How to Adjust Skid Shoes on a Snow Blower

Skid shoes, also called skid plates, are the adjustable metal or polymer pieces that are attached to each side of the auger housing.

Skid shoes keep the auger from impacting the surface as you're clearing. If a skid shoe becomes cracked, broken, or worn, replace it immediately to prevent further damage.

Adjusting the Skid Shoes

1) Raise the Auger Housing

Prop up the housing by placing a flat sturdy object (piece of wood) under the scraper bar. Use an object whose thickness is similar to the height that you want to set your skid shoes to.

Raise the Auger Housing

2) Loosen the Skid Shoe Bolts

Remove the nut on the bolts that attach the skid shoes to the auger housing.

Loosen the Bolts

3) Adjust Height and Tighten the Bolts

Adjust the skid shoes to the desired height. Retighten the bolts on both skid shoes. Use a tape measure to determine if they are adjusted evenly.

These skid shoes are reversible. If one side becomes too worn, flip them over.

Tighten the Bolts

Final Inspection

On final skid shoe inspection, you want to be sure that the auger and housing are off the ground. For safety reasons, if the surface you are clearing isn't paved, use a higher adjustment to avoid throwing gravel.

This inspection and adjustment should take about 15 minutes. You should be able to do it with either a socket set or wrenches.

Keeping the skid shoes properly adjusted and maintained, could help extend the life of your snow blower by protecting the housing, auger and gear box.

Jack's Safety Tips: Before servicing or repairing any power equipment, disconnect the spark plug and battery cables. Remember to wear appropriate safety glasses and gloves to protect against harmful chemicals and debris. View our Disclaimer.