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

My outdoor, stored under a tarp 1970s 724 stalls as soon as I engage the auger.  I can hear the belt squealing as I try engaging it.  Somethings frozen, it's 9 degrees now, windy and snowing and 18" is forecast.  The auger rotates a tad on it's shaft when I push on it with a stick. Tried gently engaging the belt - didn't help.

Neither electricity, help, a garage or shelter is available.  Can't drag it to the house, and even if I could there's too many steps and black ice under the snow to contend with.

Where, just what part, should I thaw it with a torch and is that safe?

Added:  It worked great (with a heavy demand) few days ago.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hz6Y2P1MCcQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Ajjecq2gHY

Yea, I tried hard not to load the belt thinking that it'd self destruct.  If it does, I'm ready with another on hand.

And the hot water.... that would have been a pleasure to pour on this frigid day.

Thanks again.

Glad you got it working again. Clearing out the impeller housing is critical, if you're storing outside or unheated.

When sunshine follows the storm, I just put the Toro's bucket in the sun and let radiant heat do it. If it's overcast, I aim a kerosene heater at it, outside, from a safe distance. 

Not too keen on the water idea -- frozen water is what started the whole mess to begin with.  

Another way to unfreeze things is to boil about a quart or so of water (it doesn't have to be boiling).  Then mix in about 6 to 8 oz. of any kind of deicing salt.  Slowly pour it where it's needed.  One of those plant watering cans with the long spout makes in easy (don't get caught using it)  .  Any left over salt residue will get washed/flushed out next time you use the blower. 
The hot water salt mixture will free things up in a big hurry and won't allow refreezing .  I works really well.