Ariens Snowblower Key Bypass: Your Emergency Guide to Starting in a Storm!
The snow is piling up, the wind is howling, and you’re ready to clear your driveway. You reach for your trusty Ariens snowblower, but your heart sinks—the key is missing. A lost, broken, or simply forgotten key can turn a powerful machine into a useless piece of metal right when you need it most.
This frustrating scenario is more common than you might think. Whether the key vanished after summer storage or snapped off in the ignition, the result is the same: you’re stuck. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough on how to perform an Ariens snowblower key bypass in an emergency, so you can get your machine running and reclaim your driveway from the snow.
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Why Your Ariens Needs a Key (And the Risks of Bypassing It)
Before attempting any bypass, it’s crucial to understand the purpose of the key. On most Ariens snowblowers, the ignition key is not like a car’s ignition; it doesn’t power a complex starting sequence. Instead, it acts as a simple but critical safety switch.
The key’s primary function is to complete or interrupt a grounding circuit connected to the engine’s ignition coil (often called the magneto). When the key is removed or in the “off” position, it allows a circuit to ground out the ignition coil, preventing it from generating a spark. Without a spark, the engine cannot start. Inserting and turning the key breaks this ground connection, allowing the coil to produce a spark and the engine to run.
Bypassing this system is an emergency procedure, not a permanent fix. Attempting to modify your snowblower’s electrical system carries inherent risks, including potential damage to the ignition coil or other components and the danger of electric shock if not done carefully. Always proceed with caution and prioritize safety above all else.
Before You Begin: Essential Tools and Safety Preparations
Safety is non-negotiable. Before you touch a single wire, you must prevent any possibility of the engine accidentally starting. Your first and most important step is to disconnect the spark plug wire.
Simply locate the thick black wire on the front or top of the engine and firmly pull the “boot” off the tip of the spark plug. Tuck it away from the plug to ensure it cannot make contact. This single action removes any chance of the engine firing up while you work.
Tools You Will Need:
- Needle-nose pliers
- A set of screwdrivers or nut drivers (to remove the dash panel)
- Electrical tape
- A short jumper wire with alligator clips (optional but helpful)
– Wire cutters/strippers
Identifying Your Ariens Ignition System: A Critical First Step
Most Ariens snowblowers use a straightforward ignition system, but accessing it requires removing the control panel or dash where the key is located. This is typically held in place by a few screws or bolts. Once removed, you can look at the back of the ignition switch.
You will likely find a simple 2-prong switch. These two wires are the beginning and end of the grounding circuit. Some larger, more complex models might have switches with more prongs that control features like headlights or hand warmers. This guide focuses on the common 2-prong system.
The age of your machine can sometimes give clues about its electrical system. If you’re unsure about the manufacturing date of your snowblower, you might find some useful information by learning what year your Ariens snowblower was made, as older models often feature simpler wiring.
Method 1: The Simple Disconnect Bypass for a Lost Key
This is the most common and direct method to bypass a lost key on a standard Ariens snowblower. The goal is to manually create the “on” state that the key would normally provide—an open, or non-grounded, circuit. It effectively mimics the key being in the run position.
First, ensure the spark plug wire is disconnected. Next, access the back of the ignition switch and locate the two wires connected to it. Carefully unplug these two wires from the switch terminals using your pliers.
Once the wires are disconnected from the switch, the grounding circuit is broken. The ignition coil is now free to produce a spark. To be safe, wrap the metal end of each wire with a small piece of electrical tape to prevent them from accidentally touching each other or the snowblower’s metal frame, which could kill the engine.
With the wires safely insulated, you can now re-attach the spark plug wire. The snowblower’s ignition is now “live.” You should be able to start it using the recoil pull-start or the electric starter as you normally would. To shut the engine off, you will need to either pull the choke to flood the engine or carefully disconnect the spark plug wire again.
Method 2: Bypassing a Faulty or Damaged Switch
Sometimes, the problem isn’t a lost key but a faulty switch. The internal components can corrode or break, causing the switch to be permanently stuck in the “off” (grounded) position, even when a key is inserted. In this case, simply unplugging the wires might not be enough if the issue lies further down the wiring.
