hole is no longer square. I ended up having to saw the bolt off. Any tips on how to secure the skid with a deformed housing hole? I’m thinking a simple nut and bolt of a similar diameter as the stock one?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      I would just put a new bolt in and do your best to tighten it down. The new bolt doesn’t have to have a round head. Could be a hex bolt

  • @richardt.953
    @richardt.953 5 місяців тому +1

    Why not installed the skid shoes on the most forward position of the auger housing to better protect the bottom edges of the auger housing when/if in contact with an uneven (step up) sidewalks...?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Some skids allow you to set them all the way forward. They only have one setting. Thanks for watching.

  • @robertknight4672
    @robertknight4672 5 місяців тому +1

    For people that want to clear down to the ground I would suggest keeping a single stage snow blower in addition to their two-stage machine. Clear the bulk of the snow with the two stage then follow through with the single stage machine to get down to the ground. So if you have space in your garage that might be something to consider.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Good tip Robert!

    • @BillVerstege
      @BillVerstege 4 місяці тому +1

      I also use the single stage for when it's a 2 or less snowfall. The two stage is reserved for 3 inch or more snows, and the end of the driveway to clean up the mess the plows leave.

  • @SVW1976
    @SVW1976 5 місяців тому +1

    I used 2 quarters on each side to adjust. Probably a little too much considering my driveway has a couple rough transitions but i want all the snow removed 😂

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing SVW! 👍

  • @garypic4083
    @garypic4083 5 місяців тому +1

    New subscriber here love your Channel you're a big help appreciate it much

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Welcome to the tribe Gary! Appreciate the positive feedback!

  • @MrMattDat
    @MrMattDat 5 місяців тому +1

    Great video. Very practical advice!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      You got it Matt! Thanks for watching bud!

  • @georgedrake1430
    @georgedrake1430 5 місяців тому +2

    Still have grass up here near ottawa

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Pretty dry across most of the US too! Hopefully we get to use them soon! Have a good weekend George!

  • @brianstetter4612
    @brianstetter4612 5 місяців тому +1

    Good information!👍🏼

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for watching Brian!

    • @brianstetter4612
      @brianstetter4612 5 місяців тому +1

      @@GarageGear
      Love taking care of my machines as well. 👍🏼

  • @pitbull4029
    @pitbull4029 4 місяці тому +1

    Thanks for tips,my question are chains always needed.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  4 місяці тому

      Hey Pitbull! No but only if you have good tires! Xtracs are some really good tires like the ones here on this snowblower!

  • @outdoorstuff3325
    @outdoorstuff3325 5 місяців тому +1

    Awesome video I never really thought about how far off the ground the snowblower should be.
    The metal sides where the plastic feet go on are bent on my snowblower.
    I remember seeing one of your videos on how to fix that. But I can't find it.
    Can you please send me a link if you still have that video?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Hey outdoorstuff! Here is the link I think you’re looking for! I’ll have a short coming out soon this too! HOW TO FIX & REPAIR BENT SNOWBLOWER AUGER HOUSING SKID SHOE CASTER FRAMES
      ua-cam.com/video/MWmxqhn8fSM/v-deo.html

  • @jlbfd9389
    @jlbfd9389 5 місяців тому +1

    Great info jb. Thanks bud!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      You got it my friend! Thanks for watching 👍👍

  • @lanceb940
    @lanceb940 5 місяців тому +2

    Another thing you can use, two paint sticks on each side

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      That works too! Thanks for sharing

  • @craignehring
    @craignehring 5 місяців тому +1

    Subscribed.... Now how do I keep my friction wheel dry... the cover needs to be replaced, cheap plastic
    I should have bought an Ariens

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Welcome to the tribe craig! I would check out a new cover! That will help!

