The Best Snow Blower Auger Bearing

An auger bearing is a small but vital component in any two-stage snow blower. It supports the auger shaft, allowing the paddles to rotate smoothly and feed snow into the impeller.

When this bearing wears out, you may notice grinding noises, auger wobble, or a complete loss of snow throwing ability. Replacing it promptly restores performance and prevents damage to the gearbox or shaft.

This guide evaluates the best snow blower auger bearing options currently available, based on specifications, expert consensus, and verified buyer feedback.

Snow Removal Wiki editors have analyzed dozens of replacement bearings, from genuine OEM parts to aftermarket alternatives. We considered factors like material quality, seal design, compatibility with popular brands (Murray, Husqvarna, MTD, John Deere, Briggs & Stratton, Toro), and value.

Below you will find our top recommendations, followed by a detailed buying guide and frequently asked questions to help you choose the right bearing for your machine.

For general advice on snow blower maintenance, see our heavy snow snow blower guide and used snow blower buying tips.

Best Snow Blower Auger Bearing Buying Guide

Material and Durability

The housing material of an auger bearing can be either plastic (often nylon or polypropylene) or metallic (zinc, steel, or cast iron). Plastic bearings are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, but they may wear faster under heavy loads or frequent use.

Metallic bearings typically offer greater strength and longevity, making them a preferred choice for commercial-grade machines or deep snow conditions.

When selecting a bearing, check if the housing is reinforced and whether the ball bearing itself is double-shielded to keep out moisture and debris.

For homeowners with light to moderate snowfall, quality plastic bearings such as the MT9417MA style can last several seasons.

However, if you operate your snow blower on gravel surfaces or frequently encounter icy slush, a metallic bearing with sealed bearings resists contamination better. For more on machine longevity, check our guide to snow blowers for long driveways.

Compatibility and Fitment

Not all auger bearings are interchangeable. Each snow blower model requires a specific shaft diameter, mounting hole pattern, and overall housing shape.

The most common auger bearings are designed for brands like Craftsman, Murray, MTD, Husqvarna, John Deere, Toro, and Ariens.

OEM parts (e.g., Murray 53757MA or Husqvarna 532420478) guarantee exact fit, while aftermarket parts may list multiple model numbers for broader compatibility. Always verify your machine’s brand, model number, and auger shaft size (typically 3/4 inch or 1 inch) before purchasing.

Many aftermarket bearings include adapters or multiple bolt patterns to improve cross-compatibility. However, some users have reported fit issues with generic bearings, reading verified buyer feedback helps avoid these pitfalls. For more about choosing the right attachments, see our tracked snow blower roundup.

Sealed vs. Unsealed Bearings

Bearing seals prevent dirt, salt, and moisture from reaching the internal balls and raceways. Sealed bearings (often marked 2RS or ZZ) require no maintenance and last longer in wet conditions.

Unsealed or shielded bearings may be greasable, but they are more vulnerable to contamination. For a snow blower that sees heavy use, a double-sealed bearing is strongly recommended.

This is especially important when using salt or chemical ice melt near the machine, as corrosive residues can accelerate bearing failure.

Some OEM bearings are pre-greased and sealed for life, while aftermarket ones may be serviceable. If you prefer to maintain your own equipment, a unsealed bearing with a grease fitting might be appealing.

However, for most users, the convenience of a sealed bearing outweighs the marginal benefit of greasability. For more on protecting your gear during winter, explore our urea ice melt recommendations.

OEM vs. Aftermarket

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) bearings are made by or for the snow blower brand, ensuring perfect fit and quality control. They typically carry a higher price but offer peace of mind and often a warranty.

Aftermarket bearings are produced by third-party suppliers; they can be significantly cheaper and sometimes match OEM quality, but variation exists.

For critical components like auger bearings, our research shows that well-reviewed aftermarket options (such as those from GardenPal or MTD-compatible brands) can be a reliable and cost-effective choice.

When comparing costs, consider that an aftermarket bearing costing $10, $30 can perform similarly to a $40, $90 OEM part if the materials and seals are comparable. However, extremely low-priced bearings (under $10) often use plastic bushings instead of ball bearings, which wear out quickly.

For more budget-friendly machine options, read our light snow snow blower guide.

Installation Complexity

Replacing an auger bearing is a moderate DIY task that typically requires removing the auger housing, sliding the shaft out, and pressing the old bearing off.

