Ariens Platinum ST24DLE (24") 250cc Two-Stage Snow Blower

I'm a satisfied Ariens owner for 34 yrs, so satisfied that I would never consider another brand. I chose the Platinum series because of the advertised ease of steering. My driveway is large enough and I'm not getting any younger. I had hoped that feature would be worth the extra couple hundred bucks. In my opinion, it is not. At first it was snagging on every little surface imperfection on my concrete driveway and yanking itself from side to side. I had to wrestle it down the driveway to keep it tracking straight. Adjusting the feet to raise the unit helped a good deal, but it still has a tendency to wander. Ironically, it seems like it takes more strength to keep it running straight than my old snow blower required to turn it. Does it make it easier to turn? Only marginally, at best. Is it a good snow blower? Absolutely! Buy an Ariens. Just choose the lesser model. Your wallet and your arms will thank you for it. Don't get hung up on the assembly. it's not that difficult. It took me 3 hours, going slowly and carefully. True, the directions could have been clearer. They refer to parts only by their unique names. A description or photo would have helped to identify them.

I'm a satisfied Ariens owner for 34 yrs, so satisfied that I would never consider another brand. I chose the Platinum series because of the advertised ease of steering. My driveway is large enough and I'm not getting any younger. I had hoped that feature would be worth the extra couple hundred bucks. In my opinion, it is not. At first it was snagging on every little surface imperfection on my concrete driveway and yanking itself from side to side. I had to wrestle it down the driveway to keep it tracking straight. Adjusting the feet to raise the unit helped a good deal, but it still has... more

Kids are in college and my back does not like plowed snow/ice. Last year, after I had shoulder surgery, my wife told me to get a snow blower, I looked around for an end of season special and almost bought a Crafstsman (that was returned). Sooooo happy I did not. Bought the Ariens early in the winter after a good amount of research.
My biggest problem with snow, as beautiful as it is, is that to much of it ends up at the end of my driveway as hard packed boulders which laughs at humans with shovels and most snow blowers. I bought this blower specifically to tackle this problem, My wife was not happy, she believed I could have done with a less expensive unit (it cost me a new kitchen counter).
I do not have a long driveway, but it is two cars wide. Our first storm and all after have been nasty heavy wet snow. the Ariens worked right through it, our last storm landed a mound of slush at the end of the driveway, the Ariens threw it, I tried to stall it could not do it! I guess I was right! (we needed the new kitchen counter too!)

MONEY WELL SPENT!

Had no issues assembling (read the directions)

Oh yea it has hand warmers!

Kids are in college and my back does not like plowed snow/ice. Last year, after I had shoulder surgery, my wife told me to get a snow blower, I looked around for an end of season special and almost bought a Crafstsman (that was returned). Sooooo happy I did not. Bought the Ariens early in the winter after a good amount of research.
My biggest problem with snow, as beautiful as it is, is that to much of it ends up at the end of my driveway as hard packed boulders which laughs at humans with shovels and most snow blowers. I bought this blower specifically to tackle this problem, My wife was ... more

My prior Areins snow blower was 40 years old and decided to go swimming during Hurricane Sandy. My friend has since cleaned it and restarted it. It was a no brainer that I was getting another Areins! Now we both have a great machine. It arrived as scheduled and the driver put it right in the garage even though i had not paid for the extra delivery charge. It took me an evening to put it together, the directions for assembly are difficult to follow. I am an engineer and it was not easy but it got done. You need to really pay close attention and remember which model you have as more than one model is in the booklet. Now it started right up and I was anxiously awaiting for some snow. Well I received the blizzard and what fun I had! The snow blower ate up the 18 inches like it was butter. It even did okay through the plow piles of 5 plus feet! I did miss my drift bars but the need for those is limited and all I had to do was backup a few times. The many neighbors that I also cleared out were as grateful as I was that the new toy was working great! The only complaint however minor is that Areins should put a switch on the headlight, it is not needed to be on all day. The hand warmers were awesome, I actually turned them of a few times as my hands were too warm! Snow Blowers Direct was a pleasure to deal with and I am going to use them again for my lawnmower as it also went swimming.

My prior Areins snow blower was 40 years old and decided to go swimming during Hurricane Sandy. My friend has since cleaned it and restarted it. It was a no brainer that I was getting another Areins! Now we both have a great machine. It arrived as scheduled and the driver put it right in the garage even though i had not paid for the extra delivery charge. It took me an evening to put it together, the directions for assembly are difficult to follow. I am an engineer and it was not easy but it got done. You need to really pay close attention and remember which model you have as more than ... more

We just received our new snowblower from Snowblowers Direct and found that it does not go in reverse and seems to have only one speed - fast forward. We contacted Snowblowers Direct yesterday (Saturday 2/8), but they had no technical support available and told us to contact our local authorized Ariens dealer. We called 2 in two different towns. Neither was crazy about helping us because we purchased the snowblower online. One guy said that he knows with 100% certainty that it needs adjustments because not one Ariens snowblower works properly out of the crate. Not what we wanted to hear. In addition, he said that any "adjustments" that have to be made will cost us $89/hour. I just paid $1400 for a "Platinum" made in the USA snowblower and it doesn't go in reverse. We just got hit with 17" of snow yesterday and I can't believe that neither Snowblowers Direct nor Ariens had any technical staff available which makes no sense since so many of us tinker around with machines on the weekend since we, too, have to go to work M-F just so we can afford to pay $1400 for a snowblower. I'm fairly mechanical and after reading reviews (and viewing a Youtube video) online, not going in reverse is not an isolated issue here - it's not just me. I'm also letting Snowblowers Direct know how unhappy we are, but ultimately they're just going to tell us that there's nothing they can do. I hope that Ariens will make this right and work with us to get this machine doing what it's meant to do - work! It's no wonder all of the Ariens machines (and pretty much every other machine on their site) gets rave reviews. SBD doesn't post bad ones which tells me they're not very honest. That's pretty sneaky.

SBD Responds - while we understand this customers anxiety over the issue with her snow blower, we certainly at no time told her that that is "nothing we could do". We contacted Ariens on Saturday, 2/8 when this customer first contacted us about the issue she was having, and while there was no one in tech support working on 2/8, Ron from Ariens did call this customer twice and left her messages that Ariens would be in contact on Monday and would get the snow blower repaired at no charge to the customer - which is what happened. Dan from Ariens arranged for the snow blower to be picked up from the customers home, repaired, and returned to her at no charge to the customer per the terms of the Ariens warranty. As to the assertion that we don't post negative reviews, that is not the case either. We have many one and two start reviews posted on our web stores. Yes, we do review all reviews that are submitted, and we make sure that all reviews we post actually pertain to the product being reviewed and that they are free of vulgarity, other "questionable" content, or statements that just aren't truthful.

