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

My ariens model 924116 (1028) snowblower sheared the groove pin that holds the auger gear in place.  Although this is a fairly inexpensive fix, it appears that the original pin simply slipped out of the gear/shaft just far enough to hit the aluminum housing & shear off.  I was just moving snow when this happened - no rocks or boulders.  It seems that nothing but friction holds this groove pin in place & I am worried that this will happen again.   Does anyone have any suggestions?  Should I peen the ends a bit?