Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

Hi all. I am very new to using things such as snow blowers, and so I have definitely never fixed one! (widow for 2 yrs after 35 yrs) Yesterday, while clearing the snow from the patio, it ate my dog's "rope toy". (A heavy rope with large knots at each end.) The rope is jammed in behind the blades (which scare the life out of me) behind a piece of metal, blocking the snow chute. Are these things easy to take apart, do I need to hire someone, or get a new SB? My son will look at it after he finishes work, but in the mean time I'm trapped in the driveway. I've been told to take out the shear pins (not sure what they are) and rotate the blades. Any suggestions? I've already considered moving to an apt.