Ariens Customer Service Issues

I purchased an Ariens snowblower, model [redacted], which worked well until the poorly designed oil cap on the side came off while I was using it in a snowstorm, causing the oil to leak out and the engine to fail. I am extremely frustrated with this situation, especially after spending nearly $[redacted] on this machine. Unfortunately, the model has been discontinued, and I am struggling to find a suitable replacement engine. Despite my efforts in research and purchasing a new engine, none have fit so far. This design flaw has left me with a practically new machine but with a non-functional engine. It is disappointing given my belief in purchasing quality products. I seek a prompt resolution to this issue as I depend on a snowblower for the Winter season. I hope to receive assistance from the company in addressing this matter.

Hello, I am reaching out again regarding the Ariens snowblower I bought in February [redacted]. Recently, I managed to start it, only for it to shut off after a few minutes. When I tried to restart it, I heard a popping sound followed by it shutting off. Upon another attempt, it backfired with flames and sparks, causing a gas smell and leaks around the bottom of the gas tank. Given that this is a relatively new and expensive unit ($[redacted]) that my husband used only a few times before his passing, I am considering scrapping it. I understand this may not be your direct concern as your service obligation ends after the purchase.

Hello, I recently replaced the drive belt on my Ariens Pro 32” 16.5 snowblower. However, I am having trouble figuring out the correct placement for a spring that adds tension to the auger pulley. This spring attaches to a shaft, wraps around it from the front to the back of the machine, and has an 'L' shape on one end and a 'U' shape or two 'L's together on the other end. Despite my efforts to locate the original position for this spring, I have been unsuccessful. I have not been able to find a diagram online to guide me through this process. I would greatly appreciate any assistance or a picture/diagram that could help me correctly position this spring. Thank you.

I purchased an Ariens snowblower three years ago at a Home Depot in Halifax, N.S. The weather has been mild, and I haven't used the snowblower much until this year. When I tried to use it recently, the machine failed due to a delamination of the friction disc. This should not have happened, and it seems like a manufacturing defect. Unfortunately, I have had trouble reaching customer service for help. I was informed that Ariens had a similar issue a couple of years ago but did not inform customers. I believe Ariens should send me a replacement friction disc, part number [redacted], to rectify this situation. Customer service is essential, and I hope to have this matter addressed promptly to maintain my satisfaction with the product.

I purchased a 28" SHO snow thrower from your company, and it is still under warranty. Unfortunately, it has been breaking down frequently despite limited use on my private driveway. The previous owner mentioned that Sears would provide service at home or the dealer would handle it. However, due to my disability and lack of a trailer, I cannot transport it for repairs and maintenance. Denny Skinner, the owner, has been pressuring me to arrange for transportation to his garage, which was not part of the original agreement. Every time it breaks down, I struggle to get it serviced promptly. Recently, when I called to schedule a pickup, it was unsuccessful, and I faced difficulties in dealing with Mr. Skinner's demands. His service personnel entering my garage without permission added to the unpleasant experience. I seek assistance with this situation at Skinners Garage, Inc. in Pickford, Michigan.

Dear Sirs/Madams, I have been a long-time supporter of Ariens snow throwers and recently upgraded to model #[redacted] serial #[redacted], which we truly appreciate. It has allowed us to throw snow as high as our house! Unfortunately, the auger cable failed prematurely due to a pot-metal retaining slug. After purchasing a replacement from Boston Lawnmower for $35 and installing it, the snow thrower is working perfectly. Considering the unexpected cost and inconvenience, I am concerned the drive cable may fail soon as well. I am hopeful you could either provide the left drive cable at no charge as a gesture of goodwill or reimburse us the $35 we spent on the replacement from your dealer. Thank you, Cameron Carey 35 Newton Street Northborough, MA [redacted]

I purchased a 12.5 horsepower Ariens snowblower with a drive system meant to make operation easier. Despite this, I've had to take it back to an Ariens certified shop multiple times because it doesn't run straight and is difficult to turn. My driveway is slightly hilly, and I weigh [redacted] lbs and am 6'1". To keep it on track downhill, I have to put all my weight on one handle or the other, sometimes switching sides. Then, at the bottom, I struggle to turn it as it veers straight or the opposite way. At 68 years old, I chose this model for its promised ease of use. The shop insists nothing is wrong, but if this isn't resolved, I will discourage others from buying your products. I spent around $[redacted] on a machine that has turned into a nightmare to operate.

