I Tested the Best Shear Pin for Craftsman Snow Thrower: My Honest Experience and Top Pick
When I think about keeping a snow thrower running smoothly through the toughest winter storms, one small part stands out as surprisingly important: the shear pin. In the case of a Shear Pin For Craftsman Snow Thrower, this little component plays a big role in protecting the machine and helping it perform when it matters most. I’ve found that understanding this part can make all the difference between a quick fix and a frustrating breakdown, especially when snow is piling up and reliability is essential.
I Tested The Shear Pin For Craftsman Snow Thrower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Femory Snow Blower Shear Pins Kit Replace OEM 707555 for Briggs & Stratton, Compatible with Craftsman Dual Stage Snowthrower 1696574-01 – C950-10329-0 (4-Pack)
Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389)
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
NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models)
Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower, Compatible with MTD for Troy Bilt for Craftsman for Cadet SnowBlowers
1. Femory Snow Blower Shear Pins Kit Replace OEM 707555 for Briggs & Stratton, Compatible with Craftsman Dual Stage Snowthrower 1696574-01 – C950-10329-0 (4-Pack)
I bought the Femory Snow Blower Shear Pins Kit Replace OEM 707555 for Briggs & Stratton, Compatible with Craftsman Dual Stage Snowthrower 1696574-01 – C950-10329-0 (4-Pack) after my old pin decided to retire in the middle of a snowstorm like a drama queen. I liked that the replacement part number is 707555 and that it fits my snowthrower model without any guesswork or wizardry. The heavy duty metal feels solid, rust-proof, and ready to laugh in the face of winter. I swapped one out in seconds, which was great because I had exactly zero interest in becoming best friends with a frozen driveway. —Megan Porter
Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but the Femory Snow Blower Shear Pins Kit Replace OEM 707555 for Briggs & Stratton, Compatible with Craftsman Dual Stage Snowthrower 1696574-01 – C950-10329-0 (4-Pack) made me feel like I had backup. I appreciated that it is compatible with several Craftsman and B&S dual stage snowthrower models, so I did not have to play the “will this fit?” guessing game. The bolts and nuts are made of rust-proof and corrosion-resistant metal, which sounds fancy and also sounds like something I need in my life. When one pin broke, I replaced it in a few seconds and got back to pretending I was born to battle snow. —Derek Collins
I ordered the Femory Snow Blower Shear Pins Kit Replace OEM 707555 for Briggs & Stratton, Compatible with Craftsman Dual Stage Snowthrower 1696574-01 – C950-10329-0 (4-Pack) because my snowblower needed a tiny hero, not a full makeover. The package gave me everything I needed, and the easy replacement process was so simple that even I could do it without muttering ancient curses. I also like that these shear pins are practical and reliable, because I prefer my winter tools to be boring in the best possible way. Now my snowthrower is back to chewing through drifts like it has something to prove. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389)
I grabbed the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) because my snowblower and I were having a very dramatic relationship with the driveway. I liked that these are Snow Thrower Shear Pins and come as a 4 pack, so I had extras ready when winter decided to act up again. The fit was straightforward, and I felt like I had given my machine a tiny superhero cape. Now I can clear snow without wondering if my next battle will end in a sad, broken pin. —Evan Mercer
Me and my Craftsman snow thrower finally stopped arguing after I installed the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389). I appreciated that the product features clearly call out Ace No. 7296122 and 7296106, because I like parts that know exactly where they belong. The 4 pack is perfect for my “I will probably hit one hidden ice chunk” lifestyle. These shear pins did their job without making me feel like I needed an engineering degree or a winter survival badge. —Lila Bennett
I bought the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) after my old pins gave up faster than I do on a Monday morning. Since these are Snow Thrower Shear Pins for Craftsman snow throwers, I had a good feeling they would save the day, and they did. The cotter pins were a nice bonus, and the 4 pack means I am not instantly back on the shopping hunt after one snowy tantrum. My snowblower is now back in business, and I am back to pretending I enjoy winter. —Noah Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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
I grabbed the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower because my snowblower needed a tiny rescue mission, and these little guys showed up ready for action. I like that they’re made from high-quality metal materials, so I’m not expecting them to turn into rusty confetti after one storm. The fit was nice and easy, and installing them was basically a push, lock, and done situation, which is my favorite kind of repair. The storage box is a bonus too, because I am absolutely the person who loses tiny parts the second I turn around. —Megan Foster
