The focus of this years training was the Husqvarna model 525 series of trimmer.
Our Master Tech also had an opportunity to: > Perform a full tear down of the model 525 powerhead. > Learn about Smart Switch exclusively on Husqvarna branded products > Learn about the Revolutionary AWD walk behind mower. > How to work with Battery Operated diagnostics and Battery Operated software and programming. > Introduction to the new 129 series of trimmers. Our aim is to always keep updated on new technologies to serve our customers better
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It’s here! The time of the year with fluffy white landscapes. As Ottawa gets it's first major snowfall of the season, we thought to send you a quick note on how to get your snow blower out of hibernation and into "back saving" mode again.
Here are 2 very basic steps to start off with: 1. Have at least 1/2 tank of FRESH fuel in your snowblower. (we recommend Shell 91) 2. Review starting procedures. We don't use our snowblowers everyday and tend to forget the basics. Are you still finding the "Engine is difficult to start" ? Snow throwers can develop "flu-like symptoms" such as sputtering and sluggish starts if fuel sits in the tank for long period of time. These problems may be avoided by always using fresh fuel ( NON ETHANOL FUEL!) and fuel stabilizer to keep the fuel fresh. If the problem persists, the carburetor may need to be checked by a technician. We hope that you find this helpful. For more information and support please visit OttawaSnowBlowers support section , Contact us and our team will be glad to help you Ph: 613-724-4332 or drop by our facility on 1642 Woodward Dr., Ottawa. Wishing you a safe and trouble free winter. YARMAND Team at OttawaSnowBlowers.com As the Nor'easter's impact reaches Ottawa.The OttawaSnowBlowers.com Team of Experts stand by to help with preparing for Snow in Ottawa Region.
Now that winter is upon us, cleaning snow can be a daunting task for most residence. Especially in more recent winters our region has received it’s fair share of snowfall and storms. It’s important to be prepared with the right tools to weather any storm safely.
Safety while using a snowblower:
For many homeowners winter time means spending hours keeping pathways and driveways clear. Buying a snow thrower could save you a lot of time and effort. There are a few things to keep in mind before you make your decision. In this buying guide for snow throwers you’ll find tips to make the right choice.
Before you buy, you should consider the following things: Size of area and snow conditions The first thing to take into account when buying a snow thrower is the size of the area that you need to clear. Large gardens, pathways and driveways naturally require a bit more power than smaller outdoor spaces. You should also consider the amount of snow and the typical snow conditions in your region. A snow thrower with a powerful engine and wide working width will save you time if the area is covered in deep, heavy snow, whereas smaller areas covered in dry snow require less power. Single stage or dual stage There are two different types of snow throwers: single stage and dual stage. The Dual stage snow thrower is a larger more powerful tool. Dual stage models are most effective for deep, heavy and packed snow removal, while the single stage is best suited for smaller areas covered in dry, powder snow. The auger of the single stage snow thrower actually comes in contact with the ground and it should not be used on gravel surfaces. Lastly, the single stage is much smaller, takes up less space and is lighter than the dual stage snow throwers. Start, Steer and Storage A snow thrower with power steering is easier to manoeuvre than other models. Choose a model with power steering if you need to make lots of turns while you are plowing; either while clearing large open areas or when removing snow from winding pathways. It is a good idea to bring a pair of gloves with you when you test the snow thrower, to make sure the controls are easy to reach and operate even with gloves on. For a trouble-free starting on colder days a model with electric start is the best choice if you have easy access to electrical outlets in your storage space. You can store your snow thrower in your garage or outdoor shed. However, if you have limited space to store your snow thrower, make sure to buy a cover to protect the machine if it’s stored outside. Safety Snow throwers are powerful machines. Always look carefully for safety labels and ensure to read the instructions for proper operation. Generally, snow throwers are quite loud so it’s a good idea to wear hearing protection. Winter tends to be a darker season, make sure your snow thrower is equipped with headlights so you can easily see in the evening and inclement weather. Wheels and chutes The size of the wheels determines the grip you will get; if you live in a region where there is a lot of snow or if you have an irregular terrain, you might want to consider buying a snow thrower with a track drive for better traction. The type of chute on your snow thrower will determine how far the snow will be thrown and in what direction. Single stage models throw as far as 10 meters (32’), while dual stage models can throw as far as 14 meters (46’) depending on the snow and other conditions. Final Tip: For a warmer and more comfortable operation, you may want to consider investing in a snow thrower with heated handles :) Source: http://www.husqvarna.com/ca/en/support/buying-guide/snow-throwers/ After experiencing one of the worst winters in Canada this past year, it’s no wonder that over a third of Canadians are feeling nervous about the upcoming winter season*. Related pages for Ottawa Snow Thrower Selector Whether it’s buying a snow thrower, a better shovel or salt; or looking into paid options for snow removal, 41 per cent of Canadians are planning to take proactive steps this year to better prepare for the upcoming season.