We just received our new snowblower from Snowblowers Direct and found that it does not go in reverse and seems to have only one speed - fast forward. We contacted Snowblowers Direct yesterday (Saturday 2/8), but they had no technical support available and told us to contact our local authorized Ariens dealer. We called 2 in two different towns. Neither was crazy about helping us because we purchased the snowblower online. One guy said that he knows with 100% certainty that it needs adjustments because not one Ariens snowblower works properly out of the crate. Not what we wanted to hear. ... more

After the first big snowfall in Western PA in the beginning of January I made up my mind that I will never shovel snow again. I immediately came in from yet another back-aching experience and looked online for the best snow blower out there.

Now mind you, I have never looked into buying one of these things, I mean I looked at them walking into our local home improvement store and said it would be nice to have own one some day, but that was the extent of it. So I was just going off of reviews. I researched best snow blowers and this company Ariens kept coming up. I read many reviews and watched some YouTube videos and talked to some guys I work with, and I am here to tell ya- EVERYONE said ARIENS is the best!!!

After going back and forth over which Ariens to buy, I purchased the Ariens Platinum (24"), and I also got the lift gate service. I purchased online on a Friday, and Monday I received a phone call from the shipping warehouse that my snowblower had arrived. The shipping company worked around my schedule for delivery and delivered my snowblower the day we agreed on, NO HASSLE AND ON-TIME (VERY PROFESSIONAL).

So the big day arrived- I was like a kid on Christmas morning. I unpacked the snowblower and brought it into my basement for assembly. Like all the reviews I have read the handle you have to assemble for the direction chute is a little confusing, but with a little of trial and error I got it assembled. I might add that I am mechanically inclined, I deal with Illustrated parts Catalogs (IPC) on a daily basis so when I say it was confusing, I'm just sayin'!

Then I immediately push it outside and fuel it up. 2 pulls later she's running like a kitten and I check all controls- now all we need is snow!

Since the assembly of my Ariens we have received a few snowfalls of several inches and I have used my Ariens both times clearing mine and my neighbor's driveway- what a great machine. What used to take a solid hour and a half to shovel now takes 15-20 minutes to clear 2 driveways with ease.

I honestly cannot wait for the Big Snow Storm. Ariens, thank you for a great machine and the best part of it, MADE IN THE USA.

After the first big snowfall in Western PA in the beginning of January I made up my mind that I will never shovel snow again. I immediately came in from yet another back-aching experience and looked online for the best snow blower out there.

Now mind you, I have never looked into buying one of these things, I mean I looked at them walking into our local home improvement store and said it would be nice to have own one some day, but that was the extent of it. So I was just going off of reviews. I researched best snow blowers and this company Ariens kept coming up. I read many reviews and w... more

I lived the first 66 yrs of my life in Texas and had only seen a few snow blowers at ski lodges and never thought I would ever own one or need to understand how they work. We moved to Indiana 8 years ago for retirement and I found shoveling snow was not something I was cut out for. We don't get that much snow, but when we do it is a mess and the teenagers who once knocked on the door wanting to earn money shoveling have dwindled to naught (X-box occupied?).

After an accumulation of 15" accompanied by some 3 ft drifts over three days just after Christmas and my sore back from shoveling three times, a snow blower seemed like an attractive idea. None in stock locally, but fortunately I found SBD online, and thanks to all the videos, information, and recommendations on their site, I found what I needed. Also watching a neighbor struggle with a single stage model reinforced what I learned from the SBD web site. I chose the Deluxe model but it was out of stock, so I ordered the Platinum model instead and do not regret the choice. Would have preferred the 30" model but not enough space in the garage.

I ordered it on the morning of New Year's Eve (Monday) and it arrived on Friday morning (even without rush order handling!). Assembly was not intuitive so I had to actually read the manual. That and a helpful colored photo version on Ariens' web site was sufficient. But it all went smoothly and it started on the first pull. I still had enough snow left to give it (and me) a good test. I can say that I am very pleased with it and with SBD and would highly recommend both.

Cons: Very minor, but the two drive and accessory levers have plastic half-ring stops in the forward ends where they contact the handle when the levers are released. One fell off during assembly and the other while using the blower on the first pass. Apparently they are supposed to adhere to the underside of the lever when installed with a heated device, but there is no way to get them to stay on once they fall off. Very poor design and installation. Two strips of duct tape easily solved this problem. Also the vinyl cover on one of the levers slipped off frequently when releasing the lever. Corrected this by applying a strip of double sided tape to the bare lever, and then slipped the vinyl cover back on. Nothing has come off since.

I lived the first 66 yrs of my life in Texas and had only seen a few snow blowers at ski lodges and never thought I would ever own one or need to understand how they work. We moved to Indiana 8 years ago for retirement and I found shoveling snow was not something I was cut out for. We don't get that much snow, but when we do it is a mess and the teenagers who once knocked on the door wanting to earn money shoveling have dwindled to naught (X-box occupied?).

After an accumulation of 15" accompanied by some 3 ft drifts over three days just after Christmas and my sore back from shove... more

I am having trouble putting it together; the directions are not as clear as I would hope. I was told I had to put the handle and chute on before I purchased it. Well, it sounded easy enough, then I got to doing it. I would pay someone $50 to do it. Hope it does not snow soon...

I keep running to a big box store and looking at theirs that are put together. I am still working on it and looking for help on the Internet.

Once it put together it seems like it would go through anything.

SBD RESPONDS: You might want to give the folks at Ariens Technical Support a call at 920-756-4688; they should be able to walk you through the assembly process.

I am having trouble putting it together; the directions are not as clear as I would hope. I was told I had to put the handle and chute on before I purchased it. Well, it sounded easy enough, then I got to doing it. I would pay someone $50 to do it. Hope it does not snow soon...

I keep running to a big box store and looking at theirs that are put together. I am still working on it and looking for help on the Internet.

Once it put together it seems like it would go through anything.

