Snow Blower Scrap Value: Turn That Junk into Cash!

That old, rust-covered snow blower sitting in the corner of your garage is more than just an eyesore. It’s a heavy, space-consuming machine that has likely cleared its last driveway. Before you pay someone to haul it away, consider this: it holds a hidden value in scrap metal.

While you won’t get rich from a single snow blower, you can absolutely turn that defunct piece of equipment into cash. The secret lies in understanding what it’s made of and being willing to put in a little effort. This guide will walk you through transforming that retired winter workhorse into a respectable payout at the scrap yard.

Is Scrapping Your Snow Blower Worth the Effort?

The short answer is: it depends. If you simply haul the entire machine to a scrap yard, you might only get $15 to $25 for it. The real money is made by separating the different types of metals, as each is purchased at a different price per pound.

Before you grab your tools, quickly assess if selling it for parts is a better option. Components from older, sought-after models, like a vintage John Deere 826 snowblower, can be valuable to enthusiasts. However, for most common, broken-down machines, scrapping is the most direct path to cash.

Uncovering the Treasure: What Metals Are Inside a Snow Blower?

A typical snow blower is a mix of high and low-value metals. The key to a bigger payout is to isolate the more valuable ones from the heavy, less valuable steel. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find.

Heavy Steel & Cast Iron

This makes up the bulk of the machine’s weight. The auger housing, frame, handlebars, and chute are almost always steel. The engine block on many older models is heavy cast iron, which can fetch a slightly higher price than standard steel.

Valuable Aluminum

This is where you start to increase your profit. The engine often has a significant amount of cast aluminum in its housing, carburetor, and pistons. Aluminum is much lighter than steel but is worth significantly more per pound.

High-Value Copper and Brass

These are the most valuable metals you’ll find, but they exist in small quantities. Look for copper in the wiring within the engine and starter motor. You might also find small brass fittings connecting fuel lines or other components.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Dismantling Your Snow Blower

Proper disassembly is what separates a minimal payout from a maximized one. Follow these steps to break down your machine efficiently and safely. This process is crucial whether you’re working on a newer model or figuring out the components after identifying what year your Ariens snowblower is.

Step 1: Safety First

Before you begin, ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area on a stable surface. Always wear safety glasses and heavy-duty gloves. Metal edges can be extremely sharp, and components can be heavy and awkward.

Step 2: Drain All Fluids (This is Non-Negotiable)

Scrap yards will not accept items containing flammable or hazardous fluids. You must drain the gasoline and oil completely. Siphon the gasoline into an approved container and drain the oil by removing the drain plug, catching it in a pan. Most auto parts stores accept used oil for recycling.

Step 3: Remove All Plastic and Rubber

Plastic shrouds, belt covers, and rubber tires are considered contaminants at a scrap yard. Removing them ensures you get a “clean” price for your metal. Use a wrench to remove the wheels and a screwdriver or pry bar for plastic covers.

Step 4: Separate the Engine

The engine is your primary target for high-value metals. Unbolt it from the main frame. Once removed, you can work on separating the aluminum parts from the steel components. A powerful and well-built engine, like one from a Honda HS828 snowblower, might have significant aluminum content.

Step 5: Detach the Auger Assembly and Housing

The large front housing and the auger itself are heavy steel. Unbolt the main housing from the frame. This large, heavy section will make up a significant portion of your steel pile.

Step 6: Harvest Copper and Brass

With the main components separated, look for wiring. Snip out every piece of copper wire you can find. Check for any small brass connectors or fittings and remove them. These small, high-value pieces should be kept in a separate container.

Understanding Scrap Yard Pricing: How You Get Paid

Scrap yards pay by weight, and prices fluctuate based on market demand. The critical difference is between “shred” (or light iron) and sorted, “prepared” metals. If you bring in the whole snow blower, you’ll be paid the low shred price. If you bring in separate, clean piles of steel, aluminum, and copper, you get paid a much higher rate for each.

The most important tool for this job is a strong magnet. A magnet will stick to steel and iron (ferrous metals) but not to aluminum, copper, or brass (non-ferrous metals). Use it to ensure your aluminum pile has no steel bolts or screws attached.

