I Tested the Best Shear Pins for My Craftsman Snowblower: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first started looking into Shear Pins For Craftsman Snowblower, I realized how important such a small part can be in keeping a snowblower running smoothly when winter weather is at its worst. These little components may seem minor at first glance, but they play a crucial role in protecting the machine and helping it handle tough snow-clearing jobs with confidence. In this article, I’ll explore why shear pins matter, why the right fit is so important, and what makes them an essential part of maintaining a Craftsman snowblower.
I Tested The Shear Pins For Craftsman Snowblower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins
738-04155 Shear Pins(1/4″ x 1-3/4″) with Clips Compatible with Craftsman/Troy-Bilt/Yard-Man 900 Series Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models, 2007 and After, Replaces for 738-04155 714-04040
20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040
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
738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs.
1. 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins
I bought the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins after my snow blower decided to audition for a dramatic breakdown in the middle of a storm. I was honestly impressed by how these shear pins fit my machine like they were born for it, and the included cotter pins made the whole fix feel weirdly satisfying. Me, a person who usually needs three YouTube videos and a snack break to assemble anything, had this installed in minutes with just pliers. I also love that they’re made from durable metal, because winter already throws enough attitude without my parts joining the chaos. —Megan Foster
I grabbed the 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins because my old ones snapped and my snow blower was basically giving me the cold shoulder. I like that this kit replaces multiple OEM part numbers, since I never remember those numbers unless I’m staring at them like a confused raccoon. The fit was spot-on for my Craftsman two-stage snow thrower, and I felt like a backyard mechanic genius when everything locked in securely. Me and winter are not friends, but at least now my machine is ready to fight back with some serious durability. —Derek Collins
The 8 PCS 738-04155 Snow Blower Shear Pins, 714-04040 Cotter Pins saved me from turning a simple snow day into a full-blown garage soap opera. I was relieved that these fit a bunch of brands and models, because apparently snow blower parts enjoy being mysterious. The installation was refreshingly easy, and I didn’t need any special tools, which is great because my toolbox is mostly just optimism and one rusty screwdriver. I also appreciate that these pins are designed to break safely and protect the auger and gearbox, because I’d rather sacrifice a pin than my entire weekend. —Tina Marshall
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2. 738-04155 Shear Pins(1-4 x 1-3-4) with Clips Compatible with Craftsman-Troy-Bilt-Yard-Man 900 Series Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models, 2007 and After, Replaces for 738-04155 714-04040
I grabbed the 738-04155 Shear Pins(1/4″ x 1-3/4″) with Clips Compatible with Craftsman/Troy-Bilt/Yard-Man 900 Series Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models, 2007 and After, Replaces for 738-04155 714-04040, and honestly, it felt like giving my snowblower a tiny superhero upgrade. I liked that it came with 20 sets of shear pins and bow-tie cotter pins, because me and winter have a very dramatic relationship and I like backups. The fit was spot-on, and the 1.75″ shank length matched what I needed without any wrestling match. I’m pretty sure my snow thrower is now less likely to throw a tantrum than I am on a Monday morning. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the 738-04155 Shear Pins(1/4″ x 1-3/4″) with Clips Compatible with Craftsman/Troy-Bilt/Yard-Man 900 Series Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models, 2007 and After, Replaces for 738-04155 714-04040, and I was pleasantly surprised by how tidy and complete the set was. Me, I love a product that shows up ready for action with the right clips included, because hunting for tiny parts in the garage is not my idea of fun. The dimensions were right on target, especially the 0.25″ diameter and the 1.850″ total length, so installation was refreshingly boring in the best way. If winter is going to be rude, at least my snowblower can be equally prepared. —Megan Whitfield
I picked up the 738-04155 Shear Pins(1/4″ x 1-3/4″) with Clips Compatible with Craftsman/Troy-Bilt/Yard-Man 900 Series Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models, 2007 and After, Replaces for 738-04155 714-04040, and it made me feel like a responsible adult for approximately ten glorious minutes. The compatibility list is impressively long, and I appreciated that it works with so many Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and Yard-Man snowblower models. I also liked that the package includes both shear pins and bow-tie cotter pins, because me and missing hardware are not on speaking terms. For a small part, it brings a big dose of peace of
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3. 20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24 26 Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040
