ariens compact 24 manual

The Ariens Compact 24 is a 24-inch two-stage snow blower designed for residential snow removal. It features a 208cc Ariens AX engine, electric start, 6 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds, serrated steel augers, a durable steel chute with 200° rotation, LED headlights, and a heated handgrip option. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Storage & Off-Season Care 7. Safety Guidelines 8. Troubleshooting 9. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 208cc Ariens AX engine, Electric start with key, Auger control lever, Drive control lever, Chute control crank, Skid shoes, Serrated steel augers, Steel chute with deflector.

Feature	Description
Engine	208cc Ariens AX 4-cycle engine
Starting System	Electric start with recoil backup
Clearing Width	24 inches
Intake Height	21 inches
Auger Material	Serrated steel
Chute Control	Manual crank with 200° rotation
Drive System	6 forward speeds, 2 reverse speeds
Traction	Durable tires with reinforced tread
Headlights	LED for visibility in low light
Handgrips	Optional heated grips available

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Handle Assembly: Attach upper handle to lower handle using provided bolts.
Chute Assembly: Install discharge chute and deflector onto housing.
Controls: Connect auger and drive control cables to handles.
Skid Shoes: Attach adjustable skid shoes to both sides of housing.
Add Oil & Fuel: Fill engine with SAE 5W-30 oil. Add fresh unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before assembly or maintenance. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Starting: Insert key, set choke, turn key to start. Use recoil if electric start fails.
Auger Engagement: Squeeze auger control lever against handle to engage augers.
Drive Control: Squeeze drive control lever to move forward or reverse.
Speed Selection: Use shift lever to choose one of 6 forward or 2 reverse speeds.
Chute Direction: Turn chute crank to adjust discharge direction up to 200°.
Deflector: Adjust deflector knob to control snow trajectory height.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from rotating auger. Never operate without proper guards in place.

Specifications

Model: Ariens Compact 24.
Engine: 208cc Ariens AX 4-cycle OHV.
Starting: Electric key start with recoil backup.
Clearing Width: 24 inches.
Intake Height: 21 inches.
Augers: Serrated steel, 12-inch diameter.
Drive: Friction disc, 6 forward speeds, 2 reverse speeds.
Chute Rotation: 200° manual rotation.
Tires: 13 x 4.00-6.
Dimensions (LxWxH): 55 x 28 x 44 inches.
Weight: 218 lbs.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect auger shear pins, check tire pressure
Every 5 hours	Lubricate chute crank, control cables, and pivot points
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check spark plug, inspect belts
Every season	Replace fuel filter, inspect scraper bar and skid shoes
As needed	Replace shear pins if auger is jammed

Note: Always refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance.

Storage & Off-Season Care

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine for 5 minutes, or drain fuel completely.
Engine: Change oil at end of season. Remove spark plug and add a teaspoon of oil to cylinder.
Cleaning: Clean snow and debris from auger housing and chute. Touch up any rust spots.
Storage: Store in a dry, covered area. Engage auger control to relieve spring tension.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Allow engine to cool before storing.

Safety Guidelines

Always prioritize safety when operating the snow blower.

Read manual completely before operation.
Clear area of debris, rocks, and obstacles before use.
Wear appropriate clothing, eye protection, and sturdy footwear.
Never attempt to clear clogged auger with hands or feet. Use clearing tool.
Do not operate on steep slopes. Be aware of discharge area.
Disconnect spark plug before performing any maintenance or clearing jams.
Keep children and pets away from area during operation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, choke setting	Check fuel level, inspect/replace spark plug, adjust choke.
Engine runs but auger doesn't turn	Shear pins broken, control cable loose	Replace shear pins, adjust auger control cable tension.
Snow blower won't move	Drive belt loose, drive control cable	Inspect drive belt, adjust drive control cable.
Poor snow discharge	Engine speed too low, clogged chute	Operate at full throttle, clear chute obstruction.
Excessive vibration	Damaged auger, loose parts	Inspect auger for damage, tighten all bolts and fasteners.

Shear Pin Replacement: Always use genuine Ariens shear pins. Never use standard bolts.

Warranty Information

Ariens Compact 24 is covered by a limited warranty. Residential use: 3-year warranty on entire unit, 5-year warranty on auger housing. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized Ariens dealer. For support, visit www.ariens.com or contact 1-800-678-5443.