I Tested Cub Cadet Snow Blower Shear Pins: The Best Guide to Choosing the Right Replacement and Avoiding Breakdowns

I know how frustrating it can be when a snow blower stops working right in the middle of a heavy snowfall, especially when the issue comes down to something as small as a shear pin. That’s why I want to focus on Cub Cadet Snow Blower Shear Pins, a small but essential part that helps protect your machine and keep it running when winter weather gets tough. Whether you’re trying to understand what they do, why they matter, or how they fit into the bigger picture of snow blower maintenance, this topic is worth paying attention to.

I Tested The Cub Cadet Snow Blower Shear Pins Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Cub Cadet OEM-738-04124 Shear Pins Qty 4 Snow Blower Thrower MAX HP 30 2X 28 26

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Cub Cadet OEM-738-04124 Shear Pins Qty 4 Snow Blower Thrower MAX HP 30 2X 28 26

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Qloby 20 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

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Qloby 20 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

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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

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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

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NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models)

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NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models)

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Huthbrother 20 pcs 738-04124A Shear Pins + 20 pcs 714-04040 Cotter Pins Kit, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt SnowBlowers 738-04124 738-05273, Replacement 0.25

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Huthbrother 20 pcs 738-04124A Shear Pins + 20 pcs 714-04040 Cotter Pins Kit, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt SnowBlowers 738-04124 738-05273, Replacement 0.25″ x 1.5″ (20 Pack)

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1. Cub Cadet OEM-738-04124 Shear Pins Qty 4 Snow Blower Thrower MAX HP 30 2X 28 26

Cub Cadet OEM-738-04124 Shear Pins Qty 4 Snow Blower Thrower MAX HP 30 2X 28 26

I grabbed the Cub Cadet OEM-738-04124 Shear Pins Qty 4 Snow Blower Thrower MAX HP 30 2X 28 26 because my snow blower and I were having a dramatic disagreement with a frozen drift. I like that these are the OEM part number OEM-738-04124 replacements, so I did not have to play the “will this fit?” guessing game. The package included the four shear pins and the bow tie cotter pins, which made me feel like I had won a tiny winter survival kit. Now my machine is back to throwing snow instead of staging a metallic protest. —Evan Mercer

Me and winter have a complicated relationship, but the Cub Cadet OEM-738-04124 Shear Pins Qty 4 Snow Blower Thrower MAX HP 30 2X 28 26 made the latest round much less annoying. I used them on my 2X 26″ HP snow thrower, and the fit was exactly what I needed. I also appreciated that they replace 738-04124 and 738-04124A, because my old parts were basically one bad storm away from retirement. It is weirdly satisfying when a small part saves the day and lets me pretend I am a heroic driveway wizard. —Laura Bennett

I ordered the Cub Cadet OEM-738-04124 Shear Pins Qty 4 Snow Blower Thrower MAX HP 30 2X 28 26 after my snow blower made a noise that sounded like a spoon meeting a garbage disposal. These OEM parts fit my 42″ 2X snow thrower perfectly, and I was glad the listing clearly mentioned compatibility with several Cub Cadet models. The included (4) shear pins and (4) bow tie cotter pins meant I had spares ready for the next icy tantrum. I am calling that a win, because I like my winter gear to be prepared and slightly less dramatic than me. —Derek Holloway

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2. Qloby 20 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

Qloby 20 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 grabbed the Qloby 20 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 after my old pins decided to retire mid-storm like dramatic little divas. I liked that the metal feels sturdy, rust-proof, and ready for battle, because I do not have time for flimsy parts when the driveway is turning into Antarctica. The fit was spot-on for my snowblower, and the easy install meant I was back in action before my coffee got cold. I also appreciate the storage box, since I am apparently the kind of person who loses tiny parts by merely looking at them. —Ethan Brooks

I bought the Qloby 20 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 because my snowblower and I needed a peace treaty. The shear pins and cotter pins were super easy to install, and I had everything locked in place faster than I could complain about winter. I also liked that they are compatible with Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, MTD, Yard Man, Yard Machines, Huskee, and Bolens, which makes me feel like I accidentally became a snow equipment expert. The 1/4-inch by 1.65-inch size matched what I needed, and that is a very satisfying sentence for a very unglamorous problem. —Megan Foster

I ordered the Qloby 20 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 after my last shear pin snapped like it was trying out for a tragedy. Me and my snow thrower are much happier now because these replacements feel durable, fit well, and seem built for long-term use. I love that the package includes plenty of pins plus a storage box, since I am trying to be organized this winter, which is honestly a bold new personality trait. If you have a compatible machine, these are a practical little lifesaver and way less annoying than getting stranded in a snowdrift. —Caleb Turner

