As the last snowflakes melt and warmer breezes signal the arrival of spring, your trusty Ariens snowblower can finally rest. However, simply parking it in the garage until the first frost is a recipe for potential problems come next winter. Proper summer storage is crucial to ensure your snowblower remains in peak operating condition, ready to tackle any snowstorm with the power and reliability you expect from Ariens.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every essential step to prepare your Ariens snowblower for its long summer slumber. By following these instructions, you'll not only protect your investment but also significantly extend the lifespan of your machine, saving you time, money, and frustration when the snow begins to fall again. We'll cover everything from fuel stabilization and cleaning to lubrication and protective measures, ensuring your Ariens is ready for action when you need it most.
The Crucial First Step: Fuel System Preparation
The most critical aspect of preparing any gasoline-powered engine for extended storage is addressing the fuel system. Gasoline, especially when left sitting for months, can degrade, leading to gum and varnish deposits that clog fuel lines, carburetors, and fuel injectors. This can result in difficult starting, poor engine performance, and costly repairs. For your Ariens snowblower, this means either running it dry or, more effectively, using a fuel stabilizer.
To properly stabilize the fuel, begin by adding a high-quality fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the stabilizer bottle for the correct ratio. Once the stabilizer is added, run the snowblower's engine for at least 10-15 minutes. This vital step ensures that the stabilized fuel circulates throughout the entire fuel system, including the carburetor, fuel lines, and filter. This process effectively coats all internal fuel components with the protective additive, preventing corrosion and deposit formation.
If you choose to run the fuel tank dry, ensure you do so in a well-ventilated area and allow the engine to cool down afterward. While this method removes most of the fuel, it doesn't offer the protective benefits of a stabilizer for the internal components. Therefore, using a fuel stabilizer is the recommended and most effective approach for long-term storage, safeguarding your Ariens snowblower's fuel system against the ravages of time and stagnant fuel.
Thorough Cleaning: Removing the Grime of Winter
After addressing the fuel, the next essential step is a thorough cleaning of your Ariens snowblower. Winter weather is harsh, and your machine likely has accumulated a significant amount of dirt, salt, ice, and grime. Leaving these residues on the machine can lead to rust and corrosion, particularly on metal components and the auger housing. A clean machine is not only aesthetically pleasing but also crucial for preventing long-term damage.
Begin by disconnecting the spark plug wire to ensure the engine cannot accidentally start. Then, use a stiff brush, a scraper, and a hose with moderate water pressure to remove caked-on mud, snow, and ice. Pay close attention to the auger, impeller, and discharge chute, as these areas are most prone to debris buildup. For stubborn grime, a mild degreaser can be used, but always rinse thoroughly afterward. Avoid using high-pressure washers directly on engine components or seals, as this can force water into sensitive areas.
Once the snowblower is clean, it's imperative to dry it thoroughly. Use clean rags or towels to wipe down all surfaces, paying special attention to any areas where water might pool. Allow the machine to air dry completely in a sunny, well-ventilated spot for a few hours. Inspect all accessible metal parts for any signs of rust. If you find any, gently remove it with steel wool or a wire brush and apply a light coat of rust inhibitor or a silicone-based lubricant to prevent its return.
Lubrication and Protection: Shielding Moving Parts
With the snowblower clean and dry, it's time to focus on lubrication and protecting its moving parts. Over time, lubricants can dry out or become contaminated, leading to increased friction, wear, and potential seizing of components. Applying fresh lubricant before storage ensures that these parts remain protected and operate smoothly when you need them again.
Consult your Ariens snowblower's owner's manual for specific lubrication points. Typically, this includes greasing the auger bearings, the drive shaft, and any pivot points for the chute and deflector. Use a high-quality all-purpose grease for these applications. For areas like the shear bolts and auger shaft, a light coating of oil can prevent rust and make removal easier in the future. Don't forget to lubricate the control cables to ensure smooth operation of the drive and auger engagement.
Beyond lubrication, consider applying a protective coating to exposed metal surfaces. A spray lubricant like WD-40 or a silicone-based protectant can be applied to the auger, impeller, and the underside of the machine. This creates a barrier against moisture and prevents rust formation. For painted surfaces, a coat of automotive wax can add an extra layer of protection against environmental damage. Ensure you wipe off any excess to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on these treated surfaces.
Battery Care and Spark Plug Maintenance
If your Ariens snowblower is equipped with an electric start, proper battery care is paramount for its longevity. Lead-acid batteries, common in these machines, can lose their charge over time and suffer permanent damage if left in a discharged state. This can lead to a dead battery that needs replacement, an unnecessary expense and inconvenience.
For electric start models, the best practice is to remove the battery from the snowblower before storage. Clean the battery terminals to remove any corrosion. Store the battery in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures. Ideally, connect the battery to a trickle charger or a smart battery maintainer designed for seasonal equipment. These devices will keep the battery topped up without overcharging it, ensuring it's ready to go when winter returns. If you don't have a trickle charger, periodically check the battery's charge and recharge it as needed.
