Ariens Deluxe 28 Model 921046 Manual

The Ariens Deluxe 28 Model 921046 is a 28-inch two-stage snow thrower designed for heavy-duty snow removal. It features a 254cc Ariens AX engine, electric start, power steering, serrated steel augers, 6 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds, heated hand grips, LED headlights, and a durable steel construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 254cc Ariens AX engine, Electric Start System, Power Steering, Serrated Steel Augers, 6 Forward/2 Reverse Speeds, Heated Hand Grips, LED Headlights, Steel Chassis.

Feature	Description
Engine	254cc Ariens AX engine with overhead valve design
Starting System	Electric start with recoil backup
Steering	Power steering for easy maneuverability
Augers	Serrated steel augers for breaking up packed snow
Drive System	6 forward speeds, 2 reverse speeds
Comfort Features	Heated hand grips for cold weather operation
Lighting	LED headlights for visibility in low light
Chassis	Durable steel construction
Clearing Width	28 inches
Intake Height	21 inches

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Handle Assembly: Attach upper handle to lower handle using provided bolts.
Chute Control: Install chute control cable and adjust for proper rotation.
Skid Shoes: Attach skid shoes to auger housing for height adjustment.
Shear Pins: Install shear pins in auger shaft (if not pre-installed).
Oil and Fuel: Add engine oil (SAE 5W-30) and fresh gasoline.

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

First-Time Setup

Prepare snow thrower for initial use.

Check Oil Level: Ensure oil is at proper level on dipstick.
Fuel: Fill with fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Battery: Connect battery for electric start (if equipped).
Controls Test: Test all controls (drive, auger, chute) before operation.
Break-in Period: Operate at varying speeds for first 5 hours.

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

Specifications

Model: 921046 (Deluxe 28)
Clearing Width: 28 inches
Intake Height: 21 inches
Engine: 254cc Ariens AX engine (OHV)
Starting: Electric start with recoil backup
Speeds: 6 forward, 2 reverse
Steering: Power steering
Augers: Serrated steel
Discharge Chute: 190° rotation, crank control
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons
Weight: 295 lbs

Controls and Operation

Main Controls: Electric Start Button, Drive Control Lever, Auger Control Lever, Chute Rotation Crank, Chute Deflector Control.

Starting Procedure: 1. Insert key. 2. Set choke (cold engine). 3. Press electric start or pull recoil. 4. Adjust throttle to fast position.

Operation: Engage drive lever slowly. Engage auger lever to collect and throw snow. Use chute crank to direct snow. Adjust skid shoes for surface conditions.

Shutdown: Disengage auger and drive. Allow engine to idle 30 seconds. Turn key to OFF. Remove key.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Before Each Use: Check oil, fuel, shear pins, controls.
Every 25 Hours: Change engine oil, check spark plug.
Every 50 Hours: Clean/replace air filter, check drive belts.
Every 100 Hours: Change gear case oil, inspect auger bearings.
Seasonal: Lubricate all pivot points, check tire pressure.

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

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer or drain fuel tank and carburetor.
Engine: Change oil, remove spark plug and add teaspoon of oil to cylinder.
Cleaning: Thoroughly clean snow thrower, removing all snow and debris.
Lubrication: Lubricate all cables, pivot points, and chute mechanism.
Storage Location: Store in dry, covered area. Cover unit.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Safety Features

Deadman Controls: Auger and drive controls require operator presence. Shear Pins: Protect auger from damage if hitting obstruction. Key Ignition: Prevents unauthorized use. Safety Labels: Read and understand all labels on machine.

Care & Cleaning

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

Cleaning: Use brush or damp cloth to remove snow and debris. Never use high-pressure water on engine or controls.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before performing any cleaning or maintenance.

Warranty Information

Ariens Deluxe 28 Model 921046 comes with a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Ariens dealer. For support, visit www.ariens.com or contact 1-800-678-5443.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plug connection, battery charge.
Loss of power	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter	Replace fuel filter, clean/replace air filter.
Auger won't engage	Shear pins broken, control cable	Replace shear pins, adjust auger control cable.
Poor snow throwing	Worn scraper bar, belt tension	Replace scraper bar, adjust drive belt tension.
Uneven drive	Tire pressure, friction disc	Inflate tires to 20 PSI, check friction disc wear.

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

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