February 09, 2021

How to replace snowblower skid shoes

How to replace snowblower skid shoes

Skid shoes raise the shave plate about a quarter inch to keep the plate from scraping against the ground and wearing out quickly. Each skid shoe is reversible, so when one side wears out, you can flip it over and use the other side. When both sides wear out, it’s time to replace the skid shoe with a manufacturer-approved snowblower part. Replace both at the same time to ensure they're the same thickness.

This step-by-step repair guide shows how to replace snowblower skid shoes—using cardboard to set the shave plate at the proper height when installing the new skid shoes.

Use this basic procedure to replace skid shoes on Craftsman, Ariens, Husqvarna, Troybilt, MTD, Murray, Snapper, Poulan and Noma snowblowers.

Quick links
Tools required
1/2-inch wrench
Corrugated cardboard
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
How to replace snowblower skid shoes

How to replace snowblower skid shoes

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Remove the key

    Remove the key from the snowblower.

    PHOTO: Remove the key.

    PHOTO: Remove the key.

  2. 02.

    Lay down cardboard

    Lay down a sheet of cardboard or flattened shipping box that’s almost as wide as the shave plate and is about a quarter-inch thick.

    Place the cardboard so that it’s under the shave plate but not under the skid shoes. The cardboard raises the shave plate to prevent wear on the plate.

    PHOTO: Lay down cardboard.

    PHOTO: Lay down cardboard.

  3. 03.

    Remove the skid shoes

    Use a wrench to loosen the skid shoe mounting nuts.

    Remove the nuts and washers and pull off the skid shoes.

    PHOTO: Remove the skid shoes.

    PHOTO: Remove the skid shoes.

  4. 04.

    Install the new skid shoes

    Insert the new skid shoes on the mounting bolts.

    Install and tighten the washers and mounting nuts on the new skid shoes with the shoes flat on the ground.

    PHOTO: Install the new skid shoes.

    PHOTO: Install the new skid shoes.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.

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