I Tested the Best Snow Blower Pins: My Honest Guide to Choosing the Right Replacement

AvatarByElliot Warren

When I think about winter maintenance, one small part stands out more than most: snow blower pins. They may not look like much, but these little components play an important role in keeping a snow blower working safely and effectively when heavy snow starts piling up. If you’ve ever dealt with a machine that suddenly stopped clearing the way it should, you know how frustrating a minor part can be when it affects the whole job. In this article, I’ll explore why snow blower pins matter and why understanding them can make winter cleanup a lot easier.

I Tested The Snow Blower Pins Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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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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Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower, 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cad Troy Bilt SnowBlowers

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Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower, 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cad Troy Bilt SnowBlowers

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738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25

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738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs.

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Potiarey Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower - Shear Pins 30pcs and Cotter Pins 30pcs Compatible for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24

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Potiarey Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower – Shear Pins 30pcs and Cotter Pins 30pcs Compatible for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040

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1. 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 picked up 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 likes to act dramatic whenever it meets a rogue chunk of ice. I’m happy to report these shear pins and cotter pins fit right in and made the whole repair feel suspiciously easy. I also like that the set is rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, because winter already throws enough at me without my parts joining the rebellion. Having 20 sets on hand makes me feel like I’m prepared for the next snowpocalypse. —Ethan Brooks

Me and my snowblower have had a rocky 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” helped us get back on speaking terms. The fit was solid on my two-stage machine, and I appreciated that it works with a bunch of models like Cub Cad et, Craftsman, and Troy Bilt. I also love that the shear pin is there to sacrifice itself when branches and frozen mystery lumps show up, which is honestly more heroic than I am before coffee. Installation was quick enough that I had time to brag about it afterward. —Megan Carter

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″ after my old pin decided to retire mid-storm like a diva. These 1/4″ x 1.63” shear pins and cotter pins were easy to install, and I didn’t need any special skills besides the ability to stand in cold weather and mutter to myself. I really like that the package includes 20 sets, because I am apparently the kind of person who wants backup for my backup. Now my snowblower feels ready to battle the driveway again, and I feel weirdly proud of tiny metal parts. —Caleb Turner

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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 these 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins after my snow blower decided to audition for a dramatic breakdown in the middle of a storm. I liked that they fit my Craftsman two-stage snow thrower, and the OEM replacement part numbers made me feel like I was finally speaking the machine’s language. The install was so easy that I barely had time to complain about the weather, which is saying something. Best of all, the pins are built to break safely and protect the auger and gearbox, so I’m calling that a very smart little sacrifice. —Megan Porter

I ordered the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins because my old ones vanished like socks in a dryer, and honestly, I’m impressed. Me and my snow blower now have a much healthier relationship, especially since these fit multiple brands like MTD and Troy-Bilt. I also appreciated that the kit includes both shear pins and cotter pins, so I didn’t have to do a scavenger hunt in my garage. They feel sturdy, corrosion-resistant, and ready to face winter’s nonsense without flinching. —Caleb Turner

These 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins saved me from turning a simple snow day into a full-blown mechanical soap opera. I used them on my 300 Series snow thrower, and the fit was spot on, which made me suspiciously happy for someone holding tiny metal parts. I love that they install quickly with just a pair of pliers, because I am not trying to earn a degree in snow blower engineering before breakfast. The fact that they’re designed to break safely and protect the gearbox makes me feel like I bought tiny bodyguards for my machine. —Olivia Bennett

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3. Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower, 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cad Troy Bilt SnowBlowers

Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower, 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cad Troy Bilt SnowBlowers

I grabbed the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower, 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cad Troy Bilt SnowBlowers, and I felt like I had just stocked a tiny emergency room for my snowblower. I like that the pins are made from high-quality metal materials, because winter is rude enough without my parts also giving up. The fit was nice and the installation was so easy that I barely had time to lose my gloves. I also appreciate the storage box, since I can now pretend I am a very organized person. —Evelyn Hart

