That Ariens SHO is a pure beast. It demolishes that 14" snowfall, then cracks its knuckles and punches that end of the drive stuff right in the face. Just found your channel. SUBSCRIBED!
The engine actually has a kind of growl to it when you push it hard with s heavy load like the EOD pile. It has a really nice weight to power balance, which gives it really good traction. It’s truly fun to use it! Thanks for the comment Paul.
Yes , I have a same one for the last 3years…works like a king…no regret.I have looked and had other models and not many are made as good as this Ariens Platinum SHO 28” 306cc . Some machine such as the Toro on some models have no shear pins and if you hid a pipe or steel hid under the snow it tares the auger and other components which cost over $600 to fix…plus labor….so I say buy a machine with shear pins so that’s the only thing that will break. I like the automatic steering on the wheels/transmission… turns on a dime . Some has the trigger type on the handles but sometimes my neighbour said they freeze up…..Hard to beat the Ariens. I live in NB. Canada and we have ferocious winter with lots of snow…love it
Hi Raymond. I agree about the shear pins. Cheap protection. I live in South Eastern Wi. No snow so far this year. But when it does snow here, we get lake enhancement, and we can get some pretty impressive totals. You grab the bucket on some of these big box Chinese knock off snowblowers, and you can move it in and out with your hand. Good solid quality with an Ariens that should last 20+ years with proper preventative maintenance. Thanks for the comment, and remember….fear no blizzard when you have an Ariens in your garage!
My back hurts already! I have a Toro about same size... it's a monster. Even with drive it's a back buster when you're moving that kind of snow! Thanks for the video! ☃
Thanks for the comment. I have an old fixed axel 824 Toro at my cabin. She’s really moved alot of snow, but she’s a bear to turn. This Ariens auto turn system is amazing. It’s so easy to handle my wife can use it.
Running a 2015 Ariens 24" Platinum SHO here in New Hampshire. The infamous auto-turn design flaw was finally "fixed"...by installing a brand new ultra-smooth 150" driveway. Other than that it's a truly great machine.
Hey…. They are great machines. I just wish we would get some snow here so I could give mine some exercise. We have only received 12” total so far this winter. I’ve been starting the SHO and letting it run for 10 minutes every couple of weeks, but that’s not like operating under load. Thanks for the comment.
@@blowingsnow4fun I know what you mean. Here in New Hampshire, we've had winters where we get a total of over 120" of snow for the season. We received our largest snowstorm in 4 years last week...around 14".
I’ll settle for 6-8” right now. Just something to get the SHO Out in, and bring her up to operating temperature under load. Winters sure have changed here in WI. When I was a kid, winter started in late November, now we’re lucky to have a dusting of snow at Xmas. Our bigger storms have been coming in February and March. Oh well…. We can hope for a nice snowstorm! Thanks for the comment.
I have watched a couple of your videos, very impressive machine. So much so I decided to purchase the same model over summer, I did not want to take the chance of the new models being delivered in time for the snow. Can't wait to get the chance to use mine, especially after the winter we had here in Wisconsin. Thanks for the videos.
Thanks for the comment John. I’m glad my videos helped you decide. When I was shopping for a new machine, I found some videos, and they really helped, but not enough of them to really see what the machine could do in a real life situation. That’s why I started sharing videos when I started using my Ariens. I know your going to love your new machine, and I hope you get a good old fashioned pan handle hook resulting in a foot of snow. Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
My new 30 Inch Ariens Platinum SHO will be delivered December 18 . However , looks like we ( N. E. Wisconsin ) will have a green Christmas this year . My fault for buying this beast ! Ha ha
@@blowingsnow4fun No longer in fear either ! My John Deere 928 E was a good machine , but very hard to turn . Time for an easier turning unit . Your videos are great !
Impressive peformance. I waffled back and forth between a Platinum 28 RapidTrak and this Platinum 24. This video helped convince me that the tracks probably wouldn't be worth the $800 upcharge, or the problems the extra size would create for storage. BUT, for the record, the Simplicity Signature Pro 1724 is just as powerful, and can easily be made even more powerful by removing the restrictor plate off the 420cc engine. And it's a stouter chassis with electric chute controls. Not a bad deal for $500 more, except that Simplicity seems to be a company on its last legs and I personally don't like electric chutes.
Hey Plmn…. The Simplicities are well built, especially their frame & chassis. I’m not a fan of anything electronic that can bring your machine to its knees. I have a late 80’s Simplicity SnowAway I still run with an 8 HP Techumse Snow king, & my daughter has the same machine from early 90’s. Briggs bought Simplicity in 2004, and I’ve been told that in 2020 as part of a bankruptcy settlement that division of Briggs was sold to some outfit called KPS??? Bottom line is they’re consolidating brands, (somehow Snspper is in this consolidation?)which can lead to a reduction of quality. It’s only a matter of time before parts begin to get tight as no company is going to carry all that old stock for old machines. IMHO. Good thing about Toro & Ariens is you can get parts for machines that are 50 years old. I also run an early 80’s Toro 824 with an 8 hp Techumse you’ll see on some of my videos. My Toro & my Simplicities all have some impeller belt slip, which robs power, especially in heavy wet snow. With the dual belt configuration of the Ariens there’s very little belt slip including engagement which translates into lots of torque up front when you depress that impeller lever. Definitely noticeable! That blast out of the shoot is definitely a good thing when you dealing with slushy slop, or EOD wet crap.
Good job on dealing with that 14 inches of snow, love hearing the motor working hard and throwing a lot of snow. Realize this was recorded a while back but winter 2022-2023 is quickly approaching. Did quite a bit of work this summer on my now 13 year old Ariens 1332LE, replaced skid shoes, scraper blade, spark plug, lubed and adjusted the drive mechanism and ground off all the rust and repainted. It looks almost like new and runs like new now, I figure it will be good for another ten years or more. Had a big full length cab with an adjustable halogen spotlight on top from my old Bolens 824 in the garage loft for quite a while and decided to mount it to the Ariens. Used most of the existing hardware on the Ariens and only added two holes with nuts and bolts, fits like a glove. The high mounted light on top of the cab works great. The blowing snow we had here in Western New York prompted me to install it. Looking forward to another snowy winter. Take care and thanks for the video.
I love the idea of where you mounted your light. The cab on my Toro just clears the garage door, so maybe I’ll try one on the inside top. It’s mighty dark in that driveway at the cabin at night. Usually I wear a head lamp. Know of any good videos that show how to wire an added light? Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to tge channel if you like what you see.
@@blowingsnow4fun Don't know of any videos off hand to wire an additional light but there may be some if you do a search on CZcams. In my case I just unplugged the existing light mounted on the dash board since it would be blocked by the cab anyway and spliced a mating connector onto the wiring from the light on top of the cab. Since both lights are about the same wattage (25 watts) it worked perfectly and is quite bright. Having the light high mounted with no obstructions in front of it is far more effective than the dashboard mounted light which is blocked by the engine.
Hi Heath…. No light in either one of my vintage machines. It was an optional. Part is now unavailable. There is one wire capped hanging there I need to do some research a light would really be handy. It’s really dark in those woods at night!
@@blowingsnow4fun Check that extra wire for 12 - 14 volts AC or DC with the engine running. Is it reads that voltage that would be the hot lead for the light bulb. Also if the blower has handlebar warmers the hot wire going to the switch would be a good source for the light.
@@blowingsnow4fun Here's a link to a picture of my snowblower with the cab partially mounted, I made a hole in the cab to pass the chute control bar so the cab surround drops down instead of being bunched up. scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/315367584_9161804857178500_631375862990598737_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=lHZyCgEKgR0AX8hjTPO&tn=42BqoP1jgME085X-&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDrcUq3F4mPUJV2sLOQSr1rMvZNJPHufl-ojKICuVbEmg&oe=63735A54
Truly impressive! Reminds me a lot of my 2011 Simplicity P1728EX Signature. I got snowchains that increase the traction a lot. But handling is a little worse. Just bought a new Ariens Rapidtrack 28 PRO and looking forward to use that one at my mountain cabin! My first Ariens. I am blowing snow for fun too! 🙂
I have a 91 Simplicity SnowAway with an 8 hp that I inherited from my father. Good machine, but tough to turn with the fixed axel. I’ve never had a chance to use a rapid truck Pro, but I’ve read really good things about them. If you post any videos of you using it, please send me a link, I’d like to see it in action. Thanks for the comment….Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
@@blowingsnow4fun haha, of course no snow when you buy a blower🤣 My Simplicity luckily has a trigger for right turns. And a 342cc American made Briggs engine, one of the last to be made in the USA. I will let you know when I post, here is my channel: czcams.com/channels/uaiw4gR1rZlHoq4hZoIXqg.html It is only one snowblower video there with the Yamaha I just sold. Wish you a lot of snow!
Hi Tim. Your going to enjoy the quality of you new Ariens when old man winter hits Chicago this year. Make sure you read that owners manual, and take good care of your new machine and it will take good care of you. Welcome to the Ariens club, and remember, “ Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!”
Thanks for the video - Very impressive machine. I just bought an Ariens Platinum SHO 30" - 414 CC snowblower after several years of my Husqvarna not performing to my satisfaction (espesially in a recent 12" heavy wet storm. Will try it today with heavy wet snow/slush and I hope I am equally as pleased as you are with yours. I am concerned with how the "AUTO" steering is going to work, as I have read several reviews that people have had to fight to keep the machine going straight. Thanks again - Keep up the great work!
Hi Roger, welcome to the Ariens family. When I was shopping for a machine in 2018/19, I watched as many videos as I could find, and it really helped me make the right decision. There’s something about seeing real people in real life situations using a machine. You watch the manufacturer stuff, and every machine is the best thing since sliced bread. I used to use a 1980’s Simplicity with an 8hp. It was a good machine, but on my concrete drive it was like wrestling a bear with the fixed axel, and in the wet stuff, I had to pretreat the chute with silicone spray, or it would occasionally clog. I started out not pre treating the SHO, and it’s never clogged. The extra speed of the SHO impeller with the dual belts makes all the difference. I could always feel my impeller belt slipping a little with Heavy wet snow with my other machines, but not with the Ariens. You engage that impeller, and you can really feel the difference in heavy wet snow. The AutoTurn is a game changer, as it works very well. Most of the problems were in its early years. They moved the axel slightly and it corrected the early issues. From talking with the other guys that have these machines, I’ve learned several things that may help you if you ever have problems with yours over the years. Always make sure you set both tires to exactly the same pressure. Check that at the beginning of each season, and if you ever have a problem (sometimes one tire may develop a slow leak over the years) and it’s the first thing to check if you ever have a problem. Second is sometimes really rough concrete will create problems in certain snow conditions. If you notice it “catching”in places, switch to the composite skid shoes. I use mine on a wooden deck, and I added the composite Ariens shoes so I didn’t scratch it up. I notice a difference when I’m helping out neighbors who have rough cracked driveways. Third, some machines suffer some type of impact that knocks things out of alignment. The machine being accidentally dropped during loading/unloading, like falling off a ramp, or being bumped hard by a vehicle when somebody hits it backing into the garage, or the like. If your ever in that spot, go to the Ariens website & there’s a video onto how to realign the bucket that will help get things squared away. Congratulations on your new machine, and if you could let me know your impressions after you have a chance to use it, it would be appreciated. If you like what you see, and haven’t already, please consider subscribing to the channel. I occasionally post maintenance videos as well. I’m planning on doing a video on greasing the AutoTurn (which should be part of routine upkeep) sometime between now and the end of the season. Remember…. Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
Thank you VERY much for your return response and valuable information you shared. I got up dark and early this AM to use my new Ariens and tackle last night's 3" of snow that had mixed with rain, which compacted to 2" of heavy, wet snow/slush. One might not think this amount of snow would be a challenge, but as you probably know, it is much more difficult to move that mixture of crap than several inches of light stuff! Well, I started my Ariens Platinum SHO 30" - 414 cc machine up and off I went. This machine truly is a BEAST, and was UNBELIEVABLE as it moved right along as fast as I wanted to go, throwing this HEAVY WET MESS 40 -50 feet, and the heavier the volume of snow, the further it threw it!! I just wish I had recorded the performance, to share with others what it went through!! EVERYTHING you said about the machine was just as you described and my fears of performance from any negative reviews I read were soon put to rest! Like you said, they must have made some changes to the "Auto Turn" from it's earlier years, as it worked very well for me, turning easy and holding true on straight passes. Before I started, I rechecked the alignment of the bucket, lossened the composite "feet", and made sure the cutting edge was on a flat surface then tighened the feet back up - It cleared the driveway and walkways beautifully! I have used many different and various pieces of equipment for snow removal in my lifetime, and I must say THIS is the BEST overall machine I have ever owned. Thanks again for your post and response to mine - I have also hit your "LIKE" button and "SUBCRIBED" to your cahnnel! Have a great day, rest of the winter and "KEEP BLOWING"!!
