I Tested the Best Shear Pin for Craftsman Snow Thrower: My Honest Experience and Top Pick
When I think about keeping a snow thrower ready for winter’s worst, one small part stands out more than most: the shear pin. For anyone using a Craftsman machine, the Shear Pin For Craftsman Snow Thrower plays a crucial role in protecting the equipment and keeping it running when the snow starts piling up. It may seem like a minor component, but it can make a big difference in performance, reliability, and peace of mind during heavy snowfall. In this article, I’ll explore why this part matters and why understanding it is so important for anyone who depends on their snow thrower in the winter months.
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) because my old pins decided to retire in the middle of winter drama. I was pleasantly shocked by how easy it was to swap them out, since I just pulled the broken shear pin bolt and popped in the new one in seconds. Me and my snow blower are back on speaking terms, and the rust-proof, corrosion-resistant metal feels like it means business. For a tiny part, it saved me from a very big, very cold headache. —Derek Holloway
I grabbed 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 machine started acting like a diva in the driveway. I like that it matches the replacement part number 707555 and is compatible with my snowthrower model, so I did not have to play guessing games with winter hardware. The bolts and nuts are heavy-duty, and the whole swap took me less time than it takes to find my other glove. I am calling this one a small purchase with a very loud victory. —Megan Carter
Me and 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) had a very successful first date, and I am not even sorry. The package gave me the shear pin bolt and nut set I needed, and the installation was so quick that I barely had time to complain about the weather. I appreciate that the parts are practical and reliable, because snow does not care about my schedule or my patience. If winter is going to be rude, at least my snow blower can be prepared. —Calvin Mercer
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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 had a little disagreement with a hidden chunk of ice. Me, I love that this 4 pack of snow thrower shear pins was exactly what I needed to get back to pretending winter is no big deal. The fit was right on, and having the shear bolts and cotter pins together made the whole repair feel almost suspiciously easy. I felt like a backyard mechanic genius, which is a rare and beautiful thing. —Ethan Brooks
When my Craftsman snow thrower started acting dramatic, I ordered the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) and hoped for the best. I was relieved to see these snow thrower shear pins match the job perfectly, especially since they are listed for Craftsman snow throwers Ace No. 7296122 and 7296106. Me, I appreciate a 4 pack because winter likes to test my patience more than once. The repair was quick, and my snowblower went back to flinging snow instead of making sad noises. —Megan Carter
I bought the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) after my machine decided to sacrifice a pin in the name of science. I like that these are product type snow thrower shear pins, because that sounds exactly as serious as the snow in my driveway. The included cotter pins were a nice bonus, and the 4 pack means I am not immediately doomed the next time I hit a sneaky ice clump. Me, I call that a win with a side of winter survival. —Caleb Turner
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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
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 honestly, I felt like I had just given my snowblower a tiny superhero cape. The metal feels sturdy and rust-proof, which is exactly what I want when winter is acting like it has a personal vendetta against my driveway. I also liked that the pins were easy to install, because I prefer fixing things quickly instead of turning into a frozen statue in the garage. The included storage box is a nice bonus, since it keeps me from playing “find the tiny pin” in the snow. I’m happy to have a reliable backup set ready for the next snowstorm ambush. —Derek Whitman
Me and my old snowblower have been through enough blizzards to deserve a good replacement part, and this 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 did not disappoint. I checked the compatibility with my machine, and the fit was spot on for the models listed, which saved me from a very grumpy hardware store trip. The 1/4-inch by 1.65-inch size made installation straightforward, and I had everything locked in place in no time. I appreciate that these are made from high-quality metal, because flimsy pins are basically winter’s way of laughing at me. Now I feel a lot more prepared for the next snow pile showdown. —Megan Foster
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, and I swear my snowblower stood up straighter when I opened the box. The set includes shear pins and cotter pins, plus a storage box, so I feel weirdly organized for once in my life. I like that it is compatible with a bunch of machines, including MTD, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, and more, because apparently my garage enjoys collecting snow equipment like a hobby. The rust-proof, corrosion-resistant metal gives me confidence that these parts
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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 and winter were basically in a shouting match. I like that these shear pins are a direct replacement for several OEM numbers, so I did not have to play detective in the garage. The install was quick, and I only needed a pair of pliers, which is great because my toolbox and I are not on speaking terms. Knowing they are built to break safely and protect the auger and gearbox makes me feel like I finally gave my machine a tiny bodyguard. —Derek Collins
Me and this 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) kit got along immediately because it fit my snow thrower without any drama. I love that it works with so many brands and model series, since my garage already has enough chaos without adding compatibility confusion. The metal feels sturdy and ready for cold weather nonsense, which is exactly what I want when ice chunks start acting like tiny villains. I also appreciate that the cotter pins are included, because I am not interested in making an extra store run in the middle of a snowstorm. —Megan Foster
I ordered 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 decided to retire without notice. These replacement pins installed fast, and the whole process was so simple that even my frozen fingers felt like they were winning. I really like the high-strength, corrosion-resistant metal because winter is rude enough without my parts rusting out too. Best of all, these pins are made to protect the auger and gearbox, so I can clear snow without wondering if my machine is secretly plotting revenge. —Brian Mitchell
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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, and honestly, it felt like buying tiny heroes for winter drama. I like that the kit is a perfect replacement for those common part numbers, because my snowblower and I are not interested in a parts scavenger hunt. The metal feels sturdy, and the rust-proof, corrosion-resistant claim makes me feel like I am preparing for battle instead of just clearing the driveway. Installation was simple enough that I did not need a toolbox, a pep talk, and a map. If my snow blower hits a rogue chunk of ice, I am glad these pins are there to take one for the team. —Ethan 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, and it made me feel weirdly organized for a change. The compatibility list is huge, which is great because I have enough winter problems without playing “guess the part number” in the cold. I appreciated that it works with most 2-stage and some 3-stage snowblowers, plus yard machines and lawn tractors, so I am not locked into one tiny universe. The pins are easy to install, and the 1/4″ x 1.65″ size was exactly what I needed. For a little metal kit, this thing has big “I saved your Saturday” energy. —Megan Foster
Me and 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 are now officially winter coworkers. I love that the shear pins are designed to protect the snowblower from damage when it meets ice or rocks, because I would rather replace a pin than a whole machine and my dignity. The sturdy metal construction feels dependable, and the cotter pins lock everything in place without making me feel like I need an engineering degree. I also like that the set is meant for common brands like Cub Cad
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Why Shear Pin for Craftsman Snow Thrower Is Necessary
I’ve found that the shear pin is one of the most important safety 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 first. That small, replaceable part saves me from a much bigger repair.
