Why is my snowblower clogging or not throwing snow?

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Why is my snowblower clogging or not throwing snow?

Winter weather can be relentless, and our trusty snowblowers often become our saviors when it comes to clearing the snow-covered battlegrounds. But, as many seasoned snow warriors know, these machines have a knack for clogging up at the worst possible times. Clearing snow is demanding as it is, and nobody wants to add to the labor by constantly pausing to clear a stubborn clog. Fear not, for in this guide, we'll explore some practical tips to help you not only prevent snowblower clogs but also identify and address any mechanical issues that may masquerade as a simple blockage.

Let's dive right in, making sure your winter battle stays efficient and frustration-free.

Table of Contents

When winter's icy grip tightens, we turn to our trusty arsenal of snow removal tools to rescue us from the snowbound chaos. For those who depend on snowblowers to clear their paths, the frustration of encountering clogs is an all-too-familiar ordeal. Clearing snow is demanding work, and nobody wants to lengthen the job by repeatedly pausing to unclog their machine. In this guide, we'll explore some essential tips to not only minimize snowblower clogs but also uncover and address potential mechanical issues that may mimic the symptoms of a blockage. So, let's jump right in and ensure your winter snow-clearing endeavors are as smooth as possible.

NEVER Clear Snowblower Clogs with Your Hands!

One crucial rule that cannot be stressed enough is never attempting to clear a clogged snowblower with your hands. This warning bears repeating because it stands as the leading cause of snowblower-related injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), a recent year saw a staggering 590 finger amputations associated with snowblowers, and on average, there are approximately 5,740 visits to hospital emergency rooms due to snowblower injuries.

When a snowblower becomes clogged, its moving parts come to an abrupt halt. This pause builds up tension, akin to a tightly coiled spring. This design is intentional, meant to safeguard the auger or engine from damage when the auger or paddles suddenly stop. However, when you clear the blockage, this pent-up tension is released, causing the machine's components to resume movement until the tension fully dissipates.

To ensure your safety while combating winter's icy onslaught, never resort to using your hands to clear a clogged snowblower. Instead, be sure to adhere to our snow removal and winter safety tips, which will help you navigate the winter wonderland securely.

Common Causes of Clogs

Whether you're operating a single-stage or a two-stage snowblower, certain culprits tend to cause clogs that can disrupt either type of machine. Whether it's an unseen object, the specific nature of the snow you're clearing, or a mechanical glitch, understanding these common issues can be your best defense against clogs. This knowledge not only helps you proactively prevent clogs but also enables you to distinguish between a simple blockage and a potentially more severe mechanical problem.

Here are some invaluable insights from the mechanics' perspective:

1. Fuel Woes and Hidden Obstacles: Snowblower mishaps, such as clogging or failure, often trace back to fuel issues or concealed objects. If you find yourself constantly needing to keep the choke engaged when running your snowblower, it's a clear indicator of a fuel problem that requires professional servicing.

2. Chute Clogs and Hidden Hazards: The primary culprit behind chute clogs is inadvertently running over hidden objects like newspapers. These objects can easily get coated with a thin layer of snow, blending seamlessly with your driveway or walkway, lying in wait to disrupt your day and leave you with a half-cleared path.

By being aware of these common issues and heeding these tips, you can steer clear of snowblower troubles and keep your winter battles hassle-free.

Hidden Objects

When a hidden object finds its way into a snowblower's paddles or auger, it's practically a guarantee for a frustrating clog. Whether it's a frozen newspaper or an unsuspecting dog toy, these unexpected intruders can swiftly turn your snow-clearing mission into a time-consuming ordeal. What's more, depending on the extent of the damage, it might also dent your wallet with repair costs.

Our top recommendation: ensure that any areas you intend to clear of snow are entirely free from objects that could easily get concealed by snowfall and subsequently lodged in your snowblower. To achieve this, consider marking your walkways, driveways, or planters with driveway markers. These markers not only make your boundaries clearly visible, even in deep snow, but they also help you avoid unintentionally colliding with any landscaping materials used to edge your walkways and planters. This simple precaution can save you both time and money during the winter months.