SBD RESPONDS: You might want to give the folks at Ariens Technical Support a call at 920-756-4688; they s... more

Runs much smoother than the 24" 9HP Ariens it replaced (and that one was professionally tuned up every year). Much more powerful as well when cutting thru the junk the city plow leaves at the end of my driveway.

BAD: I really really hate the quick turn chute. It doesn't adjust in fine increments and when I adjust it over to one end or the other it tends to bounce back one or two clicks before it locks in place. I far prefer the old crank handle that I could operate while the blower was moving. On the old one, I could adjust/direct the throw angle based on wind, and where I was on the driveway to put snow just where it needed to be. This made it easy to do areas around the cars, along a sidewalk that winds between the deck and the house, etc. The remote height adjust is really nice.

THE WORST: This thing can't plow in a straight line to save it's life! It's got the easy turn auto locking wheel drive but it zigs and zags like crazy at the slightest Left/Right mu differential. I ended up locking the wheels to keep it straight. Maybe the cheaper models with the handle-based wheel lock is better....

Runs much smoother than the 24" 9HP Ariens it replaced (and that one was professionally tuned up every year). Much more powerful as well when cutting thru the junk the city plow leaves at the end of my driveway.

BAD: I really really hate the quick turn chute. It doesn't adjust in fine increments and when I adjust it over to one end or the other it tends to bounce back one or two clicks before it locks in place. I far prefer the old crank handle that I could operate while the blower was moving. On the old one, I could adjust/direct the throw angle based on wind, and where I was on t... more

I am very impressed with the solid construction of the Ariens. Ordering from Snow Blowers Direct was easy, unit was competitively priced. Delivery was prompt, I didn't pay the extra $50.00 for tailgate delivery, because I have a couple of real strong Friends, but wouldn't you know, on their way to my house their car broke down, and the delivery was a half hour early. (the delivery driver called ahead to make sure it would be o.k. to arrive early).
The 18 wheeler had a liftgate and the Driver unloaded the blower and put it in my garage, kudos to the freight company and driver. The blower was very straight forward to assemble, in a short while it was together, bolts checked, gas added and ready to fire, a couple of easy pulls on the starter and we were off and running. All cables adjusted, I am ready, now where is the snow? Thus far I am very pleased.

I am very impressed with the solid construction of the Ariens. Ordering from Snow Blowers Direct was easy, unit was competitively priced. Delivery was prompt, I didn't pay the extra $50.00 for tailgate delivery, because I have a couple of real strong Friends, but wouldn't you know, on their way to my house their car broke down, and the delivery was a half hour early. (the delivery driver called ahead to make sure it would be o.k. to arrive early).
The 18 wheeler had a liftgate and the Driver unloaded the blower and put it in my garage, kudos to the freight company and driver. The blower ... more

I ordered in August, and the estimated ship date was mid September. Ordering from SnowblowersDirect was very easy and hassle free. I was later told there were delays at the factory which ended up being about a three week delay to the original estimated delivery date. No problem - that's why I ordered in August. No problem with the delivery - good communication from R&L. I had the machine assembled in about 1/2 hour.

I used the pull starter and it started on the second pull - very nice. We had a freak snowstorm on the night of the 29th - morning of the 30th of October, which left about 5 inches of very heavy wet snow. I had several large tree branches down in the midpoint of my driveway. As far as the snow, I figured this is probably worst case and was eager to see what the new machine would do. I cleaned up the snow on the first third of my driveway, and used the headlight (It was 4 am and I had to be at work for 6 am) to see what I was doing when cutting up the branches in the driveway and dragging them off to the side. I bypassed the section where the limbs fell so I wouldn't have to worry about fouling the snowthrower with debris hidden in the snow. The rest of the job was easy - the snowthrower cut through the extra heavy snow bank nicely.

So far, this machine is a winner! I'm ready for whatever snow Mother Nature will send our way.

I ordered in August, and the estimated ship date was mid September. Ordering from SnowblowersDirect was very easy and hassle free. I was later told there were delays at the factory which ended up being about a three week delay to the original estimated delivery date. No problem - that's why I ordered in August. No problem with the delivery - good communication from R&L. I had the machine assembled in about 1/2 hour.

I used the pull starter and it started on the second pull - very nice. We had a freak snowstorm on the night of the 29th - morning of the 30th of October, which left about ... more

Wow, Wow all I can say is Wow!!! Like a lot of people I waited until we had our first major snow storm (20 inches) to decide to purchase a snow blower. And of course you had a better chance of probably winning Lotto than finding a snow blower on Long Island, New York December 26, 2010. I went online and found Snow Blower Direct and I ordered the snow blower. I received a notice that due to the snow storm in the northeast, that my snow blower may be delayed by five days from the estimated delivery date. I was a little disappointed, but I only had myself to blame for waiting until the last minute. Well to my surprise I received a phone call from the shipping company telling me my snow blower would be delivered on time (four days from the time I ordered it). I have used my snow blower twice now and all I can say is "Let It Snow, Let It Snow".

The snow blower itself is a monster. The electric start is heaven and the all traction drive (with six speeds) is priceless. The large headlight and hand warmers are a very nice feature as well. I can't wait until spring, but if it is going to snow let me take a line from famous professional boxing referee Mills Lane "Let's Get It On".

Wow, Wow all I can say is Wow!!! Like a lot of people I waited until we had our first major snow storm (20 inches) to decide to purchase a snow blower. And of course you had a better chance of probably winning Lotto than finding a snow blower on Long Island, New York December 26, 2010. I went online and found Snow Blower Direct and I ordered the snow blower. I received a notice that due to the snow storm in the northeast, that my snow blower may be delayed by five days from the estimated delivery date. I was a little disappointed, but I only had myself to blame for waiting until the last minut... more

This machine is great! I use a commercial 36 inch Ariens for my job and this replaced my home machine - an old Toro I had that was about 25 years old. When I started using the commercial Ariens machines, it made me want one and showed me how shot my old home machine was. This is essentially a smaller version of the commercial model.

My wife has to do the driveway while I'm at work, she can start it easily with the 120 volt starter, but she can use the pull-cord as well.

It goes through the deep heavy crap from the plows at the end of the driveway and throws it up and over the piles of snow. The hand warmers are really nice and not a fluff luxury at all. This has been a miserable winter in Connecticut, the old machine we had just couldn't handle the heavy snows this winter. This machine can handle it. That's when you really need a snowblower - to take care of the heavy stuff that would kill you if you had to shovel it. My wife and I are both in our 50's and we wanted a machine that was easy to handle but had the power to do what has to be done, this is it.