The principle remains the same: you must break the ground connection to the ignition coil. Follow the wire that leads away from the ignition switch. It typically runs down toward the engine block.
By tracing this wire, you can find where it connects to the ignition coil. Disconnecting it directly from the coil will achieve the same result, bypassing the entire switch and wire assembly. This is a more involved method but can be effective if the switch itself is the source of the problem.
A Note on Wire Colors
While wire colors can vary between models and years, the grounding wire for the ignition is often black or green. However, never rely solely on color. Always confirm you are tracing the correct wires from the back of the ignition switch to be certain.
Comparing Emergency Bypass Methods
Choosing the right method depends on your situation and comfort level with electrical work. The table below breaks down the primary options for getting your machine started in an emergency.
| Bypass Method | Difficulty Level | Tools Required | Primary Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disconnect Wires from Switch | Easy | Pliers, Screwdriver, Electrical Tape | Low. Minimal risk if spark plug is disconnected. | Lost or forgotten key. |
| Create Temporary Jumper | Easy | Jumper wire with clips, Pliers | Low. Risk of shorting if clips touch the frame. | Quickly testing a faulty switch. |
| Install a Toggle Switch | Moderate | Toggle Switch, Wire Strippers, Crimpers | Moderate. Requires basic wiring skills. | A semi-permanent fix for a broken ignition. |
| Trace and Disconnect at Coil | Moderate | Pliers, Screwdriver | Moderate. Can be harder to access the coil. | Suspected faulty switch or wiring. |
The Right Fix: Ordering and Replacing the Ignition Switch
Remember, a bypass is a temporary solution to get you through a snowstorm. The proper, long-term fix is to replace the key or the entire ignition switch assembly. This restores the machine’s intended safety features and ensures reliable operation.
You can order a replacement key or switch directly from Ariens or an authorized parts dealer. To ensure you get the correct part, you will need your snowblower’s model and serial number, which are usually found on a sticker on the back of the machine’s frame. Replacing the switch is typically as simple as unplugging the old one and plugging in the new one.
Preventative Measures: Don’t Get Caught in the Cold Again
The best solution is to avoid the problem in the first place. Once you have a working key, take a few simple steps to prevent future emergencies. Buy at least two spare keys. Keep one in a safe, memorable place like a kitchen drawer or with other spare house keys.
Consider attaching a large, brightly colored keychain or float to your primary snowblower key. This makes it much harder to misplace in a cluttered garage or a snowdrift. Periodically, it’s also a good idea to inspect the ignition and wiring for any signs of corrosion or wear, especially before the winter season begins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a universal snowblower key for my Ariens?
Possibly, but it’s not guaranteed. Many manufacturers use similar, simple key designs, and a “universal” key might fit. However, for a perfect fit and guaranteed operation, it is always best to order an OEM replacement key specific to your model.
Will bypassing the key damage my snowblower’s engine?
No, the bypass itself will not harm the engine. The key switch is part of a low-voltage grounding circuit that is separate from the engine’s main operational components. The primary risk is to the electrical system if wires are shorted, or to the user if safety precautions are ignored.
What if my snowblower still won’t start after the bypass?
If you have successfully bypassed the ignition but the engine still won’t start, the problem lies elsewhere. The most common no-start issues are related to fuel, air, or spark. Check for a fouled spark plug, a clogged carburetor from old fuel, or a blocked fuel line.
Conclusion: A Temporary Fix for a Critical Problem
Being stranded with a non-starting snowblower during a blizzard is a tough spot. An Ariens snowblower key bypass is an effective emergency solution that can get your machine running when you have no other options. By carefully disconnecting the grounding circuit, you can get back to the crucial task of clearing snow.
However, always treat this as a temporary measure. Restoring the original functionality by replacing the lost key or broken switch is essential for safe, long-term operation. With a little preparation and a few spare keys on hand, you can ensure you’re always ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way.
