When do you replace the chain on a 3-PT. snowblower?

Mark from Maine · Nov 26, 2021

The unit is a 2003 Puma 64 inch. Chain size is 50 according to the owner's manual. I am the original owner. The idler sprocket is set at max and the chain is still floppy loose. Is it best to remove a set of links or install a new chain?

If I shorten the existing chain can I reuse the master link?

If I purchase a new chain is their anything I need to know beyond "size 50".

Would a new chain require new sprockets to match?
Thanks!
Mark

PILOON · Nov 26, 2021

As to chain, you only need the size, but confirm that a new master link is included.
They also sell 1/2 links as simply removing the one (or 2) causes a 'no fit'. And , yes, chains do stretch.

Re sprockets:
When new they have squared tips or teeth, if they are worn to the point of replacement they will look like sharp teeth on a handsaw.
Generally chains will stretch a fair bit B4 a sprocket/s will be need replacement.

Egon · Nov 26, 2021

Check the chain for stretch. That will tell if it needs replacement.

CH4Ohio · Nov 26, 2021

Roller chains that only get used for xx hours per year should last as long as the equipment as long as they're maintained and lubed. I don't "plan" to ever replace mine. Seems strange that you're completely out of adjustment, but I'd do whatever was needed to get back to the short end of the idler adjustment and just keep an eye on it. Look at the links -- if they're not elongated and worn out -- just shorten and adjust.

I had a roller chain that I did not inspect properly. When it finally did come off, I was amazed at how worn and uneven the links were. Take a close look. If your links are worn and all wallowed-out (Ky term), every trip around the sprockets make them worse and looser. Cheap to replace the chain. The sprockets should be ok but you can look them over too.

Short answer -- look carefully at the links of your chain. If possible, compare the links to a new link. It's easy to overlook how worn the links are, and that ultimately causes overall slack in the chain and rough operation across the sprockets.

mcfarmall · Nov 26, 2021

Egon said:
Check the chain for stretch. That will tell if it needs replacement.

Take the chain off and give it a good cleaning in solvent. Lay the chain flat on the bench, stretch and compress it in a linear fashion and look for movement between the links. If the sprocket teeth come to a knife point, replace them. A snowblower isn't as critical as a machine that relies on sprockets and chain for timing.

Egon · Nov 27, 2021

The chain should have a standard length measured over a number of links that will indicate the amount of wear.

mcfarmall · Nov 27, 2021

Egon said:
The chain should have a standard length measured over a number of links that will indicate the amount of wear.

I have a chain stretch measuring thingy from Diamond Chain in my tool box that I never use. Roller chain is cheap enough that we replace if there is any amount of detectable wear. When downtime costs the company $100k per hour, it's foolish to NOT replace anything that's worn or of questionable integrity.

oosik · Nov 27, 2021

I had a "standard" 3-point blower for 25 years. Regularly lubed the chain with spray motorcycle chain lube. Never had to replace the chain or sprocket. It was stored, off-season, under one stall in my carport and on a pallet.

Mark from Maine · Nov 27, 2021

Thank you everyone for your input, it was much appreciated. I am ordering a new chain this morning. It is inexpensive enough and looks to be a simple job to change.