Jessica ZanderSnowblowers are a great help during the winter season for clearing snow. But, if your snowblower not throwing far enough, it might be due to a blockage in it!
Well, one of the main reasons is the clogging of the snowblower chute due to heavy or wet snow. Other reasons are lack of maintenance, damaged parts, or worn-out components. The article will help identify possible problems and propose effective solutions to these problems quickly.
Some easy tips can help resolve the problems and your snow blower will start to throw snow further again. Unclogging the snowblower, removing any blockages caused by an object, performing maintenance, adjusting a certain component, and changing minor settings will be the core highlight of the article. Here is how we can make it possible!
Contents
Why Won’t My Snowblower Throw Snow Far Enough?
Using the snow blower during the winter might usually result in a clogged snow blower chute. Or build-up of wet or heavy snow that jams the passageway partially resulting in short snow-throwing distance. Other reasons may also be possible which are the following:
Broken Shear Pins
The auger blades may spin freely if there are broken shear pins. The shear pins act as a fastener bolt connecting the auger and the drive shaft. Once the shear pins are replaced, the snowblower will throw snow farther than expected.
Damaged Augers or Impeller
The auger is blades that rotate to cut throw snow. While the impeller is a fan-like structure that sucks the snow into the chute and out on the other side.
If any of these components break down or get damaged then you may notice the throw distance is decreased. Replace the components if they are damaged to maintain the throw distance.
Worn, Stretched, or Damaged Auger Drive Belt
The auger drive belt might not spin if damaged, worn, or loose. Check the belt. And if it needs replacements, then change it immediately.
Bad Gear Case
The auger shaft is controlled via a gear case that acts as a transmission for it. If the gear case is damaged then the auger won’t spin. This will result in snow not shooting out of the chute or a less throw distance. You have to replace the gear case to resolve the issue.
The engine Needs a Tune-Up
An engine always needs a tune-up before being used. Before the winter season, make sure to tune up the engine to avoid any possible issues. If it is not done then the engine might lack power and not be able to throw snow farther. Maintainance is a crucial step for this!
Chute Problems
If the chute is not adjusted accordingly then it won’t be able to throw snow out of the driveway instead it will toss the snow in the air and shower it down again. That is a highly undesirable outcome!
Repairing or replacing the chute control might solve the problem. Also, ensure to check the chute cable for any issues. Adjusting or replacing the cables will result in an excellent snow throw.
How Far Should A Snowblower Throw?
Normally a snowblower throws snow at a distance of about 15 to 20 feet. But the throw distance can depend on various factors such as the build of the snowblower and the weather.
If you have a multi-stage, two-stage, or even a single-stage blower then its components can be a changing variable for the throw distance of the snow.
The power of the motor, length of the chute, size of the impeller, the external surface of the auger housing, and clearance area are some of the factors that ultimately act as a factor to the throw distance.
Is My Snowblower Clogged?
A snowblower resting in the extreme cold may have its discharge chute or auger clogged with snow that clings to it. Even after using the snowblower, this may happen. Accumulation of the snow can create a blockage that traps the snow in the machine.
It may be possible that there might be some hidden object in the snow that might choke the passageway.
Also, moving too quickly through the snow with the snowblower might result in a clogged snowblower.
You may notice a clog as there may be no snow entering or exiting the snowblower. Inspect the machine and unclog it as soon as possible.
How Do You Unclog A Snowblower Safely?
The best and easiest way to unclog a snowblower is to make use of a specially designed tool. But there are other ways to unclog it.
Firstly, wait for 20-30 seconds after turning off the power so that the snowblower stops fully. Now take a broom handle and insert it into the chute or auger. Move it around until the clog is cleared or any item stuck inside comes out.
Note: It may cause serious injuries if you will use your hands to unclog snow from the sharp blades.
How To Make A Snowblower Throw Farther?
Maintainance is the best way to ensure that the snowblower will throw farther but there are some others ways to tweak the machine for optimization. Let’s check them out!
Lubricant Spray On Snowblower Chute and Discharge Chute
The snowblower throw snow farther if it is properly lubricated. Snow is abrasive and it can cling to surfaces creating a surface that causes friction. You need a smooth surface to generate maximum throw distance.
You may use the following items to lubricate it:
- WD-40
- Cooking Spray
- Graphite Spray
- Cooking Oil
Apply an even coat by spraying it on the auger, auger belt, fan, and internal area of the discharge chute.
