tkeblesson

Hi all, I just bought the Sno-Tek 28" S/B from snowblowersdirect.com (2010 model year), and opened the box and put everything together.  When doing an inspection of the auger gearcase before startup, I noticed there is this red grease almost all around the seam of the the case.  I removed the filler plug to try and see if the amount of oil was adequate, but honestly could not easily tell if there was enough in there (not sure what the color of the lube should be, but I've heard red color), and if the red stuff on the outside was the L3 lube that they recommend or Loctite 518 gasket replacement that I believe I saw on some really old posts.  I want to start the S/B to ensure everything works OK but I'm fearful to start anything until I know whether or not the gearcase is leaking fluid, and what it should look like.  I need to wait till tomorrow before I can go to a local Ariens dealer to get the L3 lube.  Is it OK to start, and is the red grease simply Loctite?  Any help would be appreciated!! Thanks!