I encountered an issue with my 32” 342cc Polar Force Ariens snow blower when it suddenly stopped working while clearing 2 inches of snow about four weeks ago. I ensured there was enough gas and checked the oil, which was fine as I had replaced it at the beginning of the season. Upon further inspection, I discovered one push rod was bent, and the other was broken into two pieces under the valve cover. The local Ariens dealer informed me that the 21M[redacted] engine is discontinued, and I'm concerned about finding a replacement. Despite being lightly used, the blower is in excellent condition, with barely any wear on the paint. I’m willing to provide pictures. Any advice on how to proceed would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. - Steve

I recently purchased an Ariens [redacted] zero-turn mower. The serial number is [redacted]. I have a question about finding the fuel shut-off valve. I can't locate it, although the Kawasaki Engine Owners Manual (page 14) mentions it with a picture on page 15. I followed the fuel lines from the tank to the carburetor but it's not there. I want to install one, but I'm concerned it might void my engine warranty. Can you provide one since the manual suggests it should be there? Thank you in advance for your help. Harold

I purchased the bottom bagger chute from Prairie Lawn & Garden in June for my Ariens Tractor. Despite showing them the old chute with its serial number, they insisted on looking it up on the computer. Due to health issues, I couldn't install the part until October when another repair shop informed me the chute was incorrect. They identified the correct part, a Husqvarna brand, using the serial number. When I returned to Prairie Lawn & Garden, they claimed no fault as the computer listed the part I brought. Despite my insistence on the proper chute, which they said was for a 46-inch Ariens, they refused to refund the $80 paid. They cited a 60-day return policy and their strictly computerized ordering system. I believe their refusal to examine the serial number on the original part contributed to the error. I ask for their cooperation in processing the return for a refund. I appreciate your assistance. Thank you for your attention. Regards, B. Olsen

I would like to address a recent issue concerning a Gravely Pro-Turn [redacted] Demo purchase from a local dealer. On 10/23/19, a deal was made and upon delivery, the mower was supposed to be filled with fuel by a representative known as J J. However, the rep failed to do so, and further investigation revealed that the hour meter had been disconnected, preventing an accurate reading of the mower usage. Despite efforts by the dealer to rectify the situation with the rep, I ultimately returned the mower for a refund on 10/25/19. I want to emphasize that the dealer handled the situation professionally and is not to blame for the rep's actions. As a long-time lawncare and tractor business owner, I am disappointed by the dishonesty displayed and will be sharing my experience on various social media platforms. The rep's behavior is unacceptable, and I believe immediate action should be taken.

I recently purchased an Ariens 28-inch professional EFI hydro drive snowblower for $[redacted] from Duluth Lawn and Sport. Unfortunately, after using it twice, the motor failed. I can hear banging and clunking when I try to turn it manually, indicating a serious issue with the crank or piston. Since Duluth Lawn and Sport has no more snowblowers in stock, I'm urgently requesting an upgrade to a 36-inch professional EFI hydro drive model. I need it shipped to them quickly as I have two large driveways to clear and no other way to remove the snow. I had a previous Ariens snowblower that I regret selling, and now I'm in a tough spot relying on manual labor. I hope for prompt assistance and maybe even a gesture of goodwill for the inconvenience. My contact details are Kim and Donna Boman, 16 Deerwood Street, Duluth, MN [redacted], home phone 1-[redacted], email [redacted]

I purchased an Ariens snowblower, model W13057 with Serial# [redacted], on 11/10/18 from Norfolk Power Equipment at [redacted] Bronco Highway, Burriville, R.I. [redacted]. Their telephone number is [redacted]. The snowblower was left unused during the first year due to lack of snow. Upon starting it last week, it made a banging noise. Scituate Power Equipment in RI inspected it and found damage due to improperly installed nuts. They quoted $[redacted] to fix the damaged parts. I am concerned if there is a recall on this model. Ariens is known for quality, so this experience has left me disappointed. The warranty expired on 11/10/18, so it seems I will have to bear the $[redacted] repair cost. - Charles C.

