How to check and replace the v belt on a snow blower

The v belt in your snow blower transfers power from the engine to the auger or wheels. Over time, wear and tear can cause the belt to stretch, crack, or break, leading to issues like a non-spinning auger or poor propulsion. Regularly checking and replacing the v belt ensures your snow blower stays in good working condition, especially during heavy snowfalls.

This guide will walk you through how to inspect your v belt for damage and replace it if needed—all from the comfort of your garage.

The details in this article are intended as general advice and may not directly correspond with your particular appliance model. Differences in model features and configurations could mean variations in troubleshooting methods, error messages, or required part replacements. For the best results, consult your appliance’s technical documentation or user manual for guidance.

Safety precautions   

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• If working indoors, make sure there is adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of exhaust fumes. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a serious risk.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Never attempt to service or repair while it is running or when the engine is still warm. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop.
• Exercise extreme caution when working near blades, augers, or any other moving parts. Keep your hands, fingers, and clothing clear of these areas at all times.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any hot parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Empty the gas tank before beginning any work. Refill using fresh fuel. 
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• When not in use, store the machine in a safe and dry location.

Signs your v belt might need attention

Before diving into the repair, it’s helpful to recognize the common signs of a v belt issue. Catching these symptoms early can save you from a breakdown when you need your snow blower most. These clues will let you know when it’s time to inspect or replace the belt:

• Difficulty with snow clearing: If the auger or impeller doesn’t spin as it should, the belt may be stretched or slipping.
• Loss of propulsion: If your snow blower’s wheels or tracks aren’t moving properly, the drive belt could be worn out.
• Squealing noises: High-pitched sounds during operation often indicate a loose or damaged belt.
• Visible wear: Cracks, fraying, or a shiny, stretched appearance are all signs that the belt is past its prime.

Read more: Snow blower won’t shift: A troubleshooting guide

Tools and materials you’ll need

Having the right tools and materials on hand will make the repair process smooth and hassle-free. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Replacement v belt. Make sure it’s the correct belt for your snow blower model. Check your user manual or the model number to confirm.
• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
• Wrenches or a socket set
• Pliers
• Safety gloves and goggles
• User manual

Read more: Snowblower chute won’t turn: A troubleshooting guide

How to check and replace the v belt

Now it’s time to inspect the v belt for damage and replace it if necessary. Follow these steps to get the job done:

1. Find the cover near the engine or auger housing, depending on your snow blower model.
2. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws or bolts securing the cover and set them aside.
3. Look for signs of cracking, fraying, or stretching.
4. Check the belt’s tension, if it feels loose or appears shiny, it’s likely worn out and needs replacing.
5. If the belt is in good condition but loose, you may only need to adjust the tensioner.
6. If it’s damaged, proceed with replacement.

How to replace the v belt

1. Locate the tensioner pulley and loosen it to release the belt.
2. Make a note or take a picture of the belt’s path around the pulleys to help with reassembly.
3. Slide the belt off the drive and idler pulleys carefully.
4. Inspect the pulleys for dirt or damage, and clean them if necessary.
5. Align the new belt along the same path as the old one, wrapping it around the drive and idler pulleys.
6. Adjust the tensioner to ensure the belt is snug but not overly tight.
7. Rotate the pulleys manually to ensure the belt moves smoothly and is properly aligned.

Reassemble the snow blower

1. Reattach the v belt cover and secure it with screws or bolts.
2. Plug the spark plug wire back in securely.
3. Add fresh fuel to the tank and ensure the cap is tightly closed.
4. Start the engine and engage the auger or drive system to confirm the belt is functioning correctly.

Read more: Snowblower won’t start: A troubleshooting guide

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you need replacement parts, grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need help finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

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