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If you searched for Best Yard Machines Snow Blower Reviews 2019, the useful answer in 2026 is not a recycled product list. Many Yard Machines snow blowers from that era are now used machines, parts-catalog machines, or value-tier models that need to be judged by condition, parts support, and driveway fit.
Our short verdict: a Yard Machines snow blower can still be a smart budget buy for a homeowner with a paved city driveway, a normal 2-car suburban driveway, or basic winter maintenance needs. It is not the machine we would recommend for every property. If you get repeated wet 12-inch storms, long gravel drives, steep grades, or you need dealer-level support, you may be better served by a higher-end Ariens, Toro, Honda, Cub Cadet, or a serious high-voltage battery two-stage model.
On our job sites, we think about snow removal the same way we think about drainage, driveway pitch, garage aprons, and walkway access: the machine has to match the property. Clearing a 30-foot sidewalk is different from opening a 90-foot driveway after the city plow leaves a packed berm at the curb.
Quick Verdict: Which Yard Machines Snow Blower Makes Sense?
Yard Machines is a value-focused MTD brand, now under the broader Stanley Black & Decker family. The machines most homeowners still run into are 21-inch single-stage gas units and 24- to 30-inch two-stage gas machines, with the 26-inch 208cc two-stage model being one of the more common sizes in retail and used listings.
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- 738-04124A Shear Pins Replaces Part Numbers: 738-04124A, 714-04040, 738-04124, YS-714-04040 Replaces 02-901
- Good compatibility: You can use our snow blower parts on a variety of machines, suitable for MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt snowblowers
- for 300/500/600 Series two-stage snow thrower models and three-stage, 2005 and after
- 738-04124A Shear Pins Compatible with CUB CADET Model: 2X 930SWE, 2X 933SWE, 2X 945SWE, 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE, 933SWE, 945SWE, SW10528L, SB45
- Quantity:Pack of 10 Shear Pins,Pack of 10 Cotter Pins, Our High quality Part, suitable for use in any harsh environment, Rust-proof and corrosion-resistant
For a small paved driveway, a 21-inch single-stage Yard Machines can be enough. The 21-inch 123cc version is marketed for driveways and snowfalls up to about 6 inches, with a 13-inch intake height, 9-inch steel augers, auger-propelled drive, and chute rotation up to 190 degrees. That is a practical size for a 1-car city driveway, a short sidewalk, or a homeowner who clears snow during the storm instead of waiting until the end.
For a 2- or 3-car driveway, heavier storms, and plow piles, look at a 24- to 26-inch two-stage Yard Machines. A 26-inch model listed through big-box retail uses a 208cc OHV engine, electric start, 12-inch steel auger and impeller, multiple forward and reverse speeds, and a larger intake than a single-stage unit. That is the better fit for deeper snow, uneven surfaces, and the heavy compacted ridge left by municipal plows.
For long rural drives, steep slopes, or frequent heavy wet snow, Yard Machines is usually the budget end of the conversation, not the final answer. A premium 24- to 30-inch two-stage machine often costs $1,300 to $1,900 or more, but the stronger driveline, better chute controls, easier steering, and dealer support can matter over 8 to 12 winters.
Yard Machines Single-Stage vs Two-Stage: The Real Difference
The most common buying mistake is choosing by price or clearing width alone. Stage type matters more.
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Single-stage Yard Machines snow blowers
A single-stage snow blower uses the auger to collect and throw snow in one motion. The auger contacts the pavement, which helps pull the machine forward and scrape close to the surface. That design works well on flat, paved concrete or asphalt. It is not ideal for gravel because the auger can pick up stones and throw them.
A 21-inch single-stage Yard Machines unit is best for:
- 1-car paved driveways
- Short sidewalks and walkways
- Storms around 2 to 6 inches
- Homeowners with limited storage space
- People who clear snow promptly before it refreezes
The tradeoff is capacity. A smaller 123cc engine and 13-inch intake height are not built for repeated 10- to 14-inch storms, frozen plow berms, or slushy end-of-driveway piles. If your street plow regularly leaves a 20-inch ridge, a small single-stage machine will feel underpowered.
