QA42 missing hitch pin and belt hardware.
 

First I need to say that these machines are truly amazing. We had about 6" of heavy lake effect snow today so it was time to put the QA42 and 1450 to the test. I was about a fourth of the way through the drive way and noticed the snow thrower was loose but still blowing snow other than the chute plugging a little so what was I to do but proceed in finishing the task at hand. When I brought it in the garage and took the blower off I found the left hitch pin was gone and one of the belt tension bracket nuts were missing. The 1/2" by 2" long hitch pin is welded in place. This should be an easy fix but my question is should the pin be a hardened steel or will any 1/2" rod do? Also it appears that the missing part on the belt pivot requires a pivot bushing. Has anyone had to replace the hitch pin? Also am I correct on the belt tensioner needing a bushing?

I bought a 1/2" hardened grade 8 bolt to cut to length and put in place of the broken original pin. Before I weld this in place do any of you have an opinion as to if this should be a hardened pin or just a standard softer grade?

Sometimes hardened bolts get brittle when welded.
I don't think you will see that much wear on a mild steel rod/bolt.

I was just putting my QA42A on my tractor tonight and can tell you without a doubt there is a bushing. I have 2 blowers and was getting spares off the donor and did notice this. I bet if you were to just go to a hardware store you could find a suitable bushing in the bolts n nuts isles.

I was sure there should be a bushing so when I was at the hardware store today I bought several bushings to try. I measured the O.D. that should be required and it was 9/16 and could only fine a 1/2 inch bushing, should be close enough. The original hole has probably worn a bit.

That was what I was afraid of. I think I'll put in the softer one and give it a try, can always replace again if necessary. Thanks!!