Yes, you can do it yourself – learning how to change oil in an Ariens snowblower is a simple job that saves you money and keeps your machine running strong for years.
I’ve done this many times on my own Ariens. It’s not as hard as you might think.
You just need a few basic tools and about 30 minutes. I’ll walk you through each step.
This guide covers everything from picking the right oil to the final cleanup. Let’s get your snowblower ready for winter.
Why You Need to Change the Oil
Think of oil as your engine’s lifeblood. It keeps all the moving parts working smoothly.
Old oil gets dirty and thin. It can’t protect the engine from wear and tear.
The Ariens official site says regular oil changes are key. They help your snowblower last longer.
Fresh oil also helps with starting on cold mornings. It flows better when it’s new.
I change my oil every season or after 25 hours of use. It’s cheap insurance for an expensive machine.
You’ll notice a difference right away. The engine sounds happier and runs smoother.
What You Need Before You Start
Gather your tools first. This makes the job go much faster.
You need a drain pan, a funnel, and a wrench. The wrench size depends on your model.
Get the right oil type. Check your owner’s manual for the exact kind.
Most Ariens snowblowers use SAE 5W-30. I use synthetic blend for better cold weather performance.
Have some rags or paper towels ready. There will be a little mess.
You might want a pair of gloves too. Oil can be messy on your hands.
Find a flat spot to work. Your driveway or garage floor works great.
Step 1: Warm Up the Engine
Start your snowblower and let it run for five minutes. This warms up the oil inside.
Warm oil flows out much easier. It also takes more dirt with it.
Don’t run it too long though. You don’t want the engine to get hot.
Just run it until you can feel warmth from the engine cover. That’s the perfect time.
Turn the engine off and pull the spark plug wire. This is a key safety step.
You don’t want the engine to start by accident. Safety first, always.
Now let it sit for a minute. The oil is ready to come out.
Step 2: Find and Open the Drain Plug
Look under the engine for a small bolt. This is your drain plug.
On most Ariens models, it’s on the bottom or side. Your manual shows the exact spot.
Place your drain pan right under this plug. Make sure it’s centered well.
Use your wrench to loosen the drain plug. Turn it counter-clockwise.
Do this slowly at first. The oil will start to drip out.
Once it’s loose, unscrew it by hand. Let the plug drop into the pan.
Step back and let the oil drain. This takes a few minutes.
Step 3: Let All the Oil Drain Out
Be patient here. Let every last drop come out.
Tilt the snowblower slightly if you need to. This helps get all the old oil.
I wait until the drip becomes very slow. That means it’s almost done.
Check the oil color as it drains. Really dark oil means it was time for a change.
The Consumer Reports site talks about engine care. Complete draining is important.
Once it stops dripping, wipe around the drain hole. Get it nice and clean.
Now find your drain plug in the pan. Fish it out and clean it off.
Step 4: Put the Drain Plug Back
Clean the drain plug threads with a rag. Make sure no dirt is on them.
Look at the washer on the plug. If it looks cracked, replace it.
A good seal stops leaks. It’s worth checking this small part.
Hand-tighten the plug back into the hole. Turn it clockwise.
Get it snug with your fingers first. Then use the wrench for the final turn.
Don’t overtighten it. You could strip the threads in the engine.
Just make it firm, not super tight. You’ll get a feel for it.
Step 5: Add the New Oil
Find the oil fill cap on top of the engine. It’s usually labeled clearly.
Remove this cap and set it aside. Keep it clean for later.
Place your funnel in the fill hole. This makes pouring much easier.
Check your manual for the right amount. Most take about 20 ounces.
Pour the new oil in slowly. Stop to check the level with the dipstick.
It’s better to add a little, then check. You can always add more.
Stop when the oil reaches the “Full” line. Don’t go over this mark.
Step 6: Check the Oil Level
Wipe the dipstick clean first. Then put it back in all the way.
Pull it out again and look at the oil line. It should be between the marks.
