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Snow Blower Oil Change Tips

Updated: Mar. 02, 2023

Simplify oil changes with a drain tube

snow blower oil change tipsFamily Handyman
Add a permanent oil drain extension tube to your snow blower to simplify oil changes and avoid an oily mess.

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Add galvanized extension nipples

Extension nipples and cap

Route the piping so the oil drains right into a shallow pan. Keep it close to the frame of the machine so you won’t kick it with your boots as you walk.

Most snow blower engines have a drain plug design that’s guaranteed to drip smelly oil all over the machine and floor. Instead of cleaning up the mess every time, modify and extend the drain hole with galvanized nipples and a coupler, elbow and cap. Start by tipping the snow blower on its side (remove the gas first with a turkey baster) so you can attach the nipples and fittings without bathing in leaking crankcase oil. Install a nipple to extend the drain out far enough to attach a 90-degree elbow and then take a downward path (see photo). If your machine is causing trouble, then you can use these tips to fix a snow blower that won’t start.

Required Tools for this Snow Blower Oil Change Tips Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

  • Pipe wrench (2)

Required Materials for this Snow Blower Oil Change Tips Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

  • Galvanized 90-degree elbow
  • Galvanized cap
  • Galvanized nipples (steel pipe)
  • Pipe joint tape