set the skids evenly on a level surface. the down side to setting them high ( which i do at the start of winter) is the layer of snow left behind, which can turn to ice. in my situation, i prefer to build a layer of ice as it levels the driveway and i can then lower the skids on a flat driveway surface.

 

I think it's just striking a balance between the amount of snow you leave and your ability to control the machine. I installed ArmorSkids on mine (from snowblowerskids.com) and the machine is far more controllable over uneven sidewalks now.

 

When setting skids i will place somthing on both sides under the scraper blade, usually about a quarter inch off the ground, then set skids. Cant do much for uneven ground, but the quarter inch is a good start. IMO


-efisher-

 

Also are skids meant to be level? I mean there is a front and rear bolt, what happens if you have it pointed at an upward angle to jump over these kind of uneven surfaces?

:blowerhug:

With the bolt spacing on the shoes I don't think you could get them angled enough to make a difference, plus they would wear out to fast, they are designed to be installed level. I would invest in some armorskids and be done with it. Use JD in NJ's link he provided.

 

is there any downside beyond obviously leaving behind a few millimetres of snow behind? For example are there any safety concerns or could it cause more wear and tear?

Yeah, it comes down to the melt/re-freeze scenario. Are you creating any safety issues for your family or those folks using the sidewalk? In my situation, with a steep drive, I pretty much have to get down to bare pavement before I wrap up. I can't leave a coating of snow behind: