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

Hi all, I bought a new Craftsman snowblower last year, and unfortunately it is not performing like I think/hoped it should. After reading a bit on this site, I decided on installing a Clarence kit.

Although I saw an improvement, I still felt something was off. It is throwing powdery stuff up to my expectations, it's the more heavy stuff I have problems with. After reading some more, I began to question wether the auger belt was loose. Keep in mind the snowblower at this point as been used maybe 10 times. So I pop the belt cover, and sure enough, the belt is loose, and can be moved easily with the auger engaged.

Unfortunately, the idler pulley is non-adjustable. Anyone ever attempted to modify the bracket to make it adjustable? Seems to me it would just require being drilled?

Any thoughts?

Check the rod end.  Some of them have adjustable fittings that thread onto the rod end.  Turn it in to make the rod shorter and put more tension on the belt.  My old JD 826 has that arrangement, but it proved impossible to adjust becausse it was rust-welded.  Bought a replacement rod for it for not too much and that fixed the problem.  The picture makes it  look like the top of the fitting on the end of the rod has a hex nut on it, so I'm betting this is your fix.  Try lots of penetrating oil / heat if it's frozen.  Good luck!!

Well I had a nice post written up, but pressed cancel instead of post...

Anyway, I'm not gonna be able to take pics (way too cold, arrived home late), or check further until probably early next week.

Thanks for all the info, I'll get back to you guys later, when I try or check the things you mentioned.

You could also consider buying a slightly shorter belt.

I agree with the smaller belt if you can't find a way to make the proper adjustments.  I suspect 1/2" would do it.

carlb wrote:

That's another option if all else fails.

I remember seeing on this site a reference list for different sized belts, but can't seem to find it. Anyone can direct me?

mctwist wrote:
I have bought belts from these people and their prices are good and the belts seem to work well.  I would only use Kevlar belts on a snow blower.

There shipping is a little high, so if you purchase a few belts it helps.

http://www.vbelts4less.com/Kevlar-K-Plus-V-Belts_c_20.html