Wet, Heavy Snow

Whether you're wielding a single-stage or a two-stage snowblower, battling wet and heavy snow can be a challenging endeavor, and clogs are a common adversary. This is because wet, dense snow, especially when it's been treated with de-icing agents, possesses a stickiness that's hard to shake off. When snow becomes partially melted or "wet," it tends to compact more readily and easily adheres to other surfaces, eventually leading to troublesome clogs within your discharge chute.

To mitigate the impact of wet and heavy snow, one effective strategy is to tackle snow removal early. When temperatures are lower, the snow tends to be lighter and drier, making it less prone to clumping and clogging your snowblower. So, the earlier in the day you can venture out to clear the snow, the cooler the temperature will be, and the sun will have had less opportunity to melt and refreeze the snow, reducing the chances of clogs.

Many seasoned snow warriors swear by the practice of pre-treating their snowblower's discharge chute with an array of non-stick solutions. These can include non-stick cooking sprays like PAM, spray-on ski wax, Teflon or silicone spray lubes, and even trusty WD-40 or other penetrating oils. The goal here is to create a slick, anti-adhesive surface that discourages snow from clinging to your chute and impeller.

Of these options, using a cooking spray like PAM or its counterparts is not only an effective solution but also environmentally friendly, as these products naturally biodegrade. Chances are, you might already have one of these sprays sitting in your pantry, making it a convenient choice.

However, for those seeking a longer-lasting solution that requires fewer applications, automotive or ski waxes might be worth the extra effort. Though their application can be a tad more complex and time-consuming, the results often endure, offering enhanced clog prevention for your snowblower.

So, whether you opt for the pantry staple or explore the world of waxes, pre-treating your chute with a non-stick solution can be a game-changer in your battle against winter's icy grip.

Even when dealing with light and dry snow, it's vital to exercise caution and not attempt to tackle too much snow too quickly. Overloading your snowblower can lead to bogging down and potential clogging issues. To ensure a smooth snow clearing experience, it's essential to match the amount of snow you're clearing with the size and power rating of your machine.

Here's a handy rule of thumb: after your initial pass down the driveway, it's advisable to clear only half of the auger housing's width with each subsequent push. This approach helps you avoid overloading your snowblower and minimizes the risk of clogs. Additionally, don't let the snow accumulate too deeply before deciding to clear it. As snow accumulates, it becomes heavier and more compact, making it tougher to move. Removing smaller amounts of snow more frequently is a smart strategy to prevent clogging and maximize the effectiveness of your snowblower.

Too Much Snow Too Fast

Mechanical Issues

In the world of snowblowers, there are two primary types: single stage and two stage snowblowers. Understanding how both of these systems operate can be instrumental in discerning potentially more severe mechanical problems that might initially appear as simple clogs.

  • Single Stage Snowblowers: These machines are relatively straightforward in design. They utilize a single auger (a rotating spiral-shaped blade) to both collect and expel the snow. The auger directly contacts the ground and draws in the snow, which is then propelled out of the chute. If you encounter issues with snow not being thrown properly, it could indicate a problem with the auger's rotation or the chute's orientation.
  • Two Stage Snowblowers: Two-stage snowblowers are more complex and efficient. They feature both an auger and an impeller. The auger collects the snow and feeds it to the impeller, which then forcefully ejects the snow through the discharge chute. If you notice problems with the snowblower's throwing distance or the auger's feeding capacity, it might be a sign of issues with either the auger, the impeller, or the transition between the two.
    By understanding the fundamental differences between these two types of snowblowers, you'll be better equipped to diagnose and address any mechanical troubles that may initially appear as clogs. This knowledge can save you time, frustration, and potentially costly repairs during the winter season.

The design of both single-stage and two-stage snowblowers is centered around a streamlined process: grabbing snow from the ground and swiftly propelling it through the discharge chute in a single motion. This efficiency is achieved through the unique combination of a scraper bar and paddles.

Here's how it works: the scraper bar makes direct contact with the ground, ensuring a clean sweep down to the surface. Following this, the paddles take over, gripping the snow in front of the housing and expertly tossing it upward and out through the discharge chute. Many models are even partially self-propelled, thanks to the paddles making contact with the surface as you push the machine forward.

While this design is incredibly effective at handling snow removal, it also means that these snowblowers are more prone to grabbing and processing heavy, compacted snow. This type of snow can be challenging to clear and is more likely to lead to clogs within the machine.