Two-stage Yard Machines snow blowers
A two-stage snow blower uses an auger to gather snow and an impeller to throw it through the chute. The auger housing rides on skid shoes, so the auger does not scrape the ground the same way. That is why two-stage machines are the better choice for gravel, older uneven asphalt, paver driveways, and deeper snow.
A 26-inch 208cc Yard Machines two-stage unit is a better fit for:
Rank #2
- The shear pin and cotter pin kits models 738-04124A, 738-04124 and 714-04040. Our shear pins for snowblower are compatible with a variety of machines, including MTDs, yard machines, yard workers, snow blowers and lawn tractors,etc. Suitable for most 2-stage and some 3-stage snowblowers.
- The 738-04124A shear pin and 714-04040 cotter pin kits are made of sturdy and high-quality metal materials, our shear pins and cotter pins for snowblower can be rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, providing excellent performance and reliability.
- The snowblower shear pins and cotter pins sets are also compatible with most yard machines, and lawn tractors. Compatible with Cub Cad et, for Crafts man, for Troy Bilt, for MTD, for Yard Man, for Huskee and Bolens snowblower. It is recommended that you consult your machines owners manual to select the appropriate parts before purchasing.
- Sturdy snowblower shear pins and cotter pins, providing a reliable parts replacement option for the snow blower, enough for our daily use and replacement in winter. The shear pin protects other parts of the snow blower from damage by withstanding the force of impact when the snow blower hits a large piece of ice or rock.
- Snow blower shear pins size: Diameter 1/4" x Long 1.65". They are easy to install and replace, just need to push the shear pin, use the cotter pin to lock it in place and check. If you have any questions, please contact us
- 2- to 3-car suburban driveways
- Driveways 40 to 100 feet long
- Snowfalls above 6 inches
- Plow piles at the apron
- Gravel or uneven surfaces when skid shoes are set correctly
Expect more weight, more storage space, and more maintenance. Belts, cables, skid shoes, shave plates, shear pins, and tires all matter. But if the driveway is large enough, the extra machine is worth it.
2026 Price Guide: New, Used, and What Repairs Can Cost
Yard Machines sits in the budget/value tier. That is its appeal. In 2026, a new budget 21-inch single-stage gas snow blower generally runs about $400 to $800, depending on engine size, electric start, chute controls, and brand. A new 24- to 26-inch two-stage gas machine usually runs about $750 to $1,300 for budget and midrange models.
Current examples put a Yard Machines 26-inch 208cc two-stage machine around $748 when available, while a comparable YARDMAX 26-inch 212cc two-stage model is around $807. Premium two-stage machines from stronger dealer-supported lines commonly land around $1,300 to $1,900+.
| Machine Type | Typical 2026 Cost | Best Fit | Watchouts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used Yard Machines single-stage | $150-$350 | Small paved driveways, light storms | Worn paddles, old fuel system, weak chute controls |
| New budget 21-inch single-stage | $400-$800 | Flat concrete or asphalt, 2-6 inch storms | Limited power in wet snow and plow berms |
| Used Yard Machines two-stage | $250-$500 | Budget buyer with repair ability | Rust, belts, cables, gearbox leaks, parts lookup |
| New 24-26 inch two-stage budget/midrange | $750-$1,300 | Most suburban 2-car driveways | Basic controls, lighter build than premium units |
| Premium 24-30 inch two-stage | $1,300-$1,900+ | Heavy snow, long drives, frequent winter use | Higher upfront cost, more storage space |
| Battery-electric snow blower | $500-$1,800+ | Quiet operation, no gas storage, moderate snow | Battery cost, cold-weather runtime, platform lock-in |
Used Yard Machines and MTD machines commonly appear around $150 to $500, depending on condition. A non-running two-stage machine at $300 may not be a bargain if it needs a carburetor cleaning, belts, cables, skid shoes, and a shave plate. Shop labor varies by region and season, but emergency repairs during the first major storm are almost always slower and more expensive than preseason service.
