I just purchased a 2005 Yard Man snow thrower model 31AE5KLF801. (9.5 HP Tecumseh, two-stage) Bought it for the trigger steering and the joystick chute control features.
I went to buy some (extra) shear pins today at HD and could only find 4 packs of the shear pins (bolts) for 2004 and older models. I purchased them anyway assuming the differences were neglible (nut versus cotter pin). Turns out the 2005 MTD family of brands downsized their shear pins going from 5/16" to 1/4".
They call these new shear pins a "tool less replacement" because instead of a nut, a cotter pin is used. I'm concerned that these smaller shear pins will be more prone to breakage. In addition, I have concerns that the shear pin was downsized to protect a gearcase / auger shaft that is weaker than their predessessors.
Are my concerns warranted, or am I overreacting?