Ready the directions when you assemble it, it doesn't make sense at first but when you get it put together, it does make sense. It actually comes almost completely assembled, you have to unfold the handles and connect the chute, not too bad. It took me about 45 minutes, I put gas in it and it started on the second pull. A bit confusing if oil was in it when it was shipped because the oil is clear when it is new.

This machine is great! I use a commercial 36 inch Ariens for my job and this replaced my home machine - an old Toro I had that was about 25 years old. When I started using the commercial Ariens machines, it made me want one and showed me how shot my old home machine was. This is essentially a smaller version of the commercial model.

My wife has to do the driveway while I'm at work, she can start it easily with the 120 volt starter, but she can use the pull-cord as well.

It goes through the deep heavy crap from the plows at the end of the driveway and throws it up and over the pile... more

This winter we were hit with one storm after another and in the middle of January when my 1995 snowblower broke and the local Ariens hardware store was three weeks behind on repair and felt my unit also needed welding to repair I felt it was time to purchase a new machine.

The hardware store had already sold out its entire inventory for the season and I headed out to the local Sears, Home Depot and Lowes only to find that everything was back-ordered. Heard repeatedly that everyone was Out Of Stock throughout the State.

Snow was falling and another major storm due the following week and I reached out to the internet and found Snow Blowers Direct and discovered they had a limited variety of machines available. On that Saturday morning I was able to choose the unit I wanted and found two in inventory and able to ship on Monday (the process was clear to order a tailgate delivery for $50.00 which I would require). I completed the purchase and also ordered a cover since my unit is stored outside, along with some extra shear bolts and a couple of cans of Snow Spray.

I immediately received email confirmation of the purchase and follow-up email confirmation on Monday morning that the purchase was complete and my unit was scheduled for shipment. The snowblower via R&L Carriers (along with their local phone number to arrange delivery) and Fed Ex confirmation for the other items I ordered.

The smaller items arrived by Thursday of the week and the snowblower would have also but traveling from Bolingbrook, IL to Winthrop, MA encountering snowstorms throughout the region. Due to the fact that I would have had to assemble the unit outside I contacted R&L Carriers (who apologized for not being able to delivery my unit until Friday since the recent snow did not allow them to off load the road trailer for local delivery) and was able to reroute my shipment to my local Ariens Dealer who was not only amazed that I found the machine but received it, assembled it, fueled it, ran it and could have sold it ten times before dropping it of to me on Saturday (one week after I placed my order with Snow Blowers Direct).

I recall the young fellow who dropped it off from the hardware stores stating "This MUST be a great machine since everyone who came into the store was very impressed with it.

Needless to say the unit has been used now for two major storms that followed and has performed as it was described. With a 11.5hp motor I am able to throw snow anywhere from 3-50 foot from the machine. This allows for quicker cleanup since with the old machine I had to clear the same snow two to three times since I have a large parking area in my back yard and a long driveway to clear.

I cannot state enough how impressed I was with Snow Blowers Direct process that outlined choices clearly and by the vendors they choose to move the orders.

Snow Blowers Direct is a Five Star company in my book.

Thank you to everyone at SBD.

This winter we were hit with one storm after another and in the middle of January when my 1995 snowblower broke and the local Ariens hardware store was three weeks behind on repair and felt my unit also needed welding to repair I felt it was time to purchase a new machine.

The hardware store had already sold out its entire inventory for the season and I headed out to the local Sears, Home Depot and Lowes only to find that everything was back-ordered. Heard repeatedly that everyone was Out Of Stock throughout the State.

Snow was falling and another major storm due the following week and ... more

I purchased this machine after my Craftsman broke. The cost is considerably higher on this machine but well worth it. The delivery company was fantastic and put the machine in my garage for me so it didn't get ruined because they delivered it in a snow storm for me. It was easy to assemble and started on the first pull.

I was able to clear my driveway and sidewalks in a fraction of the time compared to my old snow blower. It also throws the snow in the 40 to 50 foot range as advertised. I also cut into the huge snow drifts I had from the previous storms. These drifts were a hard mix of ice and snow and I was amazed that this machine tore those up and spit them out with ease.

The heated hand grips are a great addition, I thought it was a silly option but now that I have them I am very happy. I actually cleared the driveway without gloves on, on the first day I used the machine.

I am very happy with this purchase.

I purchased this machine after my Craftsman broke. The cost is considerably higher on this machine but well worth it. The delivery company was fantastic and put the machine in my garage for me so it didn't get ruined because they delivered it in a snow storm for me. It was easy to assemble and started on the first pull.

I was able to clear my driveway and sidewalks in a fraction of the time compared to my old snow blower. It also throws the snow in the 40 to 50 foot range as advertised. I also cut into the huge snow drifts I had from the previous storms. These drifts were a hard mix of i... more

Had been thinking about getting a snow blower for the past 2 years. Getting older and a shovel and small electric snow thrower were getting old and taking a very long time. Where I am in KY there is normally not a large amount of snow however, when it really snows, things come to a grinding halt.

My driveway is approx 100 x 14 feet with a large parking pad in front of the garage that is about 40 x 30 feet. The driveway is slanted and if you do not get the drive clean the car really has problems getting up. It really does not matter if I never have to use it, it's there and waiting.

I ordered it on Wednesday and delivered the next Monday. The delivery was excellent, delivered in good condition and the driver even rolled it down and into the garage for me. Could not ask for better service.

Took me a couple of days to get it together, the directions are pretty poor on assembly. I had to get the next door neighbor to help me.

It fired up right away and I tested all the bells and whistles. Will see just how it handles the snow.

Had been thinking about getting a snow blower for the past 2 years. Getting older and a shovel and small electric snow thrower were getting old and taking a very long time. Where I am in KY there is normally not a large amount of snow however, when it really snows, things come to a grinding halt.

My driveway is approx 100 x 14 feet with a large parking pad in front of the garage that is about 40 x 30 feet. The driveway is slanted and if you do not get the drive clean the car really has problems getting up. It really does not matter if I never have to use it, it's there and waiting.

... more

Spending a bit of extra money for an Ariens over buying some lower priced snow blower from the big box store should be considered a great investment. I have had the machine for a couple weeks and several storms here in the Northeast and I am very pleased with my purchase.