If it’s low, add a little more oil. Just a small amount at a time.
If it’s overfull, you need to drain some out. Use a small tube to siphon a bit.
The right level is important. Too much oil can cause problems too.
Once it’s perfect, put the fill cap back on. Make sure it’s tight.
Wipe any spilled oil off the engine. Keep things clean and tidy.
Step 7: Start the Engine and Check
Reconnect the spark plug wire. Make sure it snaps on firmly.
Start your snowblower as you normally would. Let it run for a minute.
Listen to the engine sound. It should run smooth and steady.
Look under the machine for any leaks. Check around the drain plug area.
If you see drips, turn the engine off. Tighten the drain plug a little more.
The OSHA website talks about safe equipment use. A leak-free machine is safer.
Once you’re sure there are no leaks, turn it off. Your job is done.
How to Dispose of Old Oil
Don’t just pour old oil down the drain. That’s bad for the environment.
Let the oil in your pan cool completely. Then pour it into an old jug.
A milk jug or juice bottle works fine. Make sure it has a tight lid.
Take this to an auto parts store or recycling center. Most take used oil for free.
Some places even take your old oil filter. Ask when you drop it off.
Clean your drain pan with soap and water. Store it for next time.
Proper disposal is part of the job. Do it right every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using the wrong oil type is a big one. Check your manual every time.
Forgetting to warm the engine first makes draining slow. Don’t skip this step.
Overtightening the drain plug can cause damage. Hand tight plus a little more is enough.
Not checking for leaks after is risky. A small drip can become a big problem.
Overfilling with new oil hurts performance. Stick to the dipstick marks.
I’ve made some of these mistakes myself. Learn from my errors.
Take your time and follow the steps. You’ll do a great job.
When to Change the Oil
Change oil at the start of each winter season. Fresh oil for fresh snow.
Also change it after every 25 hours of use. That’s about one season for most people.
If you use your snowblower a lot, change it more often. Heavy use means more wear.
The Department of Energy says proper maintenance saves fuel. A well-oiled engine works better.
Write the date on a piece of tape on your machine. This helps you remember.
Old oil looks dark and dirty. New oil is golden and clear.
When in doubt, change it out. It’s a cheap way to protect your investment.
Tips for Easier Oil Changes
Do this job on a warm day if you can. Cold hands make everything harder.
Keep all your tools in one box. Label it “Snowblower Maintenance.”
Buy oil in the right size container. You’ll use about the same amount each time.
Take a picture before you start. This helps if you forget where things go.
Wear old clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Oil stains are tough to remove.
Have a trash bag ready for dirty rags. Cleanup is part of the process.
Do it with a friend the first time. Two sets of eyes catch mistakes.
What If Something Goes Wrong?
Stripped the drain plug threads? Don’t panic. This can be fixed.
You can buy a slightly larger plug at a hardware store. It might work.
Or use a thread repair kit. These are made for this exact problem.
Spilled oil on your driveway? Sprinkle cat litter on it right away.
The litter soaks up the oil. Then sweep it up and dispose of it.
Can’t find the drain plug? Check your manual or look online.
The Ariens manual library has diagrams. These show every part clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change oil in my Ariens snowblower?
Change it once a year before winter starts. Also change it after 25 hours of use. Whichever comes first is the right time.
What type of oil does an Ariens snowblower need?
Most models use SAE 5W-30. Always check your owner’s manual first. Using the wrong oil can hurt your engine.
Can I use car oil in my snowblower?
No, don’t use car oil. Snowblower engines need different oil. Use oil made for small engines for the best results.
How much oil does an Ariens snowblower hold?
Most hold about 20 ounces. Check your dipstick to be sure. Fill to the “Full” line, not over.
Do I need to change the oil filter too?
Most Ariens snowblowers don’t have an oil filter. Just change the oil itself. Check your model to be certain.
What if I overfill the oil?
Drain a little out until it’s at the right level. Use a small tube to siphon some oil out. The correct level is important for good running.