Your welcome Roger. I’m glad it worked well for you and you weren’t disappointed. Wait till you get a big dump of snow, and you hear that engine growl cutting tight through that EOD pile of crap that plugs other machines! My experience is these SHO’s love a full bucket when throwing snow. It’s like the more snow there is the better they perform. Congrats again on your new “beast”. I’m sure your the envy of the neighborhood with your new “King of Snow” addition!
I put them up right away if the drifts are deep, or I’ll be in snow higher than the bucket. You have to be a little patient with them. As they cut the snow, you then need to back up so the snow you cut falls in front of you. I wish I could leave them up, but they add about 10” to the length of the machine, and get hooked on everything!
Hi Matt. Until you stand behind its handlebars, guide it into deep heavy wet snow, watch that snow go flying, and listen to the growl of that big AX engine you have no idea how much fun a snowstorm can be LOL. I haven’t had a chance to do battle with old man winter this year yet, how about you? Thanks for the comment., and please consider subscribing to the channel if you like what you see.
I just purchased a Ariens 24" deluxe and I live in NH and have not had a chance to use it yet sure hope it works as good as the sho shown believe me if we don't get any bad storms this winter it was money well spent '
Hi David. You buy a quality machine like an Ariens, perform routine seasonal maintenance, and you should get 15-20 years out of it. These cheap Chinese knock offs some of the big box stores sell, are cheaper up front, but you can’t gets parts for them later. When it does snow, you’ll be ready with your new deluxe. Remember, fear no blizzard when you have an Ariens in your garage! Thanks for the comment, and think snow so you can try that bad boy out:)
I have the same machine in the 2001 version. It is so powerful that once I do my driveway I plow my two, 85+ year old and 90 year old, neighbors driveways also.
Hey Sandbag. Nice of you to help out your neighbors. It’s the right thing to do, and this world would be a better place if more of us helped out our neighbors. I know you know what I mean when I say this snowblower has over the top power. Don’t you love the growl this engine gets when it’s under load. It actually makes snow removal fun! Thanks for the + comment. Remember….fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage.
Hi Tom… good to hear from you over in MI. It’s not really that much extra work (as you know from helping yourself). I have the blower out anyways, and I do really like to blow snow, so it’s no problem. All our snow is gone down here in SE WI. Raked the front lawn yesterday, and the daffodils are going to bloom this week. We got very little snow early here(Nov-Feb), and then a bunch of heavy wet crap in March. What kind of Wi red did you guys have?
@Blowing Snow 4fun In Michigan, we got close to 20" of that heavy wet crap, so was a little slower going. Some of the neighbors have some single stage blowers, so was a no g I for them. Took a little longer, but got them all blown out! Gonna start thinning out and rearranging hostas, then annuals. My rose tree is starting to bud already!! Enjoy your summer!! Don't eat too much O&H Kringles!!
Hey Jarrett.. just saw Mark Baden and he said “There’s a good possibility of measurable snow on Tue & Weds. Doubt if it will be enough to get out the Ariens, but it’s a step in the right direction. 👍🏻on the record snowfall. I regularly post snowblower videos (when we get snow). If you like what you see, please consider subscribing to my channel. Remember, fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
@@patrickd8135 Glad your enjoying the flying snow. If we have a few good storms this winter, I’ll add a few more. Lake Michigan is our wild card here. Sometimes it keeps us warm and holds our snow totals down. Sometimes a storm passes us to the East, and the wind shifts around to the NE down the lake and we’ll pick up another 6-8” lake effect snow. Sometimes the low comes over us, and spins over the lake enhancing our snowfall with greater totals of more moisture in the snow = wet heavy snow. Feel sorry for the weatherman here, it can be an SOB to predict correctly! Glad I have my Ariens.
There not only powerful, but the auto turn is so easy to handle compared to the old fixed axel machines. Fear no blizzard when you have an Ariens in the garage .
The way these machines hold up, maybe you’ll be running his old Ariens some day? I inherited a 1991 Simplicity 8 ho from my dad. I still use it occasionally.
I just bought the Ariens 30” deluxe with the 306cc EFI engine it also has the new led lights on it I hope we get some decent snow fall here it’s hit or miss in the Chicagoland area
I have a Toro 18/32. Big machine. The biggest complaint I have is the plastic quick stick that controls a heavy and large Shute. The quick stick has failed already within a year because the plastic stick stripped its gears and I had no Shute control.
Hey AT. I really liked the big Toros when I looked at them., and I was happy with both of the old Toros I had. Unfortunately, to much plastic is the thing that made me choose the Ariens. On my old 724 ( which I gave away and is still running), and my 824, the chute control is all metal. I have a friend that has a storm. It’s a good machine, but the plastic gears on the chute control have failed and the chute loves on its own when blowing heavy snow. The chute control gears on my vintage Simplicity failed about 3 years ago. Same problem plastic gears that eventually stripped. I bought the replacement kit, and tge gears had been changed to metal. Works great now. Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to my channel if you like the type of video I make….. more videos to come of mostly my SHO, but of my vintage machines as well.
Hey Mike…. That’s one way of putting it! It truly is a snow cannon. Only problem is we’re almost 20” under our normal snowfall, so the SHO has been parked in the garage most of tge winter. Glad you enjoyed the video.
I HAVE WATCHED SO MENY VIDS AND NICE TO SEE SOMEONE THAT KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING. SO MANY HAVE NO CLUE WHAT TO DO AND BLOW SNOW ALL OVER WHAT THEY DID OR BLOW IT INTO THE WIND RIGHT IN THERE FACE. SO FUNNY.
Thanks for the kind words Rachael. We’re 5 minutes from Lake Michigan here, so the winds really swirl after storms pass and I occasionally get a face full. Some times the wind direction changes 2x’s before I get to the end of my driveway, but overall, I think I do a pretty good job of not eating snow. We got 10” of wet heavy snow here last night, and it’s still snowing. We have power, but many here don’t. I’ll try to get more video up from this this storm asap. If you like what you see on the channel, please consider subscribing. Thanks for the + comment!
That's a quite impressive machine there! Great camera work, I appreciated that you used no camera time lapse. Winter has been pretty tame here in West Central Wisconsin the last 2 winters, maybe you can blow🌬️ a couple of feet snow down this way.
Ahhh wish I could help you with the snow. No fun having a nice snow thrower, and you can’t get her out of the garage. Let’s hope for some big snows this year!
Hi Scrubsz… it was really deep at the end of the driveway where I cleared room to put my garbage carts. Way over the bucket. The drift cutters really helped that day. You can never have too much power when it comes to snow like that. The SHO does really well with heavy snow! That was pulled up there by the snow plow as well, so it was dense & packed. Thanks for the + comment.
i had the ariens 36" hydro pro, after 4 years i got rid of it, just too much width and i was just along for a back breaking ride. went down to the 28" model and it's much better.
Hi Nocoolnsme. I don’t think I’ve ever had a chance to use anything over a 30, and that felt big! You must have had a lot of driveway to clear? The Pro machines are nice, the manual lists the weight of the 36 Hydro Pro as 327, which surprises me as my 24” SHO weighs in at 286 lbs. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but that’s like having a 5 year old boy sitting on your machine, plus the leverage issue of being 8” wider than what I’m used to. I’ve heard lots of good things about the 28 SHO. Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to the channel if you like what you saw, if you haven’t already. Remember “Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage.”
Hi John…. You’re very observant. When I was clearing the grassy area at the end of the drive for the garbage carts, it was all ice under that snow. Without a heavy machine, I don’t think I could have cleared that pile. I struggled to stay upright let alone steer the SHO. If you like this type of video, please consider subscribing if you haven’t already. Thanks for the + comment
Hi Derek. I only use them when the snow is deep. I like the fact that I can fold these down, otherwise they get hooked on pants legs, shopping bags etc. When the snow is over the bucket, they cut the snow from underneath, so when you back the machine up it falls at or near your cutting path. It’s a PIA to back up, and now you have this big chunk of snow riding on the machine. Only wish the knobs were more of an oval design as its kind of hard to grip the round ones in the cold with gloves or mitts. Thanks for the comment. If you like what you see, please consider subscribing if you haven’t already.
Hey Michael …. I’ve owned numerous snow blowers over the years. I’ve had Snow Boy, Wheel Horse, Simplicity, and Toro. Out of all the blowers I’ve had (and some I still have) The Ariens 24” SHO is my favorite snowblower. Thanks for the + comment. If you like videos like these, and haven’t already, please consider subscribing to the channel. If we ever get any snow here in WI, I’ll be posting more videos.
There was one guy that had such a problem with this machine. To the point where people were giving him bad comments so he shut the comments off. He was saying that it would not push through heavy snow or deep snow that the transmission kept slipping. Everybody kept yelling at him telling him to adjust the spring in the back for the tension on the belt.. He showed everybody that he did everything right and that the machine had a defect. What was happening is water was getting in no matter what through the cover on the seal. And the friction disc was getting wet no matter what he did.. It was constantly slipping and would not push through anything. I'm wondering if they fix this if anyone knows about what went on with this issue? Have you had any of these problems with the transmission slipping and the wheels not spinning.. water getting inside the transmission from the belt cover?
Greetings. I have no problems with water getting in under the belt cover, or the transmission slipping. When I push down on the lever to move the machine, it gets great traction, and bites into whatever I have it aimed at. I have two friends that have the exact same machine as mine, and they have no problems as well. I’ve never heard that complaint about the 24” Platinum SHO before. Can you send me a link to the guys video who has the issue? I’d like to see the video. Thanks!
Yea I know which video you were talking g about. Type in ariens junk and I think you’ll find it. Believe it was getting wet also because he kept it outside so moisture would get inside no matter what. But I too was put off by the video because I’m not sure. Think it’s best to look at the plastic cover in person if considering buying one
Hey TeamDrummond …. Very difficult to put a camera on a tripod, and catch all the action when you’re doing physical labor. I do my best to move the camera to the vantage point that captures as much of the action as possible.