For a used machine, we would rather buy a clean, running 24-inch two-stage for $400 than a rusty 30-inch machine for $300 with unknown parts support. Bigger is not better if the auger gearbox is leaking or the chute is frozen in place.
Used Yard Machines Buying Checklist
The model name on the decal is not enough. Before buying parts or paying for a used machine, find the exact MTD model and serial number tag. Similar-looking Yard Machines, Yard-Man, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Cub Cadet units can share platforms, but belts, cables, shave plates, and chute parts can still differ.
Use this pass/fail inspection before money changes hands:
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- Cold start: Ask the seller not to warm it up. A machine that only starts hot may need carburetor work.
- Electric start: Plug it in and test it. Electric start matters when it is 8 degrees outside.
- Auger engagement: The auger should engage cleanly and stop when released.
- Drive engagement: Test every forward and reverse speed. Slipping can mean belt, cable, friction wheel, or drive issues.
- Chute rotation: Rotate fully left and right. Check the deflector adjustment too.
- Gearbox: Look for oil leaks, cracked housings, and wobbling augers.
- Rust-through: Surface rust is normal. Holes in the bucket, frame, or chute are a different problem.
- Skid shoes: Worn skid shoes mean the bucket may have been scraping hard for years.
- Scraper or shave plate: A worn shave plate leaves snow behind and can damage surfaces.
- Tires or tracks: Check for cracking, dry rot, low tread, and whether both sides hold air.
- Shear pins: Confirm the augers are not locked to the shaft with regular bolts.
- Parts availability: Search by exact model number before you buy, not after.
If the seller says, “It just needs a tuneup,” price it like a repair project. Old fuel, ethanol buildup, cracked primer bulbs, stretched cables, and worn belts are normal on older small engines. None of those are shocking, but they should be reflected in the price.
Driveway Fit: Match the Snow Blower to the Property
As builders, we look at snow removal before the first storm. A driveway that sheds water well, has room for snow stacking, and has a clean garage apron is easier to maintain. A driveway with a steep pitch, tight retaining walls, low landscape lighting, paver edges, and no snow storage zone is harder on both the operator and the machine.
Small paved city driveway
For a 1-car driveway under about 35 feet long, a 21-inch single-stage Yard Machines machine can make sense. It stores in a garage corner, is easier to maneuver, and can clear typical 2- to 6-inch snowfalls quickly. On a narrow sidewalk, 21 inches is also manageable.
The key is timing. If you wait until 10 inches of wet snow has compacted, a small single-stage machine will struggle. Clear once during the storm and once after if the forecast calls for accumulation above 6 inches.
Rank #3
- 【Product Contents】: You will receive 10 pieces of shear pins and 10 pieces of cotter pins, which are professional snowblower accessories for replacing snowblower shear pin replacement models 738-04155, 80-019, 714-04040, YS-738-04155, 738-0763, 7380763, 73804155, 701004040, 02-901, 02901, 71404040, Compatibility with 738-04124A, 938-04124A, 738-04124, Suitable for Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man, Yard-Machines
- 【Material】: The snow blower shear pins and cotter pins sets are made of alloy steel materials which is sturdy and durable, corrosion-resistant
- 【Easy to Use】: When installing the shear pin combination, just push it into the shear pin and lock it in place with the cotter pin, which is quick and convenient and does not take much of your time
- 【Application】: These shear pins and cotter pins can be assembled easily, fitting most of the snowblower, MTD machines, yard workers, lawn tractors and more
- 【Note】: Consult your machine's manual before ordering to ensure correct replacement parts
Suburban 2- to 3-car driveway
For a driveway 40 to 80 feet long with a 2-car garage, a 24- to 26-inch two-stage model is the practical middle. The 26-inch 208cc Yard Machines two-stage size is right in this category. It gives enough width to reduce passes without becoming too bulky for storage.
