Introduction
Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings its fair share of challenges. One of the most frustrating issues that snowblower owners face is when the auger stops turning. If you own a John Deere snowblower and are experiencing this problem, you’re in the right place. In this article, we will discuss the possible reasons behind a non-working auger and provide some troubleshooting tips to get it up and running again.
Possible Causes
There are several potential reasons why your John Deere snowblower auger may not be turning. Let’s explore some of the most common ones:
1. Shear Pins
One of the first things you should check is the shear pins. These pins are designed to break if the auger gets jammed, preventing further damage to the machine. If a shear pin is broken, it will need to be replaced before the auger can function properly again.
2. Drive Belt
The drive belt connects the engine to the auger. Over time, the belt can wear out or become loose, causing the auger to stop turning. Inspect the belt for any signs of damage or slackness, and replace it if necessary.
3. Auger Cable
The auger cable is responsible for engaging and disengaging the auger. If the cable is broken or stretched, it won’t be able to transmit the necessary force to turn the auger. Check the cable for any signs of wear and tear, and replace it if needed.
4. Auger Control Lever
The auger control lever on your John Deere snowblower allows you to engage or disengage the auger. If this lever is not properly engaged, the auger will not turn. Make sure the lever is in the correct position and functioning correctly.
Troubleshooting Tips
Now that you have an idea of some of the possible causes, let’s move on to troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the issue:
1. Check Shear Pins
Inspect the shear pins for any signs of breakage. If a pin is broken, replace it with a new one. Make sure to use the correct size and type of shear pin recommended by the manufacturer.
2. Examine Drive Belt
If the drive belt is worn out or loose, it will need to be replaced. Refer to your snowblower’s manual for instructions on how to properly replace the drive belt.
3. Inspect Auger Cable
If the auger cable is damaged or stretched, it should be replaced. Consult the manual for guidance on replacing the auger cable.
4. Verify Auger Control Lever
Ensure that the auger control lever is in the correct position and properly engaged. Refer to the manual for the correct lever position and any specific instructions for your model.
5. Seek Professional Help
If you’ve followed all the troubleshooting tips and your John Deere snowblower auger still won’t turn, it may be time to seek professional assistance. Reach out to a qualified technician who can diagnose and fix the issue.
Conclusion
Dealing with a John Deere snowblower auger that won’t turn can be frustrating, especially when you’re faced with heavy snowfall. By understanding the potential causes and following the troubleshooting tips provided in this article, you can hopefully get your snowblower back in working order. Remember to prioritize safety and consult the manual for your specific model for the best results. Stay warm and stay safe this winter!