Top 10 Snowblower Maintenance Tools

When it's time to gear up for snowball fights, ensure your snowblower is appropriately maintained. You can keep your machine running smoothly all season with the right tools. From tough covers to compression testers, we've covered you with our top recommended Snowblower Maintenance Tools.

Winter is here, and it's time to bring out your trusty snowblower to clear out the snow from your driveway. Like any other machine, a snowblower also requires proper maintenance for optimal performance throughout the winter season. Every homeowner should invest in some essential Snowblower Maintenance Tools for hassle-free clearing of their driveways during winter. Read on to learn more.

Table Of Contents

1. Tough Cover

A rigid cover shields your machine from harsh weather conditions and potential damage while in storage or transport. But not all covers are created equal. The ideal cover should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand the elements and keep moisture out. Covers should be water-resistant and mold resistant. Look for covers with reinforced stitching and adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit.

2. Snow Repellent

Snow repellent is a special solution designed to coat the surface of your snowblower's chute and impeller with a protective layer, preventing wet or heavy snow from sticking. One significant benefit of using a good-quality snow repellent is that it can significantly reduce clogging issues caused by sticky or slushy snow. As such, you'll spend less time clearing blockages and more time clearing paths in no time.

3. Roller Skid Shoes

Roller skid shoes are attached to the bottom of your snowblower to help guide it while protecting surfaces from damage. Replacing worn or damaged roller skid shoes can extend the life of your machine and prevent costly repairs. That's why it's crucial always to keep a spare set on hand so that you can quickly replace them when needed. Investing in high-quality roller skid shoes can save time and money by preventing damage caused by worn-out parts on rough terrain.

4. Engine Oil

Engine oil lubricates and protects its moving parts from wear and tear, ensuring it runs smoothly. Regularly changing your snowblower's engine oil is crucial to its longevity and performance. It is essential to use high-quality engine oil specifically designed for winter conditions. The cold temperatures can cause regular motor oils to thicken, making it difficult for them to circulate through the engine properly. Using a suitable winter-grade oil will provide better protection against cold-weather damage.

5. Fueling System Tools

Proper fuel system maintenance is vital to keeping your equipment in good condition. The following are some of the best tools for fueling system maintenance.

Stabil fuel stabilizer. The product is designed to keep your fuel fresh and prevent clogging and corrosion in your fuel system. It's easy to use - add it to your gas tank before filling it up.
Carburetor cleaner. The cleaner will help remove built-up deposits from your carburetor, improving performance and preventing engine damage. You can use it on both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines.
Oil extractor. The tool is perfect for extracting oil from hard-to-reach places, making it easy to change your oil without making a mess.
Fuel line clamp. The clamp is used to secure fuel lines during maintenance or repair, preventing leaks and protecting you from dangerous fumes.

6. Ignition System Tools

The ignition system of your snowblower is responsible for starting and keeping the engine running smoothly. However, with constant use, the ignition system can become clogged or faulty, which may result in engine misfires or failure to start altogether. That's where Ignition System Tools come in handy. Some of the tools are:

Spark Tester

A spark tester helps you determine if your snow-blowing equipment is functioning correctly and if there are any potential safety concerns. When using a spark tester, following the manufacturer's instructions is essential. You'll need to connect the tester to the equipment and turn it on. Once the tester is on, you'll hold the electrode close to the ground while moving it around. If there's a problem with the equipment, you'll see sparks or hear a sound from the tester.

Spark Plug Gapper

A spark plug gapper is a tool used to measure and adjust the gap between the electrode and the ground strap of a spark plug. The gap plays a vital role in determining how well your engine runs. If the gap is too wide, it can cause misfires. If the gap is too narrow, it can cause pre-ignition.

Fly Wheel Puller

A flywheel puller lets you remove the flywheel from the engine, so you can access the inside and clean it or perform other maintenance tasks. Most flywheel pullers are made of steel and have a handle used to turn the flywheel. The handle is connected to a rod that goes through the flywheel's center. Two claws on either side of the rod grip the edge of the flywheel.

DVOM

DVOM is an acronym that stands for "Digital Volt-Ohm Meter." A DVOM is a type of multimeter that is used to measure voltage, resistance, and current. It is a vital tool for performing electrical tests and troubleshooting electrical problems. Most DVOMs have a digital readout that makes it easy to read the results of your measurements. Many DVOMs also have features allowing you to perform more complex measures, such as continuity and diode testing.

Jumper Cables

Jumper cables allow you to jump-start your snowblower when the battery is dead or weak. However, knowing how to use them properly and safely is essential.

Smart Charger

A smart charger helps keep the battery fully charged, ensuring the machine's smooth and efficient operation. With a smart charger, you can avoid overcharging or undercharging your snowblower battery, which can significantly damage and shorten its lifespan. The device has built-in safety features that prevent these issues from occurring.

7. Testing Compression

Testing Compression allows you to determine if the engine's cylinders are performing at their best; if not, it can help identify any potential issues that need to be addressed. To test compression, you'll need a compression tester. This tool screws into the spark plug hole and measures the pressure that builds up when the piston moves up in the cylinder.

8. Compression Tester

A compression tester measures the engine's compression, indicating if there are issues with the internal components of your snowblower. A low reading could indicate problems such as faulty piston rings or valves that need repair or replacement. On average, most small engines should have a pressure reading between 90-110 psi, but it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual for specific information about your model.

9. Leak-down Tester

The leak-down helps you determine if there are any leaks in the engine's combustion chamber, which can cause a decrease in its functionality over time. The tool measures how much air escapes from the cylinder when compressed. Doing so can help identify where air might be running and pinpoint areas that need repair or replacement.

10. Feeler Gauge

A feeler gauge is a tool that helps you to measure the gap between two objects. It is used in various applications, including snowblower maintenance. Typically made of metal or plastic, feeler gauges come in different thicknesses and sizes to fit specific gaps. Feeler gauges are useful when adjusting spark plugs, valve clearances, and ignition points. They help ensure your snowblower engine runs smoothly without misfires or other issues caused by uneven gaps.

Conclusion

Proper snowblower maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. From ignition system tools to smart chargers, jumper cables, compression testers, leak-down testers, and feeler gauges, there are various essential snowblower maintenance tools that every owner should have at their disposal. Make sure to purchase reputable brands when investing in these crucial maintenance tools for your snowblower.