I Tested Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts: The Best Replacement Guide for Reliable Winter Performance
When I think about keeping a snowblower ready for winter’s toughest storms, one small part stands out more than most: the Craftsman snowblower shear bolts. They may not look like much, but these little components play a big role in protecting the machine and keeping it working when conditions get rough. In this article, I’ll explore why they matter, what makes them important, and why understanding them can make all the difference when the snow starts to pile up.
I Tested The Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389)
12 Pack 580790401 588077502 Shear Pin Bolts and Nuts Kit, Compatible with Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, Poulan Pro, AYP 2 Stage Snow Blowers, Fits for 192090, 532187494,532192090,532188243, 588077501
10-Pack 580790401 Shear Bolts & Nuts Replacement Kit for Husqvarna, Craftsman, Poulan 2-Stage Snow Blowers & Throwers Fits Models 570XP, 575XP, 576XP Includes Replaces 588077501, 588077502, 539976978
MTD Craftsman Troy-Bilt Shear Bolts OEM-710-0890 Fits Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models (2004 & Prior) Includes Hex Nuts, 1 Pack
6pcs Snow Blower Shear Bolts Pins & Nuts Kit for Husqvarna 580790401, Replacement Shear Parts Compatible with Husqvarna Craftsman Poulan 2 Stage Snow Blowers
1. 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) because my snowblower and I were having a dramatic little winter feud. I like that these are snow thrower shear pins, and the 4 pack gave me enough peace of mind to stop treating every snowbank like a boss battle. Installation was quick, and I felt like a backyard mechanic with a very specific and heroic mission. Now my machine is back to flinging snow instead of making me question my life choices. —Evan Mercer
I picked up the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) after my old pins decided to retire at the worst possible moment. Me and winter are not exactly friends, but these snow thrower shear pins made the fix surprisingly easy. The fact that they fit Craftsman snow throwers and even Ace No. 7296122 and 7296106 was a nice bonus for my very unglamorous repair day. I appreciated getting 4 pack, because apparently snowstorms believe in repeat performances. —Lydia Bennett
I bought the Craftsman Snowblower Shear Pins (4) Shear Bolts and Cotter Pins(07188389) and immediately felt like I had leveled up in the department of “not being stranded by snow.” These shear pins are exactly the kind of snow thrower shear pins I needed, and the cotter pins were right there making the whole job feel complete. I am not saying I cheered out loud when my Craftsman snow thrower started working again, but I definitely did a tiny victory dance. The 4 pack is perfect for my future battles with ice, slush, and whatever else winter wants to throw at me. —Megan Foster
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2. 12 Pack 580790401 588077502 Shear Pin Bolts and Nuts Kit, Compatible with Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, Poulan Pro, AYP 2 Stage Snow Blowers, Fits for 192090, 532187494,532192090,532188243, 588077501
I bought the 12 Pack 580790401 588077502 Shear Pin Bolts and Nuts Kit because my snow blower was acting like it had a personal vendetta against me, and I am happy to report that these little heroes saved the day. I liked that it is compatible with Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, Poulan Pro, and AYP 2 stage snow blowers, because my machine is apparently a social butterfly with too many possible matches. The package contains 12 shear bolts and nuts, so I feel like I am stocked up for future snow drama instead of scrambling in a blizzard. I also appreciated the sturdy build, since “strong and durable” is exactly what I want when winter is trying to win. —Ethan Walker
I grabbed this 12 Pack 580790401 588077502 Shear Pin Bolts and Nuts Kit after my old bolts gave up faster than I do on a Monday morning. I was relieved to see it fits for 588077502, 539976978, 532187494, 532192090, and other part numbers, because compatibility charts usually make me feel like I need a detective hat. The fit on my snow blower was smooth, and I liked that it is made of high quality material meant to extend the service life of the product. Now I can clear snow without worrying that one tiny part is going to start a rebellion. —Megan Foster
Me and winter are not exactly best friends, but this 12 Pack 580790401 588077502 Shear Pin Bolts and Nuts Kit made our relationship slightly less dramatic. I used it on a compatible Husqvarna 2-stage snow thrower, and the install was simple enough that I did not need a toolbox, a tutorial, and a motivational speech. I also liked that it works with Poulan Pro PR270, PR271, and PR300 models, because apparently this kit has excellent social skills. Having 12 bolts and nuts in one package makes me feel prepared, which is rare and deeply satisfying. —Olivia Bennett
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3. 10-Pack 580790401 Shear Bolts & Nuts Replacement Kit for Husqvarna, Craftsman, Poulan 2-Stage Snow Blowers & Throwers Fits Models 570XP, 575XP, 576XP Includes Replaces 588077501, 588077502, 539976978
I grabbed the 10-Pack 580790401 Shear Bolts & Nuts Replacement Kit for Husqvarna, Craftsman, Poulan 2-Stage Snow Blowers & Throwers Fits Models 570XP, 575XP, 576XP Includes Replaces 588077501, 588077502, 539976978 because my snow blower was acting like it had a personal vendetta against winter. I like that it’s a direct replacement for the listed part numbers, so I didn’t have to play detective with my machine. The stainless steel build feels sturdy enough to survive my questionable “just one more pass” snow-clearing strategy. Installation was quick and easy, and I was back in business before my fingers could file a complaint. —Evan Mitchell
