Spinner Knob for Kubota Snowblower Chute Handle

I bring you this spinner knob upgrade for your Kubota Snowblower with ½" diameter manual chute rotation control handle. This replaces the simple and lousy rubber cover or “Plastic Handle” (160), as the part is called, that goes on the end of the rotating handle.. yeah, that thing that makes your gloves twist up and get stuck. 

From the parts diagrams this looks like the part used to be an actual spinning handle somewhat similar to this. My guess is it was more “economical” for Kubota to sell you a rubber cap worth less than a penny, and give you a user experience that drove you to seek a much more expensive option like electric or hydraulic chute rotation! 

Now you can easily control chute rotation with a knob that freely and smoothly spins, for a fraction of the cost!

This should, to my knowledge, work with pretty much any Kubota snowblower attachment that uses a manual chute rotation shaft. I believe these parts are pretty standard at ½" diameter. If your snowblower has a handle of a different diameter, please let me know!

The knob is designed to be assembled with a MR63ZZ ball bearing for the ultimate spinning action.. However, it isn't entirely necessary. A single M3 x 20mm socket cap screw and nut are used to secure the knob to the base. Don't tighten it down all the way as the head of the screw rotates in the recess at the top of the knob. This could be designed a little better with two bearings, but this version worked very well out of the gate and I halted development because of it. The bearing provides support as you press in on the knob while you're turning it. Without it, it isn't as fluid but the plastic conical interface is still pretty slick. Add a little synthetic grease or superlube and it will be even better. The base should press fit onto the ½" shaft and be very snug. I suppose it's possible that your handle is a slightly different diameter, it it's just a bit tight you could try heating the handle up first and then press this on.

Recommend PETG for outdoor use and lower friction. ASA/ABS/PC would be fine options too. CF/GF filaments not recommended because of friction and tolerance issues. Plus this is a directly handled part and you don't need that stuff in your skin.

If you'd like this to fit a significantly different diameter shaft, let me know and I'll try to get another profile uploaded when I get a chance.

Enjoy!