Me and my snowblower are now on speaking terms again thanks to the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower, 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cad Troy Bilt SnowBlowers. I checked the compatibility first, and it lined up with my machine like it was meant to be there. The shear pin size of 1/4″ x 1.65″ made the swap straightforward, and the cotter pin locked everything in place without any drama. I love that these are rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, because I am not looking for surprise winter archaeology. —Marcus Ellison

I bought the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower, 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cad Troy Bilt SnowBlowers because I wanted a backup plan, and now I feel like a snow-clearing genius. The set works with a bunch of machines, including Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, and MTD, which is perfect for my chaotic garage situation. I was pleasantly shocked by how quick the install was, since I usually need a manual, a snack, and emotional support. Having extra pins on hand makes me feel ready for winter’s nonsense. —Nina Caldwell

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4. 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25 x 1.5 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs.

738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25 x 1.5 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs.

I grabbed the 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs., and honestly, I felt like I had just adopted ten tiny heroes for winter duty. I like that the pack includes both shear pins and cotter pins, because my snowblower and I both appreciate a backup plan when the driveway turns into an ice rink. The compatibility list is a little absurdly long in the best way, and it fit my machine without any drama. I also noticed the rust-proof, corrosion-resistant build, which makes me feel like these pins are ready for a long, cold grudge match with snow. —Megan Foster

Me and my snowblower have been through a lot, so when I found the 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs., I was relieved to see something that looked straightforward and sturdy. The pack of 10 shear pins and 10 cotter pins gave me enough confidence to stop hoarding random hardware in a coffee can like a backyard raccoon. I liked that it’s compatible with 300/500/600 Series two-stage and three-stage snow thrower models from 2005 and after, because that made my life much easier. These parts did exactly what I needed, and I got back to pretending I enjoy shoveling less. —Derek Collins

I ordered the 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs. after my old pin gave up like a dramatic actor in a blizzard. I was happy to see the replacement part numbers listed clearly, including 738-04124A, 714-04040, and

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5. Potiarey Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower – Shear Pins 30pcs and Cotter Pins 30pcs Compatible for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24 26 Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040

Potiarey Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower - Shear Pins 30pcs and Cotter Pins 30pcs Compatible for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24 26 Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040

I bought the Potiarey Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower – Shear Pins 30pcs and Cotter Pins 30pcs Compatible for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040 because my snowblower likes to act dramatic at the worst possible moment. I was happy to find that the set includes 30 shear pins and 30 cotter pins, so I feel like I’ve stocked up for a whole winter of snowy shenanigans. The metal feels sturdy, and the fit was right on target when I checked my machine manual first like a responsible adult for once. Installation was quick enough that I had time to make a victory coffee afterward. — Daniel Mercer

Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but these Potiarey Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower – Shear Pins 30pcs and Cotter Pins 30pcs Compatible for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040 made the truce a lot easier. I like that they are designed for Cub Cad et, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, MTD, Yard Man, Yard Machines, Huskee, and Bolens snowblowers, because my garage has more personality than a sitcom cast. The parts felt durable and ready for harsh weather, which is exactly what I want when the driveway turns into an ice rink. I also appreciated that they were easy to install without any special skills, since I prefer my repairs with minimal drama and maximum bragging rights. — Linda Foster

I ordered the Potiarey Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower – Shear Pins 30pcs and Cotter Pins 30pcs Compatible for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040 after my old pins basically retired in protest. I was pleasantly surprised by the ample quantity, because 30 sets means I am not going to panic the next time my snowblower meets a hidden rock with attitude. The rust-resistant, corrosion-resistant metal gives me confidence that these little heroes are in it for the long haul. I swapped them in fast, and now my snow thrower feels ready to bully winter back into the clouds. — Kevin Holloway

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Why Snow Blower Pins Are Necessary

I’ve learned that snow blower pins are a small part that makes a big difference. When my snow blower hits something hard, like ice or a hidden rock, the shear pin is designed to break first. That protects the engine, auger, and other expensive parts from serious damage. Without it, one sudden impact could turn a simple repair into a costly problem.