Hi NS. I never thought of it that why, but it is quite efficient at moving snow. From a human standpoint, you have to put very little effort into turning the SHO compared to the older fixed axel machines like videos of my Toro 824, and Simplicity SnowAway. The SHO does use more gas than my older machines because of engine size. The SHO puts out 17 ft lbs of torque and is about 12-13 Hp. My older machines are both 8 Hp ( not sure of their torque). Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to my channel if you like the type of video I make .
Hi WATEA man. The machine you see on the other side of the street (if that’s what your referencing?)is a 14 year old 10 hp Ariens. It was a beast back in its day, and still throws snow pretty well. Maybe the distance from the camera makes it look small?? Thanks for the comment!
Hey wordsalsd… those are drift cutters, and can be added to most Ariens machines. There is a plastic knob used to tighten them. When not needed, they stay folded along the bucket. I only put mine up for deep snow/ or deep drifting. They cut through snow higher than the bucket. 80% of the time I don’t need them, but when we get hit with a big storm, they make a huge difference. They are model specific, so see your Ariens dealer, or order one to fit your model on line. Here is one on Amazon a.co/d/eKMLlcZ If you like videos like these please consider subscribing to the channel if you haven’t already.
Looked at them. I would have had to go to a 28”, and the 24 fits so much better in my garage at a cost of about $400 more. Only other option was the compact 24 which is available in rapidTrack. The 223 CC engine is just too small for my tastes. The 369 in my 24” fits my needs so much better.
Have you had any problems with the friction disk? Or the shafts etc.. being all rusty? I've seen a few comments about it and a video or two. I just ordered a platinum 24, so hoping it's just the "people who aren't happy scream the loudest" type of thing.
Hi RC. I have had zero problems with the friction disc, or the internal shafts getting rusty. Here is a video of me taking the belly pan off, and what it looked like. Ariens snow thrower on the inside after two seasons? Let’s drop the belly pan for the reveal. czcams.com/video/gYKQaPD8gjs/video.html I saw that guys video as well, and I don’t know what happened to that machine. I don’t have any info about how he stores or maintain his machine. When I bought mine in 2019, I had two good friends that were also ready for a new blower. We bought 3 24” Platinum SHO’s and we’re able to negotiate a little price reduction. I have helped both of my friends do routine maintenance where we’ve had the belly pan off, and all three of them look good with no rust. Our machines are all stored in a dry area of our garages, and recurve yearly preventative maintenance. I believe the friction discs don’t last as long as they did when they were made 20 years ago, but ours are still pristine as of 1/2 way through our 4th season. It’s very important with friction drive systems like ours you don’t “cheat” when using then when shifting between gears. If you ease up on the drive clutch (left side as u stand in operators position) slightly you can shift gears (for example from 3rd to R1). This allows the friction wheel to slide across the spinning disc, and wears the friction disc extremely fast. You don’t have to come to a complete stop or anything, just release that left handgrip before shifting gears. Those shafts/spindles are metal, and to prevent rust in an environment where they are exposed to melting snow (which sometimes contains salt), coat them every year (or at the very least every other year) with some grease. Here’s a video of how I care for my SHO inside the belly pan. czcams.com/video/BvZ0hqu2nes/video.html You’ve purchased a great machine that will give you 20+ years of service, with proper routine maintenance. It has great features, and over the top power. With that SHO impeller, and dual belts, your days of clogging in wet heavy snow are over! The AutoTurn makes it super easy to handle. When you take it out in your first 4+” snowfall, you’ll know you made the right pick. Please let me know how it goes when you get a chance to use your new machine. If you like what you see on the channel, please consider subscribing. I will be posting a new video with me lubing the AutoTurn system on my machine between now and spring which you would probably be interested in seeing. Welcome to the Ariens family, and if you have any questions after you get your SHO feel free to reach out.
You'd move a lot more snow if you didn't spend one-half of your time backing up! You're leaving ridges because you're trying to take too big of a bite. Ariens snowblowers are designed to push extra snow to the left side of the bucket and the extra snow will leave ridges.
Hi Calvin. That was the biggest snowfall that had I had the SHO out in to date. I had used it in 6-8 inches previously, and been able to take a full bucket with no problem. Next time I tackle 14+ inches I’ll take a smaller bite. I never knew they were designed to push more snow to the left side of the bucket? Do you know why? In retrospect, it would be advantageous to keep the left side of the machine against the unplowed snow. My two older machines with 8 Hp Techumse engines don’t have near the power this one has, the engines slow down in deep snow, thus slowing the drive speed, and they kind of self meter the snow entering the bucket. (almost self pacing) The SHO has so much power and torque that it keeps going at whatever speed you start at. Thanks for the tips and the positive comments. I’ve been using snow blowers since my dad bought a SnowBoy when I was around 10. Never too old to learn something new!
@@blowingsnow4fun Watch your video and you'll see the snow that won't go up the impeller gets kicked out to the left side of the machine and returned to the impeller again. I never ever take a full bucket load. I bought the Deluxe 28 in 2013 and after a season of having the machine spin its tires and having the front raise up on big snowbanks, I fitted it with chains and bolted Ariens' 10-pound weight to the underside of the bucket. That turned it into a whole new snowblower. Greatest move I ever made! I clear the snow between the garage and the alley and also clear the alley snow from the garage to the street to the north. My raised 4x4 pickup can get up the alley to the street until the city plows the alley but our car can't. We used reject gravel for surface material and so I set the shoes so that the blade is 1/2" off of the ground so I don't eat gravel with the snow. I also clear the snow for 3 of my neighbors so the terrain is unpredictable. Paul reviews Ariens and one of Paul's videos mentions the left side snow return but I forget exactly which one. czcams.com/video/PbqBGG6j1qA/video.html
@@CALVINLNIKONT I subscribe to Paul S. Channel. I’ll have to go back and look at his Ariens videos. I’ll also watch my videos mirroring them on the TV, so I can see more closely. Usually work on them with the phone. Nice of you to help your neighbors out. We need more of that in this world right now!
@@blowingsnow4fun Our last snow a few days ago was only about 8" but in some areas, the grass was showing and some other areas had 4-foot drifts which the Ariens ate like candy.
They are great machines IMO. This is the first one I’ve owned. I did my research, and spoke with other owners, and felt they made the best machine right now, Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
Hi Mike. There a variety of machines around me. Let’s start out with Acrossed the street on my block. They go Toro, generic, Ariens, Troy built, John Deer, Simplicity, my side of the street is my Ariens, generic next door, Toro,toro,toro.toro.the generics are big box Chinese machines.
@@blowingsnow4fun Like purchasing a tv from Walmart : cheap versions of same models . At least there is a John Deere in your neighborhood . Mine are 3 Toro and an Aries . Mine was a John Deere , but Monday it is an Ariens . I would have stayed with J. D. if they were still in production . I have bought Deeres since 1983 . My Brother and Brother -In -Law both have J. D. I chose Ariens cause 1 : built in Brillion , about 20 miles away from Wrightstown . 2 : quality of build . My Son has a Toro , and I do not like those . I want a brand that will last . Cheaper means you will be buying several during a lifetime , vs. maybe only a couple . Your other videos showing you blow through 12 , 15 inches of snow show the power your Ariens has ! Blame me if we get no / little snow this season ha ha . Just like getting a car wash , then it will rain . Happy Holidays , Merry Christmas !
Hi Dkat… I have a few spots where I occasionally scoop up a little gravel. You sure can hear it go through the machine. It does knock the paint off the impeller where it comes out into the chute. It will rust there with all the salt from the street going through it. I touch up the paint in that area with a can of Ariens orange spray paint in the spring. I run my skid shoes so a paint stir stick fits tightly under the scraper bar because I’m on concrete or grass 99.9% of the time. If I ran it in gravel drives frequently I would set the scraper bar 1-1 1/4” off the ground. Thanks for the + comment. If you like this type of video, and you haven’t already, please consider subscribing to the channel.
Looks like yours is a lot more stable than mine. Do you have a weight kit on the inside of the bucket ? Also, you look to let the machine do all the work. Maybe I'm fighting the machine for no reason. Seems like you are pulling up on the handlebars sometimes, I think I push on those bars when the machine needs assistance. You are a better operator than me !
Hi BravoOne…. I don’t have any extra weight on my bucket. I first learned how to use a snow blower in the 60’s when my father bought a “SnowBoy” (made by lawn boy lawn mowers). He always told me to not be in such a hurry, and let the machine do the work. If your fighting with your machine, I’m guessing your probably in too high a gear. I try and start blowing in second, and gauge how it goes. If I leave snow along the edges, ( more than a little) the machine struggles, or I I have to man handle the machine, I need to go to a lower gear. When I get into first, if the bucket starts riding up, I add a little upward pressure on the grips. I try to be patient and only apply as much physical force needed to get forward motion. When I loose forward momentum, I try to just use my body weight by leaning my hips against the back of the dash. When the machine starts to move, I let it pull away from my hips, and walk behind it until it starts to stop moving forward, at which time, I lean on the dash again. My SHO is like 260 lbs, that’s considerable weight over that axel that should be adequate in normal conditions to achieve traction. Sometimes, there’s no substitute for muscle and brute force. If you watch me working in my “Stacking it up” video. I’m working my keister off when I’m back along my fence near my shed. The snow was there from 3 storms, and there was ice under the snow frozen over the grass. I’d go forward s couple feet, and then back up and take a second pass. In a case like that, you have to stay in first, and keep moving by throughly clearing a path down to the bottom. If your first gear isn’t slow enough, you can adjust an Ariens slightly to slow down 1st gear. If that’s an issue for you, let me know, and I’ll send you a link to a video that shows how to make that adjustment. So, my advice would be : 1 start blowing in a low gear 2 let the machine do the work 3 use your body weight not your muscles whenever possible when you need to….be patient, practice makes perfect. Thanks for the positive comment, and let me know how it goes the next time you blow snow, and have a chance to use the techniques I suggested.
@@blowingsnow4fun thank you for the detailed explanation. I have a Deluxe 28 SHO, pretty heavy too. 5 minutes ago I was looking for a way to slow down the speed on first gear. Maybe this is the problem. I found something about tightening/raising the nut (or whatever the name) connecting to the drive lever. I will try it tomorow. Thanks again.
Hi BravoOne…here’s a short clip of how to slow down 1st. czcams.com/users/shortsRdVJ23Mg5C0?feature=share There’s a better CZcams video, but I can’t find it right now. I do remember if you go too far slowing down 1st. You loose one of your reverse selections. The key is slowing it down as much as you can without that happening.
@@blowingsnow4fun Ok, now this is a different snowblower. After watching the video, I checked the manual and it explains how to set it up. The dealder has probably push down the lever, aligning the pivot pin with the hole and insert it. This is the way to do it for the Deluxe 30 SHO, I have a Deluxe 28 SHO. For some reasons, in the manual it says to do like mentioned above, but to turn 7 times the pivot pin for the 28 SHO (the pivot pin goes higher on the rod) and then insert it, I did it that way and now the first gear is reaaaaally slow, but I love it. Hard to be 100% accurate, but I think the 3rd gear has now the speed my 1st gear had before. Reverse gears are also faster now which is a plus. It was a basic adjustment that has been messed up at the dealer...it happens. Thanks again.
@@bravoone3823 I’m glad it worked for you. Sometimes it’s something simple like having both tires set at the exact same pressure to get the auto turn to work correctly, or a minor adjustment that can all the difference.