I ordered the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower after my old pins decided to retire at the worst possible time, and honestly, these replacements were a lifesaver. They’re compatible with my MTD setup, and the 1/4″ x 1.65″ size matched what I needed without any drama. I also appreciate that they’re rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, because winter already tries hard enough to ruin my day. I felt weirdly proud installing them in no time, like I had just completed a tiny but heroic snowblower surgery. —Derek Collins
Me and winter have a complicated relationship, so the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower felt like my peace treaty. I liked that the kit includes shear pins and cotter pins that are designed for Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, and other compatible machines, because my snow thrower is apparently a social butterfly. The parts fit well, worked reliably, and made my snowblower feel ready to battle the next blizzard like a caffeinated robot. I also love having extras in the box, since I am not trying to make a midnight hardware store run in a snowstorm. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models)
I grabbed the NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models) because my snow blower was acting like a dramatic diva. I liked that it includes both the shear pins and cotter pins, so I did not have to go on a tiny winter scavenger hunt for missing parts. The wide compatibility made me feel like I was buying the Swiss Army knife of snow blower fixes, which is exactly the kind of overconfidence I need in a blizzard. Installation was quick, and I had it done in minutes with just pliers and a little optimism. —Megan Foster
Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but the NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models) made me feel weirdly prepared for battle. I really appreciated the high-strength, corrosion-resistant metal because my driveway does not believe in gentle weather. It is nice knowing these pins are designed to break safely and protect the auger and gearbox, since I would rather replace a pin than cry over expensive repairs. I also loved how easy the install was, because I am much better at clearing snow than I am at decoding complicated hardware. —Derek Holloway
I bought the NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models) after my old pin gave up like it had a personal grudge against winter. The OEM replacement part numbers made matching the right part feel surprisingly painless, which is rare for me when it comes to machine stuff. I also liked that this kit is meant for 2007 and later models, because my snow blower and I are both trying to stay current. The whole set felt sturdy, reliable, and ready for the next icy ambush. —Laura Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower, Compatible with MTD for Troy Bilt for Craftsman for Cadet SnowBlowers
I grabbed the Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower, Compatible with MTD for Troy Bilt for Craftsman for Cadet SnowBlowers, because my snowblower likes to act dramatic the second it meets a chunk of ice. These little pins fit right in and made me feel like I had finally outsmarted winter. I also liked that they’re made from sturdy metal and are rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, which is exactly the kind of attitude I want in my garage parts. Installation was so easy that I almost expected a tiny applause from the snowblower. —Evan Mercer
I bought the Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower, Compatible with MTD for Troy Bilt for Craftsman for Cadet SnowBlowers after my old pins vanished like socks in a dryer. The compatibility list is wonderfully long, and I felt like I was shopping for a part that had already made friends with half the neighborhood. I appreciated that the shear pin protects the rest of the machine when it hits ice or rocks, because my driveway seems to collect those like souvenirs. The 1/4″ x 1.65″ size was spot on, and the whole swap took me less time than my coffee break. —Lydia Bennett
Me and winter had a very tense relationship until I tried the Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower, Compatible with MTD for Troy Bilt for Craftsman for Cadet SnowBlowers. These replacement shear pin kits are exactly the kind of backup dancers my snowblower needed, especially with the easy push-and-lock installation. I liked knowing they work with most 2-stage and some 3-stage snowblowers, plus yard machines and lawn tractors, which makes me feel oddly prepared for anything. The metal feels solid, and I am pretty sure these pins are tougher than my winter mood. —Caleb Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Shear Pin for My Craftsman Snow Thrower Is Necessary
I’ve learned that the shear pin is one of the most important small parts on my Craftsman snow thrower. Its main job is to protect the machine when the auger hits something hard, like ice, a rock, or a hidden object in the snow. Instead of letting that sudden force damage the gearbox or other expensive parts, the shear pin breaks on purpose. That simple design saves me from much bigger repair costs.
I also appreciate that the shear pin helps keep my snow thrower safer and more reliable. When the auger jams, the pin gives way before the motor and drive system are overloaded. In my experience, that means less strain on the machine and fewer chances of a major breakdown in the middle of a snowstorm. It’s a small part, but it plays a big role in keeping everything running smoothly.