If you reside in an area that regularly experiences wet and heavy snowfall, it might be worth considering the upgrade to a more robust two-stage snowblower. These machines are better equipped to handle such conditions and can provide a smoother snow clearing experience.

Single Stage Snowblowers

Paddles and Scraper bar

For single-stage snowblower owners, keeping an eye on the gap between your paddles and the scraper bar is crucial for optimal performance. When this distance becomes too large, it can lead to several issues, including reduced snow-throwing distance and, in some cases, snow being thrown under or behind the machine, potentially in your direction. If you find yourself having to tilt the machine forward excessively to get it to engage with the snow properly, it's a clear sign that you should inspect the gap between your paddles and the scraper bar.

Here are some practical guidelines to follow:

  • Check Manufacturer Recommendations: Some snowblower manufacturers provide markings on the paddles to indicate when they should be replaced. Be sure to consult your snowblower's manual for specific guidance.
  • Keep the Gap Small: As a general rule of thumb, the distance between the scraper bar and the paddles should not exceed half an inch (approximately 1/2").
  • Finger Test: With the snowblower turned off and the spark plug boot disconnected for safety, if you can fit your finger between the paddle and the scraper bar, it's a clear indicator that it's time to replace them.

Regularly monitoring and maintaining this critical gap will ensure that your single-stage snowblower operates at its best, providing efficient and hassle-free snow clearing during the winter season.

Single Stage Snowblower Belt Tension

Two-stage snowblowers operate on a two-step snow-clearing process, which distinguishes them from their single-stage counterparts. These machines are equipped with a rotating auger at the front, responsible for breaking down and chewing through snow and ice (step one). Positioned at the rear of the auger housing is an impeller, which takes the processed snow and forcefully propels it up and out through the discharge chute (step two).

When you push a two-stage snowblower, the scraper bar collects snow in the housing as you advance. Once enough snow accumulates, it contacts the auger, which then pushes it into the impeller. Unlike single-stage snowblowers, two-stage units are larger and heavier, so they feature skid shoes that enable them to glide over the snow's surface instead of dragging on bare surfaces. Consequently, the skid shoes create some distance between the scraper bar and the ground, meaning that two-stage snowblowers do not scrape as closely to the surface as single-stage models. This design characteristic results in fewer instances of grabbing compacted snow from the surface, making two-stage units less prone to clogging.

The two-stage snowblower's efficient, dual-step process, combined with its skid shoe design, provides a more robust and clog-resistant solution for handling snow and ice during winter conditions.

If your snowblower's engine is running but it has ceased throwing snow, the issue may likely be related to the belt. To address this problem, follow these steps:

  • Turn Off the Machine: Ensure that the snowblower is powered off, and if there are any clogs, clear them using an appropriate clearing tool.
  • Disconnect the Spark Plug Boot: For safety, disconnect the spark plug boot to prevent any accidental starts while working on the machine.
  • Locate the Side Plate Cover: Find the side plate cover, which shields the belt. Typically, if you're facing the handlebar and controls as if you're operating the snowblower, the side plate cover is usually on the left-hand side of the machine.
  • Remove the Side Cover: Carefully remove the side cover to access the belt.
  • Inspect the Belt: Examine the belt closely. If it appears loose or broken, this can cause your paddles to stop turning and prevent the snow from being thrown effectively. When the belt starts displaying signs of wear or begins to sag, it's a clear indication that it needs to be replaced.

Remember to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and consult your snowblower's manual for specific instructions on belt replacement. By addressing belt issues promptly, you can ensure that your snowblower operates smoothly and efficiently during the winter season.

Two Stage Snowblowers

Two Stage Snowblower Belt Tension

The shear pins in your snowblower serve a crucial role by connecting the auger to the auger drive system. They are designed to break when the auger encounters a sudden blockage, preventing damage to the machine. If your auger engages but then stops upon contact with snow, follow these steps:

  1. Power Off the Machine: Immediately turn off your snowblower to ensure safety.
  2. Clear Any Clogs: Use a suitable clearing tool to remove any obstructions in the machine.
  3. Check the Auger: Try spinning the auger by hand when the machine is powered off. If it rotates freely, it's likely that you've broken one or more shear pins.
  4. Replace with Exact Match: To address this issue, it's crucial to replace the broken shear pins with an exact replacement as specified in your owner's manual. Using a standard bolt or a mismatched shear pin can prevent them from breaking under stress, potentially causing severe and costly damage to the auger, engine, or other drive components.


