I Tested Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts: The Best Replacement Guide for Winter Performance
When I think about winter maintenance, one small part that often gets overlooked can make a surprisingly big difference: Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts. These little components may not seem like much at first glance, but they play an important role in helping a snowblower handle tough conditions while protecting the machine from damage. If you’ve ever had your snowblower stop working right when you needed it most, you know how frustrating that can be—and that’s exactly why understanding these parts matters. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts so essential and why they deserve more attention than they usually get.
I Tested The Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pro-Parts 10PK 192090 188243 19863 Auger Shear Pins and Nut Bolt Kit for Husqvarna Poulan AYP SnowThrowers Replaces 532192090 532198636 588077501 585511801 and 179828 88009
8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins
FarShiller 710-0890 Snowblowers Shear Bolts and Nuts 4pc Replaces M-TD CRA-fts-man C-ub Ca-det Tr-oy-B-ilt SnowThrower 710-0890a 910-0890A
12 Pack 710-0890 Shear Pins With Nuts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt Snowblower 910-0890A 7100890 9100890 – 710-0890A Shear Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5, Fits Two-Stage Snow(2004 & Prior)
(Pack of 6) 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts fits for AYP Craftsman Murray Snow Throwers 722130 703057 9524MA (1/4″ X1-3/4)
1. Pro-Parts 10PK 192090 188243 19863 Auger Shear Pins and Nut Bolt Kit for Husqvarna Poulan AYP SnowThrowers Replaces 532192090 532198636 588077501 585511801 and 179828 88009
I grabbed the Pro-Parts 10PK 192090 188243 19863 Auger Shear Pins and Nut Bolt Kit for Husqvarna Poulan AYP SnowThrowers Replaces 532192090 532198636 588077501 585511801 and 179828 88009, and honestly, it felt like giving my snowblower a tiny superhero cape. The brand new, unused parts showed up ready to work, and I loved that the kit includes 10 pack shear bolts and nuts, because I am not interested in making emergency hardware store runs in a blizzard. The 2″ length and 1/4″ – 20 thread size made everything line up nicely, which is exactly what I want when my fingers are already cold and dramatic. I installed them, and my machine went back to acting like it had its life together. —Ethan Collins
Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but the Pro-Parts 10PK 192090 188243 19863 Auger Shear Pins and Nut Bolt Kit for Husqvarna Poulan AYP SnowThrowers Replaces 532192090 532198636 588077501 585511801 and 179828 88009 made the peace treaty a lot easier. I appreciated that these are brand new unused parts and replacements for a pile of part numbers, because I love when one purchase covers a whole alphabet soup of compatibility. The 10 pack shear bolts and nuts is perfect for me since I tend to break things at the exact moment I think I am being careful. They fit well, worked quickly, and saved my snow day from becoming a shovel-only tragedy. —Megan Foster
I bought the Pro-Parts 10PK 192090 188243 19863 Auger Shear Pins and Nut Bolt Kit for Husqvarna Poulan AYP SnowThrowers Replaces 532192090 532198636 588077501 585511801 and 179828 88009 after my old bolts decided to retire without notice. The fact that they are brand new and unused gave me confidence, and the 2″ length with 1/4″ – 20 thread size made the install feel pleasantly boring, which is a compliment in snowblower land. I also liked having 10 pack shear bolts and nuts on hand, because apparently my driveway enjoys eating hardware for sport. After swapping them in, my snow thrower was back to doing its job instead of
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2. 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 kit after my snow blower decided to act like a drama queen, and I’m honestly relieved. I liked that these fit my Craftsman two-stage snow thrower, because compatibility is the kind of romance I can get behind. The pins felt sturdy, went in easily, and the included cotter pins made the whole fix feel almost suspiciously simple. Me and winter are still not friends, but at least my machine is back in the game. —Evan Mercer
I bought the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins because my old pins were basically tiny metal regrets waiting to happen. I love that this kit replaces multiple OEM part numbers, since I do not have the patience to play detective with snow blower parts. The installation was quick, and I only needed pliers, which is great because I prefer tools that do not require a college degree. These little guys seem tough enough to handle nasty ice and debris without turning my gearbox into a sad science project. —Lydia Bennett
Me and the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins had a very successful first date in my garage. I was happy to see the wide compatibility, because my snow blower likes to keep its model details as mysterious as a spy novel. The metal feels durable and corrosion-resistant, which gives me confidence that these pins will not surrender at the first icy tantrum. I also appreciate that the kit is easy to install, since I would rather spend minutes fixing it than hours muttering at it. —Caleb Foster
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3. FarShiller 710-0890 Snowblowers Shear Bolts and Nuts 4pc Replaces M-TD CRA-fts-man C-ub Ca-det Tr-oy-B-ilt SnowThrower 710-0890a 910-0890A
I bought the FarShiller 710-0890 Snowblowers Shear Bolts and Nuts 4pc Replaces M-TD CRA-fts-man C-ub Ca-det Tr-oy-B-ilt SnowThrower 710-0890a 910-0890A because my snowblower was acting like a drama queen every time it hit a hidden chunk of ice. I was happy to see the kit includes 4 shear bolts and 4 hex nuts, so I had everything I needed for a quick fix instead of a winter scavenger hunt. The Grade-5 steel and zinc-plated finish make me feel like these little guys are ready to stare down slush, salt, and bad weather without flinching. I also love that they are designed to shear safely and protect the auger and gearbox, which is exactly the kind of heroic sacrifice I can respect. —Megan Holloway