While you're attending to the engine, it's also a good time to inspect and potentially replace the spark plug. A fouled or worn spark plug can contribute to hard starting and poor engine performance. Remove the old spark plug and inspect it for signs of wear, carbon buildup, or damage. If it looks questionable, replace it with a new one of the correct type specified in your owner's manual. Even if the old plug looks decent, replacing it before storage is a low-cost preventative measure that ensures a strong spark for the next season.
Storage Location and Protective Cover
The final piece of the puzzle is selecting the right storage location and using a protective cover. Where you store your Ariens snowblower can significantly impact its condition. Exposure to the elements, extreme temperature fluctuations, and pests can all take their toll.
The ideal storage location is a clean, dry, and well-ventilated indoor space, such as a garage, shed, or basement. This protects the machine from rain, snow, direct sunlight, and extreme temperature swings, all of which can accelerate wear and tear. Avoid storing it directly on concrete floors, as this can draw moisture up into the machine. Instead, place it on a piece of plywood or a sturdy mat. If indoor storage isn't an option, choose the most sheltered spot possible outdoors, like under a sturdy overhang, and ensure it's elevated off the ground.
Once your Ariens snowblower is in its designated storage spot, cover it with a breathable, weather-resistant snowblower cover. This protects it from dust, dirt, and potential scratches. Avoid using plastic tarps that don't breathe, as they can trap moisture and promote mold or mildew growth. Ensure the cover fits snugly to prevent wind from getting underneath and causing damage. A good cover is a final, simple yet effective layer of protection for your valuable equipment.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Stabilize the fuel system by adding a fuel stabilizer and running the engine to circulate it.
- ✓ Thoroughly clean the entire snowblower, removing all dirt, salt, and debris, and dry it completely.
- ✓ Lubricate all moving parts, including auger bearings, drive shafts, and control cables, as per the owner's manual.
- ✓ For electric start models, remove and store the battery in a cool, dry place, ideally on a trickle charger.
- ✓ Store the snowblower in a clean, dry, indoor location and cover it with a breathable, weather-resistant cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I leave fuel in my Ariens snowblower without a stabilizer?
It is not recommended to leave untreated fuel in your Ariens snowblower for more than 30 days. Gasoline begins to degrade after this period, and the resulting varnish and gum can clog crucial fuel system components, leading to starting problems and potential damage. Using a fuel stabilizer extends this safe storage period to several months, or even up to a year, depending on the product.
What kind of lubricant should I use for my Ariens snowblower's moving parts?
For most lubrication points, such as auger bearings and pivot points, a high-quality all-purpose grease is suitable. For areas like the shear bolt and auger shaft, a light coating of engine oil or a penetrating lubricant can be effective. Always refer to your specific Ariens snowblower model's owner's manual for the most accurate recommendations on lubricant types and application points.
Can I just leave my Ariens snowblower outside under a tarp for the summer?
While a tarp offers some protection, it's not the ideal solution for long-term summer storage. Tarps can trap moisture, leading to rust and corrosion. They also offer little protection against extreme temperature fluctuations or pests. An indoor, dry storage location is strongly recommended. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, use a breathable, weather-resistant cover and elevate the machine off the ground.
My Ariens snowblower has an electric start. Do I need to do anything special with the battery?
Yes, absolutely. If your Ariens snowblower has an electric start, it's crucial to care for the battery during summer storage. Remove the battery from the machine, clean its terminals, and store it in a cool, dry place. The best practice is to connect it to a trickle charger or battery maintainer to keep it charged. If this isn't possible, check and recharge the battery periodically to prevent it from discharging completely, which can cause permanent damage.
What if I find rust on my Ariens snowblower after cleaning it?
If you discover rust after cleaning, don't panic. Gently remove the rust using fine-grit steel wool, a wire brush, or a rust remover product. Once the rust is gone and the area is clean and dry, apply a rust inhibitor or a light coat of lubricant or protective spray to the affected metal surface. This will prevent the rust from returning and further protect the component.
Conclusion
Properly storing your Ariens snowblower for the summer is a proactive maintenance task that pays significant dividends. By diligently preparing the fuel system, performing a thorough cleaning, ensuring all moving parts are lubricated, attending to the battery and spark plug, and selecting an appropriate storage location, you are safeguarding your investment. These steps are not overly complicated but are essential for preventing common issues like fuel system clogs, rust, and battery failure, all of which can lead to costly repairs and a frustrating start to the next snow season.
Don't let your Ariens snowblower fall victim to the neglect of summer. Taking a few hours now to follow these storage recommendations will ensure your machine is in prime condition when the first flakes begin to fall. Embrace this opportunity for preventative care, and you'll be rewarded with a reliable, powerful snowblower ready to conquer winter's challenges for years to come. Get started today and give your Ariens the rest it deserves, knowing it will be ready when you need it most.
