How to Drain Gas from an Ariens Snowblower Before It’s Too Late

As winter fades and spring approaches, a critical task often gets overlooked: preparing your Ariens snowblower for storage. Many owners simply push it to the back of the garage, unaware of the silent damage unfolding within the fuel system. This single oversight is a leading cause of frustrating, costly repairs come the first snowfall.

Leaving untreated gasoline in your snowblower for months is a recipe for disaster. Modern fuel degrades surprisingly quickly, leading to starting problems, poor performance, and even severe engine damage. Draining the fuel is not just a suggestion; it is the most crucial step for ensuring longevity and reliable operation.

The Ticking Time Bomb in Your Fuel Tank: Why Draining Gas is Non-Negotiable

The belief that you can leave fuel in your snowblower all summer without consequence is a costly misconception. The gasoline you buy at the pump is not built for long-term stability. Understanding what happens to it over time reveals why draining is essential for the health of your machine.

Even Ariens, a leading manufacturer, strongly recommends completely draining the fuel system before seasonal storage, even if a stabilizer has been used. This advice is based on the chemical breakdown of gasoline, which creates sludge and varnish that can wreak havoc on your engine.

The Hidden Damage of Stale Fuel

Gasoline begins to degrade in as little as 30 days. The primary culprit is ethanol, an alcohol mixed into most fuels, which is hygroscopic—meaning it attracts and absorbs water from the atmosphere. This moisture can lead to corrosion and rust inside your metal fuel tank and carburetor components.

As the fuel oxidizes and evaporates, it leaves behind a thick, sticky substance similar to varnish. This residue coats the inside of the fuel tank, clogs fuel lines, and gums up the delicate components of the carburetor. This process is the beginning of a chain reaction that ends with a machine that refuses to start.

Carburetor Catastrophe: A Costly Consequence of Neglect

The carburetor is the heart of your snowblower’s fuel system, and it is extremely vulnerable to stale fuel. It contains tiny jets and passages that deliver a precise air-fuel mixture to the engine. When varnish and sludge from old gas reach these components, they become partially or completely blocked.

A clogged carburetor is the most common reason a snowblower fails to start after storage. Symptoms include the engine refusing to turn over, running rough, or only staying on with the choke engaged. A professional carburetor cleaning or replacement can be an expensive and entirely avoidable repair.

Before You Begin: Essential Safety Precautions and Tools

Working with gasoline requires the utmost care and attention to safety. Gasoline is highly flammable, and its vapors are explosive. Before you start the draining process, ensure you are in a safe environment and have the right tools on hand.

Never work indoors, such as in a basement or attached garage. Always perform this maintenance in a well-ventilated area like an open garage or a driveway, far away from any potential ignition sources.

Your Essential Toolkit

Gathering your tools beforehand will make the process smooth and efficient. You won’t need many specialized items, but having the right ones is key. Here is what you should have ready:

• Approved Fuel Container: A red, sealed container specifically designed for gasoline.
• Siphon Pump: A manual hand pump is the safest and most effective tool for transferring fuel.
• Wrenches or Socket Set: A basic set is needed for disconnecting fuel lines or removing the carburetor bowl drain bolt (typically a 10mm).
• Pliers: For removing hose clamps on the fuel line.
• Clean Rags: To clean up any small spills immediately.
• Safety Gear: Nitrile gloves and safety glasses are highly recommended.

The Golden Rules of Gasoline Safety

Adhering to these safety rules is not optional. A moment of carelessness can have severe consequences. Always follow these precautions:

• Work in a Ventilated Area: Never handle gasoline in an enclosed space. Fumes can accumulate to dangerous levels.
• No Ignition Sources: Ensure there are no open flames, sparks, or potential sources of ignition nearby. This includes pilot lights on water heaters or furnaces, as well as power tools.
• Engine Must Be Cool: Never work on a hot or recently running engine. Allow it to cool down completely to prevent accidental ignition.
• Store Drained Fuel Properly: Place the drained gasoline in an approved, clearly labeled container. You can often use this fuel in your car by mixing it with a larger volume of fresh gas.

Three Foolproof Methods to Drain Your Ariens Snowblower’s Gas

There are several effective ways to drain the fuel from your Ariens snowblower. The best method for you may depend on your comfort level with mechanical tasks and the tools you have available. Below are the three most common and reliable techniques.

Each method successfully removes fuel from the tank, but some are more thorough than others at clearing the entire system, including the carburetor. For complete protection, a combination of methods is often the best approach.

Method 1: The Siphon Method (Simple and Effective)

Using a siphon pump is one of the easiest and cleanest ways to remove the majority of the fuel from the tank. It requires no disassembly and minimizes the risk of spills. This method is perfect for those who want a straightforward solution.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Place your approved fuel container on the ground next to the snowblower, ensuring it is lower than the snowblower’s fuel tank.
2. Unscrew the snowblower’s gas cap and insert the siphon pump’s intake tube into the tank, pushing it to the lowest point.
3. Place the outlet tube securely into the fuel container.
4. Begin pumping the siphon. Gravity and the pumping action will start the flow of gasoline from the tank to the container.
5. Continue until the tank is empty. You may need to tilt the snowblower to get the last drops of fuel to pool in one corner.

While this method removes fuel from the tank, a small amount will remain in the fuel line and carburetor. For complete protection, you should proceed to “Method 3: Running it Dry” after siphoning.

