Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): snowblower going through belts, impeller shaft, stage unit

Question
I have an 8 HP/26 Craftsman snow blower.  (Not sure of model/year) It is a 2 stage unit with twin front augers.  The blower is going through a lot of belts.  I just put on a new one and it started to smoke and when I engage the lever to apply pressure on the belt to run the auger, it starts to really smoke and when I go to move snow, it pops off.  The smoke is definitely the belt.  I've tried to readjust the pulleys to see if they can be aligned better.  Unfortunately, I can't say what size the belt is.  When I go to Sears to purchase a belt, we take the old one and compare it to a new one and that's what I get.  When putting on the new belt, it's a bit of a job to put it on as it's tight.   Any thoughts?  Thanks Mike.

Answer
Hello,

Something is not turning freely.  Check each component starting at the pulleys.  Include the idler pulley, shaft that goes to the gearbox, shaft bearing, gearbox, auger shafts and their bearings.  The impeller shaft going to the gearbox should turn by hand from the belt side.  Check the clearance of the augers to the housing.

Let me know how you make out.

Good Luck,
Michael