Top 5 Tips for Buying a Used Ariens Snow Blower

Start with the basics—make sure the snow blower is built to handle your typical snowfall. A smaller, single-stage model is ideal for light snow and smaller areas, while two-stage and larger models are necessary for heavy snow and larger driveways.

Choosing the Right Fit:

• Single-Stage Models: Best for lighter, smaller jobs and compact for easy storage.
• Two-Stage Models: Suitable for medium to heavy snowfall and larger areas.
• High-Powered Models: Ideal for high snow levels, extreme conditions, or large properties.

Make sure to assess your snow-clearing needs honestly. If the machine is too small, it won’t handle heavy snow efficiently.

Used snow blowers often show signs of wear, especially when it comes to rust. A little surface rust is typically no issue, but watch out for penetrating rust that affects the machine’s structure.

What to Inspect for Rust:

• Surface Rust: Minor rust on non-critical areas can be cleaned and even painted over. Ariens offers color-matched paint to restore your machine.
• Structural Rust: Avoid snow blowers with deep rust that weakens metal parts, like the housing or skid shoes, as it can compromise safety and functionality.

Ariens snow blowers are built from high-grade steel and are often well-maintained, so finding a unit in good shape is very possible.

Different snow blowers vary greatly in maneuverability, especially across models and ages. Give the snow blower a quick test to ensure you can steer and maneuver it comfortably.

Key Maneuverability Features:

• Auto-Turn: Many Ariens models come with Auto-Turn, a feature that enables easy steering without needing to manage triggers.
• Wheel vs. Track Drive: Wheels are common for most users, while tracks add traction on sloped or icy surfaces.
• Self-Propelled Options: Look for a model with multi-speed or hydrostatic drive, which allows you to adjust speeds smoothly for easy handling.

Make sure it feels comfortable to move and control, even if it’s a larger or heavier unit.

Starting issues can be a common pain point with older machines. Even a used Ariens snow blower should start up smoothly with a few pulls, thanks to their reputation for reliability. Test the starter—whether recoil or electric—and make sure it doesn’t need excessive effort.

Starting Tips:

• Prime and Choke: Prime and choke the machine as usual and try to start it.
• #OnePull Reliability: Ariens snow blowers are known for reliable starting, even after years of use. A hard-to-start machine may only need a tune-up or a new spark plug, but avoid units with significant starting trouble.

Before finalizing your purchase, give attention to the consumable parts of the snow blower. Worn belts, fraying cords, and bald tires can impact performance but are relatively easy to replace.

Parts to Inspect:

• Belts: Ariens uses a dual belt drive for optimal power and wear reduction. Check that the belts are in good shape or plan for a replacement.
• Tires: Snowblower tires should have good tread. Worn tires can slip, making snow clearing less efficient. Ariens offers replacement snow tires designed specifically for icy and snowy conditions.
• Recoil Cord: Make sure the recoil cord isn’t fraying. Replacing a worn cord is inexpensive and provides peace of mind for smooth starts.

A quick inspection of these items can save you from minor repairs later and ensures you’re ready to take on winter with confidence.

A used Ariens snow blower can be a valuable addition to your winter arsenal, offering dependable performance at a lower price. By inspecting these key areas—size, rust, maneuverability, starting ease, and wear parts—you’ll be well-prepared to make a smart purchase that lasts.

If you’re looking for the latest features and upgrades, visit your Ariens dealer to explore new models that combine powerful performance with innovative technology.