Plan on a machine path that throws snow downwind and away from the garage door. Blowing snow against the garage apron creates meltwater that refreezes at the threshold. That is hard on concrete joints, weatherstripping, and anyone walking out before sunrise.
Gravel or long rural driveway
Use a two-stage machine with adjustable skid shoes. Set the bucket high enough that it does not scrape gravel. Early in the season, many homeowners leave a thin packed snow base over gravel before lowering the skid shoes later.
A single-stage unit is the wrong tool here. The auger contacts the ground and can throw gravel into siding, garage doors, vehicles, and windows.
Driveway Materials and Damage Prevention
Snow blowers are not just lawn equipment. They interact directly with finished surfaces, joints, edges, and drainage details. The wrong setting can scar a driveway or loosen a paver border.
| Surface | Recommended Setup | Damage Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Single-stage or two-stage; keep scraper in good shape | Catching raised control joints or uneven slabs |
| Asphalt | Single-stage works on smooth asphalt; two-stage for older uneven drives | Scraping softened or cracked edges |
| Gravel | Two-stage only; raise skid shoes | Throwing stones, stripping gravel from crown |
| Pavers | Two-stage preferred; raise scraper slightly | Catching proud pavers or edge restraints |
| Stamped concrete | Use caution; avoid aggressive scraping | Scuffing sealers and high-texture surfaces |
For concrete and asphalt, inspect expansion joints and cracks before winter. A scraper bar that catches a raised slab edge can stop the machine abruptly. For pavers, check for settlement at the apron and walkway transitions. A 1/2-inch raised paver is enough to catch a scraper plate.
Snow-stack planning matters too. Keep piles away from foundation walls, basement windows, steps, and low spots where meltwater can refreeze. At the street, preserve sight lines. Do not build a 5-foot pile that blocks drivers from seeing children, pets, or backing vehicles.
Parts, Maintenance, and Model Number Reality
Yard Machines parts support is one reason these machines remain viable as budget equipment. Genuine Factory Parts, big-box repair channels, and MTD parts sources list many common items: belts, cables, bearings, deflectors, chutes, skid shoes, spark plugs, shave plates, augers, and shear pins.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThe catch is exact identification. Do not order by “Yard Machines 26-inch snow blower” alone. Find the model number. On many machines it is on a tag at the rear frame, near the operator position, or on the auger housing. Take a photo of the tag before shopping for parts.
Rank #4
- 【High Quality Material】The snow blower shear pins and cotter pins sets are made of high-quality metal materials which is sturdy, rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, can be used for a long time.
- 【Applicable Models】Our shear pin and cotter pin kits models 738-04124A, 738-04124 and 714-04040. Compatible with Cub Cad et, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, MTD, Yard Man, Yard Machines, Huskee and Bolens snowblower. They are well-designed to ensure a perfect fit with other parts of the snow blower, providing excellent performance and reliability.
- 【Easy to Install】You just need to push the shear pin, use the cotter pin to lock it in place and check. You can complete the installation in no time and keep your snow blower in top shape to handle snow consistently and efficiently. Snow blower shear pins size: Diameter 1/4" x Long 1.65".
- 【Compatibility】Our snowblower shear pins are compatible with a variety of machines which can be used for MTD snow blower, snow throwers, yard machines and lawn tractors, suitable for most 2-stage and some 3-stage snowblowers.
- 【Package Included】10/20/30 shear pins + 10/20/30 cotter pins + 1 storage box. Please consult your machine manual before ordering to make sure the replacement parts are correct.If you have any questions, please contact us, we will reply you within 24 hours!
Preseason service checklist
Do this before the first storm, ideally in October or early November in cold-weather states:
- Change the engine oil.
- Inspect belts for cracking, glazing, or stretching.
- Check auger and drive cables for smooth movement.
- Lubricate chute rotation and deflector controls.
