Yes, you can drain gas from an Ariens snowblower yourself in about 30 minutes. Learning how to drain gas from ariens snowblower is key for winter upkeep and keeping your machine running well for years.
Old gas left in the tank over the warm months can cause big problems. It turns into a sticky mess that clogs up the carburetor and fuel lines. This is a common reason why snowblowers won’t start when you need them most.
I’ve had to fix this issue many times for friends and family. The process is not hard, but you need to know the right steps. Doing it wrong can make a simple job take much longer.
This guide will walk you through the whole process from start to finish. I’ll show you the tools you need and the common mistakes to avoid. You’ll save money on repairs and keep your Ariens ready for snow.
Why You Need to Drain the Fuel
Gasoline does not last forever. It starts to break down after about 30 days. This is especially true for the fuel in small engines like your snowblower.
The broken-down fuel leaves behind a gummy residue. This residue is called varnish. It clogs the tiny jets and passages inside the carburetor.
A clogged carburetor means your engine won’t get the fuel it needs. You’ll pull the starter cord over and over with no luck. It’s a frustrating way to start a snowy morning.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, proper fuel management is part of good equipment care. It helps your tools last longer and work better.
Draining the gas is the best way to stop these problems before they start. It’s a little bit of work that saves you a huge headache later. Think of it as an insurance policy for your snowblower.
Storing your Ariens with an empty fuel system is the professional way to do it. Mechanics and small engine shops all recommend this step. It’s the number one tip for easy spring starting.
Tools and Supplies You Will Need
You don’t need fancy tools for this job. Most items are probably already in your garage or shed. Gather everything before you start to make the job go smooth.
You need a fuel container. Use one made for gasoline, not a milk jug or water bottle. A clean, empty gas can works perfectly for catching the old fuel.
A pair of pliers and a flat-head screwdriver are helpful. You might need them to loosen hose clamps or fuel line connections. A socket set can also be useful for some models.
Get some rags or paper towels. There will likely be a few drips of gas. Having something to wipe up with keeps your work area clean and safe.
Safety glasses are a good idea too. They protect your eyes from any accidental splashes. Fuel in your eye stings a lot and is not safe.
You might want a pan or tray to put under the engine area. It catches any drips from the carburetor bowl drain. A disposable aluminum baking pan from the dollar store works great.
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining the Tank
First, move your Ariens snowblower to a well-ventilated area. Do this job outside or in an open garage. Gasoline fumes are strong and can be dangerous in a closed space.
Let the engine cool down completely if you just used it. You are working with flammable liquid near a hot engine. Safety should always come first in this process.
Locate the fuel shut-off valve if your model has one. It’s usually on the fuel line between the tank and the carburetor. Turn this valve to the “Off” position to stop fuel flow.
Place your empty gas can on the ground next to the machine. You need a container with a wide opening. This makes it easier to aim the fuel stream without spilling.
Find the fuel line that comes from the bottom of the gas tank. It’s a small rubber or plastic hose. Follow it from the tank down to where it connects.
Use your pliers to loosen the clamp that holds this hose on. Slide the clamp back on the hose. Then, gently pull the hose off the metal fuel tank nipple.
Direct the open end of the hose into your gas can. The fuel should start to flow out on its own by gravity. Let it drain until the tank is completely empty.
You might need to tilt the snowblower slightly. This helps the last bit of fuel run toward the hose outlet. Be careful not to tip it too far.
Once it stops dripping, you have successfully learned the core of how to drain gas from ariens snowblower. The main tank is now empty. But there is more fuel in the system to remove.
How to Drain the Carburetor Bowl
The carburetor has a small bowl at its bottom. This bowl holds fuel too. You must drain it to fully winterize the engine.
Find the carburetor on your engine. It’s usually a metal or plastic box attached to the side. The fuel line you just disconnected goes into it.
Look at the very bottom of the carburetor. You should see a small bolt or screw. This is the carburetor bowl drain plug.
Place your drip pan or tray underneath this drain plug. There will be a small amount of fuel left in the bowl. It will spill out when you open it.
Use the correct size wrench or socket to loosen the drain plug. Turn it counter-clockwise slowly. Be ready for fuel to start dripping out right away.
Let all the fuel drain into your pan. It might only be a few ounces. Wait until the dripping stops completely.
Once it’s dry, tighten the drain plug back up. Turn it clockwise until it is snug. Do not over-tighten it, as you could strip the threads.
This step is a crucial part of how to drain gas from ariens snowblower. If you skip it, old gas stays in the carburetor. That old gas is what causes most starting problems.
