I'm not sure what's wrong. However, with the engine running, do not, for any reason, put your hands or any other body part into the chute or the auger. Is this a newer machine? Was it running OK last winter?

Hi, thanks for answering. The machine is not new. It was running last year and used more than other years. The time I tried after oiling, snow shot (about 2 feet) for about 30 second and then didn't work and just sputtered out.

Thanks for any additional input.

if the engine is running at full speed i'd check the belt tension. if that's ok then could possibly be the shear pin on the blower shaft.
mike

Probably the belt tension. If the sheer pin is broken the auger or impeller won't turn in the snow.

This will occur if you try to blow slush, which only a commercial blow will do, and then, not well.

With the snowblower OFF, remove the belt cover, which is just in front of the motor, usually black in color. When you pull up on the auger lever, the idler pulley should push the belt until it is fully tensioned and then you should have another inch of movement to go in the hand lever. You'll see a spring start to stretch for that extra push on the belt.

Adjusting the cable or sometimes the idler pulley securement bolt will take up any slack.