Yes, you can do it yourself – learning how to change oil in an Ariens snow blower is a simple job that saves you money and keeps your machine running strong for years.
I’ve changed the oil in my own Ariens blower many times. It’s not as hard as you might think. With a few basic tools and about 30 minutes, you can get it done.
Fresh oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Old, dirty oil can cause big problems. It can make your engine wear out fast or even seize up.
This guide will walk you through each step. I’ll show you the tools you need and the common mistakes to avoid. Let’s get your Ariens ready for the next big snow.
Why You Need to Change Your Snow Blower Oil
Think of oil like the blood in your body. It needs to be clean to work right. Dirty oil just can’t do its job well.
Oil lubricates all the moving parts inside your engine. It reduces friction and heat. This keeps everything running smooth and cool.
Over time, the oil breaks down. It gets filled with tiny metal bits from engine wear. It also gets dirty from combustion byproducts.
This dirty oil becomes abrasive. It’s like sandpaper inside your engine. It causes more wear instead of preventing it.
Changing the oil removes this grit. It gives your engine a fresh start. Your Ariens will start easier and run better.
The Ariens official site says regular oil changes are key. They help your machine last for many winters.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies First
Getting your stuff together first makes the job easy. You don’t want to be halfway through and missing something.
You’ll need a drain pan to catch the old oil. A shallow pan works best. Make sure it’s big enough to hold all the oil.
Get a funnel for adding new oil. A small one with a thin spout is perfect. It helps you pour without spilling.
You need the right size wrench or socket. Most Ariens models use a 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch drain plug. Check your manual to be sure.
Have some rags or paper towels ready. There’s always a little spill or drip. It’s good to clean it up right away.
Most important is the new oil. Use SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil for cold weather. You’ll need about 20 ounces for most models.
Don’t forget a new oil filter if your model has one. Not all Ariens blowers have a filter. Check your owner’s manual to know for sure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change the Oil
First, run your snow blower for five minutes. This warms up the oil. Warm oil flows out much easier than cold oil.
Turn off the engine and let it cool for a minute. You want it warm but not hot. You don’t want to burn yourself on hot parts.
Disconnect the spark plug wire. This is a critical safety step. It prevents the engine from accidentally starting while you work.
Place your drain pan under the drain plug. The plug is usually on the bottom of the engine. Sometimes it’s on the side near the bottom.
Use your wrench to loosen the drain plug. Turn it counter-clockwise. Do it slowly until oil starts to drip out.
Once it’s dripping, you can unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Let all the old oil drain into your pan. This might take a few minutes.
While it drains, check the old oil. Look for metal flakes or a milky color. These can be signs of bigger engine problems.
Clean the drain plug with a rag. Check the washer on the plug. Replace it if it looks cracked or worn out.
Screw the drain plug back in by hand first. Then tighten it with your wrench. Don’t overtighten it or you might strip the threads.
How to Add the New Oil Correctly
Find the oil fill cap on your engine. It’s usually on top and has an oil can symbol. Remove the cap and set it aside.
Place your funnel in the fill hole. This makes pouring clean and easy. It keeps oil from spilling on the engine.
Pour in the new oil slowly. Check your owner’s manual for the exact amount. Most Ariens blowers take around 20 ounces.
Stop pouring before you reach the full amount. You need to check the oil level as you go. It’s easy to add more, but hard to remove extra.
Use the dipstick to check the level. Wipe it clean, insert it fully, then pull it out. Look at where the oil line is.
The oil should be between the “Full” and “Add” marks. If it’s low, add a little more. Check again until it’s right.
Once it’s full, replace the oil fill cap. Make sure it’s on tight. Wipe up any spilled oil with a rag.
Reconnect the spark plug wire. You’re now ready to start the engine. Let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil.
Changing the Oil Filter (If Equipped)
Some Ariens models have an oil filter. If yours does, you need to change it with the oil. The filter traps dirt and metal particles.
Locate the oil filter on your engine. It looks like a small metal can. It’s usually on the side of the engine block.
Place your drain pan under the filter area. Oil will drip out when you remove it. You might want to put some rags down too.
Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter. Turn it counter-clockwise. It might be on tight from the last change.