“Early reports are in, and while we may not experience the same frigid temperatures as we did last year, it’s clear that Canadians should be prepared for another year of extreme weather,” says Dr. Bell, Professor Emeritus and former Dean, Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University. If there is one thing that we learned from last winter, it is that a devastating snow storm can hit at any time. It is important for Canadians to think ahead and get the tools they need now so that they are well prepared for the potentially harsh winter ahead. For the growing number of seniors, appropriate preparations are crucial.” Over a quarter of Canadians admitted to feeling unprepared for the harshness of last winter. And it’s no surprise that provinces that were among the hardest hit last year (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario) are the ones that felt most unprepared for this past winter. When it comes to tackling snow this past winter, 62 per cent of Canadians did their own snow removal; however, 4 in 10 struggled to get the job done last winter. “Our research indicates that 56 per cent of Canadians have either hurt their back or felt sore after shoveling snow” says Michelle Sordi, Husqvarna Canada. “Our high quality tools are expertly crafted to tackle Canadian winters and make them more manageable. With an entirely revamped line of snow removal products, Canadians can count on our products to help them better prepare for the winter ahead.” Looking for advice on snow tools in Ottawa visit: OttawaSnowBlowers.com or Call 1-800-610-5635 * According to a survey of 1501 Canadians conducted between September 22 and 25, 2014 by Leger online panel, LegerWeb, with a margin of error of +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20 Colder weather is fast approaching and it's time for the semi-annual 'changing of the guard,' from mower to blower. Soon you will retire your lawn mower to storage and begin prepping your snow blower for brave winter conditions. Whether you have a push lawn mower or riding mower, performing a few basic winterization tasks now will pay off next spring and help to extend the life of your machine. And as for your Sno Thro, give it a good checkup before the winter storms roll in and you really need it. An Ariens dealer can help service your equipment each year as you enter the season of “Changing of the Guard.”
Use this checklist to help properly store your lawn mower and prep your snow blower, ensuring that your equipment stays tougher than the elements. Good Bye Mower... (View pdf Checklist)
Take your Snow Blower Out of Storage - With another snow season underway (or fast approaching), it's time to move your Sno-Thro to the front of the garage where it belongs.
Source: http://www.ariens.com/en-us/more/blog?post=2013/10/04/changing+of+the+guard+lawn+mower+to+snow+blower+maintenance+checklist After a long cold winter, we are ready for spring to arrive and for grass to grow, so it's time once again for the semi-annual 'Changing of the Guard,' and this time it is from blower to mower. As you retire your snow blower to storage and begin prepping your lawn mower for the cutting season, follow these helpful tips to extend the life of your machines – both your mower and your blower.