The machine was well packaged and arrived in about 5 days after my order. I agree with some of the other reviews that the instructions for assembly are a bit vague but if you take your time and read carefully it should only take you about an hour to assemble the chute, cables and chute controls. The rest of the machine is already assembled for you. If I had to assemble a second machine it would now only take about 15 minutes.

The machine works great even in heavy ice packed snow and slush. The motor has an incredible amount of torque. Unlike some of the lower powered brands you could purchase, this one really does throw the snow a long distance if desired. I have been throwing it over into my neighbors yard!

I have not used the electric start option as the pull start works on the first or second pull. I bought the 24 inch wide Platinum series Prosumer model so I cannot comment on what the consumer or professional models are like. I really like the light which assists with evening snow removal and the heated handgrips are great. All in all it is a great purchase and I expect to get many useful years of service out of this machine.

Spending a bit of extra money for an Ariens over buying some lower priced snow blower from the big box store should be considered a great investment. I have had the machine for a couple weeks and several storms here in the Northeast and I am very pleased with my purchase.

The machine was well packaged and arrived in about 5 days after my order. I agree with some of the other reviews that the instructions for assembly are a bit vague but if you take your time and read carefully it should only take you about an hour to assemble the chute, cables and chute controls. The rest of the machine i... more

Im not going to ramble on about how great the unit is because if you read the reviews this has plenty of power and I dont feel its over kill. So why waste your time being redundant. However, the assembly of the chute deflector (cables) was a somewhat to be desired. The directions BITE, and the pictures are NOT clear. So after screwing with this I went to U Tube and I saw a picture of the cable and I was off and running. Just for the record I am a mechanic and have been in the buss. for over 30 years so if I had a problem the average consumer will have his hands full. Once you get by that I loved how it started on the first pull. I had another Ariens that was 5 years old and had a Tecumseh engine and would never fire up unless it was warm. Had to use the elecric start. The service was great and the delivery was even better. The driver was a pleasure could not have asked for more. Do suggest buying a unit in the beginning or at the end of the season to save a few dollars.

Im not going to ramble on about how great the unit is because if you read the reviews this has plenty of power and I dont feel its over kill. So why waste your time being redundant. However, the assembly of the chute deflector (cables) was a somewhat to be desired. The directions BITE, and the pictures are NOT clear. So after screwing with this I went to U Tube and I saw a picture of the cable and I was off and running. Just for the record I am a mechanic and have been in the buss. for over 30 years so if I had a problem the average consumer will have his hands full. Once you get by that I lov... more

Received my snow blower on Jan 4, since then I have used it 3 times. We have been dumped on a lot this January but I tell you with this new snow blower it's a piece of cake.

Last week we had 19 inches, plows came through and piled my driveway high with snow. I got out there and my blowers went through it like a hot knife through butter, no problem at all. Great investment.

Don't know why it took me so long to get this machine. Only challenge was putting some things together when i got it, directions could be a little clearer, but once together, forget it. Great machine. Would recommend and cant say enough about delivery. Right to my house and in garage, cant wait for next snow fall.

Received my snow blower on Jan 4, since then I have used it 3 times. We have been dumped on a lot this January but I tell you with this new snow blower it's a piece of cake.

Last week we had 19 inches, plows came through and piled my driveway high with snow. I got out there and my blowers went through it like a hot knife through butter, no problem at all. Great investment.

Don't know why it took me so long to get this machine. Only challenge was putting some things together when i got it, directions could be a little clearer, but once together, forget it. Great machine. Would recommend ... more

I did my widow neighbor's driveway after I cleared mine. She had 12" of the heavy street snowplow variety at the end of her driveway and it cleared in one pass. Impressive! I am happy with my choice, but I must say that I had some difficulty putting together the chute mechanism. It still sticks from time to time. The instructions that came with the machine for this assembly were poorly written and the illustration looked like something printed in China. I decided to go top of the line through many recommendations, and I am hopeful this machine will last for a very long time. Living in Western New York we average 100" per year of snowfall. It will definitely get a good deal of usage. Delivery of the unit was very fast and the driver was helpful. I would recommend buying from Snow Blower Direct.

I did my widow neighbor's driveway after I cleared mine. She had 12" of the heavy street snowplow variety at the end of her driveway and it cleared in one pass. Impressive! I am happy with my choice, but I must say that I had some difficulty putting together the chute mechanism. It still sticks from time to time. The instructions that came with the machine for this assembly were poorly written and the illustration looked like something printed in China. I decided to go top of the line through many recommendations, and I am hopeful this machine will last for a very long time. Living in Wes... more

We had a blizzard which dumped 34 inches of snow. I spent hours struggling with my large single stage snowblower clearing my two car driveway, I didn't even attempt the walkway. I went on line and ordered this two stage model. It arrived a week later just in time for the fresh six inches of snow and the letter from the town telling everyone on our cul da sac we had one day to clear the walkways from the previous storm, which by this time had become a very heavy 30 inches plus the extra six inches. "The Beast" cleared through the walkways of four houses and the driveway and the pile left by the snowplow, I was the neighborhood hero that day. I would absolutely recommend this snowblower and the web site snowblowers direct.

We had a blizzard which dumped 34 inches of snow. I spent hours struggling with my large single stage snowblower clearing my two car driveway, I didn't even attempt the walkway. I went on line and ordered this two stage model. It arrived a week later just in time for the fresh six inches of snow and the letter from the town telling everyone on our cul da sac we had one day to clear the walkways from the previous storm, which by this time had become a very heavy 30 inches plus the extra six inches. "The Beast" cleared through the walkways of four houses and the driveway and the pile ... more

I purchased this snow blower about 3 months ago. Bought it on a Monday, R+L carriers were ready to deliver it on Wednesday. I couldn't accept delivery until Friday, which was not a problem for R+L. I did purchase the lift-gate service since my wife would be the only one home when it arrived. Delivery was uneventful, with the snow blower, pallet and all, placed conveniently in my detached garage by the delivery driver.

I agree with the majority of the other reviews that the directions are a little lacking. They're not difficult to figure out, but they could use some work.

