Neil

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=42133-348-020241&lpage=none

I have the unit from Lowes, and this is my second summer using it and did I work the hell out of it when I first purchase my home last July.  Starting a quick.  During the winter I changed the oil and plug, and in April on the first pull it fired right up and still do everytime I start it.

On the down side, there are two cheap round clips that prevents the wheels from comming off the shaft, I had to replace them and I used hose clamps, much stronger and can survive the vibration. 

The hose, rod, and nozzles are all of good quality and so far all is well.

Just my input.

Neil

I have the 8526 myself and had two unexplained shut down.  Each time I removed the cap and all is well.  I have the gas cap with the rubbber insert, if you look closely at the rubber flat side, you will see channels if you may, that allow the gas to vent from the center to through these channels to the outside.  I think the problem is when you tighten the cap and close off these channels in the rubber then you have the vent lock problem.  I think dealers and or Ariens should make a note to let customers be aware of this.  Do not over tight the gas cap and you shall be ok, providing of course you have the new cap design.

Neil

Yea I am going to do that ..... man no need for the blower we had what 3-4 inches , plus some back excercise with the good ole shovel eh?

Did you get a new gas cap?

Neil

Richie:

Hey there, I am in North Bellomre, how about you?

The foam part came off and the clip is not in the tank (must have fell off into the snow).  The current rubber part (that is funnel shape) in no way can fall apart or come loose .... Will this be cover under warranty? or just get  the damn new cover ?

Neil

I have the 8526 LE Ariens and noticed the foam thing when I first used the blower and removed the cap.  Didnt find any metal ring or clip.  Emptied the tank and saw nothing inside.

However on the first use, it stalled twice and when I remove the cap (chekcing gas level) I saw the foam square (1/2 " sq) fell out.  Since then with the cap on and 3 more uses, with no problem.  I looked at the cap design and saw a rubber funner type that inside the cap and saw how it vents to the outside but so far no gas spilled.

Should I continue or buy a new cap?

Thanks,
Neil on Long Island