Repair help
5 Common Causes Why Auger Isn’t Turning on Snow Blower
AAZparts Team
Published on May 18, 2025
8 min read
One common winter frustration with snow blowers is when the auger stops spinning while the engine runs normally, since the auger is essential for moving snow, its failure significantly affects the machine's performance. In this article, AZParts will walk you through 5 common reasons why the auger may stop spinning, along with practical solutions to help you quickly restore your equipment to optimal working condition.
1. How Does the Auger Work on a Snowblower?
The auger in a snow blower is responsible for gathering and pushing snow out of the area being cleared. When the engine is running, it transmits rotational force to the auger, causing the spiral blades to turn. These blades, shaped like a corkscrew, scoop snow from both sides toward the center. The snow is then pushed up through the discharge chute by an impeller located behind the auger (in two-stage and three-stage models).
The auger responsible for gathering and pushing snow out of the area being cleared (Source: Freepik)
In single-stage snow blowers, the auger both gathers and throws the snow, making them ideal for light, fluffy snow and smaller areas. Meanwhile, two-stage and three-stage models feature an additional impeller or auger to improve efficiency, especially helpful for clearing heavy or packed snow. Users can control the direction of the discharged snow using a lever or rotating knob.
To ensure safe and reliable operation, avoid using the machine in areas with gravel or rocks, and regularly inspect and maintain key components such as the auger blades, shear pins, drive belt, and bearings.
2. 5 Common Reasons the Auger Isn’t Turning
2.1. Broken or missing shear pins
A shear pin is a safety component designed to break when the auger encounters a hard obstruction. This prevents damage to the gearbox and auger shaft. If the shear pin breaks or falls out, the auger will stop spinning even though the engine continues to run normally.
To repair this issue, turn off the machine completely and disconnect the spark plug (for gas-powered models) or unplug the power cord (for electric models) to ensure safety. Then inspect each section of the auger to check whether any shear pins are broken or missing.
If the shear pin breaks or falls out, the auger will stop spinning (Source: AZParts)
You can use the 303160355P Shear Pins and Nuts Set , a dedicated replacement kit specifically designed for Powersmart snow blower models. This set, which includes 4 shear pins and nuts, is easy to install, durable, and impact-resistant, effectively protecting both the auger and gearbox. The estimated repair time for replacing the shear pins is around 15–20 minutes.
2.2. Worn or broken drive belt
The drive belt plays a crucial role in transferring power from the engine to the auger system. Over time, the belt may stretch, wear out, slip, or even break. This disconnects the engine from the auger, preventing snow from being collected and expelled from the machine.
To resolve this issue, you should remove the belt cover and inspect its condition. If the belt is stretched, worn, scratched, cracked, or broken, it’s essential to replace it with a new one to ensure smooth operation of your snow blower. Regularly checking and replacing the drive belt helps maintain optimal performance and avoids unexpected issues during use.
The drive belt plays a crucial role in transferring power from the engine to the auger system (Source: Freepik)
You can use the 99-9313 Rubber Paddles, 133-5585 Scraper Blade , 121-6622 Drive Belt and Hardware Kits for replacing the damaged parts. This kit includes all the necessary belts and components, compatible with a wide range of snow blower models. The estimated replacement time is around 15-20 minutes, helping you quickly restore the functionality of your machine.
2.3. Faulty auger gearbox
The gearbox of the auger transmits torque from the engine to the auger, ensuring efficient operation. However, if the internal gears become broken, worn, or jammed, the entire auger system will fail to rotate. This is a serious issue that typically occurs when users ignore signs of a broken shear pin and continue operating the machine. In such cases, uncontrolled force transmission leads to damage to the gearbox.
If the internal gears become broken, worn, or jammed, the entire auger system will fail to rotate (Source: Freepik)
To address this issue, you need to remove the auger and inspect the condition of the gearbox. If the internal gears are damaged, you will need to replace the entire gearbox assembly or the gear set, depending on the extent of the damage. Early replacement will restore the machine's normal operation and prevent more severe issues from arising.
2.4. Loose or damaged cables/levers
The control cable connects the lever on the handle to the auger clutch mechanism. If the cable becomes stretched, broken, or the lever is misaligned, users will be unable to engage the auger even though the engine is running properly.
To fix this issue, you need to check the condition of the cable and lever. Start by determining if the cable is stretched or broken, and verify whether the lever is misaligned. If you find any damage to the cable, you should replace it with a new control cable to ensure the clutch mechanism works accurately.
The control cable connects the lever on the handle to the auger clutch mechanism (Source: AZParts)
If you need to replace the cable or lever, you can use high-quality replacement parts from AZParts, including:
- 946-0897 Snow Blower Auger Clutch Cable: Compatible with two-stage snow blower models from MTD, Craftsman, Yard Man, and Troy-Bilt.
- 946-04396A Speed Selector Cable : Compatible with brands like Murray, MTD, CCadet, Huskee, Craftsman, and Troy-Bilt.
- 746-0898 Clutch Drive Cable : Compatible with snow blower models from MTD, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Ryobi, and Yard.
2.5. Engine runs but auger doesn’t engage
When the engine is running but the auger does not rotate, it's likely that one of the internal drive components has worn, loosened, or shifted out of place. These damages are often difficult to spot with the naked eye, especially components such as worn pulleys, loose bolts, slightly slipping belts, or misaligned clutch mechanisms. If left unaddressed, the issue can spread to other parts, reducing the machine's performance and lifespan.
