Ariens 24 Compact Manual

The Ariens 24 Compact is a 24-inch single-stage snow thrower designed for residential use, featuring a 208cc Ariens AX engine, 24-inch clearing width, 21-inch intake height, 6 forward speeds plus reverse, electric start with recoil backup, 120V power cord, steel auger, adjustable discharge chute with 200° rotation, LED headlight, and foldable handle for storage. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Storage Preparation 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 208cc Ariens AX engine, Steel auger assembly, Discharge chute with crank control, Electric start system, 6-speed drive system, Foldable handle, LED headlight.

Feature	Description
Clearing Width	24 inches for efficient snow removal
Intake Height	21 inches to handle deep snow accumulations
Engine	208cc Ariens AX 4-cycle engine with electric start
Drive System	6 forward speeds plus reverse for optimal control
Auger	Steel construction with serrated edge for ice breaking
Discharge Chute	Adjustable with 200° rotation and crank control
Headlight	LED for visibility in low-light conditions
Handle	Foldable design for compact storage
Skid Shoes	Adjustable for proper clearance height
Scraper Bar	Replaceable for clean surface contact

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts.
Install discharge chute: Attach chute assembly to housing, connect control cable.
Mount chute crank: Install crank control on handle and connect to chute.
Install skid shoes: Attach to sides of housing with adjustment bolts.
Connect electric start: Attach power cord receptacle to engine.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil (20 oz capacity).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with stabilizer (1.2 gallon tank).

WARNING! Engine is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Tighten all fasteners securely.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly, then prepare for first use.

Check oil level: Ensure proper level on dipstick.
Add fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
Adjust skid shoes: Set for appropriate surface clearance (1/4" above pavement).
Test controls: Verify auger engagement, drive control, and chute rotation.
Test electric start: Plug into 120V outlet, start engine to verify operation.
Test recoil start: Pull starter cord to ensure backup starting system works.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool completely.

Specifications

Clearing Width: 24 inches.
Intake Height: 21 inches.
Engine: 208cc Ariens AX 4-cycle OHV.
Starting System: Electric start with 120V cord plus recoil backup.
Drive System: 6 forward speeds, 1 reverse.
Auger: 12-inch diameter steel with serrated edge.
Discharge Distance: Up to 35 feet depending on snow conditions.
Fuel Capacity: 1.2 gallons.
Oil Capacity: 20 oz SAE 5W-30 synthetic.
Dimensions: 44" L x 28" W x 46" H (assembled).
Weight: 175 lbs.

Controls and Operation

Main controls located on handle. Right handle: Auger engagement lever. Left handle: Drive control lever. Center: Chute rotation crank and chute deflector control.

Starting Procedure: 1. Insert safety key. 2. Move fuel valve to ON. 3. Set choke for cold starts. 4. Plug in electric start cord or use recoil. 5. Turn ignition key to START.

Operating: Engage auger with right lever. Control speed with left lever (1-6 forward, R reverse). Adjust chute direction with crank. Adjust discharge angle with deflector control.

Stopping: Release auger lever, then drive lever. Turn ignition key to OFF. Remove safety key.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Maintenance Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect auger and drive controls
Every 5 hours	Check all fasteners for tightness
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check spark plug
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive belt
Every 100 hours	Replace drive belt, lubricate control cables
Season end	Complete storage preparation procedure

Tip: Always use Ariens genuine parts for replacements.

Storage Preparation

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Run engine dry: Allow engine to consume remaining fuel in carburetor.
Add fuel stabilizer: Fill tank with stabilized fuel, run for 5 minutes.
Change oil: Replace engine oil while warm at season end.
Clean unit: Remove all snow and debris from housing and auger.
Lubricate: Apply grease to auger shaft and control pivot points.
Protect: Cover unit with waterproof cover in dry storage area.
Remove battery: If equipped with battery maintainer, store separately.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in carburetor without stabilizer.

Safety Features

Safety Key: Must be inserted for engine operation. Deadman Controls: Auger and drive controls return to neutral when released. Shear Bolts: Protect auger from damage if hitting solid objects. Discharge Chute Guard: Prevents direct hand access to discharge area.

Care & Cleaning

Clean after each use. Allow engine to cool completely before cleaning.

Remove snow buildup from housing and auger with brush.
Wipe controls and handles with damp cloth.
Check for ice accumulation in chute and housing.
Inspect scraper bar and skid shoes for wear.
Store in dry location away from moisture.

CAUTION! Never use water spray or pressure washer on engine or controls.

Warranty Information

Ariens 24 Compact comes with 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: Normal wear, improper maintenance, commercial use, neglect or abuse. For warranty service, contact authorized Ariens dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.ariens.com or contact 1-800-678-5443.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark, safety key	Check fuel level, spark plug, insert safety key, use choke.
Electric start not working	No power, bad connection	Check outlet, ensure cord is fully plugged in at both ends.
Auger won't engage	Shear bolt broken, cable adjustment	Replace shear bolts, check cable tension and connection.
Poor snow discharge	Worn scraper, wet snow	Replace scraper bar, adjust skid shoes higher for wet snow.
Machine doesn't move	Drive belt, control cable	Check drive belt condition, adjust drive control cable.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged auger	Tighten all fasteners, inspect auger for damage or imbalance.

Service: For technical support: 1-800-678-5443; www.ariens.com

Parts: Use only Ariens genuine replacement parts for optimal performance.