I bought that machine in 2019. I rather like it. The most difficult thing for me was getting accustomed to the skid steering. I don't use it much because I also have a Toro single stage that handles darn deep snow. But when the snowplow comes by and buries my driveway end with hard snow I need the 3-stage to break up the snow chunks.
Someone needs to show you how to use a snowblower. Extremely rough on it. That's why the shear pin is broken. The deeper the snow... the slower you go. Its easier on all the moving parts. This review is ok but would be better if it was used correctly to give it the honest review.
@chillymooose cub actually came out with different shear pins for this machine because they were too weak. The updated has an A for auger and a 3 for impeller. Many people are having problems with this machine blowing belts and shear pins
@@michaelrothfuss9764 The blower has a 420cc engine with a 14” auger and 14” impeller. It was designed to move a lot of snow rapidly. That’s the point of the HD moniker. It’s supposed to be a commercial grade machine but since it’s an MTD it’s not up to par. They used weak pins when the machine first came out, then came out with stronger pins after just about everybody who bought one was having problems. I believe you wouldn’t know this as you don’t have one and have done zero research on this particular model. I have one and went through all the problems that came along with it. The belts still shred way too easily as they actually aren’t durable enough for the power that this machine puts out. So sorry, bit power and going too fast isn’t the issue. It’s actually the selling point of this machine to move a ton of snow as quickly as possible.
I have the same model. You have a busted shear pin on the forward impeller. Easy fix. Cub Cadet installed to soft of pins. You can now get better , stronger pins at the dealer. When she is working correctly it is an awesome machine. to turn on the heater on the handles just flip the switch in the center between the handles. They really get hot.
I have this same machine. Watch more videos of more experienced operators with fully working equipment. This is a great machine when you know what you’re doing. If you don’t know what you’re doing this machine can wear your out. It’s a beast and it’s heavy. It will blow thru a full opening fill deep packed in 1st gear and half deep in 3rd or 4th. Only negative I have is it needs a faster reverse and a faster forward speed but I’m sure for safety they keep it limited. Best tip I have is spray your machine with WD40. Mainly the augers and the chute and inside before you blow. Will keep snow from sticking. If your not using the yellow wheel release levers you need to be for turning and when your moving it not under power. It releases the wheels into a “neutral” state and you can pull it backwards easily. Even when the machine is not running squeeze both levers to move it around.
I own this 2015 3x model, Things a piece of shit and blows snow like a wet fart 💨 I bought my son the 2x model in 2016 for a house warming gift and it’s a beast and he loves it . 2x is the way to go …..fyi
Glad I watched this video. Just bought my first snow blower for the 2021/2022 winter and had no idea those pins break so easy. Figured they'd only break if someone runs down sticks and stone's
Belts transfer the power from the impeller to the engine and usually provides enough marginal errors to prevent engine damage due to impacting any debris? The average strength of todays steel being of a lower grade will allow for breaking before major damage occurs, so I just use OTC bolts and not hardened and haven’t had any of the shear pin problems? Hardened bolts are a definite no/no however!
Just bought a 3x, w/tracks today. One hundred and fifty yd paved drive in north central Montana. Looking forward to getting out with it. Good video....thanks.
Toro here! Listen if it comes with a shovel it will clog no matter what you put in there! Just remember we’re always here and will never clog on you ever!
Also GREAT VIDEO! I'm curious if that forward auger was working when you initially clogged up. For heavier stuff like this that first full mouth pass is the hardest even at lower speeds. I'll take half cuts the rest of the driveway and tune my drive accordingly. Side note I noticed CC leaves an awful lot of space for their final stage augers. Did the impeller mod with rubber to sweep the Chute better and I can't wait to try it. Worked wonders on my 70s Toro and a few other machines I have fixed up.
Thanks for the info Yeah i have been wondering about that impeller mod. I’m curious to see if it really works. Please keep us posted on how you like it if you get the chance to try it out. Thanks again
Quick question since I see a bunch of CC fans here. If my 530 2X lost heated grips and headlight is there a connection that typically is the cause for both to not work?
Eliminator performance recently did a great video on shear pins for MTD snowblowers, explaining the shear pins for two stage vs some three stage vs other three stage and taking into account the year which the snowblower was manufactured
I feel you left it in half choke and rabbit mode vs turning it to full choke and changing the mode of speed. 3 stage 400cc Cub cadets should chuck snow, even if powder much farther than that. I could be wrong.
Thanks for the video I’m looking for a new snowblower after 25 years with a Troy built. Definitely going to consider the cub cadet but I’m leaning toward a Toro. I noticed your technique pumping the propel forward handle it’s not the proper way to do it that’s really hard on the equipment. When you’re taking a full bite of snow like on the first pass. Slow the machine down to first or second gear. Then when you’re doing your next pass take half of a bite or maybe a little bit more. Not a full bite. It’s easier on the machine only takes you a few extra passes. That technique I’ve been using for years even with a tractor with a snowblower taking half a bite or maybe 2/3 of a bite of the next row is definitely the way to do it and you don’t leave those little wind rows of snow left behind it does a cleaner job.
Thank for the tip. I will definitely use it when we get the next big snow storm here. Good luck on your search for a new snow blower and if you come across something your really like or don’t like, please let me know. I’m curious to see what other machines work well out there. Thanks again
I was interested in getting a 3 stage. I won't after seeing your vid. If you are doing the start/stop/two steps forward routine to wait for the impellers to clear, what's the point of the 3 stages when I do the same currently with my 2 stage? Thanks for the vid, but i'll wait till the technology substantially changes.
Agreed! Not necessary. It also promotes it as chewing through ice and slush but I haven’t had success with that. I agree that a two stage is enough Thanks for the comment
I live in Buffalo NY. We get ALOT of snow and we stay away from the 3 stage in my neighborhood. Cub 2X and Ariens 2 stage keep up with big snow storms !