Running the Engine Dry (Optional Step)
Some people like to run the engine until it stalls. This burns the last bit of fuel in the carburetor. It’s an extra step that can help.
Reconnect the fuel line to the tank first. You don’t need to clamp it yet. Just push it back on the nipple so fuel can flow.
Turn the fuel shut-off valve back to the “On” position. This allows the little bit of fresh fuel you’ll add to reach the carburetor. Make sure your gas can is ready.
Add a tiny amount of fresh gasoline to the tank. Just a cup or two is enough. You just need enough for the engine to run for a minute.
Start the snowblower as you normally would. Let it run at idle speed. It will use up the new fuel in the line and carburetor.
The engine will start to sputter as it runs out of gas. It will then stall and stop on its own. This means the carburetor is now empty.
This method is another way to finish the job of how to drain gas from ariens snowblower. It ensures the carburetor’s internal passages are clear. I do this step on my own machine every year.
Remember to disconnect the spark plug wire before any more work. Safety is key when your hands are near the engine. This prevents any accidental starts.
Using a Fuel Stabilizer Instead
Some folks use a fuel stabilizer instead of draining. This is a chemical you add to fresh gas. It keeps the fuel from breaking down for many months.
This method is easier but has a catch. You must add the stabilizer to fresh gas, not old gas. It won’t fix fuel that’s already gone bad.
Fill your tank with fresh gasoline. Then add the correct amount of stabilizer. Run the engine for 5-10 minutes to circulate the treated fuel.
The treated fuel now sits in the tank and carburetor all summer. The stabilizer stops the chemical reactions that create varnish. Your fuel stays good.
The USDA Forest Service notes that using fuel stabilizer is a valid storage method. It’s common for seasonal equipment that’s hard to drain completely.
I use this method on some of my equipment. For my Ariens snowblower, I still prefer to drain it. I like knowing the system is totally empty and dry.
If you choose stabilizer, make sure you use it every year. It’s not a one-time fix. You must treat the new fuel each season before storage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is forgetting the carburetor bowl. Draining just the tank is not enough. The bowl holds the fuel that causes the most clogs.
Another error is using the wrong container. Never use a container that held drinks or food. Gasoline can dissolve plastic and create a dangerous leak.
Don’t try to siphon the gas out with your mouth. This is extremely dangerous. Gasoline is toxic and can make you very sick.
Avoid working near any open flame or spark. This includes cigarettes, pilot lights, and electrical tools. Gasoline vapors are highly flammable and can ignite easily.
Don’t leave the drained old gas sitting around. Dispose of it properly at a hazardous waste facility. Many auto parts stores will also take it for recycling.
Finally, don’t rush the job. Take your time to do it right. A careful approach to how to drain gas from ariens snowblower prevents spills and ensures you get all the fuel out.
How to Dispose of Old Gasoline
You can’t just pour old gas down the drain or on the ground. That’s bad for the environment and is often against the law. You need to get rid of it the right way.
Check with your local government or waste department. Many towns have a hazardous waste collection day. They take old paint, chemicals, and gasoline for free.
Some auto parts stores and repair shops will take old gas. Call ahead to ask about their policy. They might charge a small fee for this service.
You can also mix a small amount of old gas with a lot of fresh gas. Then use it in your car’s gas tank. The car’s large fuel system can handle a little bit of stale fuel.
Never burn old gasoline in a fire pit or stove. It can burn unpredictably and is very dangerous. The vapors can also explode.
Store the old gas in its approved container until disposal. Label it clearly so no one mistakes it for good fuel. Keep it in a cool, well-ventilated place away from the house.
Proper disposal is the final, responsible step in how to drain gas from ariens snowblower. It protects your family and your property. It also keeps our water and soil clean.
Preparing for Next Season
After you drain the fuel, there are a few more things to do. These steps get your Ariens ready for its long summer nap. It will thank you by starting easily next winter.
Consider changing the engine oil. Old oil contains acids and contaminants from use. Fresh oil protects the engine’s internal parts during storage.
Check the spark plug. It might be worn or fouled with carbon. A new spark plug is cheap and guarantees a good spark for starting.
Look over the scraper bar and skid shoes on the bottom. These parts wear down from contact with the pavement. Replace them if they look thin or worn out.
Lubricate all the moving points. This includes the auger shaft, drive controls, and wheel bearings. A little grease keeps rust away and things moving freely.
Give the whole machine a good cleaning. Hose off any caked-on snow, salt, and dirt. Dry it thoroughly to prevent rust from forming on the metal