I grabbed the “20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040” and felt like I had just stocked up for a snow-pocalypse. The shear pin and cotter pin kits fit my snowblower like they were born for it, and I love that they’re compatible with so many models, including Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Cub Cad et. Installation was so easy that I almost expected a tiny applause from the garage. I also appreciate that the pins are rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, because winter already brings enough drama without my parts joining the rebellion. —Evelyn Harper
Me and my snow thrower have been through some things, so finding this “20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040″ felt like a rescue mission with a very satisfying ending. The 1/4″ x 1.63” size matched what I needed, and I liked having 20 sets ready to go instead of playing winter roulette. These shear pins do their job the noble way by sacrificing themselves so the auger does not have to, which is honestly heroic behavior for tiny metal bits. I was back to clearing snow fast, and my driveway finally stopped looking like a frozen obstacle course. —Calvin Brooks
I ordered the “20 Sets Shear Pins and Cotter Pins Fit for MTD Snowblower, Shear Pin Kits Compatible with Cub Cad et Troy Bilt Craftsman 24″ 26″ Snow Thrower, Replace 738-04124A 714-04040” because I wanted a simple fix, not a mechanical soap opera. The package included plenty of shear pins and cotter pins, and I really liked that they are compatible with 300/500/600 Series two-stage snow throwers from 2005 and after. I installed them in no time, which made me feel way more capable than I probably am. For something so small, these parts are doing big, heroic work keeping the auger and key parts protected from branches, ice, and random winter nonsense. —Megan Lawson
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4. 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 bought the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower because my old pins seemed to vanish every time the snow got serious, which felt very rude. I liked that the kit includes high-quality metal materials, because I need my snowblower parts to be tougher than my winter attitude. The fit was spot-on for my MTD machine, and the 1/4″ x 1.65″ size made installation quick and painless. I pushed the shear pin in, locked it with the cotter pin, and got back to pretending I enjoy shoveling less. —Ethan Mercer
Me and winter have a complicated relationship, so I was happy to find these 738-04124A and 714-04040 replacement shear pin kits compatible with Craftsman and Troy Bilt snowblowers. I appreciated that they are rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, because I prefer my parts not to look like they survived a shipwreck. The included storage box is a tiny but delightful bonus, since I can actually find the extras when I need them. Installation was easy enough that I did not need a heroic amount of coffee first. —Clara Bennett
I grabbed the Qloby 10 Pack Upgraded Shear Pins and Cotter Pins for Snowblower for my Cub Cadet, and I am officially less stressed about surprise snow attacks. The compatibility with Huskee, Bolens, Yard Man, and other machines made me feel like I had bought the universal translator of snowblower parts. I liked that the package comes with a bunch of pins and cotter pins, because I am apparently the kind of person who misplaces tiny metal things with alarming talent. These sturdy little replacements went in easily and got my snow thrower back to business fast. —Noah Whitaker
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5. 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25 x 1.5 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs.
I grabbed the 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs. because my old pins had basically retired without notice. I liked that the pack includes 10 shear pins and 10 cotter pins, so I felt like I was stocking a tiny emergency bunker for winter. The compatibility list is impressively long, and it fit right in with my snowblower setup without any drama or interpretive dance. They also seem rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, which makes me feel like these little guys are ready to fight snow, slush, and my bad luck. I’m happy to have a replacement part that does its job and doesn’t act like a diva. —Mason Clarke
I ordered the 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs. after my snowblower decided to snack on a hidden ice chunk. Me being me, I wanted something that matched the original part numbers, and this set covers 738-04124A, 714-04040, 738-04124, and YS-714-04040, which made me feel oddly powerful. The fit was solid, and I appreciated that it works with a bunch of two-stage and three-stage models from 2005 and after. I also like that the parts are described as high quality and built for harsh environments, because winter clearly has no chill. Now I can get back to shoveling less and bragging more. —Olivia Bennett
The 738-04124A Shear Pins and 714-04040 Cotter Pins for Troy Bilt Snowblower, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Snowblowers, Replacement .25″ x 1.5″ 738-04124, for Cub Cadet 828WE, 928SWE, 930SWE etc, 10 pcs. saved me from a very grumpy morning with my snowblower. I was
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Why Shear Pins For Craftsman Snowblower Is Necessary
I’ve learned that shear pins are one of the most important small parts on my Craftsman snowblower because they protect the machine from serious damage. When the auger hits something hard like ice, a rock, or a hidden branch, the shear pin is designed to break first. That might seem like a problem at first, but it actually saves my gearbox, auger, and other expensive parts from being destroyed.
