How to use & maintain snow blower tires to make them last longer

As the cold weather rolls in, your snow blower becomes an essential tool for clearing snowy driveways and sidewalks. But how often do you stop to think about the tires? Taking care of your snow blower’s tires is key to keeping it running smoothly and ensuring your safety when tackling icy or slippery conditions. A little attention to your tires can make a big difference in performance and reliability all winter long.

Keep in mind: The tips in this article are designed to help with a variety of appliance models, but your specific setup may have unique troubleshooting steps, error codes, or part requirements. For the most accurate guidance, be sure to check your appliance’s manufacturer manual. If you have any questions or need additional support, feel free to reach out, we’re here to help!

1. Maintain proper tire pressure

Keeping your snow blower’s tires properly inflated is key to making sure it runs efficiently and keeps you safe. Tires that are too flat or too full can lead to problems like slipping, wasting fuel, or even a tire blowout when you’re in the middle of clearing snow. A quick check before you get started can save you time and trouble.

Check tire pressure

Checking tire pressure is simple, and it’s an important step to keep things running smoothly. Here’s how to do it:

1. Find the recommended PSI: Look for the correct pounds per square inch (PSI) listed on the side of your tires. That’s the pressure you want.
2. Use a tire pressure gauge: Check the current pressure with a gauge. If you don’t have one, they’re affordable and available at any hardware or auto parts store.
3. Adjust as needed:
   • If the pressure is too low, inflate the tire to the recommended PSI using an air pump.
   • If it’s too high, let some air out until it matches the suggested level.
4. Stay consistent: Make it a habit to check your tire pressure before the winter season starts and before each use to ensure your snow blower performs at its best.

Don’t overinflate

Overinflated tires can cause as many problems as underinflated ones. They’re more prone to blowouts and can affect how well your snow blower handles icy or uneven ground. Always use a gauge to get the pressure just right and never exceed the recommended PSI.

Taking a few minutes to check your snow blower’s tire pressure will help you avoid unnecessary issues and keep your machine working efficiently when you need it most.

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

2. Replace worn tires

Old, worn-out tires can make maneuvering your snow blower more difficult and potentially unsafe. Knowing when to replace your snow blower’s tires ensures your machine stays reliable and safe to use.

Inspect tread depth

Checking the depth of your tire treads is an easy way to tell if they’re too worn to be effective. Here’s how to check:

• Look for uneven wear: Examine the treads for spots where the grooves are noticeably shallow or uneven. Worn treads reduce traction and make steering harder.
• Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is too worn.
• Measure the depth: If the tread is less than 1/8 of an inch deep, it’s time to replace the tire. Shallow treads can lead to slipping, especially on icy or snowy ground.

Checking for cracks and damage

Cold winter conditions can take a toll on tires, leading to cracks and other damage. Regularly inspect your tires for:

• Cracks along the sidewalls or within the treads, which can weaken the tire.
• Bumps or bulges, which may indicate internal damage.
• Punctures from nails, screws, or other sharp objects.

If you spot any of these issues, it’s best to replace the tire immediately to ensure your safety and keep your snow blower performing well.

Replace the tire

Ready to tackle the tire replacement yourself? It’s a straightforward process with the right tools:

1. Find the correct tire size: Check your snow blower’s manual for the recommended tire size and type. If you’re unsure about your model number, look it up using a guide to locating appliance model numbers.
2. Purchase a replacement tire: Get a high-quality tire from a trusted supplier to match your snow blower’s specifications.
3. Remove the old tire:
   • Use a wrench to remove the bolt or pin holding the wheel in place.
   • Slide the old wheel carefully off the axle.
4. Install the new tire:
   • Align the new wheel with the axle and slide it into place.
   • Secure it by reattaching the bolt or pin you removed earlier.
5. Inflate the tire: Pump up the new tire to the recommended PSI, as indicated on the sidewall or in your manual.

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

3. Use tire chains

When heavy snow or ice hits, tire chains can make a huge difference in your snow blower’s performance. They give your machine better traction, making it easier and safer to operate in slippery conditions.

Benefits of using tire chains

Tire chains aren’t just for show, they bring several key advantages:

• Better traction: Chains grip into snow and ice, reducing slipping and sliding.
• Improved control: With better grip, maneuvering your snow blower becomes much easier.
• Increased safety: Reduced slipping means less risk of accidents or losing control.

If you live in an area with heavy snowfall or hilly terrain, tire chains can make a world of difference for efficient and safe snow clearing.

How to install tire chains

Follow these steps to get your tire chains on securely:

1. Get the right size chains: Check your snow blower’s manual or tire size to ensure the chains fit properly.
2. Lay the chains out flat: Spread them out in front of each tire, making sure there are no tangles.
3. Position the tires over the chains: Push or pull your snow blower forward so the tires are sitting on top of the chains.
4. Wrap the chains around the tires: Adjust them evenly to cover the tire surface.
5. Secure the chains: Use the hooks or connectors included with the chains to fasten them. Make sure they’re snug but not overly tight.
6. Double-check the fit: Rotate the tires manually to ensure the chains are evenly distributed and won’t slip.

Pro tip: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific chains. They may include additional steps or recommendations.

4. Regular snow blower maintenance

Besides keeping an eye on your tires, doing some regular maintenance will help your snow blower run like a dream all winter long.

Keeping your snow blower in good condition doesn’t stop at the tires. Regular maintenance ensures it runs smoothly all winter long.

Pre-season checks

Before winter starts, take some time to:

• Inspect your tires for proper pressure, tread depth, and any visible damage.
• Check that all bolts, fasteners, and moving parts are secure.
• Inspect belts, blades, and engine components for wear or damage, and replace them as needed.

Spotting issues early can save you time and stress when snow is piling up.

End-of-season storage

When it’s time to pack up your snow blower for the season, proper storage will help it last longer:

1. Clean thoroughly: Remove dirt, salt, and debris to prevent rust and corrosion.
2. Lubricate moving parts: Apply oil to key components to keep them in good condition.
3. Pump up the tires: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots during storage.
4. Choose the right spot: Store your snow blower in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

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

Additional information

Need more repair tips or looking for replacement parts? Swing by AppliancePartsPros.com, we’ve got expert advice and a huge selection of quality parts. We’re all about helping you keep your appliances in tip-top shape all year long. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates and handy tips.

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