Winter is on the way and you don’t want to get caught off-guard by the first snowfall. Do you have a Single-Stage or Two-Stage snow blower? We include 5 simple steps for both models in this article so no matter what – you’re ready to take on the snow when the time comes.

Check out our other articles How to Snow Blow Your Driveway with Ease and Tips for Starting Your Snow Blower for more helpful tips this winter!

Single-Stage Snow Blower Instructions:

Step 1. Tighten Handles and Knobs

Make sure all handles and knobs are securely tightened and in place before attempting to operate your snow blower.

Step 2. Look for Damage on Rotor Blades, and Scraper

Make sure your rotor blade and scraper are in good shape. These parts see a lot of action. If you find any wear and/or damage that need replacing, contact your local Toro dealer for Genuine Toro Parts.

Step 3. Use Fresh Fuel and Oil

Your snow blower should use fuel that is no more than 30 days old and no more than 10% ethanol. For ultimate fuel life and performance, add Toro Fuel Treatment. If you did not change the oil at the end of the previous season, you should do this as well.

How to Change Engine Oil on a Single-Stage Snow Blower.

Step 4. Check Cables, Handles, and Fasteners

Ensure all cables, guards, handles, and fasteners are secure and in place. If you find any are missing or broken, replace with Genuine Toro Parts.

Step 5. Review the Operation and Safety Features in Your Owner’s Manual

Take a look through the operation and safety sections of your owner’s manual. Be sure to wear the recommended footwear and clothing, and follow all other safety recommendations.

Winter Checklist for Single-Stage Snow Blower Video

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Two-Stage Snow Blower Instructions:

Step 1. Look For Damage on Auger, Skids, and Scraper

Make sure your auger, skids, and scraper are in good shape. Skids should have 1/8” – 3/16” of clearance. Look for excessive wear, dents or other damage. If one of these parts need replacing, we recommend using Genuine Toro Parts.

Step 2. Adjust Tire Pressure if Necessary

See your owner’s manual for recommended PSI for your snow blower. You can also add tire chains for even better traction.

Step 3. Use Fresh Fuel and Oil

Your snow blower should use fuel that is no more than 30 days old and no more than 10% ethanol. For ultimate fuel life and performance, add Toro Fuel Treatment. If you did not change the oil at the end of the previous season, you should do this as well.

Step 4. Check Cables, Handles, and Fasteners

Ensure all cables, guards, handles, and fasteners are secure and in place. If you find any are missing or broken, replace with Genuine Toro Parts.

Step 5. Review the Operation and Safety Features in Your Owner’s Manual

Take a look through the operation and safety sections of your owner’s manual. Be sure to wear the recommended footwear and clothing, and follow all other safety recommendations.

Winter Checklist for Two-Stage Snow Blower Video

Get the Most From Your Snow Blower

Protect the reliability of your snow blower with parts designed specifically for your Toro model. Genuine Toro parts are made from premium materials and engineered to enhance the safety and performance of your Toro equipment. Plus, every part we ship comes with a one-year full warranty*. Find the most commonly purchased snow blower parts here.

*See your local dealer or retailer for complete warranty details.