Hose off dirt and road salt
Focus on the auger and the impeller behind it. Towel dry and buff car wax on the painted metal housing and inside the chute.
Replace the fuel
Drain the tank and add an ethanol-free fuel like TruFuel ($5.80). Let the engine run for a few minutes.
Baby the moving parts
Follow the owner’s manual. If it doesn’t specify lubrication, coat exposed cables with motor oil. Use dry lube on plastic knobs and silicone spray on spinning parts. Adjust skid shoes and scraper bar. Stock up on shear pins and replacement belts.
Inflate the tires
Using a gauge, add 2 pounds to the recommended psi to allow for air leakage.