Ed this is a great thread to read up on. There are many viewers that commented as to what they have and if they love it or not. Hope you find the comments informative
Third winter with mine. No issues. I go slow and it chews through light, heavy wet, and everything in-between. It is a bit faster than my older two-stage, because it's a three-stage. I have to do my driveway and our cul-de-sac every storm. I may add an impeller kit after this season to prevent occasional clogging, but that's not a Cub Cadet issue. Folks add those kits on all brands, especially Ariens. Have not broken one shear pin yet. I will never understand folks who complain it doesn't throw far enough. Mine does, and I have a lot of area to remove snow from. This machine replaced my much smaller Snapper 7/24 which I had since 1997. The 420cc (13 HP) motor is powerful and runs smooth. I only run ethanol-free gas, or Tru Fuel from Lowes. I highly recommend if you run yours on gasoline, that you run it dry at the end of the season, and then fill it with Tru Fuel and run that through. The carbs on these machines are very fickle and they do NOT like fuel with ethanol and should never have fuel with ethanol sit in them for more than 30 days, even with a stabilizer. Friend had that issue his second winter when it wouldn't start. Had to take apart the carb and use a fine wire to clean the little holes in the jet. If you take your time to learn this machine and understand how to use it, it's a beast on all types of snow.
Your cub cadet performs similar to mine when i bought it and your engine is bigger. That was til last home depot maintenance. This is a beast when everything is correct. Look how high is housing that takes snow and if all correct it will throw snow easy to top or above housing. You see that weak stream at the beginning of video thst means prabably auger start cable is not corectly tightened. You had to start and stop cause stream was throwing weaker not to clog snow blower. Also pin broke when it was maybe an inch of snow and for me now i think i broke 2 pins while before correction prabsbly 20 or more mostly on small snow. Now my snow blower can throw heavy 2 feet tall plow snow pretty easy. Guys at cub cadet dont know their own equipment!!
Oh wow... nice, I appreciate the feedback. I’m going to take a look at the manual and the machine and see where I need to make adjustments. Thanks again
He should be able to. I think he just left in whatever speed it was in and just used that. Typically 5 and 6 on the speed selector are really just for transporting a machine. speeds 1 and two are recommended for wet heavy snow. 3 and for for light snow. Some of the older Craftsman snowblowers had that info on the speed selector.
I bought the same machine right before the first storm. It performed well but I did replace 9 sheer pins from debris kicked out by snow plows. The 420 is a strong motor and the power steering was a luxury, but reverse was painfully slow. The traction was lacking so I ordered chains too.
I have a 3X Cub Cadet, 2018 model, and hated it as the shear pins on the center augers broke all the time. It turns out they changed the shear pins in the 2019 model year to prevent the premature failure. They look like hex head bolts with nuts. I've seen reports of the units now breaking shafts as the pins are too strong. I've not had that problem yet. When the pins work the machine works well.
A neighbor of mine ,has the exact same machine ,and he hates it,he want's to sell it and by himself something else,that 3 stage in wet or soggy snow just jams in there. That I know ClubCadet are the only ones that makes one,and I don't think that it will last long.
A couple problems I see you doing is that your shoes are adjusted to low and you have the thing running at a higher forward speed. I run mine through 3 foot Banks on 1 and it goes right through without stopping. I have found that the deeper the Snow the further the machine throws. In 2 feet of snow I can throw at almost 50 feet.
I have the same model also I never have to stop and start, even at a higher speed the engine automatically revs up and it goes right through throwing a 30+ foot roster tail of snow esp with dry powdery snow.
You should stop the engine while touching the indside of the blades. Also not a good idea to throw the snow and possibly small rocks on cars, houses etc. Stay safe!
Just wondering what gear you have that in? Seems to be a little fast for that amount of snow, should not have to work the drive engage on and off like that.. Has to be hard on the clutch system…
@@chillymooose Wow, thanks for the response. Just seemed fast for 1st gear.. Makes me wonder if the shifter is working properly. Typically there’s a large disk and the drive speed is determined were on the disk the mating wheel is.. Could it be out of adjustment as not to let it go to the lowest position… Just wondering….
I just bought a new Cub Cadet 2x 26 IP. In reading the reviews the biggest problem was the carburetor plugging up. Can you give me some suggestions on how to take precautions to prevent this from happening. Thank you
Absolutely, I installed an inline shut of valve from the fuel tank to the carburetor. When ever I am done running the machine I will shut off the fuel valve and let the machine run until it uses up the fuel the is in the bowl of the carburetor. This will let the float in the bowl settle down to the bottom of the bowl, extracting the needle from the jet inside the carburetor. And the carburetor will not clog up. When your ready to start up the machine, you open up the fuel valve and open up the choke and the machine will start right up. The only way the carburetor clogs up is when you store the machine with a full bowl of fuel and the needle inside the carb gets stuck closing the jet and fuel doesn’t get to the engine. Hope this helps.
Yes. Very simple way to prevent this from ever happening. Do NOT use gasoline if it has any ethanol. You can buy Aspen Fuel, or Tru Fuel at Lowes, Home Depot other places. If you do put gasoline in yours, I'd make sure to run it bone dry, even if you use Stabil, and run Tru Fuel through it. The problem with these carbs is that gas with ethanol will 100% clog the jets and prevent it from starting. I only use Tru Fuel and I exercise the blower and augers monthly, year-round.
If you can find ethanol free gas it works best if not the manual says to use highest octane gas you can. Also mine says to store with lever in 6th speed to keep the cable from stretching to the gear box, though it looks like they replaced the cable with a metal rod to the gear box.
It uses 6 shear pins total. 2x for left auger, 2 for right auger. 1 for the front chopper, there's also a rear chopper before it hits the thrower that shoots it out the shoot. The yellow spinner in the rear isn't what's chucking that snow. That is black. Essentially snow has to go through 2 moving partd before hitting the chucker. Either center spinner or auger, then rear chopper that blocks the chucker so all snow has to go through that, followed by the chucker. The rear chopper was still spinning and the augers was pulling in the snow which is why it was still throwing as if the front chopper was spinning. They could make an all auger front with chopper in rear than chucker. It'd be like if stage 2 went Super Saiyan.
Why r u stopping and going, once the sheer pins were fixed that should eat that amount of snow easily. I have a 10 yr old cub cadet 930 (2 stage) with 357 motor it would and did (Connecticut) go through that stuff like nuthin!
Let the snow blower do the work. It'll walk right through the light stuff. You're beaten it up with that up and down on the drive handle. Sit down and read the directions to learn how to operate your machine correctly. Take your time and find that rhythm. It's a learning process. Good luck and stay safe out there.