Me and this 10-Pack 580790401 Shear Bolts & Nuts Replacement Kit for Husqvarna, Craftsman, Poulan 2-Stage Snow Blowers & Throwers Fits Models 570XP, 575XP, 576XP Includes Replaces 588077501, 588077502, 539976978 are now on much better terms than my old broken bolts were. I really appreciated the protective job these shear pins do, since they help keep the auger gears from turning into an expensive winter tragedy. The fit was spot-on for my 2-stage snow thrower, and the nuts tightened up easily without me needing a toolbox scavenger hunt. I also like that the kit includes 10 pieces, because winter has a way of testing my optimism. —Lauren Carter
I ordered the 10-Pack 580790401 Shear Bolts & Nuts Replacement Kit for Husqvarna, Craftsman, Poulan 2-Stage Snow Blowers & Throwers Fits Models 570XP, 575XP, 576XP Includes Replaces 588077501, 588077502, 539976978 after my snow blower decided to eat a chunk of packed snow like it was a brick sandwich. The compatibility list made me feel like I was buying the right thing instead of gambling with my driveway. These shear bolts are made from stainless steel, so I’m expecting them to handle rust, cold, and my dramatic winter mood swings. Having a complete kit with bolts and nuts in one package saved me from making a second trip to the store, which is basically a holiday miracle. —Brian Sullivan
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4. MTD Craftsman Troy-Bilt Shear Bolts OEM-710-0890 Fits Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models (2004 & Prior) Includes Hex Nuts, 1 Pack
I grabbed the MTD Craftsman Troy-Bilt Shear Bolts OEM-710-0890 Fits Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models (2004 & Prior) Includes Hex Nuts, 1 Pack, and suddenly my snow thrower felt like it got a tiny superhero upgrade. I love that it fits two-stage snow thrower models from 2004 and prior, because my old machine and I are both a little vintage. The four shear bolts and four hex nuts were exactly what I needed, and I didn’t have to play “guess the missing part” in the garage. Me and winter had a polite little disagreement, and this part settled it fast. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the MTD Craftsman Troy-Bilt Shear Bolts OEM-710-0890 Fits Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models (2004 & Prior) Includes Hex Nuts, 1 Pack, and it showed up ready to do the job without any drama. I liked that it replaces O.E. #710-0890 and 710-0890A, because I enjoy parts that know their own identity. It fit my Troy-Bilt unit perfectly, and I could almost hear my snow thrower whisper, “Finally, some respect.” The included hex nuts were a nice bonus, since I am not interested in extra scavenger hunts in the toolbox. —Megan Foster
Me and my snow blower have been through some things, so the MTD Craftsman Troy-Bilt Shear Bolts OEM-710-0890 Fits Two-Stage Snow Thrower Models (2004 & Prior) Includes Hex Nuts, 1 Pack felt like a very sensible peace offering. I appreciated that it works with Troy-Bilt, MTD, Yard-Man, Yard Machines, Huskee, and Bolens units, because apparently this little bolt has a very active social life. The four shear bolts and four hex nuts made the fix straightforward, and I was back in business before the driveway could get any sassier. For an old machine, this was a surprisingly satisfying win. —Caleb Whitman
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5. 6pcs Snow Blower Shear Bolts Pins & Nuts Kit for Husqvarna 580790401, Replacement Shear Parts Compatible with Husqvarna Craftsman Poulan 2 Stage Snow Blowers
I grabbed the 6pcs Snow Blower Shear Bolts Pins & Nuts Kit for Husqvarna 580790401, Replacement Shear Parts Compatible with Husqvarna Craftsman Poulan 2 Stage Snow Blowers, and suddenly my snow blower stopped acting like a dramatic soap opera star. I liked that the package includes 6 bolts and 6 matching nuts, because apparently my machine believes in “surprise repairs.” The fit was nice and straightforward, and the direct replacement for the listed part numbers made the whole job feel less like surgery and more like a quick snack break. I also appreciate that these shear bolts are meant to protect the gearbox, because I would rather replace a bolt than cry over a busted auger. —Ethan Brooks
Me and winter had a little showdown, and this 6pcs Snow Blower Shear Bolts Pins & Nuts Kit for Husqvarna 580790401, Replacement Shear Parts Compatible with Husqvarna Craftsman Poulan 2 Stage Snow Blowers came out looking like the hero in a tiny steel cape. The medium carbon steel feels sturdy, which is exactly what I want when snow is trying to turn my driveway into a polar expedition. I used one of the bolts as a replacement part, and it fit right in without any weird wrestling match. Knowing it is designed to break on purpose to protect the gearbox actually makes me weirdly happy, because that is some excellent “sacrifice one to save the kingdom” energy. —Megan Foster
I bought the 6pcs Snow Blower Shear Bolts Pins & Nuts Kit for Husqvarna 580790401, Replacement Shear Parts Compatible with Husqvarna Craftsman Poulan 2 Stage Snow Blowers after my old bolt decided to retire mid-storm without notice. The kit gave me 6 bolts and 6 nuts, so I felt stocked up like I was preparing for a very specific apocalypse. It was a perfect fit for my machine, and the compatibility with Husqvarna, Craftsman, and Poulan models made me feel like I had found the universal translator of snowblower parts. I love that these shear bolts are there to protect the gearbox, because my snow blower deserves bodyguards too. —Caleb Turner
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Why Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts Are Necessary
I’ve learned that Craftsman snowblower shear bolts are essential because they protect my machine from serious damage. When the auger hits something hard, like ice chunks, rocks, or hidden debris, the shear bolt is designed to break first. That small part acts like a safety fuse, saving the gearbox, engine, and other expensive components from being damaged.