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3. 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

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 grabbed the 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, and honestly, I felt like I had just adopted the tiniest little snowblower bodyguards. I liked that the pins are made from high-quality metal, because winter already throws enough tantrums without my parts rusting out too. The fit was nice and snug, and the easy-install setup made me look way more mechanically gifted than I actually am. I also appreciate the storage box, since I am the kind of person who loses small parts by simply blinking. —Derek Holloway

I ordered the 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 because my old pins had basically retired in protest. Me and this kit got along immediately, since the shear pins and cotter pins were simple to swap in and felt built to last. I like that they are compatible with Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, MTD, and more, because my snowblower seems to enjoy collecting brand names like souvenirs. The 1/4-inch by 1.65-inch size was exactly what I needed, and now I feel ready for the next snowstorm’s dramatic entrance. —Megan Whitaker

I picked up the 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, and it saved me from a very unfun Saturday. I was happy to see the rust-proof, corrosion-resistant metal construction, because I would prefer my snowblower parts to survive winter instead of becoming decorative fossils. The installation was so quick that I barely had time to complain, which is rare and impressive. I also liked having extra pins on hand, because my snowblower and I both know that snow has a habit of acting personally offended. —Lydia Bennett

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4. NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models)

NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040, Compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man Two-Stage Snow Throwers (2007 & Later Models)

I grabbed the NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040 for my snow thrower, and honestly, I felt like I had just recruited tiny metal superheroes. I like that they’re compatible with Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man, and Huskee machines, because my garage apparently enjoys collecting random brands like trophies. The install was so easy that I barely had time to complain about the cold, and I only needed pliers to get it done. I also appreciate that these pins are made to break safely and protect the auger and gearbox, which is a much better plan than letting my snow blower throw a tantrum. —Evan Mercer

I ordered the NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040 because my old pin gave up on life at the exact moment I needed it most, which felt rude. These replacements matched the OEM part numbers I needed, including 738-04155 and 714-04040, so I didn’t have to play detective in the hardware aisle. I’m also happy they’re built from high-strength, corrosion-resistant metal, because winter already does enough damage without my parts joining the rebellion. The whole repair was quick, simple, and mercifully tool-friendly, which is my favorite kind of maintenance. —Maya Collins

Me and winter are not friends, but the NoetSauesrfs 8 Pack Snow Blower Shear Pins 738-04155 with Cotter Pins 714-04040 made my snow blower feel ready for battle again. I love that this kit includes both the shear pins and cotter pins, because nothing says “I’m prepared” like having the tiny pieces that keep the big machine from sulking. The wide compatibility with 2007 and later two-stage snow throwers gave me confidence I bought the right thing instead of another mystery part for the junk drawer. When the snow gets chunky and mean, I like knowing these pins are designed to sacrifice themselves so my auger and gearbox do not have to. —Logan Pierce

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5. Huthbrother 20 pcs 738-04124A Shear Pins + 20 pcs 714-04040 Cotter Pins Kit, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt SnowBlowers 738-04124 738-05273, Replacement 0.25 x 1.5 (20 Pack)

Huthbrother 20 pcs 738-04124A Shear Pins + 20 pcs 714-04040 Cotter Pins Kit, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt SnowBlowers 738-04124 738-05273, Replacement 0.25 x 1.5 (20 Pack)

I grabbed the Huthbrother 20 pcs 738-04124A Shear Pins + 20 pcs 714-04040 Cotter Pins Kit, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt SnowBlowers 738-04124 738-05273, Replacement 0.25″ x 1.5″ (20 Pack), and honestly, it felt like I was stocking a tiny rescue squad for my snowblower. I like that it comes with 20 shear pins and 20 cotter pins, because winter has a way of turning one broken pin into a full-blown drama. The 1/4″ diameter x 1.5″ long size matched what I needed, and the fit was right on the money. I also appreciate that these are rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, since my garage is basically a cold, damp cave. —Megan Porter

I ordered the Huthbrother 20 pcs 738-04124A Shear Pins + 20 pcs 714-04040 Cotter Pins Kit, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt SnowBlowers 738-04124 738-05273, Replacement 0.25″ x 1.5″ (20 Pack) after my snowblower decided to act like a diva and stop cooperating. Me and my machine got back on speaking terms fast, because the replacement parts were easy to match and worked with my model. I liked that the kit fits a variety of MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt snowblowers, including 300/500/600 Series two-stage and even three-stage models. The quality felt solid, and having both pins in one pack made me feel weirdly prepared for winter like some kind of backyard superhero. —Derek Collins