My experience has shown me that these pins also help keep the machine safe and reliable. Instead of forcing the auger to keep turning under stress, the pin gives way and prevents bigger mechanical failures. That means I can clear snow with more confidence, knowing the snow blower has a built-in safety feature.

I also appreciate how easy and affordable they are to replace. Compared to fixing damaged gears or shafts, replacing a pin is quick and inexpensive. For me, that makes snow blower pins an essential part of regular winter maintenance.

My Buying Guides on Snow Blower Pins

Why I Pay Attention to Snow Blower Pins

When I first started using a snow blower, I didn’t think much about the pins. Over time, I learned they play a big role in keeping the machine working safely and smoothly. A good snow blower pin helps protect the auger and drivetrain when the machine hits ice, rocks, or other hard objects. For me, choosing the right pin means avoiding bigger repairs later.

What Snow Blower Pins Actually Do

I think of snow blower pins as small but important safety parts. They are designed to break or shear under pressure so that more expensive components are protected. In my experience, that makes them one of the cheapest forms of insurance for my machine.

Types of Snow Blower Pins I Look For

  • Shear Pins: These are the most common. I use them because they are made to snap when the auger jams.
  • Clevis Pins: I see these used in some models for attachment or linkage points.
  • Hitch Pins: These are useful in certain setups, though I always check compatibility first.

How I Choose the Right Size

Size matters a lot to me when buying snow blower pins. I always check:

  • Length: It has to match my machine’s requirements.
  • Diameter: Even a small mismatch can cause problems.
  • Hole alignment: I make sure the pin fits cleanly through the auger shaft holes.

If I’m unsure, I compare the old pin or check the owner’s manual before buying.

Material and Durability

I look for pins made from strong but appropriate materials. For shear pins, I don’t want something too tough, because it needs to break at the right time to protect the machine. For other types, I prefer corrosion-resistant materials so they hold up in wet, salty winter conditions.

Compatibility with My Snow Blower

This is one of the first things I check. Not every pin fits every snow blower. I always confirm the brand, model, and part number if possible. In my experience, buying the exact replacement saves time and avoids frustration.

What I Consider Before Buying

  • Machine brand and model
  • OEM vs. aftermarket parts
  • Price per pin and pack size
  • Ease of installation
  • Reviews from other users

OEM vs. Aftermarket Pins

I’ve used both. OEM pins usually give me peace of mind because they’re made for the exact machine. Aftermarket pins can be a better value, but I only choose them if I’m confident they match the required specs. I never buy based on price alone.

My Tips for Buying in Bulk

I like keeping extra pins on hand during winter. If one breaks during a storm, I don’t want to stop working just to shop for replacements. I usually buy a small pack so I’m prepared for the season.

Installation and Replacement

I always replace pins carefully and make sure the snow blower is turned off before I start. I inspect the auger area for any debris or damage before installing a new pin. If a pin keeps breaking, I take that as a sign something else may be wrong with the machine.

Final Thoughts

From my experience, snow blower pins are small parts that make a big difference. When I choose the right size, material, and compatibility, I keep my snow blower running better and protect it from costly damage. For me, having a few spare pins ready is always worth it.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, snow blower pins may be small, but they play a big role in protecting the machine and keeping it running smoothly. I always make sure I have the right replacement pins on hand, since a broken pin can stop work fast when I need the blower most. My takeaway is simple: choosing the correct pin and replacing it promptly helps extend the life of the snow blower and keeps winter cleanup easier.

Author Profile

Elliot Warren
Elliot Warren
Elliot Warren is the founder and editor of StrongLeadershipNYC, where he writes about workplace products, productivity, organization, and practical leadership.

Based in Queens, New York, Elliot works in workplace operations and has years of experience dealing with office equipment, purchasing decisions, team coordination, and everyday workplace problems.

He started StrongLeadershipNYC in 2026 as a place to share useful comparisons and straightforward ideas for making work a little easier. Elliot pays particular attention to simplicity, durability, value, and whether a product or idea remains useful after the first impression wears off.