Today marks the third time this year that I have used this snow blower to clear my driveway and my elderly neighbors. We got about 6" of snow yesterday. It works great! Started on the first pull, despite it being only 8 degrees this morning. I know it has an electric start, but if it starts on the first pull, the electric start ends up taking more time than its worth! No issues clearing the 6" of snow obviously. It took less than an hour to do both driveways. The lever adjustments work great for both shoot direction and height. I have not experienced the shoot rotating on its own, as some others have claimed. However, I did spend a decent amount of time adjusting the tension setting of that particular cable during assembly so that it required a decent amount of force on the lever to disengage the chute in order to rotate it.

All in all, I am very happy with my purchase. I only wish I would have done it sooner.

I purchased this snow blower about 3 months ago. Bought it on a Monday, R+L carriers were ready to deliver it on Wednesday. I couldn't accept delivery until Friday, which was not a problem for R+L. I did purchase the lift-gate service since my wife would be the only one home when it arrived. Delivery was uneventful, with the snow blower, pallet and all, placed conveniently in my detached garage by the delivery driver.

I agree with the majority of the other reviews that the directions are a little lacking. They're not difficult to figure out, but they could use some work.

Today marks... more

Well First off I would like to say Snow Blowers Direct was top notch. Great price and the snow blower was at my door way 3 days after ordering.

R&L shipping pulled up to my house with a drop gate truck (didn't request) and the delivery driver place the snow blower in my garage.

The down side came after assembly, where the instructions were no help. I tried to give it a pull start and get kickback. So after 30 min of failed attempts and my arm feeling like it got ripped out of its socket, I tried the electric start. And the same thing, I can hear the kick back against the starter.

Never the less it finally started, and seemed to run like crap, I decided to attempt to blow a little bit of a sidewalk that had about 2in of snow and just killed it.

Called my local Ariens dealer (Snell Power Sports Mankato MN highly recommended) they picked up and delivered the snow blower for free and handled all paper work. And only had the snow blower for 1 full business day.

After warranty repair this thing is a beast. I have had it in 2 foot drifts (2 months of snow build up) in my back yard to make a path for the dog. It just devours any snow in its path. Even though it was a rough start I think I made the right purchase. And hoping for many years of service

Well First off I would like to say Snow Blowers Direct was top notch. Great price and the snow blower was at my door way 3 days after ordering.

R&L shipping pulled up to my house with a drop gate truck (didn't request) and the delivery driver place the snow blower in my garage.

The down side came after assembly, where the instructions were no help. I tried to give it a pull start and get kickback. So after 30 min of failed attempts and my arm feeling like it got ripped out of its socket, I tried the electric start. And the same thing, I can hear the kick back against the star... more

First, the Ariens snowblower has been an absolute joy to use. It has plenty of power and easily handled the almost foot of snow we recently had here in the northeast. The product is very solidly constructed and I have no doubt that the Ariens will provide many years of dependable service.

My only criticism is the assembly directions that accompanied the Ariens. The printing was quite small and the directions seemed to imply that everybody is mechanically inclined so the customer will automatically understand all the terminology and vague illustrations. I'm almost 69 years old and can barely handle the simplest of mechanical tasks.

The best part of the buying experience was the truck driver who delivered my snowblower. He couldn't have been nicer or more helpful. He brought the boxed (and very heavy) snowblower all the way up my very long driveway and was happy to place it inside my garage. I couldn't believe what a nice experience it was to encounter a driver who was friendly and eager to make certain that I, the customer, was completely satisfied.

I wish I could remember his name because he deserves my praise for doing his job well.

First, the Ariens snowblower has been an absolute joy to use. It has plenty of power and easily handled the almost foot of snow we recently had here in the northeast. The product is very solidly constructed and I have no doubt that the Ariens will provide many years of dependable service.

My only criticism is the assembly directions that accompanied the Ariens. The printing was quite small and the directions seemed to imply that everybody is mechanically inclined so the customer will automatically understand all the terminology and vague illustrations. I'm almost 69 years old and can barel... more

I have now used the new machine for 3 storms here in upstate NY. The first was a 12 inch dump, light and fluffy, blower made quick work of the job. Second storm was similar to the first but 8 inches. It even cut right through the heavy stuff that the plow throws on to the front walk so I love it!

This last storm of 12 inches changed some things about my passion for this machine. They should change the chute adjustment lever so that the handle moves up when you want to throw the snow a farther distance. Currently the lever is moved down to make chute lid go up making the snow go farther...Kind of opposite of the way it should be. If you want the chute lid to move up the lever should move up.

Second, this machine is difficult to pull start. It is fashioned with an electric start but I ran low on gas a distance from the electric source...Note to self don't run out of gas.

Third, I was snow blowing away and somehow the knob used to shift the chute from left to right shimmied loose and vibrated off the lever and slipped beneath the snow, without my noticing it happened. After much searching and some random luck I found the knob. New owners should check the knob before each use to be sure it is secure.

I have been snow blowing our home and two neighbors for 15 years. This machine overall is easy to use. I am a short but strong woman and my husband is usually called away once the snow flies thanks for creating a nice machine that I can handle.

I have now used the new machine for 3 storms here in upstate NY. The first was a 12 inch dump, light and fluffy, blower made quick work of the job. Second storm was similar to the first but 8 inches. It even cut right through the heavy stuff that the plow throws on to the front walk so I love it!

This last storm of 12 inches changed some things about my passion for this machine. They should change the chute adjustment lever so that the handle moves up when you want to throw the snow a farther distance. Currently the lever is moved down to make chute lid go up making the snow go farther...K... more

When I think of all the years I broke my back shoveling when I should have purchased this sooner. I always tend to overbuild, overbuy, etc. You know, Tim the Toolman Taylor syndrome arrgh, arrgh. But this time it was well worth it.

I live in Long Island, NY where we maybe get 1 big snow per year and some small stuff. This year I figured I would ward off the snow by buying a snowblower. Took delivery early December. The shipping company was great. My daughter was home to take the delivery and when she tried to tip the driver he refused. They even put the pallet in the garage for me.

Setup was as previously described by others- instructions could have been better, but had it up and running within the hour. 2 metal pins were missing, which threw me off, but I improvised for a week until Ariens customer service sent me new ones, no questions asked, and extras just in case.

I went on vacation and came back 4 days after the blizzard that paralyzed NY, leaving 20+ inches of snow. The weather had warmed very slightly which made the snow very heavy and wet. Plows had blocked off my driveway with a wall of snow. Fired up the ST24DLE and went to town. This thing can really sling snow! It never bogged down or got clogged ( I did spray it down with 2 coats of snow jet before use).

