I own a john deer snowblower 726 10 Hp. It runs great but with one problem. The auger (rotating blade that spins in front) runs really slow and when it gets into contact with the snow it stops turning. Why is this and how do I fix it? Can I download instructions to fix it? I check the pins they are not broken.

Make sure any drive belt is not slipping.

Hi,
The machine was made for Deere by Ariens. Manuals not available at Deere but parts can be looked up.
Peace,
Clarke

If my drive belt is slipping, how do I repair it?

There are to ways to adjust tension. Usually move the motor because it mounts with slots.

The other way is with an idler pulley that provides tension.

If you have to replace the belts, use only OEM belts. index (http://www.dayco.com) has a belt interchange info on their website. If you take the Dayco number to a NAPA auto parts store, you'll get the correct belt.

The other way is with an idler pulley that provides tension.

What are the steps in doing this? Where is this pulley and what does it look like?

If you ever looked at a serpentine belt in a car, there is an arm under constant tenstion. That's one way. Not likely in a snow blower.

Another would be that the belt goes between two pulleys; drive and driven. You can then have an arm that puts tension on the belt.

The entire pulley can move sometimes too.

Just see what could possibly move that's in contact with the belt. Either rotate or slide.

Usually when you loosen the engine bolts, the engine will slide.