Some bearings are held with set screws or bolts; others require a puller or hammer. If you are not comfortable disassembling the auger system, a small engine repair shop can do the job quickly.

Buying a bearing that closely matches the original part number reduces modification work. For step-by-step inspiration on machine care, see our cabin snow blower tips.

Some models come with a replacement bearing kit that includes bolts and washers (e.g., the MT9517MA style). These kits simplify installation.

Always disconnect the spark plug before starting any repair and refer to your equipment manual for torque specs. If you also clear walkways, our hand held salt spreader picks can help keep paths safe after blowing snow.

Why You Should Trust Us

Snow Removal Wiki is an independent review site dedicated to helping you make informed winter equipment purchases. We evaluate each product on a consistent set of criteria and assign a SRW Score on a 0, 10 scale.

Our recommendations are based on extensive research: we analyze manufacturer specifications, compile consensus from professional mechanics and experienced owners, and integrate verified buyer feedback from multiple sources.

We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. Our affiliate revenue model does not influence our ratings or editorial content.

Our team regularly updates this guide to reflect new product releases, changes in pricing, and evolving user experiences. For more context on how we evaluate snow blower components, see our best Toro snow blower review and icy driveway snow blower guide.

Final Thoughts

• Best Overall: Murray 53757MA Snowblower Auger Shaft Bearing, Genuine OEM part with metallic housing and sealed ball bearing, offering proven durability and perfect fit for many Murray and Craftsman models.
• Best Value: Briggs & Stratton 9517MA Auger Bearing, Affordable OEM-quality bearing that fits a wide range of snow blowers, backed by a trusted brand and strong user satisfaction.
• Best OEM Fit for Husqvarna: Husqvarna 532188909 Bearing, Metallic, Direct replacement bearing for many Husqvarna models, featuring robust all-metal construction and sealed design for long service life.

No matter which auger bearing you choose, verify your machine’s specifications and inspect the old bearing’s part number before ordering. A reliable bearing restores efficient snow clearing and prevents costly damage to your auger gearbox.

For broader considerations when buying a snow blower, read our 32-inch two-stage snow blower guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my snow blower auger bearing is bad?

Common signs include a grinding or squealing noise during auger rotation, excessive side-to-side play in the auger shaft, difficulty turning the paddle manually, or visible rust and cracking near the bearing housing.

If the auger fails to engage or spins unevenly, the bearing is likely worn. For more diagnostic tips, check our snow blower for every home guide.

Can I replace the auger bearing myself?

Yes, with basic mechanical skills and hand tools. The process involves removing the auger housing bolts, sliding the shaft out, and using a punch or bearing puller to remove the old bearing.

Most bearings are held by set screws or snap rings. Always consult your owner’s manual and disconnect the spark plug before starting. If you are unsure, a small engine shop can complete the replacement quickly.

What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket bearings?

OEM bearings are made to the original specifications of the snow blower manufacturer, ensuring an exact fit and often higher materials quality.

Aftermarket bearings are produced by third-party companies; they may offer wider compatibility and lower prices, but quality can vary.

Our research shows that well-rated aftermarket bearings can be a reliable alternative to OEM parts, especially when they feature sealed ball bearings and metal housing.

How long does a snow blower auger bearing last?

Depending on usage frequency, snow conditions, and maintenance, a quality auger bearing can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years. Bearings exposed to heavy wet snow, gravel, or salt corrosion tend to wear faster.

Regular lubrication (if applicable) and storing the machine in a dry place extend bearing life. For more about prolonging equipment, see our snow plow under 500 buying guide.

Do I need to grease the bearing?

Most modern snow blower auger bearings are sealed and pre-lubricated for life, requiring no additional grease. If your bearing has a grease fitting, you can extend its life by applying a small amount of lithium-based grease once per season.

Overgreasing can push out the seals, so use caution. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific model. For more on winter maintenance, read our rock salt for driveways guide.

Why do some bearings have plastic housings?

Plastic housings (often nylon or polypropylene) are lighter, rustproof, and less expensive to produce. They are commonly used on entry-level and mid-range snow blowers.

Metal housings are stronger and more resistant to deformation under heavy loads, but they can rust if the paint coating is damaged.

For light residential use, a quality plastic bearing is perfectly adequate; for heavy or commercial use, metal is preferred.

Learn more about how snow blower components work together in our best snow blower roundup.

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