My wife came out to tell me that the Village called and said they will not be plowing my street anymore since I can do it myself!! 2 weeks later and I just finished plowing close to 10" of new powdery snow. My only problem was deciding where to aim the chute. Snow was thrown way across the street if I wanted. Easy controls allowed me to aim the direction and height of the snow stream.

I look forward to the snow now. No regrets other than not buying it years ago, great purchase, helpful staff ( I was actually thinking of a 30" model and I was talked out of it. Don't often find companies that will get you to spend LESS money than you planned!)

When I think of all the years I broke my back shoveling when I should have purchased this sooner. I always tend to overbuild, overbuy, etc. You know, Tim the Toolman Taylor syndrome arrgh, arrgh. But this time it was well worth it.

I live in Long Island, NY where we maybe get 1 big snow per year and some small stuff. This year I figured I would ward off the snow by buying a snowblower. Took delivery early December. The shipping company was great. My daughter was home to take the delivery and when she tried to tip the driver he refused. They even put the pallet in the garage for me... more

The delivery was prompt. The liftgate service was outstanding. If I had it to do all over again I would have purchased a unit that was already assembled. The assembly instructions are poor. I have been assembling lawn equipment for over 20 years and this was one of my most frustrating experiences. Also after the first use I attempted to adjust the belts finger clearance and the bolt stripped and I know it was not a result of too much force because only one stripped out. I have called the manufacturer and have not gotten good response. This was the most expensive unit in its class and now I wish I had gone with a different unit.

The delivery was prompt. The liftgate service was outstanding. If I had it to do all over again I would have purchased a unit that was already assembled. The assembly instructions are poor. I have been assembling lawn equipment for over 20 years and this was one of my most frustrating experiences. Also after the first use I attempted to adjust the belts finger clearance and the bolt stripped and I know it was not a result of too much force because only one stripped out. I have called the manufacturer and have not gotten good response. This was the most expensive unit in its class and now I wis... more

Bought mine last year and truck delivered to my house. Truck driver hand trucked into my garage and helped to pull it out from the box. Excellent delivery.

Some tricky assembly but managable. Delivered with oil in crankcase (guess they all are), put some 89 octane gasoline in the tank and it started with one pull. I was suprised at this ease of starting as this was delivered to me last January and the temperature was around 25 degrees F.

I ran it for 10 minutes, drained the oil and replaced with 5W-30 Synthetic. (I am a fanatic about engine oil)

A few of the main specs I reseached before buying an Ariens was that it included: metal construction, 14" impeller and impeller speed, high metal chute with up front controls, forward and reverse speeds with Disc-O-Matic drive and heated handles.

I keep fuel in the tank and run the engine once a month though-out the year. Hope to have in it operation for many years.

Bought mine last year and truck delivered to my house. Truck driver hand trucked into my garage and helped to pull it out from the box. Excellent delivery.

Some tricky assembly but managable. Delivered with oil in crankcase (guess they all are), put some 89 octane gasoline in the tank and it started with one pull. I was suprised at this ease of starting as this was delivered to me last January and the temperature was around 25 degrees F.

I ran it for 10 minutes, drained the oil and replaced with 5W-30 Synthetic. (I am a fanatic about engine oil)

A few of the main specs I reseached... more

This other reviewers gave 5 stars, I would have also except for the mounting frame brackets. These brackets** will move or relocate as you tighten them where they attach to the frame where two frame pieces meet which do not form a 100% "round tube".

** despite the V-shape of the bracket to clamp securely to a round tube and its spacer

I found it helpful to cut up several small pieces of rubber strips from an old garage floor mat to form around the frame where you attach the mounting brackets. This improved or lessened the brackets from moving. I would advise having a helper during the assembly and in particular making the adjustments to shift the snow cab (up/down and left/right) before tightening the bracket clamps.

Am I glad I purchased the unit? Yes!

Would I recommend a small redesign of the frame mounting brackets? Yes! I'll be happy to be a "tester" for any improved part.

Would I recommend the snow cab for other Ariens owners? Yes!

This other reviewers gave 5 stars, I would have also except for the mounting frame brackets. These brackets** will move or relocate as you tighten them where they attach to the frame where two frame pieces meet which do not form a 100% "round tube".

** despite the V-shape of the bracket to clamp securely to a round tube and its spacer

I found it helpful to cut up several small pieces of rubber strips from an old garage floor mat to form around the frame where you attach the mounting brackets. This improved or lessened the brackets from moving. I would advise having a helper ... more

I recently purchased an Ariens Deluxe Platinum snow blower from Snow Blowers Direct. I had purchased the same model from Wisesales and they failed to deliver and I had difficulty getting a refund.

I called Snow Blowers Direct and they had the unit in stock. They shipped it the next day, the delivery was superior, I didn't pay for lift gate service, however the driver of the truck unloaded the unit, place it in my garage and didn't ask for anything in return.

I am surprised with the quality, the ease of assembly and the product functionality. I would highly recommend Snow Blowers Direct and Ariens in the future.

I recently purchased an Ariens Deluxe Platinum snow blower from Snow Blowers Direct. I had purchased the same model from Wisesales and they failed to deliver and I had difficulty getting a refund.

I called Snow Blowers Direct and they had the unit in stock. They shipped it the next day, the delivery was superior, I didn't pay for lift gate service, however the driver of the truck unloaded the unit, place it in my garage and didn't ask for anything in return.

I am surprised with the quality, the ease of assembly and the product functionality. I would highly recommend Snow Blowers Direct... more

Ariens and my family go way back to Buffalo, NY days. Need I say more? Snows down my way tend to be of the icy, wet kind. When it took a week to dig my country driveway out with a shovel during last year's two storms, it was time for some power equipment!

The new Ariens was everything remembered from Western NY days. The electric start is nice, but not really necessary once one learns how much throttle and choke to set. Ariens should market the split rear axle more-- it truly is an asset and was an important purchase consideration (The solid ones are difficult to take around bends).

Had no trouble with this one on my ice covered driveway this morning as five inches of (rather unusual) drifted powder were cleared. Chains would have been redundant. Ariens experienced engineering shows in the transmission-- each setting is a useful feed rate. Lesser brands have speeds that are much too fast, limiting the choice of useful feed rates. Also, thank you Ariens for the standard power plug for starting the engine, the oil in the crankcase and the air in the tires (Hope you are making it up in lower warranty claims).

