Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

Hello,

I came across this website doing a Google search on the Ariens Snow-Thro snow blower. I actually came into possession of this through my next-door neighbour who had put it out at the end of his driveway approximately a month ago. I'm a young man (22), and was very interested in it, so I grabbed it right away. This is the first time I've ever had a snow blower, so I'm not familiar with the thing in the least.

When my mom was in college or university, she took an interest course (not sure if that's what it's called) in Small Gas Engines. As such, she has a Small Gas Engines book by Alfred C. Roth, that has "Fundamentals * Service * Troubleshooting * Repair" on Small Gas Engines. I'm taking an interest in it, and figured that, even if the snow blower fails to work, it would be an excellent 4-cycle engine for me to have as a "project", so to speak.

However, as I said, I'm new to snow blowers. The gentleman who got rid of it (he got a new snow blower) got this used himself, according to his daughter. As such, no manual came with it. I'm not familiar with it in the least, but have learned what I can from the instructions on the machine, and at least know the basics (I think), but I certainly wouldn't know how to start it up.

If someone could help me out with a few specific questions, I would appreciate it.

1. Is there some way of obtaining a(n) owner/user manual?
2. Does it require a "special" type of oil?
3. What kind of lubrication, if any, would it possibly need, and where?

Here is all the information on it that I was able to locate:

Ariens Snow-Thro
National Audubon Society
Mod. 910995 - Ser. 071333
Ariens Company
Brillion, Wisconsin
U.S.A.

As I say, I'm young, but I'm very interested in this thing, and would appreciate some guidance. I'm pretty sure "Mod" stands for the "Model Number", and "Ser" stands for the "Serial Number" - seems logical to me, but if I'm wrong, please let me know (I know, a bit silly, but I rather be safe than sorry).

Sincerely,

-DAWy