Jake36 0 #1 Posted December 19, 2019 Hi all, I have a 520lxi with the 2 stage 44” blower. When i lift the attachment off the ground, it starts making an awful noise like it’s going to blow up. I replaced the chain because the old one was roached, but no improvement. I set the tension as the book instructed, 1/2” of play. I found when I lift it up, the chain becomes incredibly tight. I’m assuming this is the noise I’m hearing. Drop it back down, and the chain tension goes back to normal. Aren’t I supposed to be able to lift the blower up while it’s still running? And if so, any advice on what to look at? I tinker and want to fix it myself, just don’t know what to look for. Appreciate any advice thanks... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ed Kennell 38,025 #2 Posted December 19, 2019 to the Jake, Sorry I can't help with your problem. I have no experience with the XI series or the two stage blowers. Experts should be along soon to offer advice. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bc.gold 3,403 #3 Posted December 19, 2019 (edited) Belt driven blower, is it installed correctly. Possibly the flange bearings on the chain drive are worn out. Edited December 19, 2019 by bcgold Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wallfish 16,985 #4 Posted December 19, 2019 (edited) Yes, you should be able to lift the blower while it's running. I'm with bcgold, check those bearings on the sprocket, pulley shaft in his first pic. A tight chain really doesn't make any extra noise but a worn bearing will, especially when the chain gets tight. Not sure why the chain would be changing tension so check and inspect all of the welds and bolts around the bucket to the frame because it sounds like there's too much flexing in the frame and or bucket causing the chain to tighten. Edited December 19, 2019 by wallfish 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jake36 0 #5 Posted December 19, 2019 Good stuff. I’ll go look into this as soon as It’s warmer than -5 outside and will update. Thanks! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jake36 0 #6 Posted December 30, 2019 So I slipped the belt off the pulley so I could check bearings. There is no noticeable Slop in the shaft. I then operated the whole blower mechanism by hand and what I found was the chain getting very tight in one certain point of the sprockets turning. It goes from the proper tension through most of the rotation, but then tightens up in one certain spot. Would this indicate a bent auger shaft? As in the large sprocket is orbiting as it’s turning? Sounds like a bad scenario if that’s the case. Other than that one tight point, everything moves smoothly and quietly. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wallfish 16,985 #7 Posted December 30, 2019 How old is that chain? If one or more of the chain links are locked up, that will cause the tension. If it's not the chain, maybe put a chalk line or some type of indicator line on each sprocket then look to see if the tight spot is at a consistent location or if it's random. This may help you narrow down the problem location. Look for any orbital movement in the sprockets, like a bent shaft will create and thoroughly inspect all of the sprocket teeth for any damage Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jake36 0 #8 Posted December 30, 2019 The chain is new. It was my starting point. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jake36 0 #9 Posted January 1, 2020 Believe I was wrong about those bearings. That shaft seized up last night. Any recommendations on where to get parts quickly and does anyone have a link for the service manual? Thanks in advance these forums save lives! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,033 #10 Posted January 4, 2020 There is no service manual - just ipl's (illustrated parts lists) and operator manuals. https://www.wheelhorseforum.com/search/?q=79366&type=downloads_file To get the correct one look for the serial number on the ID decal. The first 2 or 3 digits are the model year backwards. Keep us posted on your progress. Garry Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jake36 0 #11 Posted January 4, 2020 Ok I’ve ordered new bearing and keyways from Toroparts.com. Will try and figure out the repair when they come in. Will update thanks Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JCM 9,130 #12 Posted January 4, 2020 To Jake, from a fellow New Englander Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
