Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): snow impellers, snow blowers, rubber sections

Question
I got an old snow thrower, about 23 inches 2 stage 5 horse, engine starts first pull, the throw is a little weak, the belt looks ok.  A farm boy, without actually seeing it, suggested welding a bead on the edge of the inner impeller, to close the gap to the cylinder wall that has probably worn open over 10 years.  My gap looks to be about 1/4 inch or less.  How close should it be?  Some areas look a little wider than others as I go around, do I need to worry about centering?

Thanks
Jeff


Answer
Hello Jeff:

I have Repaired Several Snow Blowers that were Leaving a Layer of Snow in the Housing. Use Rubber Similar to the Sidewall of a Tire. Drill and Bolt the Rubber Onto the Impeller in Sections. The Length of the Rubber Sections will Depend on How the Housing and Impellers are Worn. DO NOT WELD. I Tried it Once and that was a Mistake. Took me Forever to Get the Impeller to Turn Without Hitting the Housing. A Lot of Grinding too. Remember; as you Fit Each Rubber Section to Turn the Inpeller Completely Around a Full Turn and a Half. Make Sure you have the Closest Clearance you can Get without the Rubber Dragging or Touching the Housing. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John