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Snow Blower Accessories

Quick answer: The most useful snow blower accessories are a spare set of the correct shear pins, a clearing tool, a storage cover, and fuel stabiliser or spare batteries. Depending on your site, drift cutters, poly skid shoes, wheel chains, a cab or extra lights may help. Buy only parts approved for your model and follow its manual.

Essentials

Spare shear pins of the exact type specified for your machine prevent a broken pin ending your clearing session. A clearing tool, usually clipped to the machine, is the only safe way to dislodge a clog; never use hands. Gas owners need fuel stabiliser, a proper fuel can and the correct engine oil. Battery owners benefit from a spare pack on the same platform if runtime is close to clearing time.

AccessoryPurposeWho needs it
Shear pinsProtect gearboxTwo-stage owners
Clearing toolClear clogs safelyEveryone
CoverDust and moistureOutdoor or shed storage
Fuel stabiliserKeeps fuel freshGas owners
Spare batteryExtends runtimeBattery owners

Drift cutters

Drift cutters are vertical bars on each side of the housing that slice deep drifts so snow falls into the auger. They help when snow is deeper than the intake. Fit only versions designed for your machine.

Skid shoes

Polymer skid shoes slide more easily and are less likely to scratch decorative pavers than steel ones. Some owners swap to them for smooth surfaces. Make sure they are the correct fit.

Wheel chains and tracks

Chains improve traction on icy or sloped drives for wheeled machines. Use chains sized for your tyres and remove them when not needed to reduce wear on pavement.

Lights and cabs

Extra LED lights help with pre-dawn clearing. Cabs or windshields shield the operator from blowback in wind but can catch gusts and add weight. Check that any cab does not block the controls or your view of the chute.

Scraper bars and paddles

Scraper bars and single-stage paddles wear over time. Keep a replacement on hand if your machine sees heavy use, so a worn part does not end the season.

Storage and transport

A ramp eases loading over a step into a shed. Wall hooks suit lightweight electric machines. A breathable cover protects without trapping moisture.

What to avoid

Avoid universal parts that do not match your model, and never replace shear pins with ordinary bolts. Do not modify safety controls such as the operator presence bar.

Clearing tool details

A clearing tool is a plastic or wooden stick with a shaped end, often stored on the handle or housing. Use it only with the engine off, key removed and all parts stopped. Replace it if lost; a broom handle is a stopgap.

Choosing a cover

Look for a cover sized to your machine, with breathable fabric and a drawstring. Avoid covers that trap moisture.

Chute deflector add-ons

Some machines accept extended deflectors that help aim snow in wind. Use only maker-approved parts.

Snow-release sprays

Non-stick sprays applied inside the chute and housing can reduce clogging in wet snow. Check the manual for compatibility.

Hand warmers

Heated grip kits are available for some models. Insulated gloves are a simpler option.

Fuel accessories

An approved fuel can, stabiliser and a funnel with a filter screen help keep fuel clean.

Battery accessories

Spare packs, rapid chargers and insulated pack bags help battery owners in cold climates.

Storage accessories

Floor mats catch meltwater. Ramps help over thresholds.

Maintenance kits

Kits with plug, oil and filter simplify tune-ups.

Buying tips

Buy from authorised dealers or the maker, match part numbers and keep receipts.

Accessories to skip

Gimmicks that alter safety controls, generic parts with unclear fit, and add-ons that block your view are not worth it.

Clearing tools

A chute clearing tool lets you clear clogs without putting hands near the chute. Many machines include one clipped to the housing; if yours is lost, buy a replacement rather than using a stick or your hand.

Drift cutters and extensions

Drift cutters attach to the housing sides and help break down drifts taller than the intake. They are useful in windy, open areas with deep drifts but add width, so check clearance in narrow paths.

Lights and hand warmers

Clip-on LED lights help when clearing before sunrise. Heated hand grips or insulated handle covers make long sessions more comfortable.

Skid shoes and scraper bars

Replacement skid shoes, including wider composite shoes for gravel, and spare scraper bars keep the housing at the right height. They wear quickly on rough surfaces.

Fuel stabiliser and storage items

For gas machines, fuel stabiliser, an approved fuel can, and spare spark plugs make storage easier.

Covers

A breathable cover keeps dust off in summer storage and frost off in an unheated garage. Avoid plastic tarps that trap moisture against the metal.

Tyre chains

Chains improve grip on icy, sloped driveways for wheeled two-stage machines. Check the tyre size before ordering, and remove chains when they are not needed to avoid marking pavement.

Spare parts kit

A small kit with shear pins, cotter pins, a spark plug, a spare belt and a basic socket set saves trips to the shop during a storm. Label it with the model number so the parts match.

What to skip

Accessories that do not fit your model, generic chute extensions and tarps that trap moisture often cause more trouble than they solve. Buy parts listed for your model number.

Ice melt spreaders

A small push or hand spreader applies ice melt evenly after clearing, using less product.

Worked example

Illustrative examples (2026-10-29), not quotes or guarantees.

Two-stage 26 in on a gravel lane with a slope: spare shear pins (pack of the specified type), clearing tool, chains for the tyres, poly skid shoes if switching to pavers, fuel stabiliser, and a breathable cover.

FAQ

Do I need drift cutters?

Only if snow often exceeds intake height.

Can I use any shear pin?

No, only the specified type.

Are covers necessary in a garage?

Optional; helpful against dust.

Related: Shear pins · Storage