The tires on the machine are pretty good, and the machine Is fairly heavy at just under 300 lbs. I really only notice the tires spinning under heavy load when I’m off the concrete. I have chains on a 1980’s Toto 824 I have and they help, but it’s such a rough ride when your on a hard surface, and they always leave rust all over the garage floor. I wish the 1st gear on the SHO was a little slower, kind of a creeper gear. I have it set as slow as it will go now. I didn’t even know studs were available for snow blower tires, I’ll have to look into that. Thanks for the positive comment.
nice machine. it really does have all the power you need for a 24"...goes to show ya....really is beneficial having 13hp---390--420cc on 28" and wider machines....even though you can get by with less....by who wants to be out in the cold for 1 hour when 20 mins will get it done? lol im itchin for some snow.
Hi Harry…. Thanks for the positive comment. I’m in the “your better off having too much power than not enough” camp. We’ve had a crappy winter here in SE Wi so far. We’ve had a couple really small snows and that’s it. Im going to take the SHO out this week, and let it run for 10 minutes in the driveway. These machines are not built to sit, they need to run to stay in top shape. Here’s hoping for some snow!
Hi… it’s the 369 CC on the 24”, and it has 17 lbs. of torque. It is an extremely powerful engine for that size snow blower (24” throws 27 tons of snow per hour). It really likes its bucket full when blowing snow. The more snow the better it works, and when it is under load, the engine gets kind of a growl to it. Thanks for the comment, and let me know if you have any other questions. I should have some new maintenance videos for the SHO up soon.
@@blowingsnow4fun sure looks and sounds like a beast. I want one! I’m running a 1967 Ariens sno-thro that still works well which makes it difficult to part ways cause it’s been so reliable. But the 369 engine is definitely on the top of my list!
That 1967 is a great machine. They built them like tanks back then. I have an 80’s Toro, and and 80’s Simplicity I still run at my cabin up in Northern Wi. That’s a tough one. You want the new features like heated grips, head light, and dual belt impeller, but old Bessie’s still alive and kicking. The loyalist in me says run her till she dies, or use the old gal for the light snows, and get an SHO for the heavy stuff like the EOD pile, and run 2 if the budget will allow? In the meantime, you can always check out my channel to see the SHO in action. Thanks for the comment!
At the end of your driveway, you are trying to force the machine forward when the wheels will not propell it forward. Let the augar clear the and snow away, then inch the machine forward...why work harder than needed..let the machine do all the work. ..all you need to do is direct it. Work smarter, not harder.
Hi Jim…. Thanks for the tip. I know it looks like I’m not letting the machine do its thing, but in my neighborhood we have an unusual feature at the end of the driveways all over my subdivision. They did not install a curb with a normal sloped approach at the end of the driveways. There’s one continuous sharp dip in the concrete that I think is designed to channel the water. This dip creates the perfect trap for the wheels of the snowblower. If I don’t lift on the handlebars, and give it a little shove with my hips, I’d still be there. When I’m going downhill, the machine glides right through it as its weight and momentum gives you the shove you need. Going up the hill, it’s a different story. I’ve only lived in this house about 7 years, and I’ve seen all my neighbors struggle with the feature. Everyone hates it, and they were suppose to come through, and install gutters with normal approaches, but that didn’t happen, and I’m pretty sure it never will. To answer what you’re thinking… yes, it’s a bear to shovel too. It’s almost impossible to clean it efficiently unless there’s serious melting going on. I should shoot a short video of the feature in the sumner. I’m guess a tracked machine would probably walk right up it, but I bought this machine before I discovered the feature had unique challenges, and interestingly, I’ve never seen a tracked machine in my subdivision.
A 24 fits in my garage without too much trouble. If I go any larger, I have to pull one vehicle out of the garage to get the snow blower out without scratching anything. I really dislike blowing snow after someone has driven on it (I know sometimes it’s unavoidable). You can never get those car tracks off the driveway until they melt. I initially was going to buy a 30 SHO, until I got out the yardstick. Winter May last 4 months here in SE Wis., but 8” of width you need to store for all 12 months. Thanks for the comment, and if you’d like to see more videos like these, please subscribe.
Hi Michael. Hope that’s a good wow. If you enjoy snow-blowing videos, and info about machines I run, I aim to please. I have another video of one of my vintage machines throwing snow I’m editing, and should be done in the next few days. If you want to get notified when I put new videos up, just subscribe to my channel. Thanks for the positive comment!
This is a old video so im sure u learned by now but i just wanna say it looks like ur using 2nd not first and i see u using ur body to force the blower thru the snow what is best for u and the blower is to let the blower do all the work if it seems to wanna spin stop let the auger clear out and go again it will make it last longer and ur body will thank u in the long run if u need to force it thru banks ur going to fast for the amount of snow we had a ton of snow this year and not once did i need to push it i just let it eat slowly and i let the blower do all the work all my hands done was use the levers and controls also i personally start my blower in idle not full throttle just lets the rings and stuff warm up abit before its working hard so it dont wear premature or crack the block yes a cold engine can split the block if its idled to fast right off the start thats y u let ur car warm up before u drive it
Hi RCman. I do use my body to start the machine forward in this video as there was ice under the snow from previous melting, and there was no way I was going to get the unit to start chewing through the snow without a little force from my hips. I always try to let the machine “do the work,” but on the unpaved grassy area I was clearing for putting out my refuse containers, there was absolutely no traction. I do use 1st gear almost exclusively when in deep snow, and with the exception of a few times when I had to clean up some snow that overflowed the bucket, I believe I was in 1st gear. I was probably in 2nd or third when I was clearing the street, and the snow load was not very deep. I agree, it’s easier on the body when you can get the blower to move without any impetus from the operator, but in some situations, pushing a little with the hips on the dash is about the easiest way you can gain some forward momentum. I did think first gear was too fast for my liking after blowing snow that day, so I did go to the owners manual before the next storm& adjust my shift linkage to give me a slower 1st. First did feel much better the next time I used it in deep snow. I am a creature of habit & I’ve always been taught to start snow blowers at full throttle. I have two older machines, a early 80’s Toro 824, and a late 80’s Simplicity SnowAway. They both have Techumse 8hp SnowKing engines, and in the original owners manuals it indicates they should be started at full throttle. In the owners manual for the Platinum SHO it also indicates the engine is to be started at full throttle. The Ariens “How to” video on starting all Ariens AX engines also specifies that they are to be started at full throttle, and the choke is to be gradually taken off. It also states that the engine should be allowed to gradually warm up before blowing snow. According to Ariens, the low idle setting is to be used for periods of idling while not blowing snow., and during transport to another area. This is why 5th & 6th gear are so fast on an Ariens , (there almost useless gears for blowing snow) so that during transport at idle speed, you can get a decent walking pace to move the machine. After reading your comments, I did rewatch some of the video, and I do need to let the machine warm up better before I start blowing snow. I will also be more mindful of being patient with the SHO, and try to let it do more of the work. Lord knows at 65, my body can use all of the help it can get LOL Ariens isn’t one of them, but I’ve been told many snowblower manufacturers are going away from adjustable throttles. It’s all out all the time. Thanks for the + comment.
@@blowingsnow4fun u said a manual states the engine should be allowed to gradully warm up but the manual says to start it at full throttle 🤔 i personally always start mine at idle and let it run for 5-10 mins then turn it to max for a min before i goto work manuals sometimes makes no sense like the part that tells u to let it warm up but also says start it full throttle that dont make much sense to me cause a car and other motor stuff dont start maxed out on the rpms and my advice if it dont have traction at times instead of push it back up and go again right by where u done it helps alot and it will help ur body in the long run and the video seemed like u used 2nd all the time but it might of just needed the adjustment to slow it down abit it was a good video tho iv seen it twice now and seen a couple others i also love that u help out the one across the road and that sometimes wish more people would do that stuff
@@blowingsnow4fun o and if it has warranty still then do what the manual says cause if it gets messed up its on them but if it dont have warranty maybe start it at idle or mid throttle if u want to of course
Hey Craig. The electric blowers have a place, and some of them are pretty nice. Toro makes some nice ones. I have a neighbor with an ego. Came with one battery that barely finishes his drive in 6” of powder. A second battery is like $350 bucks, if I lived in a condo and needed a small blower to clear a walk, or I had to store it in the house. Or for someone that just doesn’t want to deal with a gas/oil engine. Although to answer your question…. I don’t think, if I live to see 100, I’ll ever see a mass production electric snowblower out throw the SHO. Thanks for the positive comment. Remember …fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
@@blowingsnow4fun not against battery power...its the cost,,,an i bet most wont keep the battery charged when not in use,,,they wont last if you dont..
Hi Craig. It’s just like most gas blowers. So many people push them in the corner at the end of the season, and hope they start and run next year. Neglect is neglect weather it’s an electric or gas engine. Point well taken. Thanks for the + comment.
If that’s what you referencing, it’s a heavy machine (near 300 lbs), and is well balanced, so it’s pretty good at blowing snow that’s sat a while compared to other 2 stage machines I’ve had.
Hi MTC… we got a new puppy the year I had to blow out the back yard. My wife went out with the shovel and cleared an 12x12 near the deck area as close to the grass as she could thinking the puppy would prefer it. The pup used that area for about 2 days, and found she preferred climbing up, and walking out on the mountain of snow between the house, and fence in back as her favorite spot to poop. She was so light, she just walked on top the snow. As for me, the official poop picker upper, i sank and the snow was up to my thighs. So the “snow fort” my wife created became part of the maze the dogs used for their never ending game of tag in the snow. Thanks for the comment. Forecast is for flurries here today, and possibly measurable snow next week. I’ll post new videos all winter as long as I get the snow. If you like this kind of video, please consider subscribing to the channel:)
Great machine. I agree, blowing snow is therapeutic! Thanks for the video!
That Ariens SHO is a pure beast. It demolishes that 14" snowfall, then cracks its knuckles and punches that end of the drive stuff right in the face.
Just found your channel. SUBSCRIBED!
The engine actually has a kind of growl to it when you push it hard with s heavy load like the EOD pile. It has a really nice weight to power balance, which gives it really good traction. It’s truly fun to use it! Thanks for the comment Paul.
@@blowingsnow4fun
Yeah, they load up when challenged. But the SHO was barely breaking a sweat.
Yes , I have a same one for the last 3years…works like a king…no regret.I have looked and had other models and not many are made as good as this Ariens Platinum SHO 28” 306cc . Some machine such as the Toro on some models have no shear pins and if you hid a pipe or steel hid under the snow it tares the auger and other components which cost over $600 to fix…plus labor….so I say buy a machine with shear pins so that’s the only thing that will break. I like the automatic steering on the wheels/transmission… turns on a dime . Some has the trigger type on the handles but sometimes my neighbour said they freeze up…..Hard to beat the Ariens. I live in NB. Canada and we have ferocious winter with lots of snow…love it
Hi Raymond. I agree about the shear pins. Cheap protection. I live in South Eastern Wi. No snow so far this year. But when it does snow here, we get lake enhancement, and we can get some pretty impressive totals. You grab the bucket on some of these big box Chinese knock off snowblowers, and you can move it in and out with your hand. Good solid quality with an Ariens that should last 20+ years with proper preventative maintenance. Thanks for the comment, and remember….fear no blizzard when you have an Ariens in your garage!
My back hurts already! I have a Toro about same size... it's a monster. Even with drive it's a back buster when you're moving that kind of snow! Thanks for the video! ☃
Thanks for the comment. I have an old fixed axel 824 Toro at my cabin. She’s really moved alot of snow, but she’s a bear to turn. This Ariens auto turn system is amazing. It’s so easy to handle my wife can use it.