Method 2: The Fuel Line Disconnect (The Mechanic’s Choice)

This method provides a more thorough drain by emptying the tank and the fuel line directly. It requires a little more mechanical comfort but ensures very little fuel is left behind. This is often the preferred method for those familiar with small engines.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Locate the fuel shut-off valve, which is often a red knob on the side of the machine. Turn it to the “Off” position. If your model doesn’t have one, you’ll need a clamp to pinch the fuel line.
2. Identify the fuel line running from the bottom of the tank to the carburetor.
3. Place your fuel container below the carburetor.
4. Using pliers, slide the hose clamp off the nipple where the fuel line connects to the carburetor.
5. Carefully wiggle the fuel line off the carburetor and direct it into the fuel container.
6. Turn the fuel shut-off valve to the “On” position (or unclamp the line) and allow all the fuel to drain from the tank. Once finished, turn the valve back to “Off” and reattach the fuel line.

This approach is very effective, but to ensure the carburetor itself is empty, you can remove the bowl drain bolt at the very bottom of the carburetor to let the last bit of fuel out.

Method 3: Running it Dry (The Final Purge)

Running the engine until it stops on its own is the most critical final step to ensure the carburetor is completely empty. This should be done after siphoning or draining the tank to avoid running the engine for an extended period. This final purge is what prevents varnish buildup inside the carburetor’s delicate passages.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. After draining the tank via siphon or the fuel line, ensure only a small amount of residual fuel remains.
2. Move the snowblower to a safe, outdoor location away from structures or vehicles.
3. Start the engine as you normally would.
4. Let the engine run until it sputters and stops on its own. This indicates it has consumed all the fuel in the carburetor.
5. Attempt to restart the engine one or two more times. If it doesn’t start, the process is complete.

The Great Debate: Fuel Stabilizer vs. Draining – The Final Verdict

A common question is whether using a fuel stabilizer is a valid alternative to draining the gas. While stabilizers can extend the life of gasoline and prevent some degradation, they are not a foolproof solution. For the ultimate protection of your investment, draining the fuel system is the superior choice.

Stabilizers are designed to slow down the process of oxidation and prevent gum formation, but they cannot stop it indefinitely. Over a long off-season, even stabilized fuel can break down and cause issues, especially fuel containing ethanol.

Method	Pros	Cons
Draining Fuel System	Completely removes the source of potential problems. Prevents varnish, corrosion, and clogged jets. Recommended by manufacturers.	Requires more effort and safe handling of gasoline. Takes more time than simply adding a fluid.
Using Fuel Stabilizer	Quick and easy to do. Can prevent some fuel degradation and keeps seals lubricated.	Not a guarantee against stale fuel issues, especially with ethanol. Does not remove existing water or contaminants. May provide a false sense of security.

Beyond Draining: Prepping Your Ariens Fuel System for Long-Term Storage

Properly storing your Ariens snowblower involves more than just an empty fuel tank. Taking a few extra minutes to address the entire fuel system will pay dividends next winter. These steps ensure every component is protected and ready for action.

These additional measures help prevent issues like a stuck carburetor float or a clogged fuel valve, providing an extra layer of defense against storage-related problems.

The Role of the Fuel Shut-Off Valve

Your Ariens snowblower is likely equipped with a fuel shut-off valve. This small but vital component stops the flow of gasoline from the tank to the carburetor. Using it correctly is a key part of maintenance and storage.

After draining the fuel and running the engine dry, always leave the fuel shut-off valve in the “Off” position during storage. This prevents any residual fuel vapors from condensing and leaving deposits, and it acts as a safeguard against leaks.

Post-Drain Carburetor Care

For the most thorough preparation, draining the carburetor bowl is the final touch. After the engine has been run dry, a small amount of fuel can remain trapped in the bottom of the bowl. This is where the worst varnish deposits often form.

Locate the drain bolt at the very bottom of the carburetor float bowl. Place a rag or small container underneath, and carefully loosen the bolt. A few tablespoons of fuel will drain out. Once it stops, tighten the bolt snugly, and your carburetor will be bone dry and protected.

Troubleshooting Common Post-Storage Starting Problems

Even with the best preparation, you might occasionally face a starting issue after a long storage period. Understanding the likely culprits can help you diagnose the problem quickly and avoid a trip to the repair shop. Most post-storage issues are directly related to the fuel system or spark.

Before diving into complex repairs, always start with the basics. Ensure you have fresh fuel, the key is in, the safety is engaged, and the fuel shut-off valve is open.

My Ariens Still Won’t Start: What’s Next?

If you’ve drained the gas, added fresh fuel, and the engine still won’t start, the problem may lie elsewhere. A common issue is a fouled spark plug, which can be easily cleaned or replaced. Another possibility is that despite your best efforts, a small amount of old fuel still managed to clog a carburetor jet.

In some cases, a more serious issue like a seized snowblower engine could be the problem, though this is less common. If you suspect a blockage, a spray of carburetor cleaner into the air intake can sometimes dissolve minor clogs and help the engine fire up.

Your Final Pre-Winter Checklist for a Flawless Start

Proper off-season storage is the secret to a snowblower that starts on the first pull every winter. By taking these steps, you are not just performing maintenance; you are protecting your investment and ensuring it’s ready to tackle whatever the winter throws at you.

Beyond the fuel system, remember to check the engine oil, inspect belts for wear, and ensure tires are properly inflated. A comprehensive approach to maintenance is the best way to guarantee your Ariens machine provides years of reliable service.