I have a question about the oil weight for my new Ariens snow blower model [redacted] Platinum SHO 24. It has not been used yet. We purchased it specifically to clear snow from our long driveway that is between two large metal roof buildings. When the temperature reaches around 38 degrees, the snow from the roofs builds up and then falls about 2 feet deep onto the driveway. In the engine manual for the Ariens AX machine, it recommends using 5W30 oil for temperatures up to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Since we might be operating the snow blower in temperatures up to 40 degrees, should we consider switching to a mixture of 10W30 and 5W30 oil when using it above 30 degrees? Your assistance with this question would be greatly appreciated.

My Ariens snowblower, Model #[redacted], which is around two years old, has been experiencing issues with the engine despite having a three-year warranty. Recently, it has been stalling even after refueling with fresh gas. I reached out to Ariens directly through their website for guidance as the dealer I purchased it from does not offer servicing. With a [redacted]-foot driveway and more snow on the way, my limited mobility and my wife's inability to handle heavy shoveling make it crucial for me to resolve this promptly. I anxiously await a response from Ariens to help me understand how to proceed with getting it repaired.

Subject: Disappointing Support and Lack of Parts Availability Hello, I purchased an expensive lawnmower from your company, expecting proper support for replacement parts. Unfortunately, I am frustrated by the lack of availability of replacement blades locally, specifically model #[redacted]0. Despite checking various recommended stores like ACE Hardware, Home Depot, Lowes, and even the "Ariens Exclusive Dealer" in Coeur d'Alene, I have been unable to find the needed parts. I tried using the "dealer support" page, but it required a username that I was never prompted to create during registration. Even entering my email address led to an invalid search. This experience has left me feeling like I am not getting the service I deserve as a customer. It is disappointing that I may have to resort to social media to address this issue. Without the necessary blades, I am unable to complete my current job, and the lack of local support is concerning. I hope to see improvements in your customer service and parts availability in the future. Thank you.

To Customer Service Manager, Quality Manager, Manufacturing Manager, and Safety Manager, I am writing to express my disappointment with the lack of proper information about dealers on your website and the incorrect parts numbers provided by your parts department. The recommended dealers have also not been helpful in servicing my Sno-Tek snow blower (model [redacted], serial [redacted]) after the fuel shut-off valve failed. I have been unsuccessful in finding the right place to fix the equipment, despite spending hours on the computer and phone. The customer service experience has been very poor. I am in need of a service manual or guide on how to replace the fuel shut-off valve, as it is a critical safety item that should be easily accessible for maintenance. I urge you to address these issues and provide the necessary support for your products. Your assistance in resolving this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

I purchased the Ariens model [redacted] from Lowe's on April 8, [redacted]. Every time I attempt to cut the grass, it stops running, and I have to recharge the battery. Initially, I found the positive battery cable loose, but that did not solve the issue. I contacted Lowe's a few days after the 90-day period, as I believed I had a 4-year warranty. Due to undergoing chemotherapy, I was unable to address this earlier. Lowe's response was unhelpful, suggesting I pay for pick-up and repair. This problem has persisted since my purchase, and I feel it has been a costly mistake of $[redacted]. Can anyone provide troubleshooting advice?

I own an older Ariens snow blower, which was purchased between 1[redacted]. It has 2 control metal rods, one for the clutch and the other for shifting gears. A few years ago, I had issues with the clutch sticking and had it fixed by a dealer. Today, I encountered a similar problem with the clutch being stuck, making it impossible to shift gears. Upon restarting, I heard a grinding noise when engaging the blade and drive levers. After disengaging them, I could move both the clutch and gear levers freely, but now I can't get the wheels to move, even though the front drive and blade levers still function. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

I'm James Von. I purchased an Aarons Icon X 52 and added a mulching kit. However, it's leaving some stragglers in my lawn. I've been informed that there is a specific spindle and belt kit ([redacted]0) to address this issue. I've heard they provide this kit for free due to the known problem with the deck's RPM. Could you assist me with this matter?