Thanks for taking the time to film....Really enjoyed it!⭐⭐💪⭐⭐
No worries Mark. Thanks for the comment
Running a 2015 Ariens 24" Platinum SHO here in New Hampshire. The infamous auto-turn design flaw was finally "fixed"...by installing a brand new ultra-smooth 150" driveway. Other than that it's a truly great machine.
Hey…. They are great machines. I just wish we would get some snow here so I could give mine some exercise. We have only received 12” total so far this winter. I’ve been starting the SHO and letting it run for 10 minutes every couple of weeks, but that’s not like operating under load. Thanks for the comment.
@@blowingsnow4fun I know what you mean. Here in New Hampshire, we've had winters where we get a total of over 120" of snow for the season. We received our largest snowstorm in 4 years last week...around 14".
I’ll settle for 6-8” right now. Just something to get the SHO Out in, and bring her up to operating temperature under load. Winters sure have changed here in WI. When I was a kid, winter started in late November, now we’re lucky to have a dusting of snow at Xmas. Our bigger storms have been coming in February and March. Oh well…. We can hope for a nice snowstorm! Thanks for the comment.
Got snow?
@@missingremote4388 Not yet...but I'm sure it won't be too long now.
I have watched a couple of your videos, very impressive machine. So much so I decided to purchase the same model over summer, I did not want to take the chance of the new models being delivered in time for the snow. Can't wait to get the chance to use mine, especially after the winter we had here in Wisconsin. Thanks for the videos.
Thanks for the comment John. I’m glad my videos helped you decide. When I was shopping for a new machine, I found some videos, and they really helped, but not enough of them to really see what the machine could do in a real life situation. That’s why I started sharing videos when I started using my Ariens. I know your going to love your new machine, and I hope you get a good old fashioned pan handle hook resulting in a foot of snow. Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
My new 30 Inch Ariens Platinum SHO will be delivered December 18 . However , looks like we ( N. E. Wisconsin ) will have a green Christmas this year . My fault for buying this beast ! Ha ha
@@blowingsnow4fun No longer in fear either ! My John Deere 928 E was a good machine , but very hard to turn . Time for an easier turning unit . Your videos are great !
Impressive peformance. I waffled back and forth between a Platinum 28 RapidTrak and this Platinum 24. This video helped convince me that the tracks probably wouldn't be worth the $800 upcharge, or the problems the extra size would create for storage. BUT, for the record, the Simplicity Signature Pro 1724 is just as powerful, and can easily be made even more powerful by removing the restrictor plate off the 420cc engine. And it's a stouter chassis with electric chute controls. Not a bad deal for $500 more, except that Simplicity seems to be a company on its last legs and I personally don't like electric chutes.
Hey Plmn…. The Simplicities are well built, especially their frame & chassis. I’m not a fan of anything electronic that can bring your machine to its knees. I have a late 80’s Simplicity SnowAway I still run with an 8 HP Techumse Snow king, & my daughter has the same machine from early 90’s. Briggs bought Simplicity in 2004, and I’ve been told that in 2020 as part of a bankruptcy settlement that division of Briggs was sold to some outfit called KPS??? Bottom line is they’re consolidating brands, (somehow Snspper is in this consolidation?)which can lead to a reduction of quality. It’s only a matter of time before parts begin to get tight as no company is going to carry all that old stock for old machines. IMHO. Good thing about Toro & Ariens is you can get parts for machines that are 50 years old. I also run an early 80’s Toro 824 with an 8 hp Techumse you’ll see on some of my videos. My Toro & my Simplicities all have some impeller belt slip, which robs power, especially in heavy wet snow. With the dual belt configuration of the Ariens there’s very little belt slip including engagement which translates into lots of torque up front when you depress that impeller lever. Definitely noticeable! That blast out of the shoot is definitely a good thing when you dealing with slushy slop, or EOD wet crap.
Good job on dealing with that 14 inches of snow, love hearing the motor working hard and throwing a lot of snow. Realize this was recorded a while back but winter 2022-2023 is quickly approaching. Did quite a bit of work this summer on my now 13 year old Ariens 1332LE, replaced skid shoes, scraper blade, spark plug, lubed and adjusted the drive mechanism and ground off all the rust and repainted. It looks almost like new and runs like new now, I figure it will be good for another ten years or more. Had a big full length cab with an adjustable halogen spotlight on top from my old Bolens 824 in the garage loft for quite a while and decided to mount it to the Ariens. Used most of the existing hardware on the Ariens and only added two holes with nuts and bolts, fits like a glove. The high mounted light on top of the cab works great. The blowing snow we had here in Western New York prompted me to install it. Looking forward to another snowy winter. Take care and thanks for the video.
I love the idea of where you mounted your light. The cab on my Toro just clears the garage door, so maybe I’ll try one on the inside top. It’s mighty dark in that driveway at the cabin at night. Usually I wear a head lamp. Know of any good videos that show how to wire an added light? Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to tge channel if you like what you see.
@@blowingsnow4fun Don't know of any videos off hand to wire an additional light but there may be some if you do a search on CZcams. In my case I just unplugged the existing light mounted on the dash board since it would be blocked by the cab anyway and spliced a mating connector onto the wiring from the light on top of the cab. Since both lights are about the same wattage (25 watts) it worked perfectly and is quite bright. Having the light high mounted with no obstructions in front of it is far more effective than the dashboard mounted light which is blocked by the engine.
Hi Heath…. No light in either one of my vintage machines. It was an optional. Part is now unavailable. There is one wire capped hanging there I need to do some research a light would really be handy. It’s really dark in those woods at night!
@@blowingsnow4fun Check that extra wire for 12 - 14 volts AC or DC with the engine running. Is it reads that voltage that would be the hot lead for the light bulb. Also if the blower has handlebar warmers the hot wire going to the switch would be a good source for the light.
@@blowingsnow4fun Here's a link to a picture of my snowblower with the cab partially mounted, I made a hole in the cab to pass the chute control bar so the cab surround drops down instead of being bunched up. scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/315367584_9161804857178500_631375862990598737_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=lHZyCgEKgR0AX8hjTPO&tn=42BqoP1jgME085X-&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDrcUq3F4mPUJV2sLOQSr1rMvZNJPHufl-ojKICuVbEmg&oe=63735A54
Truly impressive! Reminds me a lot of my 2011 Simplicity P1728EX Signature. I got snowchains that increase the traction a lot. But handling is a little worse. Just bought a new Ariens Rapidtrack 28 PRO and looking forward to use that one at my mountain cabin! My first Ariens. I am blowing snow for fun too! 🙂
I have a 91 Simplicity SnowAway with an 8 hp that I inherited from my father. Good machine, but tough to turn with the fixed axel. I’ve never had a chance to use a rapid truck Pro, but I’ve read really good things about them. If you post any videos of you using it, please send me a link, I’d like to see it in action. Thanks for the comment….Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
@@blowingsnow4fun haha, of course no snow when you buy a blower🤣 My Simplicity luckily has a trigger for right turns. And a 342cc American made Briggs engine, one of the last to be made in the USA. I will let you know when I post, here is my channel: czcams.com/channels/uaiw4gR1rZlHoq4hZoIXqg.html It is only one snowblower video there with the Yamaha I just sold. Wish you a lot of snow!
I just joined Ariens Club purchased September 2022
Compact 24 with 223cc Engine
Bring on Chicago Winter..!
Great Video..!
Hi Tim. Your going to enjoy the quality of you new Ariens when old man winter hits Chicago this year. Make sure you read that owners manual, and take good care of your new machine and it will take good care of you. Welcome to the Ariens club, and remember, “ Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!”
Thanks for the video - Very impressive machine. I just bought an Ariens Platinum SHO 30" - 414 CC snowblower after several years of my Husqvarna not performing to my satisfaction (espesially in a recent 12" heavy wet storm. Will try it today with heavy wet snow/slush and I hope I am equally as pleased as you are with yours. I am concerned with how the "AUTO" steering is going to work, as I have read several reviews that people have had to fight to keep the machine going straight. Thanks again - Keep up the great work!
Hi Roger, welcome to the Ariens family. When I was shopping for a machine in 2018/19, I watched as many videos as I could find, and it really helped me make the right decision. There’s something about seeing real people in real life situations using a machine. You watch the manufacturer stuff, and every machine is the best thing since sliced bread. I used to use a 1980’s Simplicity with an 8hp. It was a good machine, but on my concrete drive it was like wrestling a bear with the fixed axel, and in the wet stuff, I had to pretreat the chute with silicone spray, or it would occasionally clog. I started out not pre treating the SHO, and it’s never clogged. The extra speed of the SHO impeller with the dual belts makes all the difference. I could always feel my impeller belt slipping a little with Heavy wet snow with my other machines, but not with the Ariens. You engage that impeller, and you can really feel the difference in heavy wet snow. The AutoTurn is a game changer, as it works very well. Most of the problems were in its early years. They moved the axel slightly and it corrected the early issues. From talking with the other guys that have these machines, I’ve learned several things that may help you if you ever have problems with yours over the years. Always make sure you set both tires to exactly the same pressure. Check that at the beginning of each season, and if you ever have a problem (sometimes one tire may develop a slow leak over the years) and it’s the first thing to check if you ever have a problem. Second is sometimes really rough concrete will create problems in certain snow conditions. If you notice it “catching”in places, switch to the composite skid shoes. I use mine on a wooden deck, and I added the composite Ariens shoes so I didn’t scratch it up. I notice a difference when I’m helping out neighbors who have rough cracked driveways. Third, some machines suffer some type of impact that knocks things out of alignment. The machine being accidentally dropped during loading/unloading, like falling off a ramp, or being bumped hard by a vehicle when somebody hits it backing into the garage, or the like. If your ever in that spot, go to the Ariens website & there’s a video onto how to realign the bucket that will help get things squared away. Congratulations on your new machine, and if you could let me know your impressions after you have a chance to use it, it would be appreciated. If you like what you see, and haven’t already, please consider subscribing to the channel. I occasionally post maintenance videos as well. I’m planning on doing a video on greasing the AutoTurn (which should be part of routine upkeep) sometime between now and the end of the season. Remember…. Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
Thank you VERY much for your return response and valuable information you shared. I got up dark and early this AM to use my new Ariens and tackle last night's 3" of snow that had mixed with rain, which compacted to 2" of heavy, wet snow/slush. One might not think this amount of snow would be a challenge, but as you probably know, it is much more difficult to move that mixture of crap than several inches of light stuff! Well, I started my Ariens Platinum SHO 30" - 414 cc machine up and off I went. This machine truly is a BEAST, and was UNBELIEVABLE as it moved right along as fast as I wanted to go, throwing this HEAVY WET MESS 40 -50 feet, and the heavier the volume of snow, the further it threw it!! I just wish I had recorded the performance, to share with others what it went through!! EVERYTHING you said about the machine was just as you described and my fears of performance from any negative reviews I read were soon put to rest! Like you said, they must have made some changes to the "Auto Turn" from it's earlier years, as it worked very well for me, turning easy and holding true on straight passes. Before I started, I rechecked the alignment of the bucket, lossened the composite "feet", and made sure the cutting edge was on a flat surface then tighened the feet back up - It cleared the driveway and walkways beautifully! I have used many different and various pieces of equipment for snow removal in my lifetime, and I must say THIS is the BEST overall machine I have ever owned. Thanks again for your post and response to mine - I have also hit your "LIKE" button and "SUBCRIBED" to your cahnnel! Have a great day, rest of the winter and "KEEP BLOWING"!!
