As the weather warms up and the threat of significant snowfall events all but disappears, homeowners with a Cub Cadet snowblower need to make sure that they’re preparing their equipment properly for storage. The right storage preparations ensure that the equipment remains free of off-season damage and makes sure that the snowblower will be ready as soon as it’s needed next winter. With proper preparation, parts replacement, and observance of safety precautions, this process is as easy as it is straightforward.
Safety First: Key Reminders for Seasonal Maintenance and Storage
The combination of a large and powerful engine, along with moving parts and controls, can cause serious injury if equipment owners don’t follow a few safety recommendations. Make sure that maintenance is conducted only when the snowblower is cooled off from recent use, powered off entirely and, in some cases, when the spark plug has been completely disconnected. For maximum safety, conduct maintenance in a well-ventilated area and on a flat, level surface. Keep pets and bystanders indoors throughout off-season storage preparation.
A Step-By-Step Look at the Best Storage Procedures
Getting ready for off-season storage is a logical process that requires following a few steps. Before beginning, however, equipment owners should glance at their operator’s manual and look for the season on off-storage preparations and procedures. This will provide a solid source of helpful tips that will make the entire ordeal a bit easier to manage from start to finish. When ready, tilt the snowblower back onto its handle so that it’s in the standard “maintenance position.”
Step 1: Check Parts for Seasonal Wear and Tear
Snowblowers can become quite worn down, especially during a particularly cold and snowy winter season. Because many of the snowblower’s parts come directly into contact with snow and ice, they should be checked for damage or excessive wear. Any worn or damaged parts should then be replaced with OEM versions. Here’s what equipment owners will need to check:
– Drive belts
– Shave plate
– Auger
– Wheels
– Skid shoes
If these parts show signs of cracking, or if they look worn down around the edges, consult with a local authorized retailer who can assist with location and sale of OEM replacements. This is the best way to make sure that the equipment is ready for next winter at a moment’s notice.
Step 2: Prepare the Snowblower’s Fuel Tank
Owners of single-stage Cub Cadet snowblowers will want to drain the fuel and oil mixture from the tank prior to storage. Those with two-stage or three-stage models can skip this step, since it’s actually a benefit to keep a bit of fuel in the tank during the summer months. Rather than draining the fuel from these models, go ahead and add a proper fuel stabilizer mixture to the remaining gasoline. This will prevent corrosion and allow the fuel to spark properly when the snowblower is prepared for the winter season next year.
Step 3: Change the Engine Oil
Cub Cadet’s maintenance schedule recommends a full oil change during off-season storage preparation. Drain the oil as needed into an approved disposal container, and then add new 5W30 oil to the equipment prior to storage.
Step 4: Check the Spark Plug for Damage or Dirt
Spark plugs can become fouled or at least very dirty during typical snow clearing work. Check the spark plug for damage and, if necessary, replace it with an OEM Cub Cadet part that will last throughout next winter’s snowstorms. If the spark plug is in great condition but has been covered with dirt and carbon deposits, use a mild solution to clean residue away from the part prior to storage.
Step 5: Clean and Lubricate the Equipment
Finally, the snowblower will likely need to be thoroughly cleaned and spot-lubricated. Mix a solution of mild detergent and warm water, and give the equipment a thorough cleaning on the surface and in the intake area. Use a towel to dry off any excess moisture so that rust can be prevented during storage. With the equipment cleaned up and looking its best, use a grease-style lubricant to cover any parts that might be susceptible to corrosion over the summer. This might include exposed bolts, bearings, screws, or other areas of the equipment where exposed, untreated metal is present.
Visit CubParts.com for Storage Information and OEM Parts
Throughout off-season storage preparations, many homeowners might find that their equipment needs a new part or two in order to be properly and safely stored. CubParts.com, with its unique parts lookup tool, makes it easy for homeowners to search for the part they need. The tool allows for sorting parts by model number, engine type, and part number, so that Cub Cadet owners always find the exact part that’s best for their particular snowblower.