The third shaft broke at the bottom of the driveway. The angle of the driveway when it meets the street is too steep and the 3rd stage catches the street I always seem to catch it at the wrong angle
Thanks for the video, I would check the positioning of your speed control cable , you should be able to go slower than you currently are. Definitely get your belts tightened up.
@@chillymooose put the machine in 6th, remove TOP pin of the linkage going from the speed control down to the chassis. adjust it by turning the nut counter clockwise until there is just a tiny bit of tension when inserted back in. replace with pin. This will set your gears correctly giving you better reverse as well as lower 1st gear without changing your top speed
You need to keep both of those levels down in order for that machine to operate right, you are going to wear that friction disk down more quickly on that transmission, plus,there is a shear pin on the gear that turn those tires, you are going to snap that pin because of the stop and go motion you are causing a lot of stress on that shear pin.
If you have to run with the choke on even a little bit, that's a sign you have carb issues, maybe put fuel injector/carb cleaner in the tank and run fuel stabilizer in all your yard equipment unless you have methanol free gas. (i like lucas oil's fuel conditioner to help keep the carb clean) That machine should be able to go through some deep snow without stopping. My headlights turn on as soon as the machine is running so you may have some loose connections, I believe the grips would be the same. Check your wiring out in the manual.
I would recommend a two stage. I don’t really see the difference in the third stage. I good two stage will do the job just fine with less parts to go bad on you. Thanks for the question
broke shear pin? I have the near exact same snowblower but Troy Bilt, 3X 420.. I've burned the ,main belt off mine several times, sheared some pins.. but golly, mine will CHUG thru 2 ft. snow like no tomorrow. The steering has held up fine. Always easy to start w/the pull rope. Don't leave stale gas and it's a beaut.
Looks like when i was coming up the driveway from the street, the auger blade hit the driveway. Shearing off the pin. After i replaced the pin it has held up ever since. Thanks for watching
That’s a really nice blower. I immediately noticed that the third stage wasn’t spinning. I’m impressed how well it performed even with that critical part of the machine not working. Thanks for the great video 👍👍👍
I have the 26 inch 3x with the 357cc motor. You have to slow down in deep snow no matter what its consistency, in other words, you have to let it chew its food before you make it swallow. Mine works awesome that's all I know. I did zip tie the governor for top rpm possible, I would not recommend for others to do so.
Prabably auger cable loose your machine too. I have 28 inch 3x 357cc and first 2-3 years machine had little power, shear pins brake all the time, clog a lot even if an inch of snow. Then a year ago I gave it to home depot for maintenance. After that amazin!! This thing you can go 2 feet of snow and if it needs it starts thst tractor sound and it flies far. It is beast even i did like a foot or more very heavy left plow wet snow and it still did job. There is no up down stream no more. It is just up and far.
Should've just bought an Ariens two stage machine. The snow wasn't deep enough to have to keep starting and stopping to allow the machine to catch up, even after the middle auger was fixed. Most two stage machines could've handled that without starting and stopping.
@@chillymooose Well... if you do, check out one of the Rapid Trak versions. I bought an Ariens Platinum RapidTrak 28 SHO in 2020, and it's one of the best investments I've ever made. It handles deep, Chicago lake effect snow like it's nothing... and throws it FAR, and no skipping and sliding either. Hopefully though... your snowblower performs better, so you can save that money. Good luck .
There is a hidden rocker switch under the main panel facing the operator. I had to ask my dealer where it was located? I have the same machine. I’ve had mine for 9 years so far. The heated handles are over rated.
@@chillymooose I previously had a smaller machine made by Troybilt. That had heated handles. When those were on? I had to wear gloves to prevent my hands from being burned by the heated handles. Those threw off serious heat! Unfortunately when we got bigger snow fall dumps it wasn’t up to the challenge? I had to up my game. If I had my dithers I would have preferred to buy a Honda but they wanted serious coin for the same size machine. Maybe next time?
So funny,he goes down 10 feet and it's already jam with loose snow,I think that I'll stick to my Ariens Deluxe,that thing blows any type of snow a long ways,and don't get stuck at all.
You had the machine in the highest travel speed (#6) and kept on starting and stopping to let the auger catch up with the snow that was being forced into it. All your doing is wearing out your drive belt by starting and stopping. SLOW THE MACHINE DOWN TO #1 0R 2 SPEED and let the machine do the work.
Funny... I have a 21 year old Ariens 8 HP 2 stage and I have broken 2 shear pins in it's entire life... and I live in Michigan and we do get snow so It has been used... a lot.
It's a good video to help people diagnose a broken shear pin, but it doesn't show much else. Pins can break at odd times, or become damaged at one time, but not fail until later. I know I only ever broke one pin, and when it failed, I found no debris. However, at some different time, I do know I hit a concrete "frog" that the previous home owner left near the pavement which stalled the machine, but didn't break the pin at the time. I was waiting, still am, for the gearbox to fail after that, lol. It made some nasty noises for a while, but then it settled down. I'm sure a chunk got broke off and got shoved into the corner of the gear box. I just hope it stays there. ;) I understand speeding up videos to keep them short, but if someone is going to sit through a 1/2 hour snowblower video, they probably want to see real time action. ;) I still remember the old "3 stages" where the "3rd stage" was a powered drift cutter. My friend's dad had a Murray(?) "Snow Wolf" that had a little drift auger up top. Looked pretty cool. That's not to be confused with some old machines that just used multiple same sized augers, like the larger commercial machines do. Unfortunately, due to Safety Sallys, your aren't gonna see good drift cutting machines in the states. If you want to see a drift cutting beast, look at the Euro style Hondas. Or pre-1970's machines in the states.
@@chillymooose to check I just googled "honda european snowblower" and clicked on images. Most images showed "normal" ones, but you will see the ones I'm talking about in some of the images.
I have the same one and it gets stuck all the time and I have to clear it out. I have to say it's very disappointing for paying $2000(Canadian) for the damn thing just last year. I might try the silicon, never heard of doing that before. I used to have a smaller machine (24 inch) that never jammed up, must be a flaw in the machine.
Agreed… I thought the three stage made sense, but it really didn’t change anything. However, the silicone does work. Either way good luck and thanks for watching.