Your welcome Roger. I’m glad it worked well for you and you weren’t disappointed. Wait till you get a big dump of snow, and you hear that engine growl cutting tight through that EOD pile of crap that plugs other machines! My experience is these SHO’s love a full bucket when throwing snow. It’s like the more snow there is the better they perform. Congrats again on your new “beast”. I’m sure your the envy of the neighborhood with your new “King of Snow” addition!
Those drift cutters really help in the deep stuff!
I put them up right away if the drifts are deep, or I’ll be in snow higher than the bucket. You have to be a little patient with them. As they cut the snow, you then need to back up so the snow you cut falls in front of you. I wish I could leave them up, but they add about 10” to the length of the machine, and get hooked on everything!
I love my 24 platinum SHO it's a absolute beast!!!!
Hi Matt. Until you stand behind its handlebars, guide it into deep heavy wet snow, watch that snow go flying, and listen to the growl of that big AX engine you have no idea how much fun a snowstorm can be LOL. I haven’t had a chance to do battle with old man winter this year yet, how about you? Thanks for the comment., and please consider subscribing to the channel if you like what you see.
I just purchased a Ariens 24" deluxe and I live in NH and have not had a chance to use it yet sure hope it works as good as the sho shown believe me if we don't get any bad storms this winter it was money well spent
'
Hi David. You buy a quality machine like an Ariens, perform routine seasonal maintenance, and you should get 15-20 years out of it. These cheap Chinese knock offs some of the big box stores sell, are cheaper up front, but you can’t gets parts for them later. When it does snow, you’ll be ready with your new deluxe. Remember, fear no blizzard when you have an Ariens in your garage! Thanks for the comment, and think snow so you can try that bad boy out:)
I have the same machine in the 2001 version. It is so powerful that once I do my driveway I plow my two, 85+ year old and 90 year old, neighbors driveways also.
Hey Sandbag. Nice of you to help out your neighbors. It’s the right thing to do, and this world would be a better place if more of us helped out our neighbors. I know you know what I mean when I say this snowblower has over the top power. Don’t you love the growl this engine gets when it’s under load. It actually makes snow removal fun! Thanks for the + comment. Remember….fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage.
Thanks for doing that for your neighbors! Keeps the smiles goin'! Do that for a couple of my neighbors here in Michigan, with my 24" Ariens.
Hi Tom… good to hear from you over in MI. It’s not really that much extra work (as you know from helping yourself). I have the blower out anyways, and I do really like to blow snow, so it’s no problem. All our snow is gone down here in SE WI. Raked the front lawn yesterday, and the daffodils are going to bloom this week. We got very little snow early here(Nov-Feb), and then a bunch of heavy wet crap in March. What kind of Wi red did you guys have?
@Blowing Snow 4fun In Michigan, we got close to 20" of that heavy wet crap, so was a little slower going. Some of the neighbors have some single stage blowers, so was a no g I for them. Took a little longer, but got them all blown out! Gonna start thinning out and rearranging hostas, then annuals. My rose tree is starting to bud already!! Enjoy your summer!! Don't eat too much O&H Kringles!!
2011 Platinum 30 in Oak Creek, WI here. Just starting to wake her up for the 22-23 winter. Here’s to record snowfall!
Hey Jarrett.. just saw Mark Baden and he said “There’s a good possibility of measurable snow on Tue & Weds. Doubt if it will be enough to get out the Ariens, but it’s a step in the right direction. 👍🏻on the record snowfall. I regularly post snowblower videos (when we get snow). If you like what you see, please consider subscribing to my channel. Remember, fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
Yes, blowing snow is fun and good relaxing
I find it positively therapeutic! Thanks for the comment Richard!
I could seriously watch these videos all day. Also off the coast of Lake Michigan, but a I'm guessing further south!
@@patrickd8135 Glad your enjoying the flying snow. If we have a few good storms this winter, I’ll add a few more. Lake Michigan is our wild card here. Sometimes it keeps us warm and holds our snow totals down. Sometimes a storm passes us to the East, and the wind shifts around to the NE down the lake and we’ll pick up another 6-8” lake effect snow. Sometimes the low comes over us, and spins over the lake enhancing our snowfall with greater totals of more moisture in the snow = wet heavy snow. Feel sorry for the weatherman here, it can be an SOB to predict correctly! Glad I have my Ariens.
I live in Quebec, Canada and i how an Ariens 28 inches platinum SHO. She is a snow eating monster !
There not only powerful, but the auto turn is so easy to handle compared to the old fixed axel machines. Fear no blizzard when you have an Ariens in the garage .
They make a heck of a blower. My Dad has the same.
The way these machines hold up, maybe you’ll be running his old Ariens some day? I inherited a 1991 Simplicity 8 ho from my dad. I still use it occasionally.
I just bought the Ariens 30” deluxe with the 306cc EFI engine it also has the new led lights on it I hope we get some decent snow fall here it’s hit or miss in the Chicagoland area
Congrats on the new machine Chris. Isn’t it nice to look forward to it snowing? Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
I have a Toro 18/32. Big machine. The biggest complaint I have is the plastic quick stick that controls a heavy and large Shute. The quick stick has failed already within a year because the plastic stick stripped its gears and I had no Shute control.
Hey AT. I really liked the big Toros when I looked at them., and I was happy with both of the old Toros I had. Unfortunately, to much plastic is the thing that made me choose the Ariens. On my old 724 ( which I gave away and is still running), and my 824, the chute control is all metal. I have a friend that has a storm. It’s a good machine, but the plastic gears on the chute control have failed and the chute loves on its own when blowing heavy snow. The chute control gears on my vintage Simplicity failed about 3 years ago. Same problem plastic gears that eventually stripped. I bought the replacement kit, and tge gears had been changed to metal. Works great now. Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to my channel if you like the type of video I make….. more videos to come of mostly my SHO, but of my vintage machines as well.
That beast is a snow cannon
Hey Mike…. That’s one way of putting it! It truly is a snow cannon. Only problem is we’re almost 20” under our normal snowfall, so the SHO has been parked in the garage most of tge winter. Glad you enjoyed the video.
I HAVE WATCHED SO MENY VIDS AND NICE TO SEE SOMEONE THAT KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING. SO MANY HAVE NO CLUE WHAT TO DO AND BLOW SNOW ALL OVER WHAT THEY DID OR BLOW IT INTO THE WIND RIGHT IN THERE FACE. SO FUNNY.
Thanks for the kind words Rachael. We’re 5 minutes from Lake Michigan here, so the winds really swirl after storms pass and I occasionally get a face full. Some times the wind direction changes 2x’s before I get to the end of my driveway, but overall, I think I do a pretty good job of not eating snow. We got 10” of wet heavy snow here last night, and it’s still snowing. We have power, but many here don’t. I’ll try to get more video up from this this storm asap. If you like what you see on the channel, please consider subscribing. Thanks for the + comment!
That's a quite impressive machine there! Great camera work, I appreciated that you used no camera time lapse.
Winter has been pretty tame here in West Central Wisconsin the last 2 winters, maybe you can blow🌬️ a couple of feet snow down this way.
Ahhh wish I could help you with the snow. No fun having a nice snow thrower, and you can’t get her out of the garage. Let’s hope for some big snows this year!
Some of those snow banks had to be more than 30" deep....more to ask for ANY snowblower.....wow, it did quite well!
Hi Scrubsz… it was really deep at the end of the driveway where I cleared room to put my garbage carts. Way over the bucket. The drift cutters really helped that day. You can never have too much power when it comes to snow like that. The SHO does really well with heavy snow! That was pulled up there by the snow plow as well, so it was dense & packed. Thanks for the + comment.
i had the ariens 36" hydro pro, after 4 years i got rid of it, just too much width and i was just along for a back breaking ride. went down to the 28" model and it's much better.
Hi Nocoolnsme. I don’t think I’ve ever had a chance to use anything over a 30, and that felt big! You must have had a lot of driveway to clear? The Pro machines are nice, the manual lists the weight of the 36 Hydro Pro as 327, which surprises me as my 24” SHO weighs in at 286 lbs. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but that’s like having a 5 year old boy sitting on your machine, plus the leverage issue of being 8” wider than what I’m used to. I’ve heard lots of good things about the 28 SHO. Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to the channel if you like what you saw, if you haven’t already. Remember “Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage.”
Seemed to do the job, but the only thing is it looked like you had to wrestle the blower.
Hi John…. You’re very observant. When I was clearing the grassy area at the end of the drive for the garbage carts, it was all ice under that snow. Without a heavy machine, I don’t think I could have cleared that pile. I struggled to stay upright let alone steer the SHO. If you like this type of video, please consider subscribing if you haven’t already. Thanks for the + comment
Drift cutters seem to work well 👍🏻
Hi Derek. I only use them when the snow is deep. I like the fact that I can fold these down, otherwise they get hooked on pants legs, shopping bags etc. When the snow is over the bucket, they cut the snow from underneath, so when you back the machine up it falls at or near your cutting path. It’s a PIA to back up, and now you have this big chunk of snow riding on the machine. Only wish the knobs were more of an oval design as its kind of hard to grip the round ones in the cold with gloves or mitts. Thanks for the comment. If you like what you see, please consider subscribing if you haven’t already.
I like the Ariens .
Hey Michael …. I’ve owned numerous snow blowers over the years. I’ve had Snow Boy, Wheel Horse, Simplicity, and Toro. Out of all the blowers I’ve had (and some I still have) The Ariens 24” SHO is my favorite snowblower. Thanks for the + comment. If you like videos like these, and haven’t already, please consider subscribing to the channel. If we ever get any snow here in WI, I’ll be posting more videos.
Quand la neige est poudreuse ça va bien mais si elle est bien mouillée ça coince dans la cheminée
Waist high snow bank for dogs and kids to make tunnels 😂
Hi downhillskier…have to make that grandkids for me LOL
There was one guy that had such a problem with this machine. To the point where people were giving him bad comments so he shut the comments off.
He was saying that it would not push through heavy snow or deep snow that the transmission kept slipping.
Everybody kept yelling at him telling him to adjust the spring in the back for the tension on the belt.. He showed everybody that he did everything right and that the machine had a defect.
What was happening is water was getting in no matter what through the cover on the seal. And the friction disc was getting wet no matter what he did..
It was constantly slipping and would not push through anything.
I'm wondering if they fix this if anyone knows about what went on with this issue?
Have you had any of these problems with the transmission slipping and the wheels not spinning.. water getting inside the transmission from the belt cover?
Greetings. I have no problems with water getting in under the belt cover, or the transmission slipping. When I push down on the lever to move the machine, it gets great traction, and bites into whatever I have it aimed at. I have two friends that have the exact same machine as mine, and they have no problems as well. I’ve never heard that complaint about the 24” Platinum SHO before. Can you send me a link to the guys video who has the issue? I’d like to see the video. Thanks!
@@blowingsnow4fun
czcams.com/video/x64jrTVGEoI/video.html
czcams.com/video/CR6m4R8WDM8/video.html
czcams.com/video/j0T5T2Pu69c/video.html
Yea I know which video you were talking g about. Type in ariens junk and I think you’ll find it. Believe it was getting wet also because he kept it outside so moisture would get inside no matter what. But I too was put off by the video because I’m not sure. Think it’s best to look at the plastic cover in person if considering buying one
Try moving the cam so that we can see what you're doing.
Hey TeamDrummond …. Very difficult to put a camera on a tripod, and catch all the action when you’re doing physical labor. I do my best to move the camera to the vantage point that captures as much of the action as possible.
