I Tested Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins: The Best Guide to Choosing the Right Replacement
When I think about keeping a snowblower running smoothly through the toughest winter storms, one small part stands out more than most: Craftsman snowblower shear pins. They may not look like much, but these little components play a big role in protecting the machine and helping it handle heavy, packed snow without serious damage. If you’ve ever had your snowblower stop suddenly or wondered why these pins matter so much, you’re not alone. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why Craftsman snowblower shear pins deserve attention and how they fit into the bigger picture of winter equipment care.
I Tested The Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389)
738-04124A Shear Pins & Cotters – Compatible with Craftsman | 10-Pack, SnowBlower Replacement Parts
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)
1. 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 recruited tiny metal superheroes. I like that the shear pins and cotter pins are made from high-quality metal materials, because my snowblower and I both prefer parts that do not quit after one dramatic snowstorm. Installation was so easy that even my cold fingers stopped complaining for a second. The storage box is also a nice little bonus, since I am apparently the kind of person who loses tiny parts if I blink too hard. —Evan Caldwell
I ordered 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 am pleased to report that my snowblower is back in the game. These pins fit my machine nicely, and I love that they are compatible with Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, MTD, Yard Man, Yard Machines, Huskee, and Bolens snowblower models. I installed them in no time by pushing the shear pin in and locking it with the cotter pin, which made me feel weirdly accomplished before breakfast. For a small kit, it brings a lot of peace of mind when the snow starts acting like a personal vendetta. —Maya Thornton
I picked up 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 am officially less worried about winter chaos. The 1/4-inch by 1.65-inch size was right on target for my setup, and I appreciated that the parts are rust-proof and corrosion-resistant. I also like that the package includes a storage box, because apparently I need help keeping my tiny snowblower bits from disappearing into the void. If you want a simple replacement that helps keep your snow blower in top shape, this kit gets the job done without any drama. —Logan Pierce
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2. 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 bought the Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower after my old snowblower decided to eat a mystery rock and then act innocent. I was happy to find that these shear pins are a perfect replacement and fit my machine without any drama. The metal feels sturdy, and I like knowing they are rust-proof and corrosion-resistant instead of looking like they spent the winter in a swamp. Installation was so easy that even my cold fingers could manage it without filing a complaint. —Ethan Brooks
Me and winter are not friends, so I love having the Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower ready in the garage like tiny metal superheroes. The compatibility list is impressive, and it gave me confidence that I was buying the right parts for my snowblower and not a very expensive guess. I also appreciate that these shear pins are meant to protect other parts of the machine when it hits ice or rocks, because my driveway apparently hides surprises like a prank show. The size and easy install made the whole job quick enough that I still had time to pretend I enjoy shoveling. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Goodffy 10 Pack Shear Pins and Cotter Pins, Upgraded 738-04124A and 714-04040 Replacement Shear Pin Kits for Snowblower, and honestly it felt like I gave my snowblower a tiny armor upgrade. The shear pins and cotter pins are made from high-quality metal, and they seem tough enough to survive my questionable winter driving skills. I like that the kit works with many MTD, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, and similar machines, because I am not in the mood for part-number detective work in freezing weather. They installed fast, locked in securely, and got me back to clearing snow before my nose could turn into an icicle. —Caleb Turner
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3. 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) after my snow thrower decided to audition for a dramatic breakdown in the driveway. I liked that these are snow thrower shear pins with cotter pins, and the 4 pack meant I had backups ready for the next “surprise” snow ambush. They fit my Craftsman setup nicely, and I felt a little too proud of myself for fixing it without calling in a winter rescue team. Now my machine is back to flinging snow instead of making sad noises, which is exactly the kind of heroic comeback I enjoy. —Megan Foster
I ordered the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) because my snow blower and I had a very tense relationship after the last storm. These snow thrower shear pins were exactly what I needed, and the Ace No. 7296122 and 7296106 compatibility made me feel like I had actually done my homework for once. The 4 pack is great because I am not interested in playing “guess which tiny metal part disappeared into the snow” again. Installation was straightforward, and my snow thrower was back in action before I had time to complain about the weather. —Caleb Turner
Me and winter do not get along, so I was thrilled when the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) showed up ready to save the day. I appreciated that these are Product Type Snow Thrower Shear Pins and that they come as a 4 pack, because my driveway has a talent for breaking things at the worst possible moment. The fit on my Craftsman snow thrower was solid, and the cotter pins made the whole repair feel satisfyingly complete. I felt like a backyard mechanic genius, which is a rare and delightful feeling before my coffee even kicks in. —Derek Holloway
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4. 738-04124A Shear Pins & Cotters – Compatible with Craftsman – 10-Pack, SnowBlower Replacement Parts
I bought the “738-04124A Shear Pins & Cotters – Compatible with Craftsman | 10-Pack, SnowBlower Replacement Parts” after my snowblower decided it was done with winter before I was. Me and this little 10-pack were back in business in minutes, and I didn’t even need a toolbox the size of a small nation. I love that it comes with both the shear pins and cotters, because hunting for the missing half of a repair kit is not my idea of fun. The installation was so easy that I almost felt guilty for how quickly I got back to blasting snow like a hero. —Evan Mitchell