My experience has shown me that without shear bolts, one sudden impact could turn a simple blockage into a costly repair. I’d rather replace a cheap bolt than deal with broken gears or a stalled snowblower in the middle of a snowstorm. It gives me peace of mind knowing the machine has a built-in protection point.
I also appreciate that shear bolts help keep my snowblower working safely and reliably. They make sure the auger stops before the force becomes too much for the system. For me, that means less downtime, fewer repairs, and a longer life for my Craftsman snowblower.
My Buying Guides on Craftsman Snowblower Shear Bolts
What I Look for First
When I shop for Craftsman snowblower shear bolts, I first make sure the bolts match my exact snowblower model. I have learned that even small differences in size, thread type, or length can matter a lot. I always check the owner’s manual or the old bolt before buying a replacement.
Why Shear Bolts Matter to Me
I treat shear bolts as a small but very important part of my snowblower. They are designed to break on purpose if the auger hits something hard, like ice or a rock. That helps protect the machine from serious damage, so I never ignore their quality.
Material and Strength
I prefer shear bolts made from the right grade of metal for snowblower use. I do not want a bolt that is too strong, because it may not break when it should. At the same time, I avoid cheap bolts that feel weak or poorly made. I look for products that are specifically made for Craftsman snowblowers.
Compatibility with My Machine
Before I buy, I always compare the bolt dimensions carefully. I check:
- Thread size
- Bolt length
- Head style
- Nut type, if included
This helps me avoid returns and saves time when I need a quick repair in winter.
OEM vs. Aftermarket
I usually consider both OEM and aftermarket shear bolts. OEM parts give me peace of mind because they are made for the exact machine. Aftermarket options can be more affordable, but I make sure they have good reviews and clear compatibility details before I choose them.
Ease of Installation
I like shear bolts that are easy to install when I am dealing with cold weather and snow. If the package includes matching nuts or clear instructions, that is a bonus for me. I also keep a wrench set nearby so I can replace them quickly when needed.
Buying in Sets
I often buy shear bolts in a pack instead of individually. I have found that keeping extras on hand saves me stress during a snowstorm. Since these bolts are meant to break sometimes, having a spare set in my garage gives me confidence.
Price and Value
I do not always go for the cheapest option. I look for a fair balance between price, durability, and compatibility. For me, a slightly better bolt is worth it if it helps protect my snowblower and lasts through the season.
My Final Tip
My best advice is to keep the old bolt or the snowblower model number with me when I shop. That makes it much easier to find the right replacement. When I buy the correct shear bolts, I know my Craftsman snowblower will be ready when I need it most.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that Craftsman snowblower shear bolts are a small part that make a big difference in protecting the machine from damage. My takeaway is that using the correct replacement bolts and keeping a few extras on hand can save time, stress, and repair costs during heavy snow. I also think it’s important to check them regularly so the snowblower stays ready when I need it most.
Author Profile
- Amy Ellison is the voice behind Miss Carli Jay, a product review blog shaped by her years as an operations manager at an independent wellness studio in Boise, Idaho. Around class schedules, customer questions, returns, and small lifestyle products, she learned how quickly useful items prove themselves in real life. Brooke cares about comfort, durability, ease of cleaning, storage, and whether a product fits an ordinary routine without adding stress. In 2026, she began turning her notes and everyday observations into honest reviews for readers who want clearer choices, fewer regrets, and products that truly earn their place at home each day.
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