Looks efficient.
Hi NS. I never thought of it that why, but it is quite efficient at moving snow. From a human standpoint, you have to put very little effort into turning the SHO compared to the older fixed axel machines like videos of my Toro 824, and Simplicity SnowAway. The SHO does use more gas than my older machines because of engine size. The SHO puts out 17 ft lbs of torque and is about 12-13 Hp. My older machines are both 8 Hp ( not sure of their torque). Thanks for the comment, and please consider subscribing to my channel if you like the type of video I make .
Did anyone besides me notice the weenie wheels on the wimpy machine across the street? The Platinum SHO is the monster truck of the neighborhood.
Hi WATEA man. The machine you see on the other side of the street (if that’s what your referencing?)is a 14 year old 10 hp Ariens. It was a beast back in its day, and still throws snow pretty well. Maybe the distance from the camera makes it look small?? Thanks for the comment!
@@blowingsnow4fun Hope my 28" Deluxe SHO lasts 14 years. Heck, I hope I last another 14 years!
@@wateaman I’m just glad to get out of bed every morning these days LOL.
What are those two rails on each side in front? My blower doesn't have those.
Hey wordsalsd… those are drift cutters, and can be added to most Ariens machines. There is a plastic knob used to tighten them. When not needed, they stay folded along the bucket. I only put mine up for deep snow/ or deep drifting. They cut through snow higher than the bucket. 80% of the time I don’t need them, but when we get hit with a big storm, they make a huge difference. They are model specific, so see your Ariens dealer, or order one to fit your model on line. Here is one on Amazon
a.co/d/eKMLlcZ
If you like videos like these please consider subscribing to the channel if you haven’t already.
surprised you aint got one with tracks
Looked at them. I would have had to go to a 28”, and the 24 fits so much better in my garage at a cost of about $400 more. Only other option was the compact 24 which is available in rapidTrack. The 223 CC engine is just too small for my tastes. The 369 in my 24” fits my needs so much better.
Have you had any problems with the friction disk? Or the shafts etc.. being all rusty? I've seen a few comments about it and a video or two. I just ordered a platinum 24, so hoping it's just the "people who aren't happy scream the loudest" type of thing.
Hi RC. I have had zero problems with the friction disc, or the internal shafts getting rusty. Here is a video of me taking the belly pan off, and what it looked like.
Ariens snow thrower on the inside after two seasons? Let’s drop the belly pan for the reveal.
czcams.com/video/gYKQaPD8gjs/video.html
I saw that guys video as well, and I don’t know what happened to that machine. I don’t have any info about how he stores or maintain his machine. When I bought mine in 2019, I had two good friends that were also ready for a new blower. We bought 3 24” Platinum SHO’s and we’re able to negotiate a little price reduction. I have helped both of my friends do routine maintenance where we’ve had the belly pan off, and all three of them look good with no rust. Our machines are all stored in a dry area of our garages, and recurve yearly preventative maintenance. I believe the friction discs don’t last as long as they did when they were made 20 years ago, but ours are still pristine as of 1/2 way through our 4th season. It’s very important with friction drive systems like ours you don’t “cheat” when using then when shifting between gears. If you ease up on the drive clutch (left side as u stand in operators position) slightly you can shift gears (for example from 3rd to R1). This allows the friction wheel to slide across the spinning disc, and wears the friction disc extremely fast. You don’t have to come to a complete stop or anything, just release that left handgrip before shifting gears. Those shafts/spindles are metal, and to prevent rust in an environment where they are exposed to melting snow (which sometimes contains salt), coat them every year (or at the very least every other year) with some grease. Here’s a video of how I care for my SHO inside the belly pan.
czcams.com/video/BvZ0hqu2nes/video.html
You’ve purchased a great machine that will give you 20+ years of service, with proper routine maintenance. It has great features, and over the top power. With that SHO impeller, and dual belts, your days of clogging in wet heavy snow are over! The AutoTurn makes it super easy to handle. When you take it out in your first 4+” snowfall, you’ll know you made the right pick. Please let me know how it goes when you get a chance to use your new machine. If you like what you see on the channel, please consider subscribing. I will be posting a new video with me lubing the AutoTurn system on my machine between now and spring which you would probably be interested in seeing. Welcome to the Ariens family, and if you have any questions after you get your SHO feel free to reach out.
You'd move a lot more snow if you didn't spend one-half of your time backing up!
You're leaving ridges because you're trying to take too big of a bite.
Ariens snowblowers are designed to push extra snow to the left side of the bucket and the extra snow will leave ridges.
Hi Calvin. That was the biggest snowfall that had I had the SHO out in to date. I had used it in 6-8 inches previously, and been able to take a full bucket with no problem. Next time I tackle 14+ inches I’ll take a smaller bite. I never knew they were designed to push more snow to the left side of the bucket? Do you know why? In retrospect, it would be advantageous to keep the left side of the machine against the unplowed snow. My two older machines with 8 Hp Techumse engines don’t have near the power this one has, the engines slow down in deep snow, thus slowing the drive speed, and they kind of self meter the snow entering the bucket. (almost self pacing) The SHO has so much power and torque that it keeps going at whatever speed you start at. Thanks for the tips and the positive comments. I’ve been using snow blowers since my dad bought a SnowBoy when I was around 10. Never too old to learn something new!
@@blowingsnow4fun Watch your video and you'll see the snow that won't go up the impeller gets kicked out to the left side of the machine and returned to the impeller again. I never ever take a full bucket load.
I bought the Deluxe 28 in 2013 and after a season of having the machine spin its tires and having the front raise up on big snowbanks, I fitted it with chains and bolted Ariens' 10-pound weight to the underside of the bucket. That turned it into a whole new snowblower. Greatest move I ever made!
I clear the snow between the garage and the alley and also clear the alley snow from the garage to the street to the north. My raised 4x4 pickup can get up the alley to the street until the city plows the alley but our car can't. We used reject gravel for surface material and so I set the shoes so that the blade is 1/2" off of the ground so I don't eat gravel with the snow. I also clear the snow for 3 of my neighbors so the terrain is unpredictable.
Paul reviews Ariens and one of Paul's videos mentions the left side snow return but I forget exactly which one.
czcams.com/video/PbqBGG6j1qA/video.html
@@CALVINLNIKONT I subscribe to Paul S. Channel. I’ll have to go back and look at his Ariens videos. I’ll also watch my videos mirroring them on the TV, so I can see more closely. Usually work on them with the phone. Nice of you to help your neighbors out. We need more of that in this world right now!
@@blowingsnow4fun Our last snow a few days ago was only about 8" but in some areas, the grass was showing and some other areas had 4-foot drifts which the Ariens ate like candy.
They are great machines IMO. This is the first one I’ve owned. I did my research, and spoke with other owners, and felt they made the best machine right now, Fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
Do all of your neighbors own Ariens snowblowers , or Toro. All look like orange or red .
Hi Mike. There a variety of machines around me. Let’s start out with Acrossed the street on my block. They go Toro, generic, Ariens, Troy built, John Deer, Simplicity, my side of the street is my Ariens, generic next door, Toro,toro,toro.toro.the generics are big box Chinese machines.
@@blowingsnow4fun Like purchasing a tv from Walmart : cheap versions of same models . At least there is a John Deere in your neighborhood . Mine are 3 Toro and an Aries . Mine was a John Deere , but Monday it is an Ariens . I would have stayed with J. D. if they were still in production . I have bought Deeres since 1983 . My Brother and Brother -In -Law both have J. D. I chose Ariens cause 1 : built in Brillion , about 20 miles away from Wrightstown . 2 : quality of build . My Son has a Toro , and I do not like those . I want a brand that will last . Cheaper means you will be buying several during a lifetime , vs. maybe only a couple .
Your other videos showing you blow through 12 , 15 inches of snow show the power your Ariens has ! Blame me if we get no / little snow this season ha ha . Just like getting a car wash , then it will rain . Happy Holidays , Merry Christmas !
@mikeswink1031 Merry Christmas to you as well🎄
I see gravel in there too seems to handle it just fine ?
Hi Dkat… I have a few spots where I occasionally scoop up a little gravel. You sure can hear it go through the machine. It does knock the paint off the impeller where it comes out into the chute. It will rust there with all the salt from the street going through it. I touch up the paint in that area with a can of Ariens orange spray paint in the spring. I run my skid shoes so a paint stir stick fits tightly under the scraper bar because I’m on concrete or grass 99.9% of the time. If I ran it in gravel drives frequently I would set the scraper bar 1-1 1/4” off the ground. Thanks for the + comment. If you like this type of video, and you haven’t already, please consider subscribing to the channel.
Looks like yours is a lot more stable than mine. Do you have a weight kit on the inside of the bucket ? Also, you look to let the machine do all the work. Maybe I'm fighting the machine for no reason. Seems like you are pulling up on the handlebars sometimes, I think I push on those bars when the machine needs assistance. You are a better operator than me !
Hi BravoOne…. I don’t have any extra weight on my bucket. I first learned how to use a snow blower in the 60’s when my father bought a “SnowBoy” (made by lawn boy lawn mowers). He always told me to not be in such a hurry, and let the machine do the work. If your fighting with your machine, I’m guessing your probably in too high a gear. I try and start blowing in second, and gauge how it goes. If I leave snow along the edges, ( more than a little) the machine struggles, or I I have to man handle the machine, I need to go to a lower gear. When I get into first, if the bucket starts riding up, I add a little upward pressure on the grips. I try to be patient and only apply as much physical force needed to get forward motion. When I loose forward momentum, I try to just use my body weight by leaning my hips against the back of the dash. When the machine starts to move, I let it pull away from my hips, and walk behind it until it starts to stop moving forward, at which time, I lean on the dash again. My SHO is like 260 lbs, that’s considerable weight over that axel that should be adequate in normal conditions to achieve traction. Sometimes, there’s no substitute for muscle and brute force. If you watch me working in my “Stacking it up” video. I’m working my keister off when I’m back along my fence near my shed. The snow was there from 3 storms, and there was ice under the snow frozen over the grass. I’d go forward s couple feet, and then back up and take a second pass. In a case like that, you have to stay in first, and keep moving by throughly clearing a path down to the bottom. If your first gear isn’t slow enough, you can adjust an Ariens slightly to slow down 1st gear. If that’s an issue for you, let me know, and I’ll send you a link to a video that shows how to make that adjustment. So, my advice would be :
1 start blowing in a low gear
2 let the machine do the work
3 use your body weight not your muscles whenever possible when you need to….be patient, practice makes perfect.
Thanks for the positive comment, and let me know how it goes the next time you blow snow, and have a chance to use the techniques I suggested.
@@blowingsnow4fun thank you for the detailed explanation. I have a Deluxe 28 SHO, pretty heavy too. 5 minutes ago I was looking for a way to slow down the speed on first gear. Maybe this is the problem. I found something about tightening/raising the nut (or whatever the name) connecting to the drive lever. I will try it tomorow. Thanks again.
Hi BravoOne…here’s a short clip of how to slow down 1st.
czcams.com/users/shortsRdVJ23Mg5C0?feature=share
There’s a better CZcams video, but I can’t find it right now. I do remember if you go too far slowing down 1st. You loose one of your reverse selections. The key is slowing it down as much as you can without that happening.