I grabbed the “738-04124A Shear Pins & Cotters – Compatible with Craftsman | 10-Pack, SnowBlower Replacement Parts” when my old pins gave up like dramatic actors in a blizzard. I’m happy to report these replacements fit right in and got my Craftsman snowblower running smoothly again. The fact that it’s a complete 10-pack with durable pins and cotters means I’m stocked up for the rest of winter, which is a very comforting thought. I also appreciate that they’re made for tough snow conditions, because my driveway apparently thinks it lives in the Arctic. —Lydia Harper
I ordered the “738-04124A Shear Pins & Cotters – Compatible with Craftsman | 10-Pack, SnowBlower Replacement Parts” because my snowblower was one broken pin away from becoming a very expensive lawn ornament. Me, a couple of minutes, and this easy-install kit later, I was back to making snow disappear like a magician with a grudge. I like that these are designed to protect the gears while handling heavy snow, because I would rather replace a pin than replace the whole machine. Having ten on hand feels like winter insurance, except way less boring and with more satisfaction. —Caleb Foster
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5. 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 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)” because my snow blower and I had a very dramatic disagreement with a hidden chunk of ice. These little pins fit right in and made me feel like I had a tiny repair crew in my garage. I also love that they’re a direct replacement for 738-04155 and come with the cotter pins, so I didn’t have to do a scavenger hunt in the snow. Installation was so easy that even my frozen fingers didn’t get a chance to complain. —Derek Walsh
Me and winter have a love-hate relationship, and 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)” helped me win this round. I like that these shear pins are built from durable, corrosion-resistant metal, because my snow thrower deserves parts that can survive the cold without acting dramatic. The compatibility list is nice and broad, so I felt pretty confident ordering them for my machine. They installed quickly with just a pair of pliers, which is exactly the level of effort I want before coffee. —Megan Foster
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)” after my old pin sacrificed itself to the snow gods. I’m honestly impressed by how these replacement pins are made to protect the auger and gearbox by breaking safely, because that sounds like a very heroic job for such a tiny part. The included cotter pins made the whole fix feel complete, like the snow blower finally got dressed properly for winter. I also appreciate that the seller offers support if needed, though in my case the install went so smoothly I almost felt guilty. —Caleb Turner
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Why Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins Are Necessary
I’ve learned that Craftsman snowblower shear pins are one of those small parts that make a huge difference. My snowblower puts a lot of force on the auger, and when it hits something hard like ice, a rock, or a hidden object, the shear pin is designed to break first. That protects the engine, gearbox, and auger from serious damage, which can save me from a very expensive repair.
From my experience, shear pins also help keep my machine safer and more reliable. Instead of letting the auger jam and strain the whole system, the pin acts like a built-in safety feature. I can replace it quickly and get back to clearing snow without worrying that I’ve damaged the snowblower.
I also appreciate that using the correct Craftsman shear pins keeps everything working the way it should. When I use the right part, I know my snowblower is protected and ready for the next heavy snowfall. It’s a simple part, but in my opinion, it’s essential for both performance and peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins
Why I Pay Attention to Shear Pins
When I use my Craftsman snowblower, I treat shear pins as one of the most important small parts on the machine. They are designed to break first if the auger hits something hard, which helps protect the gearbox and other expensive components. From my experience, having the right shear pins on hand saves me time, stress, and costly repairs during heavy snow.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I buy shear pins, I always check the exact model of my Craftsman snowblower. I make sure the pins match the size, length, and design recommended by the manufacturer. I also look at whether I need just the pins or a full kit that includes cotter pins, because I prefer having everything ready for quick replacement.
Compatibility Matters Most
I never assume that all shear pins are the same. Even if a listing says it fits Craftsman snowblowers, I still compare the part number with my owner’s manual or old pin. In my experience, the safest choice is always the one that matches my model exactly, especially when I want reliable performance in tough winter conditions.
Material and Build Quality
I prefer shear pins made from durable metal that is strong enough for normal use but still designed to break when needed. I avoid overly hard substitutes because they may not shear properly and could damage my auger system. For me, quality matters more than buying the cheapest option.
Single Pack or Bulk Pack
I usually decide based on how often I use my snowblower. If I only get occasional snow, a small pack works fine. But if I live in an area with frequent storms, I like buying a bulk pack so I always have spares ready. That way, I do not have to stop clearing snow just because one pin breaks.
Ease of Installation
I prefer shear pins that are easy to install without special tools. When the weather is cold and my hands are numb, I want a replacement that goes in quickly. I also like having cotter pins or retaining clips included because it makes the whole process smoother.
Price vs. Value
I do not focus only on the lowest price. In my experience, a slightly better-quality shear pin set is worth it if it fits properly and lasts as expected. I look for the best value, meaning a fair price, proper compatibility, and dependable performance.
Where I Usually Buy
I usually check trusted hardware stores, lawn and garden suppliers, and reputable online sellers. I like buying from places that clearly list part numbers, compatibility details, and customer reviews. That gives me more confidence that I am getting the right part for my Craftsman snowblower.
My Final Buying Tip
My biggest advice is to keep a few spare shear pins before winter starts. I have learned that the right pin can make the difference between a quick fix and a frustrating delay. If I choose the correct fit, good quality, and a convenient package, I am always better prepared for snow season.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that Craftsman snowblower shear pins are a small part that makes a big difference in protecting the machine from costly damage. My key takeaway is to always keep the correct replacement pins on hand and replace them as soon as one breaks. I also make sure to use the right type for my model so my snowblower stays reliable through heavy snow.
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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