Give your mower a good checkup before the busy mowing season starts, and properly store your snow blower so it will be ready to go back to work next winter. YARMAND can help service your equipment each year as you enter the season of the "Changing of the Guard." Print this checklist to help properly store your snow blower and prep your lawn mower, ensuring that your equipment stays around for years to come. It’s here. This time of the year means one of two things: fluffy white landscapes reflecting a season of merriment or months of wet blizzards with blinding, wind-driven snow. Whatever your feelings about winter, you don’t want to get caught in the storm unprepared. If you’re notorious for waiting until the last minute and wake up one day to strong winds, flurries and freezing rain, here’s a quick emergency survival guide for a snow blower that won’t start. Start from the top of the list and move down until any snow equipment problem is remedied ![]() Check Fuel Tank Look to see if it is low or empty. When gasoline is stored over a long period of time and no fuel stabilizer is added, it loses volatility. As gasoline ages it turns into a varnish like coating in the carburetor, blocking fuel from the engine and preventing start. If this occurs, take your Sno-Thro to your local Ariens servicing dealer to clean your carburetor or replace it. If the fuel is from last winter, summer, or fall season and/or no fuel stabilizer was added before storage, drain the system through the carburetor. Once drained, pour in known fresh fuel (purchased within 30 days) and a fuel stabilizer ![]() Check Fuel Shutoff Valve Check if the engine switch is in the OFF position. If it is, turn the switch to the ON position. ![]() Check Engine Switch Many of the engines on Ariens Sno-Thro units have a “key switch” and a red toggle switch. Ensure that the red plastic key is properly inserted into the holder and the red toggle switch is in the “run” position. If either is not in the correct position, the engine will not fire causing the chance of flooding. ![]() Check Choke Position Check the choke position; turn to ON position for cold engine starts. Always use the choke to start a cold engine, turning to “Full Choke.” Check your Owner's Manual for proper choke positioning. If the temperature is above 32 degrees, priming the carburetor may flood the engine easily so try only choking the engine.
![]() Check Throttle Position Check the throttle position (if applicable); turn throttle position to at least 3/4 speed. ![]() Check Spark Plug Check the spark plug for fuel and correct air gap. Remove the spark plug and see if it is wet (this will confirm flooding). If the spark plug is wet, turn the engine over several times without the spark plug installed to help disperse the excess fuel out of the spark plug hole. Clean the spark plug of excess fuel and reset the air gap. Reinstall the cleaned spark plug or replace with a new spark plug. Perform starting procedure again, this time without the choke on. If all of these items are checked and the unit will not start, take your unit to an Ariens servicing dealer. For quick start guides on the 2011 -2013 models - Click here. For Ariens engine manufacturer links: Briggs and Stratton, Honda, Kawasaki, Kohler, Ariens OHV / LCT, Tecumseh, Robin/Suburu, Kubota. Other related useful topics:
ARIENS Sno-Thro QuickStart Links & How to Video VIDEO: ARIENS Sno-Thro Operation Instructions Seasonal Fuel Blends: What's the difference between summer and winter fuel? Troubleshoot: Unit Fails to Propel Troubleshoot: Unit Fails to Discharge Snow Troubleshoot: Engine Fails to Start Does your snow thrower have the flu?
Tags: fuel problems, engine not starting, snowblower not running, ethanol problems, E10, fuel octane, carburetor
Other Related Help Topics: Troubleshoot: Unit Fails to Discharge Snow ARIENS Sno-Thro QuickStart Links & How to Video VIDEO: ARIENS Sno-Thro Operation Instructions Seasonal Fuel Blends: What's the difference between summer and winter fuel? Does your snow thrower have the flu? Snow throwers can develop "flu-like symptoms" such as sputtering and sluggish starts if E10 fuel sits in the tank all winter, writes Ed Pfeifer, owner of Pfeifer Hardware in Mars, Pa. These problems may be avoided by use of a fuel treatment designed to work on "stale fuel" as well as fresh fuel. Additionally, snow throwers should be started up periodically in the off-season to prevent carburetor jets and fuel lines from becoming clogged, he advises.