Once it’s loose, finish unscrewing it by hand. Let the oil drain into your pan. Be careful, the filter will have oil inside it.
Take your new filter and rub a little oil on the rubber gasket. This helps it seal properly. Don’t skip this step.
Screw the new filter on by hand. Turn it clockwise until the gasket touches. Then give it another three-quarter turn by hand.
Do not use the wrench to tighten the new filter. Hand-tight is enough. Using a wrench can damage the gasket and cause leaks.
After changing the filter, check your oil level again. You may need to add a little more oil. Start the engine and check for leaks around the new filter.
Choosing the Right Oil for Your Ariens
Using the wrong oil can hurt your engine. Always check your owner’s manual first. It tells you the exact type your machine needs.
Most newer Ariens snow blowers use SAE 5W-30. This is a synthetic blend oil. It flows well in cold temperatures.
Some older models might use SAE 10W-30. This is a conventional oil. It’s a bit thicker when cold.
The “W” stands for winter. The first number (5W or 10W) shows how it flows when cold. The second number (30) shows how it flows when hot.
Synthetic oil costs more but works better. It flows easier in freezing temps. It also lasts longer and protects better.
You can use conventional oil if that’s what your manual says. Just make sure it’s the right weight. Don’t mix different types of oil.
The American Petroleum Institute certifies motor oils. Look for the API “starburst” symbol on the bottle. This means it meets current standards.
Buy a quality brand you trust. You don’t need the most expensive oil. But don’t buy the cheapest no-name brand either.
When to Change the Oil in Your Ariens
Change the oil at the start of each season. This is the most important time. Fresh oil protects your engine all winter.
Also change it after every 25 hours of use. If you clear a lot of snow, you might need two changes per season.
If you only use your blower a few times, once a year is fine. But don’t go more than one season without a change.
Old oil breaks down even when not used. Moisture can get in and cause corrosion. Acid can form from combustion byproducts.
Write the date on a piece of tape on your machine. Stick it near the oil fill. This helps you remember when you last changed it.
Check the oil color regularly during the season. Fresh oil is amber and clear. Old oil is dark black and dirty.
If the oil looks milky or creamy, change it right away. This means water has gotten into the oil. It could be from condensation or a more serious problem.
The Consumer Reports website has good maintenance tips. They say regular oil changes are one of the best things you can do for small engines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overfill the oil. Too much oil is as bad as too little. It can cause foaming and poor lubrication.
Never change the oil on a hot engine. Wait a few minutes after running it. Hot oil can cause serious burns.
Always disconnect the spark plug first. I can’t stress this enough. It’s the number one safety rule for small engine work.
Don’t reuse the old drain plug washer. A worn washer can leak. New washers cost pennies and prevent big messes.
Don’t pour the old oil down the drain. It’s bad for the environment and illegal in most places. Take it to an auto parts store for recycling.
Don’t forget to check for leaks after changing. Start the engine and let it run. Look under the machine for any drips.
Don’t use car oil if it’s not the right type. Small engines have different needs than car engines. Use oil made for small engines if possible.
Don’t ignore the oil change schedule. Even if the oil looks okay, change it. Time breaks down oil even without use.
Disposing of Old Oil Properly
You have about two quarts of dirty oil. You can’t just throw it in the trash. That’s bad for the environment.
Let the oil cool completely in your drain pan. Hot oil can melt plastic containers. It can also cause burns when transferring.
Use a clean plastic container with a tight lid. A milk jug or old oil bottle works well. Make sure it’s completely dry inside.
Pour the old oil slowly into your container. Use your funnel to avoid spills. Wipe up any drips with paper towels.
Take the container to a recycling center. Most auto parts stores take used oil for free. Some gas stations and repair shops do too.
Call ahead to make sure they accept used oil. Some places have limits on how much they’ll take. Two quarts is usually fine.
Take your old oil filter too if you changed it. Most places that take oil also take filters. They recycle the metal and paper.
The Environmental Protection Agency has guidelines for oil disposal. They say recycling is the only right way to handle used motor oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change oil in my Ariens snow blower?
Change it once at the start of each winter season. Also change it after every 25 hours of use. Don’t go more than one year between changes.
What type of oil does an Ariens snow blower use?
Most models use SAE