Ensuring that your shear pins are in proper working condition and replacing them as needed is vital for maintaining the longevity and functionality of your snowblower during the winter season. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific shear pin replacement instructions and recommendations.

Two-stage snowblowers rely on two separate belts to power both the drive system and the auger system. Here's how to identify and address potential belt issues:

Drive Belt Issues:

  • If your snowblower suddenly stops moving, feels like it's slipping, or moves slower than usual while in gear, you may have a drive belt problem.

Auger Belt Issues:

  • If your auger is engaged but stops when in contact with snow or is throwing snow shorter distances than usual, it's possible that you have an issue with the auger belt.

When encountering these problems, follow these steps:

  • Power Off the Unit: Ensure that the snowblower is powered off, and disconnect the spark plug boot for safety.
  • Locate the Belt Cover: Find the belt cover, which is typically located near the belts. You may need to remove this cover to access the belts.
  • Inspect the Belts: Examine both the drive and auger belts closely. If either belt appears to be excessively worn or possibly broken, it's essential to replace the affected belt.

Replacing worn or broken belts promptly is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of your two-stage snowblower. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on belt replacement and the recommended belt types for your machine.

Shear Pins

Gear Box

The gearbox in a two-stage snowblower is a critical component responsible for engaging the auger belt and powering the auger. If you observe that your snowblower is pushing more snow than it's throwing, it's possible that you have a damaged transmission. Here's how to diagnose and address potential gearbox issues:

  1. Monitor Oil Fill Level: Regularly check the oil fill level of the gearbox. Maintaining an adequate oil level is essential, and it can help you identify any potential leaks.
  2. Inspect Gearbox Oil: If you notice metallic particles or any foreign objects in the gearbox oil, it's a clear indication that the gears may be grinding or have sustained damage.
  3. Gearbox Inspection: When you suspect gearbox damage, it's advisable to disassemble and inspect the gearbox carefully. This inspection will help you pinpoint any damaged gears or components.
  4. Repairs or Replacement: Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to replace individual gears or even the entire gearbox to restore proper functionality.

Taking prompt action to address gearbox issues is essential to ensure the continued effectiveness of your two-stage snowblower. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on gearbox maintenance, inspection, and repair procedures.

Off-Season Maintenance

Ensuring that all the moving parts of your snowblower operate at maximum efficiency is crucial for optimal snow-clearing performance. Imagine a merry-go-round: the faster it spins, the more centrifugal force it generates to propel objects outward. Similarly, well-lubricated moving parts in your snowblower enable them to operate smoothly, maximizing snow removal efficiency. Regularly lubricate these components during both the off-season and the snow season to maintain their functionality.

For snowblowers with metal discharge chutes or auger housings, it's vital to prevent corrosion. Exposed or bare metal can lead to corrosion over time, potentially causing clogs. Ensure that any exposed metal is properly painted to protect against corrosion.

When storing your snowblower for the off-season, consider adding fuel stabilizer to the gas in the tank or running the fuel tank dry. While some suggest that fuel stabilizer alone is sufficient, it's important to note the detrimental effects of ethanol in gasoline on small engines over time. E10 gasoline degrades rapidly, leading to the separation of alcohol and fuel layers. The alcohol can deteriorate plastic and rubber engine components as it sits. Different manufacturers may recommend different storage procedures, but they all agree that leaving untreated gas in stored equipment is not advisable. If you plan to store your snowblower for more than two months, it's a wise choice to ensure the tank is empty to avoid fuel-related issues.

Here's a valuable tip from mechanics: Be prepared for the snow season by keeping commonly replaced parts for your snowblower on hand. Once winter arrives, these parts can quickly become in high demand, potentially causing delays. Having them readily available during the off-season is a proactive way to ensure you're always prepared.

Lastly, always prioritize safety. Never reach your hand near the auger or paddles of an active, powered-on snowblower, whether you're removing a clog or troubleshooting a mechanical issue. Taking preventative measures and promptly addressing mechanical problems will help you keep your snowblower running smoothly throughout the season, ensuring your driveway stays clear and your winter stays hassle-free.

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