@@blowingsnow4fun Ok, now this is a different snowblower. After watching the video, I checked the manual and it explains how to set it up. The dealder has probably push down the lever, aligning the pivot pin with the hole and insert it. This is the way to do it for the Deluxe 30 SHO, I have a Deluxe 28 SHO. For some reasons, in the manual it says to do like mentioned above, but to turn 7 times the pivot pin for the 28 SHO (the pivot pin goes higher on the rod) and then insert it, I did it that way and now the first gear is reaaaaally slow, but I love it. Hard to be 100% accurate, but I think the 3rd gear has now the speed my 1st gear had before. Reverse gears are also faster now which is a plus. It was a basic adjustment that has been messed up at the dealer...it happens. Thanks again.
@@bravoone3823 I’m glad it worked for you. Sometimes it’s something simple like having both tires set at the exact same pressure to get the auto turn to work correctly, or a minor adjustment that can all the difference.
Spinning a bit? Have u thought about studding the tires or chains?
The tires on the machine are pretty good, and the machine Is fairly heavy at just under 300 lbs. I really only notice the tires spinning under heavy load when I’m off the concrete. I have chains on a 1980’s Toto 824 I have and they help, but it’s such a rough ride when your on a hard surface, and they always leave rust all over the garage floor. I wish the 1st gear on the SHO was a little slower, kind of a creeper gear. I have it set as slow as it will go now. I didn’t even know studs were available for snow blower tires, I’ll have to look into that. Thanks for the positive comment.
What brand snowblower is that neighbor beside you using, he’s also making quick work of the snow ?
10 year old Ariens
nice machine. it really does have all the power you need for a 24"...goes to show ya....really is beneficial having 13hp---390--420cc on 28" and wider machines....even though you can get by with less....by who wants to be out in the cold for 1 hour when 20 mins will get it done? lol
im itchin for some snow.
Hi Harry…. Thanks for the positive comment. I’m in the “your better off having too much power than not enough” camp. We’ve had a crappy winter here in SE Wi so far. We’ve had a couple really small snows and that’s it. Im going to take the SHO out this week, and let it run for 10 minutes in the driveway. These machines are not built to sit, they need to run to stay in top shape. Here’s hoping for some snow!
Which engine does the snowblower in the video have?
306cc; 369cc; or 420cc?
Also what torque is it 15.0, 17.0 or 21.0
Hi… it’s the 369 CC on the 24”, and it has 17 lbs. of torque. It is an extremely powerful engine for that size snow blower (24” throws 27 tons of snow per hour). It really likes its bucket full when blowing snow. The more snow the better it works, and when it is under load, the engine gets kind of a growl to it. Thanks for the comment, and let me know if you have any other questions. I should have some new maintenance videos for the SHO up soon.
@@blowingsnow4fun sure looks and sounds like a beast. I want one! I’m running a 1967 Ariens sno-thro that still works well which makes it difficult to part ways cause it’s been so reliable. But the 369 engine is definitely on the top of my list!
That 1967 is a great machine. They built them like tanks back then. I have an 80’s Toro, and and 80’s Simplicity I still run at my cabin up in Northern Wi. That’s a tough one. You want the new features like heated grips, head light, and dual belt impeller, but old Bessie’s still alive and kicking. The loyalist in me says run her till she dies, or use the old gal for the light snows, and get an SHO for the heavy stuff like the EOD pile, and run 2 if the budget will allow? In the meantime, you can always check out my channel to see the SHO in action. Thanks for the comment!
At the end of your driveway, you are trying to force the machine forward when the wheels will not propell it forward.
Let the augar clear the and snow away, then inch the machine forward...why work harder than needed..let the machine do all the work. ..all you need to do is direct it. Work smarter, not harder.
Hi Jim…. Thanks for the tip. I know it looks like I’m not letting the machine do its thing, but in my neighborhood we have an unusual feature at the end of the driveways all over my subdivision. They did not install a curb with a normal sloped approach at the end of the driveways. There’s one continuous sharp dip in the concrete that I think is designed to channel the water. This dip creates the perfect trap for the wheels of the snowblower. If I don’t lift on the handlebars, and give it a little shove with my hips, I’d still be there. When I’m going downhill, the machine glides right through it as its weight and momentum gives you the shove you need. Going up the hill, it’s a different story. I’ve only lived in this house about 7 years, and I’ve seen all my neighbors struggle with the feature. Everyone hates it, and they were suppose to come through, and install gutters with normal approaches, but that didn’t happen, and I’m pretty sure it never will. To answer what you’re thinking… yes, it’s a bear to shovel too. It’s almost impossible to clean it efficiently unless there’s serious melting going on. I should shoot a short video of the feature in the sumner. I’m guess a tracked machine would probably walk right up it, but I bought this machine before I discovered the feature had unique challenges, and interestingly, I’ve never seen a tracked machine in my subdivision.
You need a 32"!!!
A 24 fits in my garage without too much trouble. If I go any larger, I have to pull one vehicle out of the garage to get the snow blower out without scratching anything. I really dislike blowing snow after someone has driven on it (I know sometimes it’s unavoidable). You can never get those car tracks off the driveway until they melt. I initially was going to buy a 30 SHO, until I got out the yardstick. Winter May last 4 months here in SE Wis., but 8” of width you need to store for all 12 months. Thanks for the comment, and if you’d like to see more videos like these, please subscribe.
I want to see some lame EGO blower do this! I have a 28" Ariens SHO that would eat this up too.
They have their place, it’s just not in my garage. Thanks for the comment Lloyd. Remember….fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
WOW!!!
Hi Michael. Hope that’s a good wow. If you enjoy snow-blowing videos, and info about machines I run, I aim to please. I have another video of one of my vintage machines throwing snow I’m editing, and should be done in the next few days. If you want to get notified when I put new videos up, just subscribe to my channel. Thanks for the positive comment!
This is a old video so im sure u learned by now but i just wanna say it looks like ur using 2nd not first and i see u using ur body to force the blower thru the snow what is best for u and the blower is to let the blower do all the work if it seems to wanna spin stop let the auger clear out and go again it will make it last longer and ur body will thank u in the long run if u need to force it thru banks ur going to fast for the amount of snow we had a ton of snow this year and not once did i need to push it i just let it eat slowly and i let the blower do all the work all my hands done was use the levers and controls also i personally start my blower in idle not full throttle just lets the rings and stuff warm up abit before its working hard so it dont wear premature or crack the block yes a cold engine can split the block if its idled to fast right off the start thats y u let ur car warm up before u drive it
Hi RCman. I do use my body to start the machine forward in this video as there was ice under the snow from previous melting, and there was no way I was going to get the unit to start chewing through the snow without a little force from my hips. I always try to let the machine “do the work,” but on the unpaved grassy area I was clearing for putting out my refuse containers, there was absolutely no traction. I do use 1st gear almost exclusively when in deep snow, and with the exception of a few times when I had to clean up some snow that overflowed the bucket, I believe I was in 1st gear. I was probably in 2nd or third when I was clearing the street, and the snow load was not very deep. I agree, it’s easier on the body when you can get the blower to move without any impetus from the operator, but in some situations, pushing a little with the hips on the dash is about the easiest way you can gain some forward momentum. I did think first gear was too fast for my liking after blowing snow that day, so I did go to the owners manual before the next storm& adjust my shift linkage to give me a slower 1st. First did feel much better the next time I used it in deep snow. I am a creature of habit & I’ve always been taught to start snow blowers at full throttle. I have two older machines, a early 80’s Toro 824, and a late 80’s Simplicity SnowAway. They both have Techumse 8hp SnowKing engines, and in the original owners manuals it indicates they should be started at full throttle. In the owners manual for the Platinum SHO it also indicates the engine is to be started at full throttle. The Ariens “How to” video on starting all Ariens AX engines also specifies that they are to be started at full throttle, and the choke is to be gradually taken off. It also states that the engine should be allowed to gradually warm up before blowing snow. According to Ariens, the low idle setting is to be used for periods of idling while not blowing snow., and during transport to another area. This is why 5th & 6th gear are so fast on an Ariens , (there almost useless gears for blowing snow) so that during transport at idle speed, you can get a decent walking pace to move the machine. After reading your comments, I did rewatch some of the video, and I do need to let the machine warm up better before I start blowing snow. I will also be more mindful of being patient with the SHO, and try to let it do more of the work. Lord knows at 65, my body can use all of the help it can get LOL Ariens isn’t one of them, but I’ve been told many snowblower manufacturers are going away from adjustable throttles. It’s all out all the time. Thanks for the + comment.
@@blowingsnow4fun u said a manual states the engine should be allowed to gradully warm up but the manual says to start it at full throttle 🤔 i personally always start mine at idle and let it run for 5-10 mins then turn it to max for a min before i goto work manuals sometimes makes no sense like the part that tells u to let it warm up but also says start it full throttle that dont make much sense to me cause a car and other motor stuff dont start maxed out on the rpms and my advice if it dont have traction at times instead of push it back up and go again right by where u done it helps alot and it will help ur body in the long run and the video seemed like u used 2nd all the time but it might of just needed the adjustment to slow it down abit it was a good video tho iv seen it twice now and seen a couple others i also love that u help out the one across the road and that sometimes wish more people would do that stuff
@@blowingsnow4fun o and if it has warranty still then do what the manual says cause if it gets messed up its on them but if it dont have warranty maybe start it at idle or mid throttle if u want to of course
Donny 8th Pottstown pa frozen Anna JoJo
I’m missing something.. anyone want to translate?
Cesar🌨🌨🌨🌨☃️❄❄❄❄☃️🌨
The platinum SHO is the snow terminator!
been watching the new ego blowers ,,i bet they cant beat this ariens ,,i know they cant beat my 11,5 28 inch one
Hey Craig. The electric blowers have a place, and some of them are pretty nice. Toro makes some nice ones. I have a neighbor with an ego. Came with one battery that barely finishes his drive in 6” of powder. A second battery is like $350 bucks, if I lived in a condo and needed a small blower to clear a walk, or I had to store it in the house. Or for someone that just doesn’t want to deal with a gas/oil engine. Although to answer your question…. I don’t think, if I live to see 100, I’ll ever see a mass production electric snowblower out throw the SHO. Thanks for the positive comment. Remember …fear no blizzard with an Ariens in your garage!
@@blowingsnow4fun not against battery power...its the cost,,,an i bet most wont keep the battery charged when not in use,,,they wont last if you dont..
Hi Craig. It’s just like most gas blowers. So many people push them in the corner at the end of the season, and hope they start and run next year. Neglect is neglect weather it’s an electric or gas engine. Point well taken. Thanks for the + comment.
HOW DOES IT WORK ON STALE SNOW ? ASKING FOR MY BLONDE WIFE.
I’m guessing you mean snow that’s been on the ground a while???
If that’s what you referencing, it’s a heavy machine (near 300 lbs), and is well balanced, so it’s pretty good at blowing snow that’s sat a while compared to other 2 stage machines I’ve had.
Can you make a snow fort?
Hi MTC… we got a new puppy the year I had to blow out the back yard. My wife went out with the shovel and cleared an 12x12 near the deck area as close to the grass as she could thinking the puppy would prefer it. The pup used that area for about 2 days, and found she preferred climbing up, and walking out on the mountain of snow between the house, and fence in back as her favorite spot to poop. She was so light, she just walked on top the snow. As for me, the official poop picker upper, i sank and the snow was up to my thighs. So the “snow fort” my wife created became part of the maze the dogs used for their never ending game of tag in the snow. Thanks for the comment. Forecast is for flurries here today, and possibly measurable snow next week. I’ll post new videos all winter as long as I get the snow. If you like this kind of video, please consider subscribing to the channel:)