- Verify shear pins are correct and keep spares on the machine.
- Check tire pressure on both sides.
- Inspect skid shoes and scraper or shave plate.
- Test electric start with an outdoor-rated extension cord.
- Run fresh stabilized fuel through the engine.
Fuel is a major source of trouble. Gasoline left untreated in a small carburetor can cause hard starts, surging, and no-start conditions. Use fresh fuel, add stabilizer if the machine will sit, and run the engine long enough for treated fuel to reach the carburetor.
Safety and Snow-Discharge Rules Homeowners Miss
The most serious snow blower injuries often happen when someone clears a clogged chute or auger by hand. Do not do it. Shut the machine off, remove the key if equipped, wait for moving parts to stop, and use the clearing tool. Packed snow can release stored tension even after the engine stops.
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- Keep hands and feet away from the auger housing and chute.
- Wear eye protection when working near gravel or ice chunks.
- Do not wear loose scarves, drawstrings, or clothing that can catch controls.
- Keep children away from the work area.
- Never point the chute at cars, windows, people, garage doors, or public traffic.
- Shut the engine off before adjustments, unclogging, or refueling.
Local rules matter. Many cities require sidewalks to be cleared within a specific window after snowfall, often within 24 hours. Some communities prohibit blowing snow into public streets, bike lanes, alleys, or across sidewalks. State transportation departments also warn against pushing or blowing snow onto roads because it creates hazards for drivers and plow crews.
Design your clearing pattern before you start. Blow downwind when possible. Work from the center of the driveway outward. Keep discharge off the road. Do not bury hydrants, mailboxes, storm drains, or neighbor walkways.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to DIY vs When to Hire a Pro
Snow blower ownership is worth it when you have storage space, can do light maintenance, and clear snow often enough to justify the machine. For many homeowners, a $750 to $1,300 two-stage snow blower pays for itself over several winters compared with per-storm plowing or shoveling help.
DIY makes sense when:
- Your driveway is under about 100 feet long.
- You can safely operate a 100- to 200-pound machine.
- You have garage or shed storage.
- You are comfortable with oil changes, belts, shear pins, and fuel storage.
- Your city requires prompt sidewalk clearing and you want control over timing.
Hiring a pro makes sense when:
- The driveway is steep, long, icy, or difficult to turn around in.
- You travel frequently during winter.
- You have health, balance, or mobility concerns.
- The property has multiple drives, commercial walks, or liability exposure.
- A cheap used machine would need $300 or more in immediate repairs.
For repair work, DIY is reasonable for spark plugs, oil changes, shear pins, skid shoes, scraper bars, and some belts if you have the manual. Hire a small-engine shop for carburetor cleaning if you are not comfortable with fuel systems, for auger gearbox work, or for drive issues that require deeper teardown. A low-cost used machine can lose its advantage fast if it needs multiple shop repairs in the same season.
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Best budget pick for small paved driveways: 21-inch single-stage
Choose the 21-inch Yard Machines single-stage if you have a flat paved driveway and usually see storms around 6 inches or less. The 123cc engine class, 13-inch intake height, and 21-inch clearing width are appropriate for compact city properties. It is also easier to store than a two-stage machine.
Skip it if you have gravel, a steep drive, or frequent plow berms. That is not a criticism of the machine; it is a mismatch between tool and property.
Best Value
- 🔹 1. Wide Compatibility These snow blower shear pins (CMXGZAM241056) are designed to fit Craftsman two-stage snow throwers, including models starting with 247.XXXX, and 300 / 500 / 600 / 900 Series (2007 and later). Also compatible with MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man, and Huskee snow blowers, providing a reliable replacement option across multiple brands.
- 🔹 2. OEM Replacement Part Numbers Directly replaces multiple OEM part numbers: 738-04155, 80-019, 714-04040, YS-738-04155, 738-0763, 7380763, 73804155, 701004040, 02-901, 02901, 71404040. Includes shear pins 738-04155 and cotter pins 714-04040, ensuring full compatibility and easy repair for your snow thrower.
