Winter's beauty quickly fades when your Ariens snow blower decides to take a day off. Facing down a mountain of snow with a malfunctioning machine is frustrating, but don't despair! Many common snow blower problems have simple solutions you can tackle yourself, saving you time and money on potentially unnecessary repairs. This guide will walk you through some quick fixes for common Ariens snow blower issues, helping you get back to clearing your driveway in no time.
My Snow Blower Won't Start! What's the First Thing to Check?
This is the most common complaint, and thankfully, often the easiest to fix. Before you start tearing into the engine, run through this simple checklist:
- Fuel: Sounds obvious, but is there gas in the tank? And is it fresh gas? Gasoline can degrade over time, especially if it contains ethanol. Old gas can clog the carburetor. If the gas is old (more than a month or two), drain it and replace it with fresh fuel. Always use fuel stabilizer when storing your snow blower for extended periods.
- Fuel Shut-Off Valve: Make sure the fuel shut-off valve (usually located near the fuel tank) is in the "on" position. It's easily overlooked, but can cause a no-start condition.
- Spark Plug: A faulty spark plug is a prime suspect. Remove the spark plug (make sure the engine is off and cool!), inspect it for damage or fouling (carbon buildup). If it's dirty, try cleaning it with a wire brush. If it's cracked or significantly worn, replace it. It's a good idea to keep a spare spark plug on hand.
- Safety Key/Bail: Ariens snow blowers, like most, have safety mechanisms to prevent accidental starts. Ensure the safety key is properly inserted (if applicable) and that the bail lever (the handle you squeeze to engage the auger and drive) is fully engaged. Some models have interlock switches that can become faulty.
- Oil Level: Low oil can trigger a safety shut-off on some models. Check the oil level and add oil if necessary. Always use the type of oil recommended in your owner's manual.
If you've checked all these basics and your snow blower still refuses to start, move on to the next section.
Okay, It Starts, But It Runs Rough or Stalls. Now What?
A snow blower that starts but runs poorly often indicates a fuel or air issue. Here's what to investigate:
- Carburetor Issues: The carburetor mixes air and fuel for combustion. If it's clogged or dirty, the engine won't run smoothly.
- Dirty Carburetor: Try using a carburetor cleaner spray. With the engine off, spray the cleaner into the carburetor throat according to the product instructions. Let it sit for a few minutes, then try starting the engine.
- Carburetor Adjustment: Some carburetors have adjustment screws for idle speed and fuel mixture. Consult your owner's manual for the correct settings and adjustment procedure. Be cautious when adjusting these screws; small adjustments can make a big difference.
- Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing it to run rich (too much fuel). Remove the air filter and inspect it. If it's dirty, clean it with compressed air or replace it. Never run the snow blower without an air filter.
- Fuel Line Issues: Check the fuel lines for cracks, kinks, or leaks. Replace any damaged fuel lines. Also, ensure the fuel line is properly connected to the carburetor and fuel tank.
- Water in the Fuel: Water can contaminate the fuel system, causing poor performance. Add a fuel stabilizer that removes water to the fuel tank. If the problem persists, drain the fuel tank and carburetor bowl completely.
The Auger Isn't Turning! Help!
A non-rotating auger (the front part that scoops up the snow) is a common problem. Here's how to troubleshoot it:
- Shear Pins: This is the most likely culprit. Shear pins are designed to break when the auger encounters a hard object (like a rock or ice chunk), protecting the auger and gearbox from damage. Inspect the shear pins on both sides of the auger. If they're broken, replace them with the correct type and size shear pins. Always use the shear pins recommended by Ariens.
- Drive Belt: The drive belt connects the engine to the auger. If it's broken, worn, or loose, the auger won't turn. Inspect the drive belt for damage or wear. If it's broken, replace it. If it's loose, you may be able to adjust the tension. Consult your owner's manual for the belt tensioning procedure.
- Gearbox: The gearbox transfers power from the drive belt to the auger. If the gearbox is damaged, the auger won't turn. This is a more serious problem that may require professional repair. Check the gearbox for leaks or unusual noises.
The Wheels Aren't Driving! I'm Stuck!
If your snow blower isn't moving forward or backward, the problem likely lies in the drive system:
- Drive Belt: Similar to the auger, the drive system also relies on a belt. Check the drive belt for the wheels for damage or wear. Replace if necessary.
- Friction Disc: Some Ariens snow blowers use a friction disc to transfer power to the wheels. Over time, the friction disc can wear down, causing the wheels to slip. Inspect the friction disc for wear. If it's worn, replace it.
- Drive Cable: The drive cable connects the speed control lever to the transmission. If the cable is broken or loose, the wheels won't drive. Inspect the drive cable for damage or looseness. Adjust or replace the cable as needed.
- Transmission: The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. If the transmission is damaged, the wheels won't drive. This is a more complex repair that may require professional assistance. Listen for unusual noises coming from the transmission.
The Chute Won't Rotate! Now What?
A chute that won't rotate can be a real pain, forcing you to stop and manually adjust the discharge direction. Here's what to check:
- Chute Control Cable: Check the chute control cable for kinks, bends, or damage. Make sure it's properly connected to the chute and the control lever. Lubricate the cable with a cable lubricant.
- Chute Cranks or Gears: Inspect the chute crank mechanism for damage or wear. If the gears are stripped, the chute won't rotate. Replace any damaged components.
- Ice Buildup: Ice can accumulate around the chute, preventing it from rotating. Remove any ice buildup with a scraper or warm water. Never use excessive force to rotate the chute if it's frozen.
- Chute Deflector: The chute deflector controls the height of the snow stream. Make sure the deflector is not jammed or obstructed.
My Snow Blower is Vibrating Excessively! Is That Normal?
Excessive vibration can indicate a problem with the engine or other components. Here's what to look for:
- Loose Bolts: Check all the bolts on the engine, frame, and auger housing. Tighten any loose bolts.
- Damaged Auger: Inspect the auger for damage or imbalance. A bent or damaged auger can cause excessive vibration. Replace the auger if necessary.
- Engine Mounts: Check the engine mounts for damage or wear. Damaged engine mounts can cause the engine to vibrate excessively. Replace the engine mounts if necessary.
- Worn Bearings: Worn bearings in the auger or engine can cause vibration. Listen for unusual noises coming from the bearings. Replace any worn bearings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my snow blower only run when the choke is on? This usually indicates a lean fuel mixture, meaning the engine isn't getting enough fuel. Clean the carburetor or adjust the fuel mixture screw.
Why does my snow blower keep clogging? Wet, heavy snow is the primary culprit. Use a snow blower spray to help prevent snow from sticking. Also, ensure the discharge chute is clear of obstructions.
How often should I change the oil in my snow blower? Change the oil at least once a year, or after every 50 hours of use, whichever comes first. Check your owner's manual for specific recommendations.
What kind of gas should I use in my snow blower? Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using gasoline that contains more than 10% ethanol (E10).
How do I store my snow blower for the summer? Drain the fuel tank, change the oil, clean the snow blower thoroughly, and store it in a dry place. Consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
Wrapping Up: Getting Back to a Clear Driveway
Troubleshooting your Ariens snow blower doesn't have to be a daunting task. By systematically checking the fuel, spark, belts, and other key components, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. Keep your snow blower well-maintained, and you'll be ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way.