Ariens Deluxe 28 Repair Manual
The Ariens Deluxe 28 is a high-performance 28-inch two-stage snow thrower designed for heavy-duty snow removal. This repair manual covers essential maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for the engine, drive system, auger, impeller, controls, and electrical components. Below are key sections for safety, specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and step-by-step repair instructions.
Features at a Glance
Key components: 28-inch clearing width, Two-stage auger system, Briggs & Stratton or Ariens AX engine, Electric start (optional), 6 forward speeds & 2 reverse speeds, Heated hand grips (optional), Headlight, Skid shoes, Shear pins, Chute control.
| Feature | Description |
|---|
| Clearing Width | 28 inches for efficient snow removal |
| Engine Type | Briggs & Stratton or Ariens AX engine (208cc to 254cc) |
| Starting System | Recoil start with optional electric start |
| Drive System | 6 forward speeds, 2 reverse speeds with friction disc transmission |
| Auger System | Two-stage: serrated steel auger with rubber paddles |
| Chute Control | Manual crank or optional remote control |
| Skid Shoes | Adjustable for cutting height |
| Shear Pins | Protect auger from damage by shearing on impact |
| Headlight | LED or halogen for visibility in low light |
| Tires | 13" or 15" pneumatic tires with traction bands |
Safety Precautions
Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury or damage.
- Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any repairs or maintenance.
- Allow engine to cool completely before working on machine.
- Work in a well-ventilated area when handling fuel or oil.
- Use proper tools and follow torque specifications.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves during repairs.
WARNING! Never operate snow thrower without all guards and shields in place. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Specifications
- Model: Ariens Deluxe 28 (924/926/928 series).
- Clearing Width: 28 inches.
- Engine: Briggs & Stratton Snow Series or Ariens AX Engine, 208cc to 254cc.
- Starting: Recoil with 120V electric start option.
- Drive: Friction disc transmission, 6 forward speeds, 2 reverse.
- Auger: 12-inch diameter serrated steel auger with rubber paddles.
- Impeller: 12-inch diameter, 4-blade design.
- Chute: 180-degree rotation, manual or remote control.
- Fuel Capacity: 1.5 to 2 gallons.
- Oil Capacity: 20 oz to 32 oz (check specific engine manual).
- Weight: Approximately 250 lbs.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.
| Interval | Task |
|---|
| Before each use | Check fuel level, oil level, tire pressure, shear pins, and controls. |
| Every 5 hours | Check auger and drive belts for wear and tension. |
| Every 25 hours | Change engine oil (first change after 5 hours), check spark plug. |
| Every 50 hours | Lubricate control cables, chute mechanism, and auger shaft. |
| Every 100 hours | Replace spark plug, clean or replace air filter, check drive friction disc. |
| End of season | Drain fuel or add stabilizer, run engine dry, clean entire machine, store properly. |
Engine Repair
Common engine issues and repair procedures.
- Engine won't start: Check fuel, spark plug, carburetor, and ignition system.
- Engine runs poorly: Clean or replace air filter, check fuel lines, adjust carburetor.
- Oil change: Drain oil, replace filter (if equipped), refill with SAE 5W-30 synthetic.
- Spark plug replacement: Gap to 0.030", use Champion RC12YC or equivalent.
- Carburetor cleaning: Remove, disassemble, clean jets, reassemble with new gaskets.
Note: Refer to specific engine manual (Briggs & Stratton or Ariens) for detailed repair steps.
Drive System Repair
Repairing the friction disc transmission and drive cables.
- Machine won't move: Check drive control cable adjustment, friction disc wear, and drive belt.
- Friction disc replacement: Remove wheel, hub, and old disc; install new disc and reassemble.
- Drive belt replacement: Remove belt cover, release tension, replace belt (Part # 21541500).
- Drive cable adjustment: Loosen locknut, adjust cable to achieve proper engagement.
- Traction improvement: Add wheel weights or tire chains for slippery conditions.
Auger & Impeller Repair
Repairing the auger, impeller, and related components.
- Shear pin replacement: Remove broken pin, align holes, insert new 1/4" x 2-1/2" shear pin.
- Auger belt replacement: Remove belt cover, release idler pulley, install new belt (Part # 21541400).
- Auger cable adjustment: Adjust cable so auger engages fully when control is pulled.
- Impeller inspection: Check for damage or wear; replace if blades are bent or cracked.
- Auger shaft bearing replacement: Remove auger, press out old bearings, press in new ones.
CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before working on auger system.
Control System Repair
Repairing control levers, cables, and chute mechanism.
- Chute control repair: Lubricate crank mechanism; replace cable if frozen or broken.
- Remote chute repair: Check electric motor and gearbox; replace if malfunctioning.
- Control lever adjustment: Adjust cables for proper auger and drive engagement.
- Heated grip repair: Check wiring and switch; replace grip element if not heating.
- Skid shoe adjustment: Loosen bolts, adjust height for desired cutting depth.
Electrical System Repair
Repairing electric start, headlight, and wiring.
- Electric start not working: Check battery charge, connections, and starter motor.
- Headlight replacement: Remove lens cover, replace bulb (usually H3 55W).
- Wiring harness repair: Inspect for damaged wires; solder and heat shrink any breaks.
- Key switch replacement: Disconnect battery, remove old switch, install new switch.
- Battery maintenance: Keep battery charged; check electrolyte levels if non-sealed.
Troubleshooting Guide
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|
| Engine cranks but won't start | No spark, old fuel, clogged carburetor | Check spark plug; drain old fuel; clean carburetor. |
| Machine moves slowly or slips | Worn friction disc, loose drive belt | Replace friction disc; adjust or replace drive belt. |
| Auger doesn't turn | Shear pins broken, auger belt loose/broken | Replace shear pins; adjust or replace auger belt. |
| Poor snow throwing distance | Worn impeller, engine RPM too low | Replace impeller blades; adjust governor to 3400 RPM. |
| Electric start doesn't work | Dead battery, faulty solenoid, bad wiring | Charge/replace battery; test solenoid; check wiring. |
| Excessive vibration | Unbalanced auger, loose bolts | Check for bent auger; tighten all auger and impeller bolts. |
Parts List & Diagrams
Refer to Ariens parts diagrams for exact part numbers. Common replacement parts:
- Shear Pins: Part # 03513100 (1/4" x 2-1/2")
- Auger Belt: Part # 21541400
- Drive Belt: Part # 21541500
- Friction Disc: Part # 03509600
- Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC or equivalent
- Air Filter: Part # 03505400
- Oil Filter (if equipped): Briggs & Stratton 492932S
Ordering Parts: Contact Ariens dealer or visit www.ariens.com with model and serial number.
Service Support: For technical assistance, call Ariens Customer Service at 1-800-678-5443 or visit www.ariens.com.
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