Don't wait until the first snowflake falls to discover your snow blower won't start. Cerberus Systems, Inc. in Chambersburg, PA, helps you prepare your snow blower maintenance before Pennsylvania's winter weather arrives.

October's crisp air signals it's time to prepare for Chambersburg's inevitable winter storms. Smart homeowners know that snow blower maintenance performed now prevents frustrating breakdowns when you need your equipment most.

1. Start with a Thorough Inspection

Before diving into maintenance tasks, give your snow blower a complete visual inspection. Check the auger for damage, inspect belts for cracks or wear, and examine the scraper bar and skid shoes.

Look for loose bolts, worn cables, or rust spots that need attention. This early assessment helps identify parts you'll need to order, avoiding delays when repair shops get busy.

To ensure your snow removal equipment runs reliably during winter storms, contact Cerberus Systems, Inc. in Chambersburg, PA, at (717) 658-1256 or visit AMSOIL's online store.

2. Change Your Snow Blower's Oil Now

Old oil that sat all summer contains moisture and contaminants that damage your engine. Get your snow blower oil changed in October to ensure clean lubrication for cold starts.

AMSOIL's synthetic small engine oil provides superior cold-weather protection compared to conventional oils. Its advanced formula flows easily at sub-zero temperatures, protecting your engine during those brutal 5 a.m. starts when your driveway needs clearing before work.

3. Replace or Clean the Spark Plug

A fouled spark plug makes starting difficult, especially in cold weather. Remove your spark plug and check for carbon buildup or electrode wear.

Even if it looks okay, consider replacing it—spark plugs are inexpensive insurance against no-start situations. Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads before installation to make next year's removal easier.

4. Prepare Your Fuel System

Preparing snow removal equipment for winter means addressing fuel issues before they become problems. Drain last season's gas or add fuel stabilizer if the tank contains fresh fuel.

Old gasoline forms varnish deposits that clog carburetors and fuel lines. Fill your tank with fresh fuel and add AMSOIL Quickshot® to clean deposits and prevent moisture problems during winter storage between storms.

Trust your local AMSOIL experts at Cerberus Systems, Inc. in Chambersburg, PA—call (717) 658-1256 or visit AMSOIL's online store for premium synthetic oil like AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic Small-Engine Oil for snow blowers in cold weather that ensures reliable starts every time.

5. Service the Air Filter

A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing hard starting and poor performance. Remove your air filter and tap out debris, or replace foam filters if they're oil-soaked or damaged.

Some snow blowers use paper filters that can't be cleaned—replace these annually. A clean air filter helps your engine breathe properly, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions during operation.

6. Check and Adjust the Drive System

Test your snow blower's drive engagement and auger function. The drive belt should engage smoothly without slipping, while the auger should stop completely when disengaged.

Adjust cable tensions according to your owner's manual specifications. Replace worn friction discs or drive belts now, before repair shops get overwhelmed with emergency repairs during the first major snowfall.

7. Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply fresh grease to all fittings, including the auger shaft, chute rotation mechanism, and wheel bearings. Use quality grease that won't freeze in cold temperatures.

Remember to lubricate the chute deflector and control cables. Proper lubrication prevents parts from seizing during extended periods between uses and ensures smooth operation when needed.

8. Test Run Before Storage

After completing maintenance, start your snow blower and let it run for several minutes. Check that all controls function properly and listen for unusual noises.

This test run circulates fresh oil through the engine and identifies any issues while you still have time to address them. It's better to discover problems now than during a blizzard.

Get your snow blower ready early to avoid the November rush when everyone suddenly remembers winter is coming. October's mild weather makes working on outdoor equipment pleasant, and you'll have plenty of time to order parts if needed. Pennsylvania winters can arrive suddenly—one day you're raking leaves, the next you're facing six inches of snow. Early snow blower maintenance puts you ahead of the curve, ensuring your equipment starts on the first pull when neighbors are frantically calling repair shops. Plus, tackling this project now means you can focus on other fall tasks without worry.

Before winter weather arrives, contact Cerberus Systems, Inc. in Chambersburg, PA at (717) 658-1256 or visit AMSOIL's e-store for synthetic oil for snow blowers in cold weather and expert advice on protecting your snow removal investment.