How to Drain Fuel from Ariens Snowblower: Avoid This #1 Mistake
Leaving fuel in your Ariens snowblower over the summer is a recipe for disaster. Modern gasoline, especially ethanol-blended fuel, can degrade in as little as 30 days, leading to a gummy, varnish-like substance that clogs the carburetor and fuel system.
This single oversight is the most common reason for a snowblower failing to start when the first blizzard hits. Draining the fuel is not just a suggestion; it’s the most critical maintenance task you can perform to guarantee your machine roars to life when you need it most.
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Why Draining Fuel is Non-Negotiable for Your Ariens
Understanding the “why” behind this task is crucial. Stale fuel doesn’t just disappear; it transforms into a destructive agent inside your engine’s most sensitive components. This process is the root cause of countless startup failures.
When gasoline sits, the volatile compounds evaporate, and the ethanol absorbs moisture from the air. This leads to phase separation and the formation of deposits that can completely block the tiny passages in the carburetor, a problem that often requires a costly professional cleaning or full replacement.
The Perils of Stale Gasoline
Old fuel can cause a cascade of issues. Beyond a simple no-start condition, it can lead to rough running, stalling, and reduced power. In severe cases, the corrosive nature of separated ethanol can damage rubber and plastic components in the fuel system.
Properly draining the tank and carburetor is the only surefire way to prevent this. It ensures the entire fuel delivery system is clear and ready for fresh gasoline next season, saving you time, money, and frustration.
Safety First: Your Pre-Drain Checklist
Before you begin, safety must be your top priority. Gasoline is highly flammable, and its fumes are explosive. Adhering to strict safety protocols is not optional.
Always work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or in a garage with the doors wide open. Ensure the snowblower’s engine is completely cool to the touch. Keep all potential ignition sources, such as pilot lights, cigarettes, and power tools, far away from the work area.
Essential Safety Gear
Wear nitrile gloves to protect your skin from gasoline and have a fire extinguisher rated for gasoline fires (Class B) nearby. Never store gasoline in an unapproved container. Use only a sealed, properly labeled container designed for fuel storage.
The 3 Foolproof Methods to Drain Your Ariens Snowblower
There are three primary methods to drain the fuel from your Ariens snowblower. For complete protection, you should ideally use a combination of these techniques to ensure every last drop of old fuel is removed from the tank, fuel lines, and carburetor.
Each method targets a different part of the fuel system. Following them in order will provide the most thorough and effective drain possible.
Method 1: The Simple Siphon Technique
This is the best starting point for removing the bulk of the gasoline from the fuel tank. A fluid transfer siphon pump is an inexpensive and essential tool for this job. Never attempt to start a siphon with your mouth.
Insert the siphon’s intake tube into the snowblower’s fuel tank, ensuring it reaches the bottom. Place the output end into your approved gasoline container, which must be positioned lower than the snowblower’s tank. Pump the siphon bulb a few times to start the flow of fuel and let gravity do the rest.
Method 2: Draining Directly from the Fuel Line
After siphoning the tank, a small amount of fuel will remain in the fuel line. This method purges that remaining gasoline before it can reach the carburetor. It’s a crucial step that many people skip.
First, locate the fuel shut-off valve, typically found below the fuel tank. If your model has one, turn it to the “Off” position. Next, identify the fuel line connecting the tank to the carburetor. Place a catch pan or your fuel container underneath the carburetor connection, use pliers to slide the spring clamp up the fuel line, and carefully disconnect the line from the carburetor inlet, allowing the residual fuel to drain out.
Method 3: The Critical Carburetor Bowl Drain
This is the most important step in the entire process. The carburetor bowl holds a small but significant amount of fuel that will turn to varnish if left unattended. Failing to drain the bowl is the primary reason for post-storage starting problems, even if you’ve drained the tank.
Locate the carburetor bowl, which is a small, round metal cup at the bottom of the carburetor. At the very bottom of this bowl, you will find a drain bolt. Position your catch container directly underneath it.
Using the correct size socket or wrench, carefully loosen this bolt a few turns. You do not need to remove it completely. Fuel will immediately start to drain from the bowl. Once it stops dripping, tighten the bolt snugly but do not overtighten it.
The Pro-Level Secret Nobody Tells You About Fuel Draining
Even after a meticulous fuel drain, the inside of your engine remains vulnerable. Temperature fluctuations can cause condensation to form on the cylinder walls, leading to rust and corrosion on the piston rings and cylinder bore during long-term storage. This internal damage can reduce compression and shorten engine life.
The ultimate protective measure, often overlooked in standard guides, is to “fog” the engine. Fogging oil is an aerosolized oil blend that coats the internal metal surfaces with a thin, protective film, displacing moisture and preventing rust. This simple, two-minute procedure is what professionals do to ensure peak performance and longevity.
How to Fog Your Ariens Engine
After the fuel system is completely empty, remove the spark plug. Spray a one-to-two-second burst of fogging oil directly into the spark plug hole. Slowly pull the recoil starter cord two or three times to distribute the oil evenly across the cylinder wall and piston. Finally, reinstall the spark plug but do not reconnect the spark plug wire.
Comparing Fuel Draining Techniques
Choosing the right method, or combination of methods, depends on your goals and tools. This table breaks down the pros and cons of each approach to help you decide.
| Method | Best For | Thoroughness | Required Tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siphoning | Quickly removing the majority of fuel from the tank. | Fair (Leaves fuel in the line and carburetor). | Siphon Pump, Fuel Container. |
| Fuel Line Disconnect | Clearing the fuel line after siphoning the tank. | Good (Empties the tank and line completely). | Pliers, Catch Pan. |
| Carburetor Bowl Drain | The final, critical step to prevent carburetor gumming. | Excellent (Removes the last of the fuel). | Socket/Wrench Set, Catch Pan. |
What to Do With the Old Gasoline?
Proper disposal of old gasoline is a legal and environmental responsibility. Never pour fuel down a drain, onto the ground, or in the trash. The hazardous components can contaminate soil and groundwater.
Contact your local hazardous waste disposal facility, recycling center, or municipal public works department. They can provide information on collection days or drop-off locations for old fuel. Some automotive service centers may also accept it for a small fee.
Troubleshooting: When the Fuel Drain Goes Wrong
Occasionally, you may run into a snag. If the carburetor drain bolt is stuck, apply a small amount of penetrating oil and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before trying again. Ensure you are using the correct size wrench to avoid stripping the bolt head.
If fuel doesn’t drain from the disconnected line, the line itself or the fuel filter may be clogged. This indicates a more significant problem that needs addressing. A clogged fuel line is often a symptom of pre-existing debris in the tank, a common issue in both new and vintage Toro snowblower models alike.
Final Preparations for Storage
With the fuel system drained and the engine fogged, your Ariens snowblower is nearly ready for its long sleep. Give the machine a thorough cleaning to remove salt and debris, check the oil, and lubricate any moving parts according to your owner’s manual. A little effort now prevents major headaches later.
Even the most reliable machines, like the venerable Honda HS621 snowblower, are susceptible to fuel-related problems without proper storage preparation. Taking these steps ensures your Ariens will be ready to tackle whatever winter throws its way.