Note: The graphite spray may only be used once a week while the other methods have to be repeated daily.
Install An Impeller Kit
An impeller replacement can be a game-changer! Pushing the snow outside from the chute is the function of the impeller fan. And snow entering then travels a longer distance with the help of an excellent impeller and out of the discharge chute.
Purchase an impeller kit to change it or simply consult a mechanic to install one. You can even convert a single-stage snowblower to a two-stage snowblower with this quick swap.
Snowblower Gear Lubricant
Carrying out maintenance on a routine basis can boost the performance of the snowblower. Lubricating the external parts such as the chute, auger, etc may be helpful but the internal mechanism also needs lubrication.
Make sure to lubricate the gear shaft, swap any damaged components, thoroughly clean the spar plug, and apply oil to the engine.
Maintenance, Performance & Storage
Regular maintenance can do wonders, and it can ensure that your snowblower is working at peak performance.
Checking the internal and external parts of the machine on daily basis, especially during the winter season is necessary. You may not notice much from the outside but a thorough inspection might reveal issues that need to be resolved.
How you store the snowblower greatly impacts its performance and condition. Store it in a spacious and dust-free environment to guarantee a long-lasting snowblower.
The Snowblower Won’t Throw Snow At All?
There are various reasons for a snowblower to be clogged or unable to throw snow. It may be due to snow blocking the passage or a mechanical mishap. Let us enlighten you with ways to resolve this!
Clear A Clogged Snowblower
Using a broom handle, mop stick, a metal rod, or a similar stick-like object can help you to unclog the snowblower. If still, the problem persists then taking the snowblower to a professional is your only choice.
Heavy Load Bogs Down Snowblower
You may feel like the snowblower is losing its power or feels bogged. The engine might be taking a lot of loads and one of the root causes for this may be a dirty carburetor. Clean it, check it, and if that doesn’t work then just replace it.
Some of the internal parts such as belts, fuel lines, or spark plugs might also need replacement or maintenance. If it is still problematic, check out with an expert for a better solution.
Attempting To Clear Too Much Snow In A Single Pass
Working hastily is not the best approach sometimes. Too much snow in the auger and the chute will ultimately block it. Clear snow in smaller portions to avoid this. Try to make use of half of the auger width to clear the snow.
Also, make sure to clear the snow before the deposits form thick layers that can choke the snowblower.
Mechanical Faults
For single-stage snow blowers, the common issues arise in the auger belt that may need tightening. Other common mechanical issues might occur in the spacer bar and paddles.
Compacted snow and wet snow can clog it or cling to jam it. If the snowblower stops throwing snow, then better to change it.
For two-stage snow blowers, the common problem may be a loose auger belt or gearbox, which may need lubrication, shear pins, or general maintenance. If the components still do not function properly, then simply replace them.
Why Is My Snowblower Just Pushing Snow?
Usually, the major cause of this problem is due to less lubrication done on the components, clogs, broken parts, or issues with the auger. To avoid such issues, carry out maintenance or use a slower speed setting for consistent working.
Snowblower Auger Turns Slowly Due to Auger Belt
The auger is designed in a way to turn slower than the impeller. If you notice that the auger is not turning or it turns very slowly, then the root cause of the problem may be a damaged belt, belt slipping, or loose belt. Replace it.
A clog could also be a reason for such behavior of the snowblower.
How To Test A Snowblower Without Snow?
The best way to test a snowblower in the off-season is to improvise with wet sawdust. The sawdust mimics the same particle behavior of wet or heavy snow. It is an excellent method to test out any type of snow blower.
How to Increase Snow Blower Performance?
There are many ways to increase the performance of a snow blower. Changing the components with newer ones, maintenance, and lubrication are some very common ways. Let‘s check out some additional ways to do it!
Making a Snow Blower Scrape Better
The scrapper is located at the bottom of the housing. You can reposition it to perform better. Simply, tilt the snowblower way back and then loosen the scrapper. Pull the blade as far down as possible and tighten it. It may now scrape the snow even better.
Adjusting Snow Blower Clearing Height
You have to adjust the snowblower height to suit the different surfaces to remove the snow. On a gravel driveway, you do not want to pick up any debris while the snowblower throws snow. To do this, you have to adjust the skid shoes.
Note: This needs to be done every time you adjust the scrapper blade.
Similarly, for fragile surfaces such as bricks and pavers, you may have to change the skid shoes with suitable ones.