Unit Fails to Propel
Unit Fails to Discharge Snow
Engine Fails to Start
Watch this quick 2 mins video to learn about effects of fuel on your small engines. Advanced Formula Fuel Treatment & Stabilizer protects your engine against the corrosive effects of ethanol and maintain fuel stability for up to 3 years. Advanced Formula Fuel Treatment & Stabilizer protects your engine against the corrosive effects of ethanol and maintain fuel stability for up to 3 years.
The right fuel treament from the small engine experts. Source: http://www.briggsandstratton.com/us/en/support/videos/maintenance-repairs/advanced-formula-fuel-treatment-and-stabilizer Is it OK to blend fuels from season to season? What's the difference between summer and winter fuel?
Published 12/03/2012 11:47 AM | Updated 06/14/2013 12:12 PM Depending on your state's regulations, there could be up to a 30+ blend of fuel each year depending on the outside temperature. Purchase fresh fuel for your lawn and snow equipment in smaller quantities and just prior to using it for the season. It is not recommended that fuel be used from the prior season. (This applies to all fuels with 10% ethanol or less.) Winter fuel is blended to have a higher amount of vapor coming off the fuel. This helps winter equipment start in cold temperatures. However, this also causes the fuel to age quicker and if the fuel is not treated with a fuel stabilizer it will start to break down after (approximately) 30 days, causing the carburetor to plug. (This is a common scenario between winter seasons when untreated fuel is left in the fuel system.) Note: Winter fuel will breakdown at an accelerated rate, if not treated, when the temperature starts to rise in the spring of the year. So, winter fuel will work in summer engines because it is very highly volatile due to the high amount vapor coming off the fuel. Summer blended fuel will give off far less vapors and is designed for warm weather equipment use. Summer fuel has a longer life span with less need for a stabilizer. Summer fuel doesn't work well in winter equipment when trying to start an engine in 30 degree weather. Note: Fuel stabilizer is also recommended for summer fuel, due to its detergent additives that help to keep the fuel system clean at all times. Source: http://ariens.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/434/related/1 What are the starting and operation procedure for my Snow Blower?This quick 4 min video will help you start and run your snow blower with ease and troubleshoot common starting/operation problems. > Basic checks before starting your snow blowers > Typical Starting Procedures > Snow Blower Operating Procedures. The tips in this video are for the Ariens Platinum 30 Sno-Thro. We recommend you check your owner's manual for your machine to verify any operating guidelines for your specific snowblower.
For dore detailed instructions based on your SnowBlower model click on this link: http://www.ottawasnowblowers.com/1/post/2013/11/ariens-sno-thro-quickstart-links-how-to-video.html 2011-2013 Sno-Thro QuickStart Links & How To Video Published 10/04/2012 02:28 PM | Updated 11/15/2013 02:52 PM >>VIDEO: How to Run & Basic Functionality of a Snowblower - Ariens U-Tube Video Please click on the following product links for the new QuickStart Guides: What's the model of your ARIENS snowblower? How do I start my snowblower engine?
The general procedure for starting most four-cycle engines is: > Make sure the engine has clean, fresh fuel. > Make sure there is adequate oil in the crankcase by checking the dipstick. >Turn the fuel valve to the "on" position, if equipped. > Install the ignition key or turn the ignition key to the ON position, if equipped. > Turn the ON/OFF switch to the ON position, if equipped. > Set the choke to the ON position, if equipped. > Push the primer bulb two or three times, if equipped. > Pull the rope or use electric starter (if equipped) Note: Please keep in mind, snow engines can easily flood if in warmer climate than freezing point. In this case, less priming would help to prevent flooding. When the engine starts, turn the choke to a middle position and let the machine warm up for a few minutes, then turn the choke completely off. If using a 120V electric start, unplug the extension cord. Remember, these are only general instructions. Refer to the engine manual for your specific engine for the best information on starting your snow thrower. Read more specific instructions: How to start ARIENS snowblowers? (Click on your snowblower model to get step-by-step instructions) How to start MTD snowblowers? OTTAWA — Friday isn’t expected to be Ottawa’s coldest December day — but it could be one of the stormiest.
