As a supplier of two stage snow blowers, I understand the importance of proper maintenance and adjustment to ensure optimal performance. One crucial aspect of maintaining a two stage snow blower is adjusting the skid shoes. In this blog post, I'll guide you through the process of adjusting skid shoes on a two stage snow blower, so you can keep your machine running smoothly and efficiently.
Understanding Skid Shoes
Skid shoes are an essential component of a two stage snow blower. They are the metal or plastic pieces located on either side of the snow blower's auger housing. Their primary function is to support the snow blower and keep the auger at the correct height above the ground. This height adjustment is crucial because it determines how much snow the auger can pick up and how close the auger gets to the surface being cleared.
If the skid shoes are set too high, the auger won't reach the snow on the ground, leaving a layer of snow behind. On the other hand, if they are set too low, the auger may scrape the ground, causing damage to both the auger and the surface below. Additionally, incorrect skid shoe adjustment can lead to uneven snow clearing, increased wear and tear on the machine, and reduced efficiency.
Tools You'll Need
Before you start adjusting the skid shoes on your two stage snow blower, gather the following tools:
- Socket wrench set: You'll need the appropriate socket size to loosen and tighten the bolts that hold the skid shoes in place.
- Measuring tape: This will help you ensure that the skid shoes are set at the correct height.
- Safety goggles and gloves: Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris and gloves to protect your hands.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Skid Shoes
Step 1: Prepare Your Snow Blower
First, make sure your snow blower is turned off and the engine is cool. Remove the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. This is a crucial safety step that should never be skipped. Place the snow blower on a flat, level surface where you have enough space to work around it.
Step 2: Locate the Skid Shoes
The skid shoes are typically located on the bottom edges of the snow blower's auger housing. They are usually attached with bolts or nuts. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the skid shoe assembly and how it is attached to the snow blower.
Step 3: Measure the Current Height
Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between the bottom of the skid shoe and the ground. This will give you a baseline measurement and help you determine how much adjustment is needed. A general rule of thumb is that the skid shoes should be set so that the auger is about 1/8 to 1/4 inch above the surface being cleared. However, this can vary depending on the type of surface (e.g., concrete, asphalt, gravel) and the amount of snow you typically encounter.
Step 4: Loosen the Bolts
Using the appropriate socket wrench, loosen the bolts or nuts that hold the skid shoes in place. Be careful not to remove them completely; just loosen them enough so that you can adjust the height of the skid shoes.
Step 5: Adjust the Skid Shoes
To raise the skid shoes, turn the adjustment bolts counterclockwise. To lower them, turn the bolts clockwise. Make small adjustments at a time and re-measure the height after each adjustment. This will help you achieve the precise height you need. As you make the adjustments, make sure to keep the skid shoes level on both sides of the snow blower. You can use a level to check if they are even.
Step 6: Tighten the Bolts
Once you have set the skid shoes at the correct height, use the socket wrench to tighten the bolts or nuts securely. Make sure they are tightened evenly on both sides to prevent the snow blower from tilting or scraping unevenly.
Step 7: Test the Snow Blower
Reattach the spark plug wire and start the snow blower. Take it for a test run on a small area of snow to see how it performs. Pay attention to how well the auger picks up the snow and whether the snow blower is clearing the surface evenly. If you notice any issues, such as uneven clearing or the auger scraping the ground, turn off the snow blower and make further adjustments to the skid shoes.
Tips for Different Surfaces
- Concrete and Asphalt: For these hard, smooth surfaces, you can set the skid shoes slightly lower, around 1/8 inch above the ground. This will allow the auger to pick up as much snow as possible without scraping the surface.
- Gravel Driveways: When clearing a gravel driveway, it's important to set the skid shoes higher, about 1/4 inch or more above the ground. This will prevent the auger from picking up gravel, which can damage the machine and scatter gravel across the cleared area. Check out our Best 24 Inch 2 Stage Compact Gas Snow Blower for Gravel Driveway for a machine specifically designed for this type of surface.
- Uneven Surfaces: If you're dealing with an uneven surface, such as a lawn with bumps or a driveway with potholes, you may need to make more frequent adjustments to the skid shoes. You can also set the skid shoes a bit higher to avoid scraping the low spots.
Maintenance and Regular Checks
Adjusting the skid shoes is not a one-time task. It's important to regularly check the skid shoe height, especially after using the snow blower on different surfaces or if you notice a change in its performance. Over time, the skid shoes may wear down, which can affect their height and the performance of the snow blower. If the skid shoes are worn beyond repair, they should be replaced.
Our Two Stage Snow Blowers
At our company, we offer a wide range of high-quality two stage snow blowers designed to meet the needs of different customers. Our High Quality 24-in 252cc Power Two Stage Gas Snow Blower is a powerful and reliable option for clearing large areas of snow. It features easy-to-adjust skid shoes, making it simple to customize the height for optimal performance.
If you're looking for a more compact and lightweight option, our 24 Inch Lightweight Two Stage Self Propelled Snow Blower is a great choice. It's easy to maneuver and still offers excellent snow clearing capabilities.
Contact Us for Purchasing
If you're interested in purchasing a two stage snow blower or have any questions about skid shoe adjustment or our products, we'd love to hear from you. Contact us today to start a discussion about your snow clearing needs and find the perfect snow blower for you.
References
- Snow Blower Owner's Manuals: Consult the owner's manual of your specific snow blower for detailed instructions on skid shoe adjustment and maintenance.
- Snow Blower Manufacturer Websites: Many manufacturers provide additional resources and support on their websites, including videos and FAQs about skid shoe adjustment.