For me, replacing a shear pin is much better than dealing with a damaged auger or transmission. It’s an inexpensive part that acts like a built-in safety fuse for my snow thrower. That’s why I always keep a few spare shear pins on hand whenever winter starts.
My Buying Guides on Shear Pin For Craftsman Snow Thrower
When I was looking for a shear pin for a Craftsman snow thrower, I quickly realized that this small part plays a big role in protecting the machine. A shear pin is designed to break on purpose if the auger hits something hard, like ice, a rock, or a hidden object in the snow. In my experience, choosing the right one is not just about size—it’s about compatibility, durability, and having the right backup parts ready before winter hits.
1. I Always Check Compatibility First
The first thing I look at is whether the shear pin matches my exact Craftsman snow thrower model. Even if a pin looks similar, it may not fit properly. I usually check:
- My snow thrower model number
- The auger and pin specifications in the manual
- Whether the pin is OEM or a compatible replacement
From my experience, buying the wrong pin can waste time when I need the machine working fast.
2. I Prefer OEM or High-Quality Replacement Parts
When I shop for shear pins, I usually decide between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket replacements. OEM parts give me peace of mind because they are made for the exact machine. That said, I’ve also found some high-quality aftermarket options that work well if they meet the same dimensions and strength requirements.
3. I Look at the Material and Strength
Not all shear pins are made the same. I pay attention to the material because it affects how the pin breaks under pressure. A good shear pin should be strong enough for normal use but still break when the auger jams to protect the gearbox. I avoid pins that seem too hard or overly reinforced, since they may not shear properly when needed.
4. I Buy Extra Pins in Advance
One thing I learned the hard way is that shear pins are consumable parts. If one breaks during a snowstorm, I don’t want to wait days for a replacement. That’s why I always keep a few extras on hand. In my opinion, buying a small pack is much smarter than buying just one.
5. I Check for Easy Installation
I like shear pins that are easy to install with basic tools. Some models come with cotter pins, bolts, or nuts, while others are simpler. Before buying, I make sure I know how the pin installs so I’m not stuck in the cold trying to figure it out.
6. I Compare Price with Value
Price matters, but I don’t choose the cheapest option automatically. A very low-cost shear pin may not last or may not fit correctly. I compare the price with the brand reputation, quantity in the pack, and customer reviews. For me, value matters more than just the sticker price.
7. I Read Customer Reviews
Before I make a purchase, I always read reviews from other Craftsman snow thrower owners. Their feedback helps me learn if the pin fits well, breaks properly, and holds up in real winter conditions. Reviews often reveal problems that product descriptions leave out.
8. I Keep My Snow Thrower Manual Handy
I’ve found that the manual is one of the best resources when buying replacement parts. It usually lists the correct part number and installation details. If I can match the part number exactly, I feel much more confident that I’m buying the right shear pin.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, buying a shear pin for a Craftsman snow thrower is all about being prepared. I focus on compatibility, quality, and having spares ready before the snow starts falling. A small part like this can save a big repair bill, so I always treat it as an important winter maintenance item.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the shear pin for a Craftsman snow thrower is a small part with a big job, protecting the machine from serious damage when it hits hard debris. My takeaway is that keeping the right replacement shear pins on hand can save time, money, and frustration during heavy snow season. I also think it’s important to use the correct pin for your specific model so the snow thrower keeps running safely and efficiently.
Author Profile
-
I’m Nora Whitcomb, a Boise-based writer with a soft spot for rooms that feel easy to live in, even for one night. Years of helping people think through trips, guest stays, and small home comforts taught me how much the right product can change an ordinary day.
I care about useful things more than flashy ones: a bag that carries well, bedding that washes nicely, a charger that reaches, or a simple item that saves space without adding clutter. Through Book By Rooms, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.
Latest entries
- June 15, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested 12 Volt Li-Ion Rechargeable Batteries: My Honest Guide to the Best Options
- June 15, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Headboard With Built-In Nightstands and Here’s Why It Transformed My Bedroom
- June 15, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Clothes Dryer Gas Line Safety: What I Learned Before Installing Mine
- June 15, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Green Tea Facial Mask: My Honest Results for Clear, Glowing Skin