- 🔹 3. Premium Durability & Protection Made from high-strength, corrosion-resistant metal, these shear pins are built to perform in extreme cold and harsh conditions. They prevent damage to your snow blower’s auger and gearbox by breaking safely when encountering heavy ice, rocks, or other hard debris, protecting your equipment from costly repairs.
- 🔹 4. Easy Installation The snowblower shear pin kit installs quickly and requires no special tools. Simply insert the shear pin into place and lock it with the included cotter pin — a secure, tool-friendly setup you can complete in minutes using just a pair of pliers.
- 🔹 5. Reliable After-Sales Support We stand behind the quality of our products. If you have any questions or issues regarding your 738-04155 snow blower shear pins, please contact us — our team will respond within 24 hours and ensure your satisfaction.
Best all-around Yard Machines size: 26-inch 208cc two-stage
For most homeowners considering Yard Machines, the 26-inch 208cc two-stage is the most useful size. It is wide enough for a 2-car driveway, has electric start, and uses a two-stage auger and impeller system better suited to deeper snow. Multiple forward and reverse speeds also matter when clearing packed snow near the street.
At roughly $748 when available, it sits well below many premium models. That price gap is the reason to consider it. The tradeoff is that you should be more proactive about maintenance and parts lookup.
Best used buy: clean 24- to 26-inch MTD/Yard Machines two-stage
A clean running 24- to 26-inch two-stage machine is usually the sweet spot used. It is large enough to be useful but not so large that worn parts become expensive headaches. Look for a machine that starts cold, drives in all speeds, has a dry gearbox, rotates the chute smoothly, and has a readable model tag.
Be cautious with older 28- and 30-inch units unless they are clearly maintained. Larger machines can be excellent, but rust, worn tires, bent augers, bad friction wheels, and obsolete parts can make them poor buys.
Final Recommendation
Yard Machines snow blowers still make sense in 2026 for homeowners who want practical equipment at a value price and are willing to maintain it. The 21-inch single-stage class is best for small paved areas and lighter storms. The 26-inch 208cc two-stage class is the better all-around choice for suburban driveways, plow berms, and uneven surfaces.
For a used 2019-era Yard Machines machine, condition beats brand reputation. Confirm the model number, check parts availability, test every function from a cold start, and price repairs honestly. A well-kept Yard Machines snow blower can serve a homeowner for years. A neglected one can become an expensive winter project before the first real storm arrives.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Yard Machines snow blowers still worth buying in 2026?
Yes, for the right property. They are best for budget-minded homeowners with moderate snow needs who can handle basic maintenance. For heavy wet snow, long driveways, or premium dealer support, higher-end brands may be a better fit.
Is a 21-inch Yard Machines snow blower enough?
A 21-inch single-stage Yard Machines model is enough for flat paved driveways, sidewalks, and storms up to about 6 inches. It is not the right choice for gravel, steep drives, deep snow, or heavy plow piles.
What is the best Yard Machines snow blower size for a 2-car driveway?
A 24- to 26-inch two-stage machine is usually the best fit. The 26-inch 208cc Yard Machines two-stage size gives better capacity for deeper snow and plow berms than a single-stage model.
What should I check before buying a used Yard Machines snow blower?
Check cold starting, electric start, auger engagement, drive speeds, chute rotation, gearbox leaks, rust, tires, skid shoes, scraper plate, shear pins, and the exact model number for parts lookup.
Can I use a Yard Machines snow blower on gravel?
Use a two-stage model only, with skid shoes adjusted high enough to keep the bucket from scraping gravel. Avoid single-stage machines on gravel because the auger contacts the ground and can throw stones.
How much should I spend on a used Yard Machines snow blower?
Most older residential Yard Machines or MTD snow blowers fall around $150 to $500 depending on condition. Non-running machines should be priced as repair projects because carburetor, belt, cable, and gearbox work can erase the savings quickly.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
