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

I have used several different kinds of snowblowers over the past several years. I live in a Town that receives 175" average snowfall in the winter, snowblowers are very common place here.  I purchased a Toro Powermax 1028 lxe (2008 model) in February of 2008. After 2.5 winters of use I have found one major flaw with this machine. The problem is the drive wheels disengage and stop turning at intermittent times for short periods. This problem could not be demonstrated to a service technician, because this problem would only occur with certain snow conditions. I decided to take upon myself the time to determine the problem. After hours of looking at the functioning of the components, studying the service manual and with trail and error, I believe I found the problem. Apparently during powdery snow conditions, some of the powder snow that is thrown by the machine will blow back onto the snowblower inundating the engine and belt cover with powdery snow. When the snow melts onto the chassis of the machine, the water will drip down into the belt area of the machine inside the chassis and onto the friction disc or other associated components. When the friction disc becomes slightly wet it slips causing the drive wheels to stop turning. If I push the machine forward the friction disc will dry and eventually start to grab and rotate the wheels again. When I discovered this problem, I discussed it with a service technician. The technician told me about a service bulletin regarding this problem and a part that should help fix the problem. The part was installed onto the snowblower and the problem appears to be better, but there are still instances that the drive wheels will stop turning. Again, if I push the machine forward the friction disc will eventually grab and the wheels will turn. This is an awesome machine, it is too bad that a small oversight in the design of the machine can cause a problem like this. It appears that if the belt cover was designed better something like this would not cause this kind of problem. I was wondering if Toro has changed the design of the belt cover to fix this problem? Apparently the Service Bulletin repair is not a cure all for this issue.      

 

I have a 2009 1028 OXE and I have not had that type of problem. However we rarely get light powdery snow. I have yet to see anything slow my 1028 down except for me lowering the speed. Perhaps using some sealant around the covers to make it more water/snow proof would help? Maybe some silicone caulking?

We have an Ariens 11528 at work purchased new a few winters ago. Does the same thing. I tipped it on the bucket and removed the belly pan. Anywhere I saw light coming in I filled the hole with expanding foam. Got to try it today in powder. SAME DAMN THING! exact same symptoms you describe.