Ariens Platinum 30 SHO Manual

The Ariens Platinum 30 SHO is a high-performance, two-stage snow blower featuring a 30-inch clearing width, 420cc Ariens AX engine with electric start, Power Steering for effortless handling, Auto-Turn technology for easy maneuvering, serrated steel augers, dual LED headlights, heated hand grips, and a durable steel construction. Designed for heavy-duty residential and commercial use. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Engine Care 7. Auger & Impeller System 8. Storage & Off-Season Care 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 420cc Ariens AX Engine, 30-inch steel auger housing, Power Steering system, Auto-Turn technology, Electric Start, Dual LED headlights, Heated hand grips, 6-speed shift-on-the-go transmission.

FeatureDescription
Clearing Width30 inches for efficient snow removal
Engine420cc Ariens AX engine with electric start
Power SteeringReduces steering effort by up to 80%
Auto-TurnAllows easy turning with one hand
AugersSerrated steel augers for breaking up packed snow
Impeller14-inch diameter, 4-blade design for long throwing distance
HeadlightsDual LED lights for visibility in low-light conditions
Hand GripsHeated grips for operator comfort in cold weather
Chute Control360-degree rotation with remote control
Drive System6-speed shift-on-the-go transmission with friction disc

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Handle Assembly: Attach upper and lower handle sections using provided bolts.
  2. Chute Assembly: Install discharge chute and remote control cable.
  3. Auger Installation: Mount auger to housing (pre-assembled on most models).
  4. Add Oil & Fuel: Fill engine with SAE 5W-30 oil; add fresh unleaded gasoline.
  5. Battery Installation: Connect battery for electric start feature.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

  1. Starting: Use electric start key or pull cord (if battery dead).
  2. Drive Control: Lever on left handle engages drive; release to stop.
  3. Speed Selection: Use shift lever to choose 1-6 forward or 2 reverse speeds.
  4. Auger Control: Lever on right handle engages auger rotation.
  5. Chute Control: Use remote control knob to adjust chute direction and pitch.
  6. Steering: Power Steering activates automatically when turning.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from all moving parts. Never operate without proper guards in place.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Before Each Use: Check oil level, fuel level, tire pressure, and all controls.

After Each Use: Clean snow from machine, allow to dry, check for damage.

Every 25 Hours: Check auger drive belts, friction disc, skid shoes.

Every 50 Hours: Change engine oil, check spark plug, lubricate control cables.

Seasonally: Replace fuel filter, check shear pins, inspect auger/impeller.

Engine Care

The 420cc Ariens AX engine requires proper care.

  1. Oil: Use SAE 5W-30 detergent oil. Capacity: 1.5 quarts.
  2. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane. Add fuel stabilizer for storage.
  3. Air Filter: Clean foam pre-filter every 25 hours; replace paper element annually.
  4. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inches. Replace annually or every 100 hours.
  5. Battery: Keep charged during season; remove and store fully charged during off-season.

Tip: Always run engine for a few minutes after adding fuel stabilizer before storage.

Auger & Impeller System

The auger and impeller system is designed for heavy snow.

  1. Shear Pins: Protect auger from damage. Replace with genuine Ariens pins if broken.
  2. Auger Adjustment: Adjust skid shoes for desired clearing height (1/4 inch above surface).
  3. Belt Inspection: Check auger and drive belts for wear every 25 hours.
  4. Lubrication: Lubricate auger shaft and chute mechanism at beginning of season.
  5. Impeller Clearance: Maintain 1/8 inch clearance between impeller and housing.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance on auger/impeller system.

Storage & Off-Season Care

Proper storage prevents damage and ensures ready operation next season.

  1. Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, then drain fuel tank or run until empty.
  2. Oil: Change oil at end of season (dirty oil contains acids that can damage engine).
  3. Battery: Remove, clean terminals, charge fully, store in cool dry place.
  4. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean entire machine, touch up any paint chips.
  5. Storage Location: Store in dry, protected area. Engage auger control to relieve spring tension.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline deteriorates and can damage fuel system.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Warranty & Support

Ariens Platinum 30 SHO comes with limited warranties: 5-year warranty on frame, 3-year warranty on engine, 2-year warranty on parts. Proof of purchase required. For technical support, contact Ariens Customer Service at 1-800-678-5443 or visit www.ariens.com. Register your product online for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, batteryCheck fuel level; ensure fuel valve on; check spark plug; charge battery.
Loss of powerDirty air filter, old fuelClean/replace air filter; drain old fuel and refill with fresh.
Auger won't turnShear pins brokenReplace broken shear pins with genuine Ariens pins.
Poor throwing distanceEngine speed, impeller clearanceRun at full throttle; check impeller clearance (1/8 inch).
Machine won't driveDrive belt, friction discCheck drive belt for wear; inspect friction disc; adjust drive control cable.
Hard steeringPower Steering cableCheck Power Steering cable adjustment; lubricate pivot points.
Electric start not workingBattery, connectionsCharge battery; clean and tighten battery connections.

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

Parts: Use only genuine Ariens replacement parts for optimal performance and safety.

Ariens Platinum 30 SHO Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025