How to Remove a Snowblower Auger

Removing a snowblower auger is a job that should take a few hours. There are two main types of snow blowers – There is a single-stage snow blower and there is a two-stage snow blower. A single-stage snow blower usually has a 2-stroke engine and has an auger that spins and chops up the snow in its path, sending it out a discharge chute.The auger is the series of rotating blades. Two-stage snow throwers usually have a 4-stroke engine, they include not only an auger, but they also have an impeller, which collects the show as it is chopped up and then powerfully shoots it out the side.

Step 1 – Prepare the Snow Blower for Auger Removal

Unplug the spark plug to disable the motor from working thereby ensuring you can't lose a hand in the auger/impeller mechanism. Before you attempt this repair make certain the parts you are going to replace are available before you start the auger removal process. Be certain the auger is free from obstructions and debris like twigs or stones. If you are removing the auger because something is stuck in the auger, it may not be necessary to remove the auger. Try to turn the impeller with your pry bar to rotate the stuck pieces back out. Some of the parts on the snow blower might be rusted so have a good penetrating oil product on hand to help remove the rusted parts.

Step 2 – Auger Removal

Start by removing the auger belt covers. Some have bolts located on the top, some on the bottom, and some models have them on the top and the bottom. Remove the screws that hold the belt covers in place. Use penetrating oil liberally to loosen bolts if needed. Keep track of the screws, by collecting them in a small can. Next you have to remove the drive pulley which is tricky. The drive pulley turns clockwise to remove. Therefore you have to jam the auger so it doesn’t move when trying to unscrew the pulley. Insert a pry bar into the auger to jam the auger and prevent it from moving and remove the drive pulley. Remove the small key now exposed in the groove on the auger shaft and keep track of it for re-assembly. Remove bolts on the outside of bucket holding auger bearings on. You can now pull entire auger unit (and on some models, this would include the impeller) out of the auger bucket. Remove the Impeller if necessary from the auger assembly shaft. Usually the 2 pins holding the impeller on the auger shaft are roll-type tension pins and cannot be removed with a wrench. To remove the roll-type tension pins, you drive them out with a punch. The auger has now been removed.