Great video! Unfortunately that’s the main problems with Cub Cadets. They clog and barely throw the snow with any distance. I just sold my Cub Cadet and ordered a new Honda for this year. I had enough of Cub Cadet! Hopefully you have better luck with yours…
@@allenwolfe8196 I had my cub cadet for 10 years. Always started right up first try, just never could throw the snow like other brands I’ve seen. Even when brand new. Hoping for better results from the Honda ….
Nice video and glad you showed the problem. Sad how some people comments on how bad it throws even before watchn the hole video. Its like there always looking for something negative to say, be happy people you have something informative to watch and if you don't have anything good or constructive to say don't say anything at all! Good luck with that Cub!
I had one of these 3x cubs and i got rid of it and bought a brand new Toro 2 stage. The Power Max HD 1030 OHAE. I think a 2 stage blower would work alot better. Do yourself a favor... get rid of the cub and go get the Toro Power Max HD 1030 OHAE.
Thanks for the honest feedback. This is good to know since i am always looking to improve the tools needed for the winter. If you come across any video footage with the 928 please let me know so i can take a look as well. Thanks
Something wrong with your 3rd stage. Shouldn't stop because of a little snow. Check your shear pins & gear case. You are trying to feed too much at once. Take it down a gear let it do its job. It is really hard on the trans to jam it forward than stop. Than jam it forward. Slow the speed forward & let it get rid of the snow.
Looks like you have broken sheer pin and your auger clutch adjustment needs some tightening, that's your belt slipping at the beginning where you plowed into the snow.
Two stage all the way. This video proves the complications of a three stage, and they are supposed to be way better at clearing snow, but this just shows it add more complications to it. Besides that, they are much harder to maintain. Stick with a two stage unless you're a contractor and can write off the cost of your equipment and maintenance.
I was hoping to get more info about using the 3x 30 HD. But not having read the manual leaves me questioning his knowledge. He can't even work the lights or hand warmers. Mostly a video of someone snow blowing his driveway, not a good review.
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I bought that machine in 2019. I rather like it. The most difficult thing for me was getting accustomed to the skid steering. I don't use it much because I also have a Toro single stage that handles darn deep snow. But when the snowplow comes by and buries my driveway end with hard snow I need the 3-stage to break up the snow chunks.
Someone needs to show you how to use a snowblower. Extremely rough on it. That's why the shear pin is broken. The deeper the snow... the slower you go. Its easier on all the moving parts. This review is ok but would be better if it was used correctly to give it the honest review.
Thank You 🙏 I appreciate the feedback
In any deep snow, 1st is always best to not overload engine or break anything!
@chillymooose cub actually came out with different shear pins for this machine because they were too weak. The updated has an A for auger and a 3 for impeller. Many people are having problems with this machine blowing belts and shear pins
When snow blowing use a lower gear does less wear and tear on motor and also doesn’t work the machine as hard
@@michaelrothfuss9764 The blower has a 420cc engine with a 14” auger and 14” impeller. It was designed to move a lot of snow rapidly. That’s the point of the HD moniker. It’s supposed to be a commercial grade machine but since it’s an MTD it’s not up to par. They used weak pins when the machine first came out, then came out with stronger pins after just about everybody who bought one was having problems. I believe you wouldn’t know this as you don’t have one and have done zero research on this particular model. I have one and went through all the problems that came along with it. The belts still shred way too easily as they actually aren’t durable enough for the power that this machine puts out. So sorry, bit power and going too fast isn’t the issue. It’s actually the selling point of this machine to move a ton of snow as quickly as possible.
I have the same model. You have a busted shear pin on the forward impeller. Easy fix. Cub Cadet installed to soft of pins. You can now get better , stronger pins at the dealer. When she is working correctly it is an awesome machine. to turn on the heater on the handles just flip the switch in the center between the handles. They really get hot.
This is great
Thank you for the info
I really appreciate it
I have this same machine. Watch more videos of more experienced operators with fully working equipment. This is a great machine when you know what you’re doing. If you don’t know what you’re doing this machine can wear your out. It’s a beast and it’s heavy. It will blow thru a full opening fill deep packed in 1st gear and half deep in 3rd or 4th. Only negative I have is it needs a faster reverse and a faster forward speed but I’m sure for safety they keep it limited. Best tip I have is spray your machine with WD40. Mainly the augers and the chute and inside before you blow. Will keep snow from sticking. If your not using the yellow wheel release levers you need to be for turning and when your moving it not under power. It releases the wheels into a “neutral” state and you can pull it backwards easily. Even when the machine is not running squeeze both levers to move it around.
Yes I agree with everything you just said
If you get a chance, watch my new video with this years storm. Thanks for the feedback
I have a 26” Troybilt Vortex 3 stage and I concur with this post! Love it, wouldn’t trade it for any other machine out there!
I own this 2015 3x model, Things a piece of shit and blows snow like a wet fart 💨
I bought my son the 2x model in 2016 for a house warming gift and it’s a beast and he loves it .
2x is the way to go …..fyi
That’s good to know
Thanks for the info
Glad I watched this video. Just bought my first snow blower for the 2021/2022 winter and had no idea those pins break so easy. Figured they'd only break if someone runs down sticks and stone's
Thanks for watching
They sell those shear pins on Amazon.
You will definitely need them.
Belts transfer the power from the impeller to the engine and usually provides enough marginal errors to prevent engine damage due to impacting any debris? The average strength of todays steel being of a lower grade will allow for breaking before major damage occurs, so I just use OTC bolts and not hardened and haven’t had any of the shear pin problems? Hardened bolts are a definite no/no however!
Just bought a 3x, w/tracks today. One hundred and fifty yd paved drive in north central Montana. Looking forward to getting out with it. Good video....thanks.
I really appreciate it.
And please let me know what you think of. Good luck. Use it in good health
You should install a dolly so you can stand on it and not have to walk
I Loved My Craftsmen Two Stage Blower.
Toro here! Listen if it comes with a shovel it will clog no matter what you put in there! Just remember we’re always here and will never clog on you ever!
That is good to know, thank you
Also GREAT VIDEO! I'm curious if that forward auger was working when you initially clogged up. For heavier stuff like this that first full mouth pass is the hardest even at lower speeds. I'll take half cuts the rest of the driveway and tune my drive accordingly. Side note I noticed CC leaves an awful lot of space for their final stage augers. Did the impeller mod with rubber to sweep the Chute better and I can't wait to try it. Worked wonders on my 70s Toro and a few other machines I have fixed up.