Making Your Snow Blower Drive Straight
The drive of your snowblower might be uneven or undesired due to various reasons. Some of those reasons can be resolved by the following methods!
Adjust Snowblower Wheels
Tire pressure can be a major factor for a straighter drive. If you notice uneven tire size, then you better check the tire pressure and level both accordingly. Equalize the pressure and then recheck the drive.
Adjust Snowblower Tracks
Your snowblower might be pulling to the left or right. This may be because of uneven track tension or a problem with the tracks. You have to check the tracks for possible problems. If it needs adjusting then simply loosen the track adjuster and place it in the desired setting.
Making Your Snow Blower Throw Further
If the snowblower is not throwing the snow farther, then there might be several possible reasons.
- The auger idler is not applying enough tension.
- The auger drive belt may have been damaged or worn out.
Solution:
Readjusting the clutch cable, auger idler, or belt may solve the issue. Changing the belt might also be a good solution to the problem.
Tighten the Auger Clutch Cable
Tightening the clutch cable might also do the trick. There may be some slack or loosening in the clutch cable that might be the reason for less pressure by the auger drive idler.
Solution:
- Check the auger clutch belt if it is loose.
- Unwind the jam nut and adjust the cable barrel. Now turn the barrel to remove any possible slack.
- Wind the nut again to fix the belt in place and put the belt cover back.
Auger Idler Position Adjustment
It may be possible that the snowblower auger drive idler might need to be repositioned after the auger cable is adjusted. Adjusting the idler much closer to the belt might solve the problem. If you are still unsure about this DIY, then you better consult a professional to avoid any mishaps.
How to Make Your Snow Blower Drive Faster
If the snowblower drive is not fast enough then, this may be because of the drive wheels. Just like the belts, the friction discs inside the drive wheels go through wear and tear.
If the disc has worn out, it will not make contact with the wheel drive pulley. Adding tension to the wheel drive clutch cable might solve the issue.
Adjust the Snow Blower Speed
You may think that tweaking the adjustment pin might be almost impossible but it isn’t! Although, the snowblowers are made so that the user cannot tamper with the pre-set drive speeds.
But, minor changes made to the pin located at the end of the shift rod can boost snowblower speeds.
Adjust the Snow Blower Chute
The snowblower chute cap is responsible for the throw height. If the throw distance is not as per your desire. You can adjust the snowblower chute cap and deflector by simply tightening the nut on the snowblower chute deflector level located below the dash panel.
Verdict: Snowblower Not Throwing Far Enough
It all comes down to maintenance and routine checks of the snowblower. Regular use results in wear and tear of the components which may need to replace or tune-up. If the user can check minor issues and resolve them on time, then major problems can be mitigated beforehand.
FAQ
How far should a snowblower throw snow?
The throw distance of single or two-stage snow blowers should, on average be 15 to 20 feet.
Why is my Toro snowblower not throwing snow far?
If you are using a Toro snowblower, then you might face some issues at times, such as it might stop throwing snow. There are two main reasons for a two-stage snowblower, firstly, the chute might get blocked, or the snowblower auger might have problems due to ice/snow. And for a single-stage snowblower replacing paddles will solve the problem.
How do I make my snowblower throw snow farther?
There are ways to improve the throw distance of the snowblower. You can carry out maintenance to make it work better. Lubricating the chute might also improve throw distance. If the impeller blades need changing, then change it, and it might help the snowblower throw snow very far away.
Why won’t my snowblower shoot snow?
The most common reason for the snowblower to be unable to shoot snow is because of blockages. The snow might clog the chute. This may be due to wet and heavy snow or a high amount of snow. Simply clean the chute to unclog it.
Conclusion
A snow blower might go through various problems that might result in snow not being thrown at a faraway distance. Either damaged parts, jammed components due to snow, worn-out belts, or a clogged chute may be the cause.
Clearing out these problems asap must be your main objective to save your snowblower from the pricey repair cost. Some problems can be easily solved via replacements and simple DIY maintenance but for major repairs, a professional may be contacted.
Were you able to do a DIY repair or maintenance job on your single or two-stage snowblower? Or did the broom trick work excellently to unclog the snowblower? Let us know about the trick that worked for you!
I've been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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Hello! I’m Jessica Zander, a garden coach and consultant based in the Boston area (zone 6b), offering virtual consultations across the country and Canada.
I’ve been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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