A snowfall warning for Ottawa was updated to a winter storm warning by Environment Canada Thursday afternoon. “We haven’t seen a storm like this for a while, so some people may have forgotten what a real storm looks like,” said Environment Canada meteorologist Peter Kimbell. He said Ottawa hasn’t experienced a similar storm in over a year. Twenty to 25 centimetres of snow is expected to fall between early morning and late Friday evening, with winds of 40-60 km/h that may cause blowing snow and low to no visibility. A high of 0 and low of -3 are expected. “Morning’s rush hour will be extremely treacherous,” said Kimbell, urging people to avoid driving if possible. “It will be very messy with about 10-15 cm already fallen by the time people wake up.” The heaviest snow will fall overnight, but snow will continue through the day and may be mixed with rain late Friday afternoon as temperatures creep above zero, said Kimbell, Read more... 10 Reasons to buy Outdoor Power Equipment From an Authorized Local Dealer!1. SPECIALIZATION- Dealers carry brands which specialize in outdoor power tool equipment.
2. EXPERTS- Dealers tend to be knowledgeable sales people who can explain the features, benefits, and differences between different brands and models and help you select the right product for your specific application. 3. PRIORITY SERVICE-Guaranteed service and fast. Many dealers give a higher service priorities to machines that were purchased at their specific dealership. 4. SERVICE CENTER-Most dealers are trained professionally in service. If your Sno-Thro is down, they're trained by the professionals to repair it. 5. PARTS- Authorized dealers carry genuine service parts that big box stores most likely won't have to repair your machine. This ensures that you get your full warranty. 6. ASSEMBLY & SETUP- When you purchase your equipment from an authorized dealer, it will be given to you fully assembled, tested, and prepped with gas and oil. 7. SUPPORT- Learn how to use and service your machine from professionals, and not from the manual. Most dealers provide demonstrations and safety instructions when you purchase your product. 8. WARRANTY REGISTERATION- most dealers help you register your product to make it easy for warranty procedures. 9. ACCESSORIES- Dealers offer full lines of accessories such as cabs, covers, floor mats, skid shoes and gloves. 10. SUPPORT LOCAL COMMUNITY- By purchasing certain products from a local independent dealer, you are supporting and promoting economic growth in your community. >>Share your comments below. OTTAWA — Winter overnight parking regulations take effect Thursday and remain in effect throughout the City of Ottawa until April 1.
Parking is prohibited on city streets between 1 a.m. and 7 a.m. any time seven centimetres or more of snow is forecast by Environment Canada. The parking ban includes days when the snow is forecast to fall within a range that might exceed seven centimetres, such as five to 10 centimeters. Read more... Why do I need to pay attention to the fuel? If you buy your gas at a gas station in North America then more than likely what you are buying contains corn-based ethanol.