Thanks for the info
Yeah i have been wondering about that impeller mod. I’m curious to see if it really works. Please keep us posted on how you like it if you get the chance to try it out. Thanks again
@@chillymooose It doesn't do anything substantial on this machine. I have since sold my 3x as it was nothing spectacular here in the Northeast.
@@Bellincion I agree
I’m going to give it one more try if we ever get a decent size storm but starting to think it’s probably time to change machines
Quick question since I see a bunch of CC fans here. If my 530 2X lost heated grips and headlight is there a connection that typically is the cause for both to not work?
Eliminator performance recently did a great video on shear pins for MTD snowblowers, explaining the shear pins for two stage vs some three stage vs other three stage and taking into account the year which the snowblower was manufactured
That is great to know. Thank you 🙏 I’ll take a look at it.
I feel you left it in half choke and rabbit mode vs turning it to full choke and changing the mode of speed.
3 stage 400cc Cub cadets should chuck snow, even if powder much farther than that.
I could be wrong.
Thanks for the video I’m looking for a new snowblower after 25 years with a Troy built.
Definitely going to consider the cub cadet but I’m leaning toward a Toro.
I noticed your technique pumping the propel forward handle it’s not the proper way to do it that’s really hard on the equipment. When you’re taking a full bite of snow like on the first pass. Slow the machine down to first or second gear. Then when you’re doing your next pass take half of a bite or maybe a little bit more. Not a full bite. It’s easier on the machine only takes you a few extra passes. That technique I’ve been using for years even with a tractor with a snowblower taking half a bite or maybe 2/3 of a bite of the next row is definitely the way to do it and you don’t leave those little wind rows of snow left behind it does a cleaner job.
Thank for the tip. I will definitely use it when we get the next big snow storm here. Good luck on your search for a new snow blower and if you come across something your really like or don’t like, please let me know. I’m curious to see what other machines work well out there.
Thanks again
Twenty Five years with the Troy Built, not sure this machine will be the same.
@@rockybigdog8506 Cub Cadet is far superior - I know I owned both
I was interested in getting a 3 stage. I won't after seeing your vid. If you are doing the start/stop/two steps forward routine to wait for the impellers to clear, what's the point of the 3 stages when I do the same currently with my 2 stage? Thanks for the vid, but i'll wait till the technology substantially changes.
Agreed! Not necessary. It also promotes it as chewing through ice and slush but I haven’t had success with that. I agree that a two stage is enough
Thanks for the comment
Going too fast. That’s why it clogged. Gotta give the blower time to do it’s work. Don’t think that would’ve caused the shear pin to break though.
Thanks for the info...
First time I use mine I got too close to my neighbors cement flower pot and broke a shear pin, easy fix just have to remember to order more.
I live in Buffalo NY. We get ALOT of snow and we stay away from the 3 stage in my neighborhood. Cub 2X and Ariens 2 stage keep up with big snow storms !
Oh wow that’s interesting. Thank you for the info
Curious as to why you stay away from stage 3?
this comment aged well...from Silver Creek NY here
I've been thinking about getting a snowblower (Toro, Honda, Cub Cadet) but haven't decided on which one to get.
Ed this is a great thread to read up on.
There are many viewers that commented as to what they have and if they love it or not. Hope you find the comments informative
Third winter with mine. No issues. I go slow and it chews through light, heavy wet, and everything in-between. It is a bit faster than my older two-stage, because it's a three-stage. I have to do my driveway and our cul-de-sac every storm. I may add an impeller kit after this season to prevent occasional clogging, but that's not a Cub Cadet issue. Folks add those kits on all brands, especially Ariens. Have not broken one shear pin yet. I will never understand folks who complain it doesn't throw far enough. Mine does, and I have a lot of area to remove snow from.
This machine replaced my much smaller Snapper 7/24 which I had since 1997. The 420cc (13 HP) motor is powerful and runs smooth. I only run ethanol-free gas, or Tru Fuel from Lowes. I highly recommend if you run yours on gasoline, that you run it dry at the end of the season, and then fill it with Tru Fuel and run that through. The carbs on these machines are very fickle and they do NOT like fuel with ethanol and should never have fuel with ethanol sit in them for more than 30 days, even with a stabilizer. Friend had that issue his second winter when it wouldn't start. Had to take apart the carb and use a fine wire to clean the little holes in the jet.
If you take your time to learn this machine and understand how to use it, it's a beast on all types of snow.
Thank you for the info. I really appreciate it. I’ll have to do that next time and see how she performs.
Thanks again
Ya guess none of us would have seen the middle auger was not doing its job. The speed was ok. Good job noticing the issue.
Your cub cadet performs similar to mine when i bought it and your engine is bigger. That was til last home depot maintenance. This is a beast when everything is correct. Look how high is housing that takes snow and if all correct it will throw snow easy to top or above housing. You see that weak stream at the beginning of video thst means prabably auger start cable is not corectly tightened. You had to start and stop cause stream was throwing weaker not to clog snow blower. Also pin broke when it was maybe an inch of snow and for me now i think i broke 2 pins while before correction prabsbly 20 or more mostly on small snow. Now my snow blower can throw heavy 2 feet tall plow snow pretty easy. Guys at cub cadet dont know their own equipment!!
Oh wow... nice, I appreciate the feedback. I’m going to take a look at the manual and the machine and see where I need to make adjustments. Thanks again
Looks like it is working great but hope they make speed adjustable so for big snow you can slow it down.
He should be able to. I think he just left in whatever speed it was in and just used that. Typically 5 and 6 on the speed selector are really just for transporting a machine. speeds 1 and two are recommended for wet heavy snow. 3 and for for light snow. Some of the older Craftsman snowblowers had that info on the speed selector.
You need to adjust your shift linkage. Your first gear is second gear.
if I had to stop and start that much it would be in the dump.....light and fluffy? what happens when it's wet....?
I bought the same machine right before the first storm. It performed well but I did replace 9 sheer pins from debris kicked out by snow plows. The 420 is a strong motor and the power steering was a luxury, but reverse was painfully slow.
The traction was lacking so I ordered chains too.
Yes i love this motor and it performs well. Please let me know if you figure out how to dial in the machine.
What chain did you get for it, I have the same blower?