  • @James-blond007
    @James-blond007 4 місяці тому +1

    Hey JB! I’m in Amherst, have a Cub Cadet 26HD3X needs the belts done and probably some adjusting. It’s about 9 years old and original parts. Let me know if you’d be interested in doing a video on it?! I cud help of course I’m pretty handy although never done belts. Lmk love the channel thx!! 😀💪🏽👍🏽

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  4 місяці тому

      Hey James blond! Cool that you’re close by! I have plenty of work going on in the garage at the moment! Perhaps I could do a video on changing them perhaps! Stay tuned! Thanks for being a cool fan!

  • @hanchigo2355
    @hanchigo2355 5 місяців тому +1

    How do the Armor skids do with Ariens auto turn? I heard that poly skids really help in that regard if its an issue for you, and am curious.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      No issues on mine. It has been running smooth. Thanks for watching.

  • @rk22cc
    @rk22cc 5 місяців тому +2

    Good tip

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for watching!

  • @BigDaddysGarage
    @BigDaddysGarage 5 місяців тому +2

    That's a great technique!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks Flint! Any snow by you my friend?

    • @BigDaddysGarage
      @BigDaddysGarage 5 місяців тому +1

      Nothing measurable. 👏@@GarageGear

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      @@BigDaddysGarage pretty much the same here. Got 3 inches the other day. Already melted away.

  • @icculus
    @icculus 4 місяці тому +1

    I have a somewhat rough asphalt driveway and set the scraper slightly up (used cardboard to set the height). However, it leaves a thin layer of snow/slush behind that turns to ice. I can’t imagine having the scraper even 1/4” or 1” off the driveway. Is there some trick or something I’m doing wrong in that it doesn’t leave a more clean surface? (Like I see on some of my neighbors driveways and sidewalks after they snowblow)
    Thanks!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  4 місяці тому +1

      Hey ic! Even at a quarter inch mine leaves a thin layer behind. If it’s done snowing I’ll just catch that layer with a wide shovel if need be to prevent icing. That thin layer usually melts away pretty quick if the temps are right too.

    • @icculus
      @icculus 4 місяці тому +1

      @@GarageGear Thanks for the quick reply! I wasn’t sure if it was just me, but hitting it with the shovel sounds like it makes sense. Appreciate the advice and all the vids.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  4 місяці тому

      @@icculus you got it my friend!

  • @Rob-ob3sh
    @Rob-ob3sh 5 місяців тому +1

    Good video JD.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching Rob! 👍👍

  • @electroddxful
    @electroddxful 5 місяців тому +1

    Check mine today and it good to go. The snow it’s on the way here now. 🥶🥶🥶🥶

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      You’re ready, Ray! Let me know how much you guys get. Have a blessed weekend.

  • @b-ill-y
    @b-ill-y 5 місяців тому +1

    Just did this, most paint sticks are 1/8" thick!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Yep those work well too

  • @liljoeii6091
    @liljoeii6091 5 місяців тому +1

    Awesome video thank you for the video

  • @charlesfelice8383
    @charlesfelice8383 5 місяців тому +1

    JB, great video. Question for you regarding the Armor Skids that are on the Ariens snow thrower that is shown in your video: Is the skid an Armor Pro Series skid or an Armor ProXT Series Skid (extra tall)? I have an Ariens snow thrower and am determining which Armor Skid to order for my Ariens Deluxe 24 Platinum machine. Thanks in advance for answering my question.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Hey Charles I ordered mine many years ago before they had different categories. They only had one kind at the time. I would recommend picking the one with the thickest amount of metal to glide on. They’ll last you forever. 👍

  • @mikeg6311
    @mikeg6311 4 місяці тому +1

    Do you have to disengage the spark plug when moving the blade?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  4 місяці тому

      You could to be on the safe side.

  • @cellowiz23
    @cellowiz23 5 місяців тому +1

    Great videos.One question. My snow blower( Craftsman 22-inch two stages) does not have a bottom cover . Is it going to damage gears and other components? Thanks

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Hey cello! You can usually find one cheap online! Snow will find a way in somehow! Usually backing it up onto some snow or something! Parts inside could rust up and give you trouble down the road!