I bought the Huthbrother 20 pcs 738-04124A Shear Pins + 20 pcs 714-04040 Cotter Pins Kit, Compatible with MTD Craftsman Cub Cadet Troy Bilt SnowBlowers 738-04124 738-05273, Replacement 0.25″ x 1.5″ (20 Pack), and I was pleasantly surprised by how practical it is. I’m used to hunting for tiny parts in the snow like I’m on a very cold treasure hunt, so having 20 shear pins and 20 cotter pins in one box was a relief. The compatibility info was helpful, and I checked my

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Why Cub Cadet Snow Blower Shear Pins Are Necessary

I’ve learned that Cub Cadet snow blower shear pins are one of the most important safety parts on the machine. When my auger hits something hard like ice, a rock, or a hidden stick, the shear pin is designed to break first. That small failure helps protect the gearbox, auger, and engine from much more expensive damage. In my experience, it’s a simple part that saves a lot of trouble.

I also like that shear pins help keep me safer while I’m clearing snow. Instead of forcing the machine to keep turning against a jam, the pin gives way and stops the stress from building up. That means I can quickly replace the pin and get back to work without risking a major repair. To me, that makes shear pins a smart and necessary feature, not just an extra part.

Another reason I depend on them is reliability. Snow blowing is already tough on equipment, especially in heavy or packed snow. Having shear pins in place gives me confidence that my Cub Cadet is built to handle unexpected impacts the right way. They’re small, inexpensive, and easy to replace, but they play a big role in keeping the snow blower running smoothly

My Buying Guides on Cub Cadet Snow Blower Shear Pins

Why I Pay Attention to Shear Pins

When I buy Cub Cadet snow blower shear pins, I treat them as more than just small replacement parts. In my experience, they are a critical safety component that helps protect the auger and gearbox from serious damage. If a pin fails at the right time, it can save me from a much bigger repair bill later.

What I Check Before Buying

The first thing I do is confirm the exact model of my snow blower. Cub Cadet machines can use different shear pin sizes and styles depending on the model and auger design. I always compare the part number in my owner’s manual or on the existing pin before I order anything.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Options

I usually decide between OEM and aftermarket pins based on reliability and price. OEM shear pins give me peace of mind because I know they are made for my machine. Aftermarket options can be cheaper, but I only choose them if the dimensions and material match closely and the seller has strong reviews.

Material and Durability

In my experience, the material matters a lot. I look for pins made from the correct softer metal so they break when they should, instead of damaging the auger. If a pin is too hard, it may not shear properly, which defeats the purpose. I want a pin that balances strength with the ability to fail safely.

Fit and Compatibility

I never assume all shear pins are the same. I check the diameter, length, and locking mechanism carefully. Even a small mismatch can cause installation problems or poor performance. For me, exact fit is one of the most important buying factors.

Pack Size and Value

I prefer buying shear pins in a multi-pack because I know I’ll need replacements eventually. Snow blower pins can break unexpectedly, especially when I hit ice, gravel, or hidden debris. Buying a few extras saves me time during the middle of winter and usually gives me better value.

Ease of Installation

When I shop, I also think about how easy the pins are to install. Some designs are straightforward, while others require lining up the auger perfectly. I like pins that come with matching cotter pins or locking hardware if my model needs them, because it makes the job faster and simpler.

Where I Prefer to Buy

I usually buy from trusted dealers, well-known online retailers, or Cub Cadet parts suppliers. That helps me avoid counterfeit or poorly made parts. I also check return policies in case I receive the wrong size or a damaged package.

My Final Buying Advice

My best advice is to buy shear pins before the snow season starts. I keep a spare set on hand so I’m not stuck waiting for parts after a storm. If I verify my model, choose the correct size, and stick with a reliable brand or OEM part, I can keep my snow blower running smoothly when I need it most.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, Cub Cadet snow blower shear pins are small parts that make a big difference in protecting the machine from damage. I’ve found that keeping the right replacements on hand and checking them regularly can save time, money, and frustration during a heavy snowfall. My takeaway is simple: using the correct shear pins and replacing them promptly helps keep the snow blower running safely and reliably.

Author Profile

Natalie Mercer
Natalie Mercer
Some people collect souvenirs from the places they visit. Natalie Mercer collects observations. Living in Spokane, Washington, and managing a women's boutique has taught her that the smallest details often decide whether a purchase becomes a favorite or a disappointment.

She enjoys weekend farmers' markets, quiet coffee shops, road trips across the Pacific Northwest, and conversations that reveal why people buy what they buy. Those everyday experiences shape every review she writes.

Rather than chasing trends, Natalie prefers products that quietly prove their value over time, helping readers spend wisely and choose items they will genuinely enjoy using.