For this repair we used an Ariens snowblower, but you can complete these steps for any two-stage snowblower. If your skid plates or scraper are especially worn or broken, you can find replacements using our lawn equipment product finder. You can also visit our Ariens parts page for parts specific to Ariens machines.
Adjusting the Scraper
The scraper is the part of your snowblower that removes the last skiff of snow from the ground. Having it adjusted correctly will help ensure you don't leave too much snow behind.
1. Move the skid plates to their uppermost position
Before you can adjust the scraper you need to loosen the skid plate bolts and move the skid plates as far up as they can go.
2. Loosen the scraper bolts
Loosen the bolts that secure the scraper in position.
3. Position the scraper
With your snowblower sitting normally, put the scraper into position so it is flush with the ground. Tighten the scraper bolts.
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Adjusting the Skid Plates
When it comes to adjusting skid plates, there are two schools of thought: set the skid plates so the scraper is flush with the ground, or set the skid plates so the scraper has about a 1/4" gap with the ground. The first method removes snow the best; the second method helps preserve the life of your scraper. Both will work, but for this repair we used the second method with about 1/4" of space between the scraper and the ground.
1. Position the skid shoes
With the snowblower resting on the ground, you can position the skid shoes. Lift the snowblower so the scraper is about 1/4" off the ground. Then tighten the skid shoe bolts.
2. Repeat the process on the other side
Now do the same thing on the other side. Be careful to keep the scraper at a uniform height.
Once you have the skid shoes adjusted, double check your blower to ensure the auger and housing do not touch the ground.
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Conclusion
Adjusting the scraper and skid shows on your snowblower takes about 15 minutes. You can complete this repair with a socket set and ensure that you'll get the performance you demand all winter long.
If you have a cracked or broken skid shoe or scraper, remember that replacing it is much less expensive than replacing a damaged housing, auger, or gear box. You can use our lawn equipment parts finder to find a replacement skid show or scraper for your snowblower.
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