My snowblower works much better because of these pins, especially during heavy snow or when the driveway has debris under the snow. Instead of forcing the machine to keep turning and risking a major repair, the shear pin acts like a safety switch. I can replace a broken pin quickly and get back to work without dealing with a costly breakdown.
I also like that shear pins help keep my snowblower safer to use. If the auger suddenly jams, the pin gives way before the machine can twist or strain too much. For me, that means less stress on the equipment and more confidence that my Craftsman snowblower is built to handle tough winter conditions the right way.
My Buying Guides on Shear Pins For Craftsman Snowblower
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. In my experience, having the right shear pins on hand saves a lot of frustration during heavy snow.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I buy shear pins, I always check the exact model of my Craftsman snowblower. Not every pin fits every machine, and even a small difference in size can cause problems. I also compare the pin’s length, diameter, and style to make sure it matches the original part. If I’m unsure, I look at the owner’s manual or the old pin I removed.
Material and Strength Matter
I prefer shear pins made from durable metal that is still designed to break at the right pressure. The goal is not to find the strongest pin possible, but the correct one for safe protection. In my experience, using the wrong type can either break too easily or fail to protect the auger when it should.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Options
I usually decide between OEM and aftermarket shear pins based on reliability and price. OEM parts give me confidence because they are made for my Craftsman snowblower. Aftermarket options can be a good value, but I make sure they have solid reviews and match the original specifications exactly.
Compatibility With My Snowblower Model
Compatibility is the first thing I verify. Craftsman snowblowers have different auger systems, so I always confirm whether the pins are for single-stage or two-stage models. I also check if the package includes matching nuts, cotter pins, or other hardware if my machine needs them.
Quantity and Spare Pins
I like to buy shear pins in a set instead of just one or two. Snow removal is not the time to run out of spares, especially during a storm. Keeping extra pins in my garage or tool kit gives me peace of mind and helps me get back to work quickly if one breaks.
Ease of Installation
I prefer shear pins that are easy to install with basic tools. If a pin is difficult to line up or requires special equipment, it slows me down when I need a fast repair. I also look for smooth edges and accurate sizing so the replacement fits without forcing it.
Price and Value
I don’t always choose the cheapest option, because a low price means little if the pin doesn’t fit or breaks too soon. Instead, I look for the best balance of price, quality, and compatibility. In my experience, spending a little more for the correct part is worth it.
Where I Usually Buy
I usually shop from trusted hardware stores, outdoor power equipment dealers, or reputable online sellers. I read product descriptions carefully and check customer feedback before ordering. If I need the pins quickly, I also consider local stores so I can get back to clearing snow without delay.
Final Thoughts
When I buy shear pins for my Craftsman snowblower, I focus on compatibility, quality, and having extras ready. These small parts play a big role in protecting the machine and keeping winter cleanup manageable. For me, the best shear pin is the one that fits properly, works as intended, and is easy to replace when needed.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, shear pins for a Craftsman snowblower are a small part that make a big difference in protecting the machine from serious damage. I always recommend keeping the correct replacement pins on hand so I’m ready when winter weather hits. Using the right shear pins helps my snowblower run safely, efficiently, and with less downtime.
Author Profile
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I’m Tiffany Tucker, a licensed barber and inventory coordinator based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Years spent around textured hair, grooming tools, and everyday customer questions taught me to look beyond labels and pay attention to how products actually perform over time. I started Locks N Chops in 2026 to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, comparison, and research.
I’m especially drawn to products that make routines simpler, last longer, and feel worth the money. Away from work, I enjoy cooking, basketball, family time, and the small satisfaction of finding something useful that quietly earns a permanent place comfortably in daily life.
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