I have an Ariens two stage blower (520).
I have not been happy with the amount of snow left on the driveway after using it.
In the summer I looked at the skids and as I recall they were adjusted at the limit for the low setting.
I am now wondering if it might be the blade height..
My questions are:
- How can I tell if it is the blade?
I'd check that your skids are indeed all the way up before looking at the blade since they're
a lot easier to adjust. You just loosen them, put a piece of wood or something the thickness
of the snow you want to leave behind under the blade, lower the skids flat on the ground and
tighten them down.
If the skids are all the way up you have no choice but to lower the scraper. Just make
sure the skids prevent the sides of the auger housing from running on the ground.
You'll have to loosen all the bolts that hold it in place. If your machine is not new the
bolts may be rusted and break when you try to remove them. Then you'll just have to buy
new ones. Grease them well before re-installing.
- Do I need to flip the machine and spill all the gas?
Just put a block underneath somewhere to lift the front up a bit. I wouldn't turn the whole
thing upside down. If you're not young this work will probably be a bit uncomfortable.
- How do I know how far to lower it?
If your driveway is really nice pavement you can lower it so it's just barely off the ground. If your
driveway is gravel or is uneven the blade should be higher.
Paul