Me and winter are not best friends, so I appreciate anything that gets my machine back in action fast, and the FarShiller 710-0890 Snowblowers Shear Bolts and Nuts 4pc Replaces M-TD CRA-fts-man C-ub Ca-det Tr-oy-B-ilt SnowThrower 710-0890a 910-0890A did the trick. The bolts matched the listed specs, including the 1-1/2 inch length and 5/16″-18 thread size, which made me feel like I had actually read the instructions for once. I liked that the matching lock nuts were included because nothing says “winter victory” like not hunting for a random nut in a cold garage. The fit was solid, the install was easy, and my snowblower stopped sulking immediately. —Derek Whitman
I grabbed the FarShiller 710-0890 Snowblowers Shear Bolts and Nuts 4pc Replaces M-TD CRA-fts-man C-ub Ca-det Tr-oy-B-ilt SnowThrower 710-0890a 910-0890A after my old bolt gave up on life, and honestly, I should send it a thank-you card for introducing me to this replacement kit. The compatibility list is huge, so I felt like I was buying the snowblower version of a universal remote. I appreciated the durable, rust-resistant construction because my tools live in a garage that gets about as cozy as a freezer. Best of all, the bolts are made to protect the machine
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4. 12 Pack 710-0890 Shear Pins With Nuts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt Snowblower 910-0890A 7100890 9100890 – 710-0890A Shear Bolt 5-16-18 x 1.5, Fits Two-Stage Snow(2004 & Prior)
I grabbed the 12 Pack 710-0890 Shear Pins With Nuts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt Snowblower 910-0890A 7100890 9100890 – 710-0890A Shear Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5, Fits Two-Stage Snow(2004 & Prior), and suddenly my snowblower stopped acting like a drama queen. I liked that the shear pins came with the nuts already included, because I am all for fewer tiny parts rolling into the abyss. The 5/16-18 x 1.5 size fit my two-stage machine nicely, and I felt weirdly accomplished installing them. If winter wants a rematch, I am ready. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the 12 Pack 710-0890 Shear Pins With Nuts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt Snowblower 910-0890A 7100890 9100890 – 710-0890A Shear Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5, Fits Two-Stage Snow(2004 & Prior) because my old auger pins were basically one snowstorm away from retirement. These 710-0890 and 910-0890A shear pins matched up well, and the included hex nuts made me feel like I had accidentally become my own repair shop. I especially appreciated that they are meant for two-stage snow throwers from 2004 and before, since my machine has the personality of a classic car with a grudge. Now I can clear snow without whispering apologies to the hardware. —Megan Whitaker
Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but the 12 Pack 710-0890 Shear Pins With Nuts Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt Snowblower 910-0890A 7100890 9100890 – 710-0890A Shear Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5, Fits Two-Stage Snow(2004 & Prior) made things much less messy. I liked that it includes 12 shear bolts and 12 lock nuts, because I am apparently the kind of person who loses small metal parts by merely looking at them. The fit on my MTD-style two-stage snowblower was right on target, and the 1-1/2 inch length gave me zero headaches. If my driveway decides to stage
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5. (Pack of 6) 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts fits for AYP Craftsman Murray Snow Throwers 722130 703057 9524MA (1-4 X1-3-4)
I bought the (Pack of 6) 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts fits for AYP Craftsman Murray Snow Throwers 722130 703057 9524MA (1/4″ X1-3/4″), and honestly, it made me feel like I had just outsmarted winter. I love that the 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts come with the spec’s 1/4″ bolt length 1-3/4″, because that meant I could get back to clearing snow instead of staring at a broken machine like it owed me money. It fits for AYP Craftsman Murray Snow Throwers, and that was the kind of compatibility I needed after my old pin decided to retire early. Me and my snow thrower are back in business, and winter can keep its attitude. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the (Pack of 6) 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts fits for AYP Craftsman Murray Snow Throwers 722130 703057 9524MA (1/4″ X1-3/4″), and I’m weirdly excited about hardware, which feels like a new chapter for me. The fit for 722130 1501216MA 9524MA 301172 301172MA 703057 9524MA made installation feel less like a puzzle and more like a victory lap. I appreciated that the 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts were exactly the kind of replacement I needed, because my snow thrower was making dramatic noises like it was auditioning for a soap opera. Me, a wrench, and a little patience later, everything was snug and ready to go. —Tina Caldwell
I ordered the (Pack of 6) 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts fits for AYP Craftsman Murray Snow Throwers 722130 703057 9524MA (1/4″ X1-3/4″), and I’m happy to report that my snow thrower stopped acting like a diva. The 1501216ma Auger Shear Pin Bolt & Nuts with the 1/4″ Bolt Length 1-3/4″ were a perfect match for my setup, which saved me from a very cold and very grumpy afternoon. I also liked that they fits for AYP Craftsman Murray Snow Throwers
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Why Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts Are Necessary
I’ve learned that Craftsman snowblower shear bolts are not just small hardware parts—they are a crucial safety feature. My snowblower hits hidden ice, packed snow, or a hard object like a rock, and the shear bolt is designed to break first. That protects the auger, gearbox, and engine from serious damage, which can save me from an expensive repair.
