Ariens has made efficient snowblowers, but if they don't start, you can't get the massive amount of snow moved. So what could cause your snowblower to start? Are there things to check for when this happens? We have done the research to help you troubleshoot this issue in this article!
If your Ariens snowblower doesn't start, then there are some common things to check for:
- Low Fuel
- Poor Fuel Quality
- Worn Spark Plugs
- Clogged Carburetor
- Faulty Flywheel Key
- Bad Recoil Starter
- Faulty Ignition Coil
- Improper Choke Adjustment
- Prime the Engine
Since a snowblower is another type of motorized equipment, it will need maintenance from time to time. However, getting it to start might be something you can fix yourself without calling a professional. In this article, we will take a closer look at pinpointing why your Ariens snowblower won't start. We will also discuss how to clean your snowblower's carburetor, so read on!
What Would Cause a Snowblower not to Start?
Snowblowers are machines that are used to move snow from a designated area. The snow is moved by the blower throwing it out of the chute. The way the snowblower works is that it uses a gasoline engine to turn an impeller.
This impeller throws the snow out of the chute and into the desired area. For the snowblower to start, it needs a spark from the starter and gas from the gas tank. Therefore, when starting a snowblower, you have to follow a specific procedure for it to work.
The engine usually has a slow start system that ensures that it doesn't stall out when you first turn it on. Unfortunately, this slow start system sometimes fails, and the impeller doesn't turn. This is where you can check for some of the common problems that cause a snowblower not to start without knowing too much about engines.
Let's take a look at the common reasons your Ariens snowblower won't start:
Low Fuel
One of the most common reasons for a snowblower not to start is low fuel in the gas tank. As a result, the engine won't have enough power to turn the impeller and start the snowblower when this happens.
You will need to add more fuel to the gas tank to fix this. Make sure you use the correct type of fuel for your snowblower. In addition, always check the fuel level before starting the snowblower to make sure you have enough fuel.
Poor Fuel Quality
Sometimes the gas gets old and loses its octane rating. It won't have enough power to start the engine when this happens. Old gasoline can also clog your carburetor, which could cause your engine not to turn over at all.
You will need to get fresh fuel for the snowblower to fix this problem.
Worn Spark Plugs
The spark plugs may be worn out if your snowblower doesn't start. This is because they don't provide enough spark to get the gasoline engine to turn over when this happens.
To test if the spark plug needs replacing, you will need to check it for continuity by placing an ohmmeter on both sides of the spark plug.
Clogged Carburetor
Another reason that your snowblower won't start could be because of a clogged carburetor. A clogged carburetor will prevent the engine from getting the correct air and fuel.
To fix this, you will need to clean the carburetor. Make sure you know how to take your snowblower apart before cleaning the carburetor.
Faulty Flywheel Key
If your flywheel key is broken or missing, the flywheel won't receive the energy from the recoil starter. This will cause your snowblower not to start.
To fix this, you will need to replace the flywheel key if it is broken or missing. You can also purchase a new one online or at an auto parts store near you.
Bad Recoil Starter
If the recoil starter is bad, it will prevent the flywheel from receiving the energy needed to start the engine.
To fix this, you might need to replace the recoil starter. You can also take it to an auto parts store and have them test it for you.
Bad Ignition Coil
Another problem that can cause your Ariens snowblower not to start is if the ignition coil doesn't work. To successfully ignite the fuel in the engine, you will need a working spark plug and ignition coil.
You will need to have the ignition coil tested at an auto parts store to fix this problem. If it is bad, you will need to replace it.
Improper Choke Adjustment
If the choke is not adjusted correctly, the engine won't have enough power to start your Ariens snowblower. You can fix this problem by adjusting the choke.
To adjust this correctly, use a wrench and turn the knob until it is in the correct position.
Prime the Engine
If your engine still doesn't start, try priming it. Unfortunately, this means that you will need to pump the fuel up to the carburetor manually.
To do this, you will need to find the primer bulb on your snowblower. Once you have located it, gently push and release the bulb until fuel comes out. Once you see fuel coming out of the bulb, stop pushing on it.
These are some of the most common reasons a snowblower won't start. If you are still having problems, make sure you take it to an authorized dealer and have them look at it. They will tell you what is wrong and how to fix it.
How do you Clean a Carburetor on Ariens Snowblower without Removing it?
If you don't want to completely disassemble your Ariens snowblower to clean the carburetor, then follow these steps:
- First, you need to purchase a carburetor cleaning kit and some fuel injector cleaner. The next step is to locate the air filter box, which will be near the flywheel.
- Once you have found it, remove the two screws holding it in place and tilt it towards the ground so the air filter isn't blocking your way.
- Next, you will want to locate the carburetor, which will be towards the top of the engine. It is held in place by two screws, so remove them and tilt it towards you.
- Now you can see the fuel bowl, which is where you will need to clean the gunk out with the help of the cleaning kit.
- Make sure that you also clean the fuel inlet and the fuel outlet. Once you have finished, put everything back in place and try starting your snowblower again.
- If it still doesn't start, you might need to replace the carburetor.
How do I Know if my Snowblower is Flooded?
One of the main ways to know if your snowblower is flooded is by checking to see if there is fuel on the spark plugs. If there is fuel present on the spark plug, that is a sign that your snowblower has flooded.
Another way to tell if your snowblower is flooded is by the sound that it makes when you try to start it. If it sounds like it's struggling, that is another sign that it might be flooded.
The last way to tell if your snowblower is flooded is by the amount of time it takes for it to start. If it takes longer than usual to start, there might be excess fuel in the motor, which needs to be removed.
How do I Unflood my Ariens Snowblower?
To unflood your Ariens snowblower can be done using these simple steps:
- First, make sure your snowblower is off and let it sit for a few hours.
- Next, turn the choke off and hold the throttle wide open.
- Now, pull the snowblower string until you reach the start position.
- Repeat these steps as needed.
Following these steps will allow more air to get into the carburetor and help unflood the snowblower engine. If you are still having issues, you may need to clean out the carburetor.
Where do you Spray Starter Fluid in Ariens Snowblower?
Typically, it would help spray starter fluid into the Ariens snowblower air intake. This is located near the flywheel and is where you should aim the can of starter fluid when trying to start your snowblower.
Final Thoughts
If your Ariens snowblower doesn't start then, it could be a simple fix. First, check that you have enough fuel and quality fuel in the tank. These are the first things to check if you are having issues.
Next, it is important to look at your spark plugs to see if they are worn or if fuel is present. If fuel is present on the spark plugs, then the engine may have flooded, which can cause issues when needing to start the snowblower.
If you like this article, then check out our other ones:
Can Chipmunks And Rabbits Ruin My House Foundation?