Check ground-contact parts before winter
- Toro recommends inspecting snow blower wear parts before winter.
- The guidance applies to single-stage and two-stage machines.
- Replace rubber paddles when wear reaches the indicator hole.
- Follow your product's operator manual for maintenance requirements.
Toro is asking homeowners to examine their snow blowers' ground-contact components before winter because neglect can lead to costly damage to both the machine and surrounding property (opens in a new tab). The guidance applies to machines of both the single-stage and two-stage types.
Toro says rubber paddles, skid shoes and scraper bars take the friction that would otherwise wear the machine's structure. Checking those components and replacing worn parts before the season helps maintain clearing performance and protect pavement.
National Snow Blower Maintenance Week runs from October 15 to 21. Toro offers a checklist through its blog to help owners prepare before the season's first snowstorm. Owners should consult their machine's operator manual for its maintenance requirements.
Match the checks to your machine and driveway
For two-stage machines, Toro focuses on skid shoes, which keep the fast-spinning auger from contacting the driveway. Use the flattest available surface when adjusting them. On gravel, start with the skid shoes set high, then lower them progressively to help avoid picking up and throwing loose stones.
Toro says plastic skid shoes can help keep pavers and stamped concrete from getting scratched. They wear out sooner than steel versions, so they need more frequent inspection. On single-stage machines, rubber paddles contact the ground and propel the snow blower forward. Worn paddles reduce clearing performance and put more wear on the lower housing.
Toro recommends checking scraper bars for even wear and replacing rubber paddles once wear reaches the indicator hole. The company says timely replacement helps prevent surface damage and preserve throwing distance. Routine upkeep also involves checking the oil, refreshing the fuel and changing spark plugs. Authorized Toro service dealers provide technician help for annual tune-ups.