I didn't see a mention of helper springs. You blower does have a set,
correct?
Nick
-----Original Message-----
From: Darryl McMahon [mailto:darryl econogics com]
Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2019 1:39 PM
To: Elec-Trak
Subject: (ET) Front lift strap keeps breaking
So far this month (January 2019), we have had about 98 cm of snow (about
40 inches). Fortunately, I picked up an E15 the summer before last and
now have it re-powered (sealed lead-acid golf car batteries and 12-amp
charger). Got a snowblower turning nicely and attached. Battery holds
up to 2-3 hours of operation without getting seriously drained despite
cold-soaking (unheated storage).
Had some tire issues, but a friend recommended Green Slime. Seems to
have resolved the sidewall crack leak, so the 40-year-old tires will
hopefully last a bit longer. (Will probably replace all the rubber in
the summer, when working outdoors is a more hospitable. It's cold here
this winter, even by Ottawa standards - repeated frostbite warnings. On
the plus side, no mosquitoes.)
I wanted the snowblower going, because by Christmas the snowbanks were
already over 4 feet high, and defeating the E12 with the plow blade.
I estimate in the 15-20 hours of run time I have done this month on the
E15, I have lifted the blower 400-500 times. (Areas I do involve short
runs and not enough space to turn around, so a lot of backing up and
transiting with the blower lifted.) Yesterday, I broke another lift
strap. Looks to be simple wear, breaking at the roller on the blower
frame. I double loop to get the mechanical advantage, and the lift
motor (replaced last fall) is working a charm. Roller sleeve and side
washers all appear smooth, so should not be fraying the strap.
Has anyone come across a highly durable lift strap? I would just like
to carry out this replacement exercise less frequently.