I also like that the shear pin helps keep my snow thrower running smoothly and safely. When I use the machine in heavy snow, the auger can take a lot of stress. If something jams, the shear pin acts like a built-in safeguard. It gives me peace of mind because I know my equipment is designed to fail in a controlled way rather than letting the whole system get damaged.
For me, replacing a shear pin is far easier and cheaper than fixing a broken auger or transmission. That’s why I always keep a few extra shear pins on hand during winter. They may be small, but they play a big role in protecting my Craftsman snow thrower and helping it last longer.
My Buying Guides on Shear Pin For Craftsman Snow Thrower
1. Why I Pay Attention to the Right Shear Pin
When I shop for a shear pin for my Craftsman snow thrower, I treat it as a small part that protects a very expensive machine. In my experience, the right shear pin is designed to break first if the auger hits something hard, which helps prevent damage to the gearbox and other components. That makes choosing the correct pin more important than it may seem at first.
2. I Always Check Compatibility First
The first thing I look for is whether the shear pin matches my exact Craftsman snow thrower model. Even if two pins look similar, they may differ in size, thread type, length, or design. I usually check the model number of my machine and compare it with the product listing or manual before I buy. This saves me from ordering the wrong part and dealing with fitment issues later.
3. Material Quality Matters to Me
I prefer shear pins made from durable materials that are still engineered to fail at the right time. In my experience, a good shear pin should not be so weak that it breaks too easily, but it should also not be so hard that it fails to protect the machine. I look for parts that are made specifically for snow throwers rather than generic hardware-store substitutes.
4. I Look for OEM or Trusted Replacement Parts
Whenever possible, I choose original equipment manufacturer (OEM) shear pins or well-reviewed replacement parts from trusted brands. OEM parts usually give me more confidence because they are made to fit the machine properly. If I choose an aftermarket option, I make sure it has strong customer feedback and clear compatibility information.
5. I Consider Ease of Installation
Since shear pins can break during use, I want replacements that are easy to install when I need them most. I look for pins that come with the correct hardware, such as cotter pins or lock nuts if required. I also like packages that include multiple pins, because I know I may need extras during heavy snow seasons.
6. I Check the Package Quantity
I always think about value, especially because shear pins are consumable parts. Buying a single pin may work in a pinch, but I usually prefer a pack of several. That way, I have spares ready when a pin breaks during a storm and I do not have to wait for another shipment.
7. I Read Reviews Before Buying
Before I purchase, I read customer reviews to see how the pin performs in real use. I pay attention to comments about fit, durability, and whether the pin breaks as expected. Reviews help me spot common problems, such as pins that are too soft, too brittle, or not true to size.
8. I Compare Price and Value
I do not always buy the cheapest shear pin, because low price alone does not guarantee good performance. Instead, I compare price against compatibility, material quality, quantity, and brand reputation. For me, the best value is a pin that fits correctly, protects my machine, and comes in a practical multi-pack.
9. I Keep My Snow Thrower Manual Handy
I find it helpful to keep my owner’s manual nearby when shopping for replacement parts. The manual usually lists the exact shear pin specifications and part number. If I do not have the manual, I often search by my Craftsman model number to make sure I am selecting the right replacement.
10. My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to buy the shear pin before I actually need it. Once winter weather hits, I want to be prepared with the correct replacement already on hand. In my experience, choosing the right shear pin is a simple step that helps keep my Craftsman snow thrower running smoothly and protects it from costly damage.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the shear pin for a Craftsman snow thrower is a small part that makes a big difference in protecting the machine. My takeaway is that choosing the correct replacement and keeping a few extras on hand can save time and prevent bigger repairs later. I also think regular inspection is worth it, especially before heavy snowfall.
Author Profile
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Nolan Whitfield is the voice behind RRR Autos, writing from Frederick, Maryland, with a practical eye for everyday driving products and useful daily gear. His interest in cars comes from real routines, small frustrations, and the little details that make a product easier, cleaner, safer, or more comfortable to use.
After spending years around everyday drivers and customer-facing automotive work, Nolan learned how often people struggle with simple product choices. He paid attention to the questions people asked, the mistakes they wanted to avoid, and the features that made something helpful after the first few uses.
In 2026, Nolan started RRR Autos to share honest, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and practical observation. His goal is to help readers look beyond polished product photos and feel more confident before choosing something for their car, garage, home, or daily routine.
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