There's switches near where the shear pins are stored for the heated grips and lights, I just Keating them on all the time.
Thank you I appreciate it
Same machine. We’re you using the power steering paddles. Also the height adjustment is on the lever gown by the wheels. Good video.
Thank you
Oh that is good to know.
I’ll take a look and see if i can adjust it
Yes i was using the power steering paddles
I have a 3X Cub Cadet, 2018 model, and hated it as the shear pins on the center augers broke all the time. It turns out they changed the shear pins in the 2019 model year to prevent the premature failure. They look like hex head bolts with nuts. I've seen reports of the units now breaking shafts as the pins are too strong. I've not had that problem yet. When the pins work the machine works well.
Thank you
That is good to know. I’ll keep an eye out for those pins and see how they work. I appreciate it
A neighbor of mine ,has the exact same machine ,and he hates it,he want's to sell it and by himself something else,that 3 stage in wet or soggy snow just jams in there.
That I know ClubCadet are the only ones that makes one,and I don't think that it will last long.
A couple problems I see you doing is that your shoes are adjusted to low and you have the thing running at a higher forward speed. I run mine through 3 foot Banks on 1 and it goes right through without stopping. I have found that the deeper the Snow the further the machine throws. In 2 feet of snow I can throw at almost 50 feet.
That is great to know.
Thank you for that.
I will try it out on the next snow storm
I have the same model also I never have to stop and start, even at a higher speed the engine automatically revs up and it goes right through throwing a 30+ foot roster tail of snow esp with dry powdery snow.
You should stop the engine while touching the indside of the blades. Also not a good idea to throw the snow and possibly small rocks on cars, houses etc. Stay safe!
Just wondering what gear you have that in? Seems to be a little fast for that amount of snow, should not have to work the drive engage on and off like that.. Has to be hard on the clutch system…
I was in first gear with this guy
@@chillymooose Wow, thanks for the response. Just seemed fast for 1st gear.. Makes me wonder if the shifter is working properly. Typically there’s a large disk and the drive speed is determined were on the disk the mating wheel is.. Could it be out of adjustment as not to let it go to the lowest position… Just wondering….
I just bought a new Cub Cadet 2x 26 IP. In reading the reviews the biggest problem was the carburetor plugging up. Can you give me some suggestions on how to take precautions to prevent this from happening. Thank you
Absolutely, I installed an inline shut of valve from the fuel tank to the carburetor. When ever I am done running the machine I will shut off the fuel valve and let the machine run until it uses up the fuel the is in the bowl of the carburetor. This will let the float in the bowl settle down to the bottom of the bowl, extracting the needle from the jet inside the carburetor. And the carburetor will not clog up. When your ready to start up the machine, you open up the fuel valve and open up the choke and the machine will start right up. The only way the carburetor clogs up is when you store the machine with a full bowl of fuel and the needle inside the carb gets stuck closing the jet and fuel doesn’t get to the engine.
Hope this helps.
Yes. Very simple way to prevent this from ever happening. Do NOT use gasoline if it has any ethanol. You can buy Aspen Fuel, or Tru Fuel at Lowes, Home Depot other places. If you do put gasoline in yours, I'd make sure to run it bone dry, even if you use Stabil, and run Tru Fuel through it. The problem with these carbs is that gas with ethanol will 100% clog the jets and prevent it from starting. I only use Tru Fuel and I exercise the blower and augers monthly, year-round.
My Toro 1432 has never plugged! Still throws wet snow 30+ feet.
Are you Canadian by any chance? Only a Canuck would be out snowblowing in running shoes!! Greetings from NB!
Hahahha
I am not but i hear a lot of great things from there. Hopefully can get to visit some time.
If you can find ethanol free gas it works best if not the manual says to use highest octane gas you can.
Also mine says to store with lever in 6th speed to keep the cable from stretching to the gear box, though it looks like they replaced the cable with a metal rod to the gear box.
This is great information
Thank you for letting me know
I think I will keep my plowing contract going!!! :)
I cant believe it blew that good with no shear pins
It uses 6 shear pins total. 2x for left auger, 2 for right auger. 1 for the front chopper, there's also a rear chopper before it hits the thrower that shoots it out the shoot.
The yellow spinner in the rear isn't what's chucking that snow. That is black. Essentially snow has to go through 2 moving partd before hitting the chucker. Either center spinner or auger, then rear chopper that blocks the chucker so all snow has to go through that, followed by the chucker.
The rear chopper was still spinning and the augers was pulling in the snow which is why it was still throwing as if the front chopper was spinning.
They could make an all auger front with chopper in rear than chucker.
It'd be like if stage 2 went Super Saiyan.
my 30 year year old mtd throws 30 feet with no problem , i never buy new always used always had good luck with them
Why r u stopping and going, once the sheer pins were fixed that should eat that amount of snow easily. I have a 10 yr old cub cadet 930 (2 stage) with 357 motor it would and did (Connecticut) go through that stuff like nuthin!
That is good to know. I will try it in the next snowstorm
Thanks for the info
I agree, a snowblower that big should eat up that much snow without stopping.
Let the snow blower do the work. It'll walk right through the light stuff. You're beaten it up with that up and down on the drive handle. Sit down and read the directions to learn how to operate your machine correctly. Take your time and find that rhythm. It's a learning process. Good luck and stay safe out there.
Thank you 🙏
I appreciate the comment
I’ll see how she does in the next snow storm we have.
I dont stop and start like you do even if 2 feet of snow.
This snow looks so good I want to eat it 🤤
Yes it does…
How did you break the 3rd stage pins in a foot of fluffy snow???
The third shaft broke at the bottom of the driveway. The angle of the driveway when it meets the street is too steep and the 3rd stage catches the street
I always seem to catch it at the wrong angle
A good honest video 👍🏽
Less than a foot of light fluffy snow and it doesn't throw the snow as far as my Toro throws slush
Snowblower will be much more enjoyable and easier when you learn proper operation. That machine is a beast. Slower. Low gear if it is Deep.
Thank you 🙏 I appreciate it
Thanks for the video, I would check the positioning of your speed control cable , you should be able to go slower than you currently are. Definitely get your belts tightened up.
