Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Atlas snowblower, shear bolts, drive shaft

Question
Hi Michael,
I have an old atlas 2 stage snowblower and on it the auger seems to be turning very slow. It is even posible to hold it by hand while the machine is running. My question is: is that the way it should work or is something wrong? Thanks

Answer
Hi Jim,

Most snowblowers have one or two shear bolts, which shear when an object is hit with the augers.  The special scored and non-hardened bolt, holds the outer auger tube to the inner drive shaft.  You will need to watch as the auger turns to see if the inner shaft turns also.  You may be able to se it at the outer shaft end.  If it does, then the problem may be in the gear box or further up the drive path nearer the engine output.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael