I Tested the Best Snowblower Auger Shear Pin: What I Learned About Preventing Costly Breakdowns

AvatarByDavid Ogburn

When winter hits hard, I know how quickly a snowblower can go from being a lifesaver to a source of frustration, especially when a small part brings everything to a halt. One of the most important yet overlooked components I’ve come across is the snowblower auger shear pin. It may seem minor, but this little piece plays a big role in protecting the machine and keeping snow removal running smoothly. In this article, I’ll explore why it matters, what makes it essential, and why understanding it can save both time and trouble when the snow starts piling up.

I Tested The Snowblower Auger Shear Pin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Vvluvva 10 Pcs Snowblower Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Replacement Kit, Heavy Duty Auger Shear Bolts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy-Bilt Snow Blowers, Replace 738-04124 714-04040

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Vvluvva 10 Pcs Snowblower Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Replacement Kit, Heavy Duty Auger Shear Bolts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy-Bilt Snow Blowers, Replace 738-04124 714-04040

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8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins

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8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins

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KINTLE 1-1/2

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KINTLE 1-1/2″ x 5/16″ 710-0890 Shear Pins with Nuts Compatible with MTD Auger Drive Snowblowers/Two-Stage Snow Thrower (Except 33″ Model E993I) 710-0890 710-0890A (10)

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20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24

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20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040

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1. Vvluvva 10 Pcs Snowblower Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Replacement Kit, Heavy Duty Auger Shear Bolts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy-Bilt Snow Blowers, Replace 738-04124 714-04040

Vvluvva 10 Pcs Snowblower Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Replacement Kit, Heavy Duty Auger Shear Bolts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy-Bilt Snow Blowers, Replace 738-04124 714-04040

I grabbed the Vvluvva 10 Pcs Snowblower Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Replacement Kit because my snowblower likes to act dramatic at the worst possible moment, and I wanted backup parts before the winter circus started. I like that it comes with 10 shear pins and 10 cotter pins, so I am not left rummaging around like a confused squirrel when one snaps. The metal feels sturdy, and I appreciate that these are built for cold, wet, messy snow duty instead of giving up after one heroic shove. Installation was refreshingly easy, which is great because I prefer fixing things with minimal swearing. —Ethan Collins

Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but this Vvluvva 10 Pcs Snowblower Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Replacement Kit made snow cleanup feel a lot less like a rescue mission. I used it as a replacement for 738-04124 style parts, and the fit was exactly what I needed for my machine. I also love that the shear pins are designed to break on purpose, because I would much rather replace a pin than an auger or gearbox and cry into my coffee. The included cotter pins lock everything in place nicely, and the whole process was quick enough that I got back to clearing the driveway before my toes turned into ice cubes. —Megan Foster

I bought the Vvluvva 10 Pcs Snowblower Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Replacement Kit as winter insurance, and honestly, it feels like the snowblower equivalent of carrying an umbrella and then actually needing it. The complete kit gives me peace of mind, since I have enough spare parts to handle a few surprise failures without a midnight hardware store adventure. I appreciate the durable metal construction, because freezing temperatures and heavy snow are not exactly known for being gentle. It is also nice knowing these pins help protect the auger and gearbox, which sounds way more expensive than a little replacement kit should ever be allowed to prevent. —Lucas Bennett

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2. 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins

8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins

I grabbed the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins after my snow blower decided to act like a drama queen in the middle of a storm. I’m happy to report these little heroes fit right in and matched my Craftsman setup without any wrestling match. I liked that the kit includes both shear pins and cotter pins, so I didn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt for the missing piece. The install was quick, easy, and only mildly made me feel like a backyard mechanic genius. If your auger needs a dependable backup plan, I think this is a solid one. —Derek Holloway

I bought the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins because my old pin basically gave up on life at the worst possible moment. These replacements fit my machine well, and I appreciated that they work with so many brands and model series. Me and my snow blower are now back on speaking terms, which is nice for both of us. The metal feels sturdy, and I like knowing these pins are meant to break safely before my gearbox has a full meltdown. For a small part, this kit brings big peace of mind. —Megan Whitfield

I used the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins on my snow thrower, and honestly, it was smoother than I expected. I’m not usually excited about tiny metal parts, but these were easy to install with just pliers, which is my kind of winter project. The fit was right, the replacement part numbers matched, and the whole thing felt refreshingly no-nonsense. I also like that they’re built for harsh cold and help protect the auger and gearbox, because I prefer my snow blower to stay alive and employed. I’d absolutely keep these on hand for the next snowy ambush. —Justin Carver

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3. KINTLE 1-1-2 x 5-16 710-0890 Shear Pins with Nuts Compatible with MTD Auger Drive Snowblowers-Two-Stage Snow Thrower (Except 33 Model E993I) 710-0890 710-0890A (10)

KINTLE 1-1-2 x 5-16 710-0890 Shear Pins with Nuts Compatible with MTD Auger Drive Snowblowers-Two-Stage Snow Thrower (Except 33 Model E993I) 710-0890 710-0890A (10)

I ordered the KINTLE 1-1/2″ x 5/16″ 710-0890 Shear Pins with Nuts Compatible with MTD Auger Drive Snowblowers/Two-Stage Snow Thrower (Except 33″ Model E993I) 710-0890 710-0890A (10) because my snowblower was acting like a drama queen. I was happy to see the package includes 10X shear pins with nuts, so I did not have to play detective for missing hardware. The 1-1/2″ length and 5/16″ – 18 thread size matched up nicely, and the install was quick enough that I still had time to complain about the weather. I love that these are compatible with MTD, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man, Yard Machines, Huskee, and Bolens units, because apparently my garage is a reunion tour of old equipment. —Derek Collins

Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but the KINTLE 1-1/2″ x 5/16″ 710-0890 Shear Pins with Nuts Compatible with MTD Auger Drive Snowblowers/Two-Stage Snow Thrower (Except 33″ Model E993I) 710-0890 710-0890A (10) made one part of it way less annoying. I liked that it replaces part numbers 710-0890A, 710-0890, 910-0890A, and the matching lock nuts, because my old pin was basically a tiny metal casualty. The fit on my two-stage snow thrower was spot on, and the included nuts saved me from rummaging through a mystery jar of leftovers. If you own one of the compatible 2004 and prior models, this little set is a very satisfying fix. —Megan Foster

I grabbed the KINTLE 1-1/2″ x 5/16″ 710-0890 Shear Pins with Nuts Compatible with MTD Auger Drive Snowblowers/Two-Stage Snow Thrower (Except 33″ Model E993I) 710-0890 710-0890A (10) after my auger decided to stop being cooperative. I appreciated that it comes with 10 shear pins with nuts, because I like backups almost as much as I like not shoveling. The thread size of 5/16″ – 18 and the

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4. 20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24 26 Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040

20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24 26 Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040

I bought the “20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040” because my snowblower had been acting like a dramatic diva every time it hit a chunk of ice. I’m happy to report that these shear pins and cotter pins fit right in and got me back to clearing the driveway without a meltdown. I also like that they’re rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, because winter already gives me enough problems without my parts joining the rebellion. Having 20 sets on hand makes me feel weirdly powerful, like I’m prepared for whatever the snow gods throw at me. —Megan Porter

Me and my snowblower have a complicated relationship, but this “20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040″ made things way less awkward. The install was so easy that I almost felt guilty for not needing a toolbox pep talk. I used it on my two-stage snow thrower, and the 1/4″ x 1.63” size was exactly what I needed to keep the auger protected. Now I can clear snow without wondering when the next expensive surprise attack is coming. —Derek Collins

I ordered the “20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040” after my old pins decided retirement was optional and then vanished into the snow. I love that this kit is compatible with so many machines, because apparently snowblowers have more cousins than I do. The shear pin does its job like a tiny winter bodyguard, taking the hit so the important parts stay safe and sound. With 20 sets included, I feel stocked up and smug in the best possible way. —Hannah Fletcher

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Why Snowblower Auger Shear Pin Is Necessary

I’ve found that the auger shear pin is one of the most important little parts on a snowblower because it acts like a safety fuse. When my auger hits something hard, like a rock, chunk of ice, or a hidden curb, the shear pin is designed to break first. That keeps the force from damaging bigger, more expensive parts such as the auger gearbox, shaft, or engine components.

My experience has shown me that this small pin can save a lot of time, money, and frustration. Instead of dealing with major repairs after an impact, I can simply replace the broken pin and get back to work. It’s a much cheaper and easier fix than replacing broken mechanical parts.

I also like knowing that the shear pin helps protect me and the machine from sudden strain. Without it, the auger could jam violently and create unsafe conditions. In my opinion, the shear pin is necessary because it gives the snowblower a built-in point of failure that protects everything else.

My Buying Guides on Snowblower Auger Shear Pin

What I Look for First

When I buy a snowblower auger shear pin, I always start by checking compatibility. I make sure the pin matches my snowblower’s brand, model, and auger size. If the pin is the wrong fit, it can fail to protect the machine properly, so I never guess.

Why the Material Matters to Me

I pay close attention to the material because it affects strength and breakaway performance. I usually prefer pins made from durable steel or OEM-approved materials. I want a pin that is strong enough for normal use but still designed to break when the auger jams, since that protects my gearbox and other parts.

OEM vs. Universal Pins

I often compare OEM pins with universal ones. OEM shear pins give me peace of mind because they are made for my specific snowblower. Universal pins can be convenient and sometimes cheaper, but I only choose them if I’m confident they meet the same size and performance requirements.

Size and Dimensions I Double-Check

I always verify the diameter and length before buying. Even a small difference can cause problems with installation or performance. I also check whether the pin includes the correct nut, cotter pin, or locking mechanism if my machine needs one.

Ease of Installation

I prefer shear pins that are easy to install, especially when I need a quick replacement in cold weather. If the pin is simple to align and secure, it saves me time and frustration. I also like to keep a few spares on hand so I’m not stuck during a snowstorm.

Durability and Breakaway Performance

I want a pin that balances durability with the right breakaway point. If it is too soft, it may break too often. If it is too hard, it may not protect my auger system when something gets jammed. I look for products that are known to perform consistently under real snow-clearing conditions.

Price and Value

I compare prices, but I don’t choose the cheapest option automatically. For me, value means getting a reliable pin that lasts and protects my snowblower. A slightly higher price is worth it if the pin fits well and reduces the chance of damage.

Where I Prefer to Buy

I usually buy from trusted dealers, hardware stores, or reputable online sellers. I like listings that clearly show the part number, compatibility details, and customer reviews. That helps me avoid ordering the wrong part.

My Final Advice

My best advice is to keep the owner’s manual handy and buy shear pins before winter gets serious. I always store extras in my garage so I can replace a broken pin quickly. For me, the right snowblower auger shear pin is a small part that makes a big difference in keeping my machine safe and ready to work.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that the snowblower auger shear pin is a small part that plays a big role in protecting my machine from serious damage. My takeaway is that using the correct replacement pin and keeping a few spares on hand can save me time and frustration during heavy snow. I also know that checking the shear pin regularly helps keep my snowblower running safely and smoothly all winter long.

Author Profile

David Ogburn
David Ogburn
Older homes taught me to pay attention to the small things people often overlook. I’m based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a background in construction technology and residential property maintenance, where I spent years around repairs, tools, materials, and everyday household problems.

That experience made me practical about what is worth buying and what is not. In 2026, I started Raulstuckpointing.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, comparison, research, and everyday needs.

I care about durability, simplicity, fair pricing, and products that remain genuinely useful long after the excitement of buying something new has worn off.