Because today’s gasoline contains ethanol and alcohol, it absorbs water if exposed to air. In many cases the operator is unaware that their gasoline has become contaminated with water and unintentionally pours it into their unit. This is because your fuel mixture will separate into layers if it contains a high enough percentage of water. If you don’t shake your mixture, you may unintentionally pour a damaging concentration of water into your unit. Always vigorously shake the fuel mixture immediately before pouring. Always stabilize your fuel to minimize this problem. Ethanol fuel or ethyl alcohol is an alcohol additive that is commonly used in nearly all gasoline. It is derived from renewable resources such as corn, sugarcane and wheat. We recommend using at least 89- octane which is the mid-grade between medium and premium gasoline. Fuel that is labelled E-15, E-20, E-85 and Diesel fuel are not acceptable fuels and will cause significant damage to outdoor power equipment. Possible Symptoms related to fuel: > engine is difficult to start > engine starts but doesn't run smooth > gas is leaking from carburetor > Cracked/damaged fuel line If any of these symptoms apply to your equipment, it may require a carburetor overhaul. After carburetor has been overhauled, follow the following preventative steps to avoid the problem in the future. PREVENTATIVE ACTION STEPS RECOMMENDED: 1. DO NOT use any old gas sitting in your fuel container for more than 30 days. 2. Get some premium (at least 89 octane) fresh fuel. Only get enough for the season. 3. Add fuel stabilizer into the fuel container as soon as you get the gas. (use stabilizer with advanced formula that can treat ethanol blend) 4. Storage procedure: a. Fill up gas tank to the top b. Add some more fuel stabilizer to the gas tank. c. Run machine for 2-3 minutes to circulate fuel. Store machine safely. Related Post: http://www.ottawachainsaws.com/1/post/2012/08/what-type-of-fuel-to-use-avoid-gas-with-ethanol.html For more information contact the experts: www.OttawaSnowBlowers.com Ph: 613-724-4332 The warranty on your snow thrower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, you should maintain your snow thrower as instructed in your owner's manual. You should check your oil level each time before you start the engine. After making sure the snow thrower is on level ground, remove the oil fill cap and wipe the dipstick cleaned. Reinsert the dipstick and screw the cap tight, wait for a few seconds, remove it and re de- oil level. If necessary, add oil until the full mark on the dipstick is reached, do not overfill.
Begin by making sure the snow throwers are on a level surface, remove the safety ignition key. Clean the area around the drained plug. Remove the oil dip stick and drain plug, and drain the oil into a suitable container. Wipe off any spilled oil from the snow thrower on engine, install the drain plug and tighten securely. Refill the engine with oil through the oil dipstick tube, pour slowly, do not overfill for approximate capacity in recommended oil type, check your owner's manual. Highly featured and right for the job, that’s what you get with an Ariens Platinum Series Sno-Thro, available in 24 or 30 inch models, the Platinum series come with standard features like automatic traction control, quick turn chute rotation and hand warmers.
Hi, I’m Dick Andal from the Ariens company and I like to take a minute to share with you some of the key features of the Ariens Platinum Series Sno-Thro. Both models feature a 21 inch power housing and either a 24 or 30 inch clearing width. The Platinum series features a roll top lip and offset leading edges for strength and durability. The 2-stage design incorporates walled steel serrated augers that pulls snow into a powerful 14 inch, 3 blade high speed impeller that throws the snow up to 50 feet away. The Ariens Platinum Series are powered by a 250cc or 342cc Ariens Polar Force engine by Briggs & Stratton which features easy 1-2-3 start, a fuel shut off switch, an alternator and a large fill capacity. Ariens’ exclusive Polar Force Engine is certified to start in temperatures as low as 20 degrees below 0. New to all Ariens model this year is a commercial duty casting, top-filled gear case with alloy steel gears and synthetic gear oil not found in snow throwers at this valued price, because the gear case is a critical component in any snow thrower, Ariens backs up the gear case with a 5 year limited consumer warranty. The Ariens Platinum models feature an all steel dash panel with a powerful in-dash headlight along with simple and convenient controls for chute rotation, chute deflection and warmers and available at 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds. From the dash, the quick turn chute control rotates the chute 200 degrees to throw snow in any direction. The Platinum 24 and 30 gives you automatic traction control which delivers maximum power to both wheels while still allowing for effortless turning. You can’t go wrong with an Ariens snow thrower. They are made right here in the U.S.A, feature an all steel construction have a 3 year limited consumer warranty including the engine and have a 5 year limited consumer warranty on the cast or in gear case, that’s why Ariens is number 1 brand snow thrower in the world and that’s why we are “the King of Snow”. |