Ariens snow blowers, including the popular Deluxe and Platinum two stage machines and the value Sno-Tek line, start with one quirk that catches new owners off guard: the ignition is a push in key rather than a turn key. Push it fully in for on, pull it out to stop. Beyond that, they follow the standard Ariens sequence of fuel, choke, prime and start. This guide walks it step by step, including the electric start most Ariens two stage machines carry.

The Ariens Push In Key

Unlike many brands, most Ariens snow blowers use a yellow safety key that pushes straight into a slot rather than turning like a car key. Fully seated equals on, pulled out equals off. It is not an electric start button and it does not turn, so if the engine will not fire, the first thing to check on an Ariens is that the key is pushed all the way in. Keep a spare, since a lost key stops the machine entirely.

Starting an Ariens Step by Step

Warm Restart on an Ariens

If the Ariens ran recently, skip the primer entirely and set the choke to run or half. Priming a warm Ariens engine floods it quickly. Just confirm the key is in, the fuel is on, and start. If it floods anyway, wait a few minutes with the choke open before trying again.

When an Ariens Will Not Start

The most common Ariens no start after summer is stale fuel clogging the carburetor, the same as any brand. Check the push in key first, then the fuel valve, then the primer bulb for cracks. If the engine cranks on the electric start or recoil but never fires, the carburetor likely needs cleaning. Our carburetor cleaning guide walks that repair, or a technician can handle it at your home.

Frequently Asked Questions