If the engine runs but the auger doesn’t spin, a drive part may be worn, loose, or misaligned (Source: Freepik)
To resolve this issue, you should carefully inspect the entire drive system, including:
- Pulleys : Check the wear on the pulleys. If the contact surface is smooth or cracked, replace the pulley.
- Bolts and screws: Tighten all bolts, especially at the pulley connections, gearbox, and clutch mechanism.
- Clutch mechanism: Inspect for misalignment or wear. If necessary, adjust or replace the clutch.
- Belt: Even if it’s not visibly broken, the belt may slip if it’s stretched or the contact surface is too worn. Check the tension and replace if needed.
3. FAQs about Auger not Turning on Snow Blower
3.1. Why is my auger not turning?
The auger not turning is often caused by issues in the drive components, such as a broken shear pin, worn or snapped drive belt, or a damaged gearbox. Additionally, it could be due to a stretched or loose control cable, preventing the clutch from engaging properly. You should inspect the entire drive system to accurately identify the cause of the issue.
3.2. Why is half of the auger not turning on my snowblower?
A common cause is a broken shear pin on one side, which disconnects the auger on that side from the drive shaft, while the other side continues to operate normally. You should inspect and replace the broken shear pin with the correct type that matches your machine model.
3.3. Why is my ice auger not turning?
This issue is similar to that of a snow blower: it is often caused by a broken shear pin, a slipped drive belt, or a worn drive pulley. Additionally, an ice auger may encounter problems if it becomes frozen inside when operating in wet conditions. Ensuring the machine is regularly cleaned and maintained is an effective way to prevent such issues.
3.4. What turns the auger on a snowblower?
The auger rotates thanks to the power transmitted from the engine through the drive belt, pulleys, gearbox, and finally the auger itself. When the user pulls the control lever, the clutch mechanism activates this power transmission. For the auger to rotate smoothly and efficiently, all related components must function properly.
A common issue with snow blowers is the auger not rotating, which often stems from problems such as a broken shear pin, a worn-out belt, a damaged gearbox, or misaligned control components. Early detection and proper handling of these issues help keep the equipment running smoothly, prevent severe damage, and save on repair costs. To ensure your snow blower is always ready to operate in harsh conditions, regular maintenance and timely part replacements are essential.
If you are looking for snow blower parts to replace, visit AZParts for genuine parts compatible with a variety of models, enabling quick and effective repairs.
Contact Information:
- 8 The Green, Ste A, Dover, Delaware 19901-3618, United States
- support@azparts.com
Snowblower
Further Reading
Further Reading
AAZparts Team
4 min read
Repair help
May 13, 2025
If your dryer has suddenly stopped working, won’t start, or fails to complete a cycle, the problem might be easier to fix than you think. In many cases, replacing a faulty component can get your dryer running again without the need for expensive repairs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 10 most common reasons your dryer isn’t working and what you can do to fix them. We’ll also point you to the specific dryer parts available at AZParts that can help you resolve each issue.
AAZparts Team
3 min read
Repair help
April 3, 2025
If your freezer isn’t maintaining the right temperature, several issues could be at play, including problems with the defrost system, dirty condenser coils, faulty fans, leaky door gaskets, or control malfunctions. While the issue may start in the freezer, it often leads to both the refrigerator and freezer compartments struggling to stay cool. Acting quickly can help prevent food spoilage.
AAZparts Team
8 min read
How-To Guides
May 14, 2025
Regular snow blower maintenance is essential to keep your machine safe, reliable, and efficient, especially during harsh winters. At AZParts, we know how proper care and quality parts can extend the life of your snow blower and help it perform at its best. In this article, AZParts will walk you through key safety checks, cleaning routines, and expert maintenance tips for year-round performance.
AAZparts Team
5 min read
Review
May 13, 2025
A slow-drying Kenmore dryer is more than just a minor inconvenience—it can drive up your energy bill, damage your clothes, and reduce the appliance’s lifespan. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, clothes dryers account for around 5% of household energy use, and a faulty unit can consume up to 75% more energy than necessary.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common reasons your Kenmore dryer is taking too long to dry, how to fix them, and when it's time to replace key components.
_1741917223.jpg&w=3840&q=75 "Common Causes of Refrigerator Compressor Problems")
AAZparts Team
3 min read
Review
May 13, 2025
The compressor start relay is a small but essential component of a refrigerator. It helps start the compressor, which is responsible for cooling. When this relay fails, the compressor may not turn on, leading to temperature issues, spoiled food, and increased energy consumption.
The compressor start relay is a small yet vital component in any refrigerator. Its job is to help start the compressor, which powers the cooling system. When this relay fails, the compressor may not run, leading to a range of refrigerator compressor problems —such as rising temperatures, spoiled food, and higher energy bills.
TThanh Nga
3 min read
Review
May 14, 2025
If your vacuum cleaner keeps shutting off during use, it’s not only inconvenient but also a sign that something isn’t working properly. In this guide, AZParts will help you identify the most common causes — from overheating and clogged filters to motor or electrical issues — and walk you through practical steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively. Whether it's a quick clean or a part replacement, we've got the compatible vacuum cleaner parts you need to get back to cleaning without interruptions.