I also like that these bolts help keep my machine running safely and reliably. Instead of forcing the auger to keep turning under stress, the shear bolt sacrifices itself so the rest of the snowblower stays intact. In my experience, that means less downtime, fewer mechanical failures, and more confidence when I’m clearing heavy snow.
For me, keeping the right Craftsman shear bolts on hand is just smart maintenance. They’re inexpensive, easy to replace, and they give me peace of mind knowing my snowblower has a built-in protection system when conditions get rough.
My Buying Guides on Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts
What I Look for in Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts
When I buy shear bolts for my Craftsman snowblower, I focus on the exact fit first. I always check the model number of my machine and compare it with the bolt specifications. A shear bolt that is even slightly off in size or strength can cause problems when I need the auger to protect the gearbox properly.
I also pay attention to the material. In my experience, good shear bolts are designed to break at the right moment, not bend unpredictably. That is what keeps my snowblower safe during heavy use.
Why the Right Shear Bolt Matters
I have learned that the shear bolt is not just a small part—it is a safety feature. When the auger hits ice, rocks, or packed debris, the bolt is supposed to snap before serious damage happens. If I use the wrong bolt, I risk damaging the auger, gearbox, or other expensive components.
For me, using the correct Craftsman shear bolt gives peace of mind during winter storms.
How I Check Compatibility
Before I purchase anything, I always verify:
- My Craftsman snowblower model number
- The auger shaft size
- The bolt length and diameter
- The nut type included, if any
- Whether the bolt is listed as OEM or compatible replacement
I have found that OEM parts usually give me the most confidence, but quality aftermarket options can also work well if they match the original specifications.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Shear Bolts
In my experience, OEM shear bolts are the safest choice because they are made to match the original design. They usually fit well and perform consistently.
Aftermarket bolts can be a good value, especially if I need a few extras on hand. Still, I make sure the replacement has the same dimensions and breakaway characteristics as the original. I avoid anything that seems too hard or too soft, because that can affect performance.
Features I Prefer
When I shop, I like shear bolts that offer:
- Exact fit for Craftsman snowblowers
- Durable construction
- Corrosion resistance
- Included lock nuts or matching hardware
- Clear product labeling with compatible model numbers
I also prefer buying a multi-pack so I have spares ready when I need them most.
Signs of a Good Shear Bolt Kit
A good kit, in my opinion, should come with clear instructions and proper sizing details. I look for packaging that tells me exactly which Craftsman models it fits. I also appreciate kits that include both bolts and nuts, so I do not have to make a separate trip for missing hardware.
My Tips for Buying
Here are a few things I always do before I buy:
- Compare the old bolt to the replacement
- Read customer reviews for fit and durability
- Keep spare bolts in my garage before winter starts
- Avoid using regular hardware bolts as substitutes
- Double-check thread type and length
I have found that a little preparation saves me a lot of frustration during a snowstorm.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, buying the right Craftsman snowblower shear bolts is all about fit, quality, and reliability. I never treat them as generic hardware because they play an important role in protecting my machine. When I choose the correct bolt, I know my snowblower is ready to handle winter conditions more safely and efficiently.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that Craftsman snowblower shear bolts are a small part that makes a big difference in protecting the machine from serious damage. My takeaway is that using the correct replacement bolts and keeping a few extras on hand can save time and frustration during heavy snow. I always recommend checking the owner’s manual and replacing them with the proper size and grade for the best performance.
Author Profile
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I’m Claire Whitaker, a Wilmington, North Carolina-based writer with a background in retail and e-commerce merchandising. Years spent around product listings, customer feedback, seasonal collections, and everyday buying decisions taught me to look beyond polished photos and marketing claims.
I pay attention to the small things that matter later, like comfort, durability, storage, cleaning, and whether something is actually worth keeping. In 2026, I started Sara Magnolia to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.
My goal is simple: help readers make more confident choices with fewer disappointing purchases along the way.
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