If your Ariens snowblower won’t start that can quickly ruin your day. I get it; you have to get to work, but you can’t get your car out of the driveway without snowblowing first. Let’s talk about some of the common problems that can cause your snowblower to not start.
Winter can be a beautiful season, with fresh snowfall creating a picturesque wonderland. However, it can also be a challenging time of the year, particularly when it comes to snow removal. One of the most common tools used for snow removal is a snowblower. Ariens is a well-known brand in the world of snowblowers, and their products are known for their reliability and performance. However, even the best of snowblowers can sometimes fail to start. In this article, we will explore some of the common reasons why an Ariens snowblower may not start and what you can do to fix it.
Check the Fuel
The first thing you should do when your Ariens snowblower won’t start is to check the fuel. This is a common issue, particularly if you have not used the snowblower for a while. The fuel may have gone bad or may have evaporated, leaving behind a thick, sticky residue. This can clog the fuel lines and prevent the engine from starting.
To check the fuel, remove the fuel cap and look inside the tank. If the fuel looks cloudy or has debris floating in it, it’s time to drain it and replace it with fresh fuel. Make sure to use fresh fuel that has been stored in a clean container. It’s also a good idea to add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel to prevent it from going bad in the future.
Check the Spark Plug
If the fuel is not the problem, the next thing you should check is the spark plug. The spark plug is a critical component of the engine, and if it’s faulty, the engine won’t start. To check the spark plug, remove it from the engine and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the electrode is dirty or covered in black soot, it’s time to clean or replace the spark plug.
Cleaning the spark plug is easy. Use a wire brush or a spark plug cleaner to remove any dirt or debris from the electrode. If the spark plug is damaged or worn out, replace it with a new one. Make sure to use the correct type of spark plug for your Ariens snowblower. You can find this information in the owner’s manual or by contacting the manufacturer.
Check the Oil
The oil level in your Ariens snowblower is critical for proper engine function. If the oil level is low or the oil is old and dirty, the engine may not start. Check the oil level using the dipstick and make sure it’s at the recommended level. If the oil is dirty or old, drain it and replace it with fresh oil.
Make sure to use the recommended type of oil for your snowblower. You can find this information in the owner’s manual or by contacting the manufacturer. It’s also a good idea to change the oil at least once a year, even if you haven’t used the snowblower.
Check the Carburetor
The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and fuel to create the right air-fuel ratio for the engine. If the carburetor is clogged or dirty, the engine won’t start or may run poorly. To check the carburetor, remove the air filter and inspect it for any signs of dirt or debris. If the air filter is dirty, clean or replace it.
Next, remove the carburetor and inspect it for any signs of clogs or blockages. If the carburetor is dirty, clean it using carburetor cleaner and a small brush. Make sure to follow the instructions on the carburetor cleaner carefully, as it can be harmful if not used properly.
Check the Choke
The choke is a small valve that regulates the flow of air and fuel into the engine during startup. If the choke is not working properly, the engine may not start or may stall shortly after starting. To check the choke, locate the choke lever or knob on your Ariens snowblower and make sure it’s in the correct position. The choke should be fully engaged when starting the engine and then gradually released as the engine warms up.
If the choke is not working properly, it may need to be adjusted or replaced. Consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance on how to adjust or replace the choke.
Check the Starter
The starter is responsible for turning the engine over when you try to start your Ariens snowblower. If the starter is not working properly, the engine won’t start. To check the starter, turn the key or push the start button and listen for any clicking or grinding sounds.
If you hear clicking or grinding sounds, it’s likely that the starter is faulty and needs to be replaced. Consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance on how to replace the starter.
Recap
There are several reasons why your Ariens snowblower may not start, and most of them can be fixed relatively easily. By checking the fuel, spark plug, oil, carburetor, choke, and starter, you can diagnose and fix the problem. It’s important to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual carefully and to use the recommended type of fuel, oil, and parts for your snowblower.
Regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and cleaning the air filter, can also help prevent issues with starting your Ariens snowblower. By taking care of your snowblower and keeping it in good condition, you can ensure that it will be ready to tackle the next snowstorm when it comes.
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