NetWareHead
THAT guy
- Aug 10, 2002
- 5,847
- 154
- 106
what was said about plastic being no good and get lets of shear pins while you can - SOLID advice.
Back about 16 years ago, bought a Craftsman - it was $799 on sale, don't remember any dimensions. Had electric start, NEVER needed it, a couple primes (push of a squishy bulb) and choke and thing started RIGHT up, regardless of temperature or if it was sitting 3 seasons waiting in the dirty garage.
The chute was made of plastic. GRRRRRR. this was the ONLY issue I ever had in 14 years of owning that home and machine. Went through a number of chutes and really tested my MAcGyvering skills. Nothing quite like shooting icy, wet snow STRAIGHT up in the air onto yourself because the chute pops right off.
I used to get cans of silicone spray, spray the inside of the chute, the blades and anything that moved and/or came into contact with snow to help everything flow. Cheap insurance? I don't know. Seemed smart.
My experiences exactly with a damned plastic snow chute. I think I had the same craftsman as you. 9 Tecumseh HP engine, I think a 26 inch cut. Shame because the snowblower was a decent performer and the engine was strong too. The handles to engage the auger and forward/rear motion were awkward but whatever. The plastic chute ruined for me and I replaced it once (I think I had to pay $80 + S&H or some kind of robbery price). Sold it after I noticed the new chute was beginning to fail in the same place as the old chute. The entire machine was made of tough steel and some cheapskate designer in an effort to save some pennies put a plastic chute on a part that sees some of the most abuse during operation. Sold it and lesson learned.