Metal Type	Common Components	Estimated Weight Range (lbs)	Example Price Per Lb*	Estimated Value*
Shred/Light Iron (Whole Unit)	Entire Snow Blower	150 – 250 lbs	$0.06 – $0.10	$9.00 – $25.00
Prepared Steel	Frame, Housing, Auger, Handles	120 – 200 lbs	$0.08 – $0.12	$9.60 – $24.00
Cast Aluminum	Engine Housing, Carburetor, Pistons	15 – 30 lbs	$0.40 – $0.60	$6.00 – $18.00
Copper (#2)	Wiring, Motor Windings	0.5 – 1 lb	$3.50 – $4.00	$1.75 – $4.00
Yellow Brass	Fittings, Bushings	< 0.5 lb	$2.00 – $2.50	$0.50 – $1.25
*Prices are estimates and fluctuate daily. Call your local scrap yard for current rates. Value increases significantly when metals are separated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Scrapping a Snow Blower

Maximizing your return means avoiding common pitfalls that can cost you money or get your load rejected at the scrap yard.

Mistake #1: Not Draining the Fluids

This is the most critical error. Scrap yards operate under strict environmental regulations and will turn away any equipment that is still full of oil or gasoline. Take the extra 15 minutes to drain them properly.

Mistake #2: Not Separating the Metals

The single biggest financial mistake is throwing it all in one pile. A whole snow blower is low-grade “shred.” Separated aluminum and copper are where the real profit is. The effort of disassembly can easily double or triple your payout.

Mistake #3: Leaving Contaminants Attached

Tires, plastic handles, and rubber belts will downgrade your metal. Likewise, leaving steel bolts attached to your aluminum engine block will result in it being classified as “dirty aluminum,” which pays significantly less. Clean your metals for the best price.

Is Turning Your Snow Blower into Scrap a Goldmine?

Scrapping a single snow blower won’t make you rich, but it is a productive way to clear out clutter and earn some money. By investing an hour or two in careful disassembly, you can easily turn a $15 piece of “junk” into a $40-$60+ payout of sorted metals.

Ultimately, the process allows you to responsibly recycle a large piece of machinery, put some cash in your pocket, and reclaim valuable space in your garage. It’s a practical solution for a common problem, turning a dead end into a profitable project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical scrap metal value of a snow blower?

The scrap value of a snow blower can range from $20 to $50, depending on its weight and the current market prices for metals. Snow blowers typically weigh between 100 and 200 pounds. The final price is determined by the scrap yard based on the specific composition and weight of the metals.

What types of metals are found in a snow blower?

Snow blowers are primarily made of steel, but also contain other valuable metals like aluminum and small amounts of copper. Some components, like the engine, may have cast aluminum parts. The exact mix of metals can vary by model and manufacturer.

How can I maximize the scrap value of my snow blower?

To get the best price, you should separate the different types of metals before taking the snow blower to the scrap yard. Separating the aluminum and copper from the steel can increase your payout. Additionally, some parts, like a functioning engine or intact wheels, might be worth more if sold separately before scrapping the rest.

Do I need to do anything before taking my snow blower to a scrap yard?

Yes, it’s important to drain all fluids, including gasoline and oil, before scrapping your snow blower. These fluids can be hazardous and scrap yards have specific requirements for handling them. For electric models, the battery should be removed for separate recycling.

Is there a difference in scrap value between gas and electric snow blowers?

While both types contain recyclable metals, gas-powered snow blowers are often heavier and contain more metal, potentially making them more valuable for scrap. Electric models are typically lighter and smaller. The value of both will ultimately depend on their weight and the volume of valuable metals like copper and aluminum they contain.

Is it better to scrap or resell a snow blower?

If the snow blower is still in working condition or only needs minor repairs, you will likely get more money by selling it, especially before winter. However, if it’s old, in poor condition, or would cost more to fix than it’s worth, scrapping it for its metal content is a good option. Considering the resale market for your specific model can help you make the best decision.