Just wanted to put this out there because I've read a lot, a LOT, of posts on here and other forums generally cautioning against using belts other than IH/CC brand with the QA Blowers. Well, I needed one and in a pinch, I called Napa. Since the 36" belt I had previously gotten direct from CC had shredded in less than an hour and almost "felt" too big (it seemed to almost max out my pulley adjustment), I asked for a good, strong 33" belt. They gave me a B33 which is a Gates Industrial Hi-Power V belt for something like $11.75. Let me tell you this, that belt was a PITA to get on as it was almost too small but has given me several storms worth of great performance showing little to no signs of wear. I have put drifts higher than the blower through it, I have shoved ice and heavy slush through it, and when it has clogged, I just shove more snow through it to clear it out. This belt has been nothing but great for me, and for about half the price of an IH/CC brand belt ($19.xx vs $11.75). I would say to anyone that is in need of a good belt, give it a try. I believe it can be had for less than I paid online.
So how about you guys, have y'all ventured outside of the IH/CC brand for belts and had any success? Share your stories, I will be looking for a good 1/2" belt next year when I move the thrower to my 1450. I hope this info can help someone out there!
