Ariens 921046 Owners Manual

The Ariens 921046 is a high-performance snow thrower designed for residential use, featuring a powerful engine, durable steel construction, multiple speed settings, electric start capability, adjustable chute control, and easy maneuverability. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Operating Procedures 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel auger and impeller, Electric start system, Adjustable skid shoes, 6-speed drive system, Remote chute control, Headlight for visibility.

FeatureDescription
EnginePowerful 4-cycle engine with electric start capability
Clearing Width24-inch clearing path for efficient snow removal
Intake Height21-inch intake height for handling deep snow
Drive System6 forward speeds, 2 reverse speeds
Chute ControlRemote control for 240-degree rotation
Skid ShoesAdjustable for proper clearance on different surfaces
Auger MaterialDurable steel construction
HeadlightBuilt-in for visibility in low-light conditions
WarrantyLimited warranty covering parts and labor
Fuel Capacity1.5-gallon fuel tank for extended operation

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all components. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Handle Assembly: Attach upper handle to lower handle using provided bolts.
  2. Chute Installation: Mount discharge chute to housing, secure with hardware.
  3. Control Cables: Route and connect chute control and drive control cables.
  4. Skid Shoes: Install adjustable skid shoes on both sides of housing.
  5. Oil and Fuel: Add engine oil and fuel according to specifications.

WARNING! Always wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are properly tightened.

First-Time Operation

Complete assembly and perform pre-operation checks before starting.

  1. Pre-Start Check: Verify oil level, fuel level, and all connections.
  2. Starting Procedure: Use electric start or pull start according to instructions.
  3. Test Controls: Engage auger and drive controls to ensure proper function.
  4. Adjust Skid Shoes: Set appropriate clearance for your surface type.
  5. Practice Operation: Familiarize yourself with controls in clear area.

CAUTION! Never operate without proper safety gear. Keep bystanders away.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Primary controls located on handle panel. Auger Control: Lever to engage/disengage auger. Drive Control: Lever to control forward/reverse movement. Speed Selector: Dial to choose appropriate speed (1-6 forward, 1-2 reverse). Chute Control: Lever to adjust chute direction and angle. Electric Start: Button for electric starting. Headlight Switch: Turns headlight on/off.

Adjustments: Skid shoes adjust clearance (1/4" to 1-1/2"). Scraper bar height adjustable for surface protection. Handle height adjustable for operator comfort.

Operating Procedures

Proper operation ensures efficiency and safety.

  1. Starting: Ensure area is clear, engage safety key, use electric start.
  2. Clearing Snow: Select appropriate speed, engage auger, maintain steady pace.
  3. Chute Adjustment: Use remote control to direct snow away from work area.
  4. Turning: Release drive control to stop movement before turning.
  5. Shutdown: Disengage auger, turn off engine, remove safety key.

Tip: Overlap each pass by several inches for complete clearing.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

IntervalMaintenance Task
Before each useCheck oil level, fuel level, tire pressure
After each useClean snow from machine, inspect for damage
Every 25 hoursCheck spark plug, clean air filter
Every 50 hoursChange engine oil, inspect shear pins
Every 100 hoursReplace spark plug, check drive belt
Season endDrain fuel or add stabilizer, lubricate moving parts

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and prepares for next season.

  1. Fuel Management: Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean entire machine, removing all snow and debris.
  3. Lubrication: Apply lubricant to all moving parts and cables.
  4. Tire Care: Inflate tires to proper pressure.
  5. Cover: Store in dry location with protective cover.

CAUTION! Store in well-ventilated area away from open flames.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Warranty Information

Ariens provides limited warranty coverage for the 921046 model. Warranty period: 3 years for residential use, 90 days for commercial use. Coverage includes replacement of defective parts and labor at authorized service centers. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or normal wear. For warranty service, contact authorized Ariens dealer with proof of purchase. Keep this manual and purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, bad spark plug, safety switch engagedCheck fuel level, inspect spark plug, ensure safety key inserted
Poor throwing distanceWorn belts, engine speed too lowInspect drive belts, check engine RPM settings
Auger doesn't turnShear pins broken, control cable disconnectedReplace shear pins, check auger control cable
Machine doesn't moveDrive belt loose, control cable adjustmentTighten drive belt, adjust drive control cable
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, damaged augerTighten all bolts, inspect auger for damage
Electric start not workingDead battery, poor connectionCharge battery, check electrical connections

Service: For technical support, contact Ariens Customer Service at 1-920-756-4688 or visit www.ariens.com

Ariens 921046 Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025