Thank you, I’m definitely going to check that out. I appreciate it
@@chillymooose put the machine in 6th, remove TOP pin of the linkage going from the speed control down to the chassis. adjust it by turning the nut counter clockwise until there is just a tiny bit of tension when inserted back in. replace with pin. This will set your gears correctly giving you better reverse as well as lower 1st gear without changing your top speed
You need to keep both of those levels down in order for that machine to operate right, you are going to wear that friction disk down more quickly on that transmission, plus,there is a shear pin on the gear that turn those tires, you are going to snap that pin because of the stop and go motion you are causing a lot of stress on that shear pin.
Thank you for the info
I will keep that in mind next time I use the machine. Hopefully it snows soon so i can try some of these techniques
Chains are a must have
Agreed, I just haven’t found the place that sells them.
Glad you clarified the 3rd stage. That was your problem it plugged.
Yes indeed.
Thanks for the support
Not sure what you paid for this, but it does seem to me that it is underpowered a bit.
If you have to run with the choke on even a little bit, that's a sign you have carb issues, maybe put fuel injector/carb cleaner in the tank and run fuel stabilizer in all your yard equipment unless you have methanol free gas. (i like lucas oil's fuel conditioner to help keep the carb clean) That machine should be able to go through some deep snow without stopping. My headlights turn on as soon as the machine is running so you may have some loose connections, I believe the grips would be the same. Check your wiring out in the manual.
This is awesome information
Thank you 🙏 I appreciate it
It seems like the belt on the 3rd stage middle auger is loose??? It does not look like that 3rd stage auger is turning much.
Yeah that was a pin that sheared off
When the pins are installed, the middle auger is locked in with the main auger.
Thanks for watching
Would you recommend a 2 stage snowblower or the 3 stage
I would recommend a two stage.
I don’t really see the difference in the third stage. I good two stage will do the job just fine with less parts to go bad on you. Thanks for the question
broke shear pin? I have the near exact same snowblower but Troy Bilt, 3X 420.. I've burned the ,main belt off mine several times, sheared some pins.. but golly, mine will CHUG thru 2 ft. snow like no tomorrow. The steering has held up fine. Always easy to start w/the pull rope. Don't leave stale gas and it's a beaut.
That is good to know thank you
What caused the stage three shear pin to break-that is fluffy snow-seems weird
Looks like when i was coming up the driveway from the street, the auger blade hit the driveway. Shearing off the pin.
After i replaced the pin it has held up ever since.
Thanks for watching
That’s a really nice blower.
I immediately noticed that the third stage wasn’t spinning. I’m impressed how well it performed even with that critical part of the machine not working.
Thanks for the great video 👍👍👍
@@Peter-.H That proves that the 3 stage platform is irrelevant. The two stage Cub Cadet machine would have been more than adequate.
@@jamesorsby7553 there's another auger in there behind that front one that was sheared.
ive got the 2x trac cub works great! i live in upper mi, thought about the 3x but decided against it. nice rig though!
Thanks I appreciate 🙏
@@chillymooose when the time comes for a new one look into the tracks. I'll never go back to the wheels. They grip like you wouldn't believe
I have the 26 inch 3x with the 357cc motor. You have to slow down in deep snow no matter what its consistency, in other words, you have to let it chew its food before you make it swallow. Mine works awesome that's all I know. I did zip tie the governor for top rpm possible, I would not recommend for others to do so.
Thank you for the info
Prabably auger cable loose your machine too. I have 28 inch 3x 357cc and first 2-3 years machine had little power, shear pins brake all the time, clog a lot even if an inch of snow. Then a year ago I gave it to home depot for maintenance. After that amazin!! This thing you can go 2 feet of snow and if it needs it starts thst tractor sound and it flies far. It is beast even i did like a foot or more very heavy left plow wet snow and it still did job. There is no up down stream no more. It is just up and far.
RTFM ! is what my told me a million times. Really should to give a product a fair shake during a review.
Excellent video
Your doing that with running shoes on ?
Hahaha… yeah, will never do that again
Thanks for watching
And you might want to get some cooking spray so the snow doesn’t stick-in side the shoot
Should've just bought an Ariens two stage machine. The snow wasn't deep enough to have to keep starting and stopping to allow the machine to catch up, even after the middle auger was fixed. Most two stage machines could've handled that without starting and stopping.
Thanks for the comment
Going to see how she does this upcoming snow season and if I decide to buy new, I’ll definitely check out the Ariens
@@chillymooose Well... if you do, check out one of the Rapid Trak versions.
I bought an Ariens Platinum RapidTrak 28 SHO in 2020, and it's one of the best investments I've ever made. It handles deep, Chicago lake effect snow like it's nothing... and throws it FAR, and no skipping and sliding either. Hopefully though... your snowblower performs better, so you can save that money. Good luck .
Need to buy a shear pin for the front impeller
good machine！
There is a hidden rocker switch under the main panel facing the operator. I had to ask my dealer where it was located?
I have the same machine. I’ve had mine for 9 years so far. The heated handles are over rated.
Found it
Thank you. Yes I agree they really don’t do much especially when you are wearing gloves
@@chillymooose I previously had a smaller machine made by Troybilt. That had heated handles. When those were on? I had to wear gloves to prevent my hands from being burned by the heated handles. Those threw off serious heat! Unfortunately when we got bigger snow fall dumps it wasn’t up to the challenge? I had to up my game. If I had my dithers I would have preferred to buy a Honda but they wanted serious coin for the same size machine. Maybe next time?
So funny,he goes down 10 feet and it's already jam with loose snow,I think that I'll stick to my Ariens Deluxe,that thing blows any type of snow a long ways,and don't get stuck at all.
Make sure you spray a silicone lubricant all over the augers and shoot. Makes a world of difference with sticky snow
That is good to know
Thanks for the info
I’ll definitely try it out
I appreciate the wind is blowing towards the parked vehicles but I certainly would have blown snow away from vehicles
Thanks for the advice
I will keep this in mind for the next storm
You had the machine in the highest travel speed (#6) and kept on starting and stopping to let the auger catch up with the snow that was being forced into it. All your doing is wearing out your drive belt by starting and stopping. SLOW THE MACHINE DOWN TO #1 0R 2 SPEED and let the machine do the work.
This is great thank you. Yes looking forward to the next snow storm so that I can use this tip. Thanks
Funny... I have a 21 year old Ariens 8 HP 2 stage and I have broken 2 shear pins in it's entire life... and I live in Michigan and we do get snow so It has been used... a lot.