  • @randomrazr
    @randomrazr 5 місяців тому

    does factory height normally adequate for ashpat / concrete

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Hey random! I would not count factory height for anything. Usually these snowblowers are assembled quickly by an underpaid big box store employee. Best to give it a look.

  • @hmdwn
    @hmdwn 5 місяців тому +1

    I use a sliver of cardboard... seems to work fine.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      That works too! Thanks for sharing

  • @Artburg
    @Artburg 5 місяців тому +1

    How you ever tried the skids with the rollers?? I put a set on last fall but no snow last or this year as of yet.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      I saw a rusty set on a very old snowblower but never tried them personally. I’m sure they are better made now. I would like to get a pair.

  • @mikekappler9462
    @mikekappler9462 5 місяців тому +1

    Great video as always.
    Ive got the same machine, craftsman 247.889571 that im having an issue with. The whole barrel/auger system seems crooked. No matter what I try to adjust I cant get it to sit squarely on the ground. Its almost like the auger head is clocked wrong to the motor. Ive searched everywhere for a solution with no results. Seems to be a common issue though. I can literally push down on the right side grip and the left rear wheel lifts even with both skid plates leveled...🤦🏽‍♂️
    Any ideas would be appreciated sir!!
    BTW, ill be modding my TM a little more thanks to you too..😬🤘🏼

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks mike! Check to see where your auger housing and wheel housing split. Sounds like something isn’t lined up right under that belt cover. Maybe the two halves weren’t mounted together correctly? Check under that belt cover and look down to see if things are equal on each side. Let me know what you find

  • @apexiumim2741
    @apexiumim2741 5 місяців тому +1

    Tips and tricks avoiding Skid Row LA… oh wait… wrong skid, my bad!
    Go Bills!!!!!

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому +1

      Hahaha oh man I totally should have ran with that lol! Woulda been awesome! Have an awesome weekend apex! GO BILLS!

    • @apexiumim2741
      @apexiumim2741 5 місяців тому +1

      @@GarageGear
      That and some tunes from Skid Row 😂😂😂… oh well, next time!

  • @High61Way
    @High61Way 5 місяців тому +1

    pennsylvania and the I 95 corridor will get snow today ! gentlemen start your engines !

  • @SoleEpiphany
    @SoleEpiphany 5 місяців тому +1

    I’ve always used paint stir sticks

  • @bror8228
    @bror8228 5 місяців тому +1

    If you have gravel drive way and it´s not totally frozen you gonna get big problems with gravel no matter how you adjust the skid shoes...

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Gravel is tough on snowblowers for sure

  • @dicko-200
    @dicko-200 5 місяців тому

    the scraper will might miss a few small bumps but the skids will still hit the obstructions and cause you to stop and lift over the bump

  • @puregibberish
    @puregibberish 5 місяців тому +1

    Fan of your channel, has helped a ton - I have an older Toro 622 Power Throw, yesterday after some light use I did the normal care, set it up to melt the snow off the auger by propping it up on a 2x4 over a big plastic tray I have to catch the water. Came back today to move it and found some gas on the floor next to the machine, upon closer inspection there seems to be a leak on the gas tank seam (separating the top and bottom half of the tank) - any advice on fixing this? Finding lots of horror stories, and not getting much confidence from reviews for replacement parts for Tecumseh saying their tanks appear to leak a lot from this seam.

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      You might be able to find a spare gas tank that you can modify to fit. It wouldn’t be perfect but it would do.

  • @woodlandburl6648
    @woodlandburl6648 5 місяців тому +1

    Great video. Keep them coming. Please.

  • @user-om5os7hk5g
    @user-om5os7hk5g 5 місяців тому +1

    Should my main fuel line on my snow blower have a vent on it?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Your fuel cap should be vented but nothing else is necessary

  • @wskripka1
    @wskripka1 5 місяців тому +1

    Have youseen the new plastic skids with wheels?

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      I have seen skids with wheels but have not had the chance to test them out

  • @lbrumleve
    @lbrumleve 5 місяців тому +1

    Sweet 🍻

    • @GarageGear
      @GarageGear  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching lbrum