Ariens Compact 26 Manual

The Ariens Compact 26 is a 26-inch two-stage snow blower designed for residential snow removal. It features a 208cc Ariens AX engine, electric start, power steering, serrated steel augers, dual LED headlights, and a 6-speed gear drive. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 208cc Ariens AX engine, Electric Start, Power Steering, 26-inch clearing width, Serrated Steel Augers, Dual LED Headlights, 6-Speed Gear Drive, Drift Cutters, Skid Shoes.

Feature	Description
Engine	208cc Ariens AX engine with electric start
Clearing Width	26 inches
Auger System	Serrated steel augers with shear pins
Drive System	6-speed gear drive with power steering
Headlights	Dual LED headlights for visibility
Chute Control	360-degree rotation with crank adjustment
Skid Shoes	Adjustable for surface protection
Drift Cutters	Break down high snow banks
Fuel Tank	1.5-gallon capacity
Warranty	3-year limited warranty

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Attach handles: Secure with provided bolts and wrench.
2. Install chute assembly: Attach to housing and secure bolts.
3. Connect control cables: Route cables per diagram and adjust tension.
4. Add engine oil: Use SAE 5W-30 synthetic (approx. 20 oz).
5. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
6. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10 PSI.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before assembly or maintenance. Wear protective gloves.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before first use.

1. Electric start: Insert key, turn to ON, press start button.
2. Auger engagement: Pull lever to engage auger rotation.
3. Drive control: Squeeze lever to move forward; release to stop.
4. Speed selection: Use shift lever to choose 1-6 speed.
5. Chute control: Turn crank to rotate chute; adjust deflector.
6. Steering: Use power steering levers for easy turning.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from rotating auger. Clear area of debris before operation.

Specifications

• Model: Ariens Compact 26
• Engine: 208cc Ariens AX 4-cycle
• Starting: Electric start with key
• Clearing Width: 26 inches
• Clearing Depth: Up to 21 inches
• Auger Material: Serrated steel
• Drive: 6-speed gear drive with power steering
• Fuel Capacity: 1.5 gallons
• Dimensions: 64" L x 28" W x 46" H
• Weight: 243 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, shear pins
Every 5 hours	Lubricate chute mechanism and auger shaft
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check spark plug
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive belt
Season end	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean unit

Tip: Always use Ariens genuine parts for replacement.

Engine Care

The 208cc Ariens AX engine requires proper care.

1. Oil change: Use SAE 5W-30 synthetic; change first 5 hours, then every 25.
2. Air filter: Clean foam filter every 25 hours; replace if damaged.
3. Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
4. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline; add fuel stabilizer for storage.
5. Cooling fins: Keep clean of debris for proper cooling.

WARNING! Engine is hot during/after operation. Allow to cool before maintenance.

Auger & Drive System

Auger and drive system are critical for snow removal.

1. Shear pins: Replace if auger stops turning; use only Ariens pins.
2. Belt tension: Check drive belt every 25 hours; adjust if loose.
3. Lubrication: Grease auger shaft and chute mechanism every 5 hours.
4. Skid shoes: Adjust height for surface clearance; replace if worn.
5. Traction: Ensure tires are inflated to 10 PSI for optimal grip.

CAUTION! Never operate with damaged or missing shear pins.

Storage & Off-Season Care

Proper storage prevents corrosion and engine issues.

1. Drain fuel or add stabilizer: Run engine 5 minutes to circulate.
2. Change oil: Fresh oil prevents acid buildup.
3. Clean unit: Remove snow and debris; dry thoroughly.
4. Lubricate: Apply grease to all moving parts.
5. Store: Keep in dry, covered area; cover unit.

Tip: Remove spark plug and add teaspoon of oil to cylinder before long storage.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

• Wear protective gear: gloves, eye protection, sturdy footwear.
• Keep bystanders, especially children, at safe distance.
• Never attempt to clear clog while engine is running.
• Disconnect spark plug before any maintenance or clearing jams.
• Operate only in well-lit conditions; use headlights.
• Avoid slopes and uneven terrain to prevent tipping.

DANGER! Rotating auger can cause serious injury or death. Always stay clear.

Warranty & Support

Ariens Compact 26 includes a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance. For support, contact Ariens Customer Service at 1-800-678-5443 or visit www.ariens.com. Have model and serial numbers ready (located on frame).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, dead battery	Check fuel level; inspect spark plug; charge battery.
Auger won't turn	Shear pins broken, belt loose	Replace shear pins; tighten or replace drive belt.
Poor traction	Low tire pressure, worn tires	Inflate tires to 10 PSI; replace if worn.
Chute won't rotate	Cable loose, mechanism frozen	Adjust cable tension; lubricate chute mechanism.
Excessive vibration	Loose bolts, damaged auger	Tighten all bolts; inspect auger for damage.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Ariens dealer.

Support: 1-800-678-5443; www.ariens.com