Thanks for the info
Yes I agree. Better a sheer pin then a drive
That's some very wet snow.
I try not to blow snow until it gets a little colder. Works better.
Thanks for the tip. I appreciate it
You should check your shear pins on occasion. There broke
Yes... thank you
It's a good video to help people diagnose a broken shear pin, but it doesn't show much else. Pins can break at odd times, or become damaged at one time, but not fail until later. I know I only ever broke one pin, and when it failed, I found no debris. However, at some different time, I do know I hit a concrete "frog" that the previous home owner left near the pavement which stalled the machine, but didn't break the pin at the time. I was waiting, still am, for the gearbox to fail after that, lol. It made some nasty noises for a while, but then it settled down. I'm sure a chunk got broke off and got shoved into the corner of the gear box. I just hope it stays there. ;)
I understand speeding up videos to keep them short, but if someone is going to sit through a 1/2 hour snowblower video, they probably want to see real time action. ;)
I still remember the old "3 stages" where the "3rd stage" was a powered drift cutter. My friend's dad had a Murray(?) "Snow Wolf" that had a little drift auger up top. Looked pretty cool.
That's not to be confused with some old machines that just used multiple same sized augers, like the larger commercial machines do.
Unfortunately, due to Safety Sallys, your aren't gonna see good drift cutting machines in the states. If you want to see a drift cutting beast, look at the Euro style Hondas.
Or pre-1970's machines in the states.
This is great thank you
Will definitely look into those machines
@@chillymooose to check I just googled "honda european snowblower" and clicked on images. Most images showed "normal" ones, but you will see the ones I'm talking about in some of the images.
Thank you
"rabbit mode" lol awesome
I have the same one and it gets stuck all the time and I have to clear it out. I have to say it's very disappointing for paying $2000(Canadian) for the damn thing just last year. I might try the silicon, never heard of doing that before. I used to have a smaller machine (24 inch) that never jammed up, must be a flaw in the machine.
Agreed… I thought the three stage made sense, but it really didn’t change anything. However, the silicone does work. Either way good luck and thanks for watching.
Hahahaha
Great video! Unfortunately that’s the main problems with Cub Cadets. They clog and barely throw the snow with any distance. I just sold my Cub Cadet and ordered a new Honda for this year. I had enough of Cub Cadet! Hopefully you have better luck with yours…
Wow… good to know. What model Honda did you get? I may look into it.
Thanks
@@chillymooose HSS928
Sheer pin was busted, they work good if you know your machine
@@allenwolfe8196 I had my cub cadet for 10 years. Always started right up first try, just never could throw the snow like other brands I’ve seen. Even when brand new. Hoping for better results from the Honda ….
Let us know how you like the new machine. Thanks
The little yellow handle underneath is a brake for your tire .
Brake? It's for steering left and right. Wanna turn left, squeeze the left trigger. Same for the right.
First thing you should do is push the snow out of the garage doorway with a shovel, then pull the snowblower out and close the garage door.
I love that idea
Thank you
Will try it out this upcoming winter
I didn’t read the manual but this is what it does
Nice video and glad you showed the problem. Sad how some people comments on how bad it throws even before watchn the hole video. Its like there always looking for something negative to say, be happy people you have something informative to watch and if you don't have anything good or constructive to say don't say anything at all!
Good luck with that Cub!
Hahaha
Yes thanks I appreciate the positivity.
I had one of these 3x cubs and i got rid of it and bought a brand new Toro 2 stage.
The Power Max HD 1030 OHAE.
I think a 2 stage blower would work alot better.
Do yourself a favor... get rid of the cub and go get the Toro Power Max HD 1030 OHAE.
must be new to the world of snow blowing
The snowblower is fine. The real problem is that the skids are set way too low. That's the reason for all the stop and go..
I’ll try adjusting them a little higher for the next one. Thanks for the info
You're literally wearing what we wear here in the 70s 😂🌬❄☃️
Lol… yes it’s very comfortable
Thanks for watching
I am glad I bought a 928 toro because after watching the video I would never even consider a cub cadet
Thanks for the honest feedback. This is good to know since i am always looking to improve the tools needed for the winter. If you come across any video footage with the 928 please let me know so i can take a look as well. Thanks
Someone needs to show you how to use a snowblower buddy
Hahahha yes please 🙏 I know nothing 😂
I have the same blower for the third year. No problem with it .But you are in to high of gear .
Thank you for the info
Waiting on snow this year to try new things with it
Thanks again
Better a shear pin than a shaft or gear case...
Prabably once you get heavy wet snow it will clog all the time and break pins all the time.
This machine loves wet snow. I have a 26” Troybilt Vortex and I have never met a plow pile I couldn’t get through on the first pass
Something wrong with your 3rd stage. Shouldn't stop because of a little snow. Check your shear pins & gear case. You are trying to feed too much at once. Take it down a gear let it do its job. It is really hard on the trans to jam it forward than stop. Than jam it forward. Slow the speed forward & let it get rid of the snow.
Thank you
I appreciate it
Looking forward to new snow fall so I can try it.
R u blowing snow onto the neighbours cars?
Lol non it goes to the side of my yard
It looks like belt or some thing needs tightened
Looks like you have broken sheer pin and your auger clutch adjustment needs some tightening, that's your belt slipping at the beginning where you plowed into the snow.
Two stage all the way. This video proves the complications of a three stage, and they are supposed to be way better at clearing snow, but this just shows it add more complications to it. Besides that, they are much harder to maintain. Stick with a two stage unless you're a contractor and can write off the cost of your equipment and maintenance.
Thank you for the feedback
Really appreciate it
He was In a way to high gear i have the 45inch one and it throws it like 60 feet and can't stop it
I don't see any issues. Does look like someone stole the heated cab lol.
I was hoping to get more info about using the 3x 30 HD. But not having read the manual leaves me questioning his knowledge. He can't even work the lights or hand warmers. Mostly a video of someone snow blowing his driveway, not a good review.
Its funny reading the comments on how mean and powerful their snowblower are! Lots of inflatable people out there...
Hahahah... yes indeed
The middle blades ain't moving ..that could be the issue
Yeah that middle auger keeps busting the pin. Thanks for watching
Oh yea gonna blow now