Have not had any experience yet with plow tailings or heavy snow.

One downside-- the assembly instructions are atrocious. Set up is actually very simple with a moderate sized socket set, maybe ten minutes work. But deciphering the diagrams and written instructions takes another hour. Hint: the cables have bits that need to be unscrewed, threaded, and then screwed back together. Diagrams might be better if they were drawn as exploded 34 views.

R&L did fine. Their HUB is near my town. "Hold for Pick-up" and "Notify on Arrival" instructions were followed, and the blower made an orderly transition from truck to terminal to my pick-up to garage floor, all on my own schedule. But don't try this if you have anything less than a light truck-- go for the lift-gate service.

Ariens and my family go way back to Buffalo, NY days. Need I say more? Snows down my way tend to be of the icy, wet kind. When it took a week to dig my country driveway out with a shovel during last year's two storms, it was time for some power equipment!

The new Ariens was everything remembered from Western NY days. The electric start is nice, but not really necessary once one learns how much throttle and choke to set. Ariens should market the split rear axle more-- it truly is an asset and was an important purchase consideration (The solid ones are difficult to take around bends).
... more

Since it's still September, there hasn't been any snow yet in Virginia, so I'll have to reserve comment on the Ariens' snow blowing capability and its use characteristics. But after I assembled it, I started it twice using both the electric and manual. It started quickly. Also, the components seem very high quality and nice and heavy duty, which speaks highly to good engineering. I expect this machine will serve me well.

Here are some other comments though in areas that could be improved:
1. R&L Carrier needs improvement -- Because I live on a private road in a rural area and could not handle the 240 lbs. myself, I ordered the lift-gate delivery option thinking that a smaller truck, other than an 18-wheeler would deliver it - it is impossible for an 18-wheeler to get to my house however, R&L Carriers, told me that their 18-wheelers have a lift gate capacity, so that is what I paid for. Because an 18-wheeler can not pass through my road and over a very small single-vehicle bridge, delivery was delayed two times because R&L said they had to wait until a smaller truck was available in my area. They finally scheduled delivery and told me the driver would call. By 2 p.m. the driver hadn't called, so I called them, only to find out that they canceled the delivery for the day - without notifying me. I was agitated because I had cleared my schedule to accept delivery. I was told they'd deliver the next day, which they ultimately did at 5 p.m. R&L needs to improve it's customer relations.

The driver was very professional, and he helped me get the box in my garage. The box was in good shape, and my initial inspection before signing for the delivery showed that all looked good - and it was.

2. Assembly instructions need a good review -- I am generally mechanically inclined, and I can follow instructions very well. There is an assembly step in the book that is in error. It is under, "Install Discharge Chute and Discharge Chute Rod," step 8 and the figure 11. If you secure the chute rod with the hairpin in the last hole, as directed and shown in the figure, the other end of the rod extends too far to replace the gear cover removed in step 4. So, I installed the rod in the control assembly using the 3rd hole for the hairpin. This gave the correct configuration in the at the gear end to be able to reinstall the gear cover.

Other than that instruction error - all else was very good, and I was pleased. I enjoyed the assembly, which helped me to get to learn all the features and adjustment instructions. NOW - let it snow!

Since it's still September, there hasn't been any snow yet in Virginia, so I'll have to reserve comment on the Ariens' snow blowing capability and its use characteristics. But after I assembled it, I started it twice using both the electric and manual. It started quickly. Also, the components seem very high quality and nice and heavy duty, which speaks highly to good engineering. I expect this machine will serve me well.

Here are some other comments though in areas that could be improved:
1. R&L Carrier needs improvement -- Because I live on a private road in a rural area and coul... more

Overall, I like this machine. I purchased it in the fall of 2009 but didn't get much of a chance to use it last year due to a lack of snow.

The few things that annoy me include:

1. Briggs engine backfires on shutdown. It happens all the time. If you shut the unit down and then try to restart it, you need to reprime it as well. Neither my dealer nor Briggs has a solution for this. Briggs claims that it is caused because the unit runs lean due to pollution controls?

2. As mentioned by another person, the chute tends to move while the machine is working.

3. The machine is shorter than Toro's 826 model. This makes the unit heavier to turn.

Overall, it's a good machine but these annoying things prevented me from giving the unit higher marks.

Overall, I like this machine. I purchased it in the fall of 2009 but didn't get much of a chance to use it last year due to a lack of snow.

The few things that annoy me include:

1. Briggs engine backfires on shutdown. It happens all the time. If you shut the unit down and then try to restart it, you need to reprime it as well. Neither my dealer nor Briggs has a solution for this. Briggs claims that it is caused because the unit runs lean due to pollution controls?

2. As mentioned by another person, the chute tends to move while the machine is working.

3. The machine is shor... more

A couple of years ago I retired from Northern Virginia suburbs to the countryside in WV. In Northern VA we had a great little MTD blower for 10 years that worked just fine on a short driveway.

In WV we've got a long drive and parking area roughly 100' by 25'. I can't shovel anymore and we really struggled through the December 24-inch snow storm.

When we got hit twice in Feb with another four feet I ordered an Ariens 24 Deluxe Platinum from Snow Blowers Direct. Of course everybody on the east coast was ordering at the same time and I had to wait for a backorder.

SBD shipped the blower earlier than promised. I had paid extra to get lift gate delivery, but after we got hit twice in Feb our neighborhood was so inundated with snow that the freight company couldn't get their truck into our area.

I drove 25 miles to the freight yard and brought the Ariens 24 home rather than wait any longer. I contacted SBD and they immediately refunded my $50 for not using the lift delivery.

The Ariens 24 took about 45 minutes to unpack and assemble using simple tools (the instructions left something to be desired). I was really impressed with the quality of the packing and the engineering I found in the Ariens itself. The packing held the blower securely in place and protected it well during shipping but was easy to remove during assembly.

With the blower assembled, I filled the tank, gave it one pull and the Ariens started instantly.

By now, we had 50+ inches of accumulated snow on the ground left behind from the two February storms. With the help of a friendly neighbor we had cleared a narrow single lane down the drive, but everything else was just a mess.

That first afternoon, we spent about 2 hours learning the Ariens and clearing the whole driveway, parking pad and front walk. That thing cut through wet, packed snow and tossed it 50' like it was child's play.

Adding to the work, our neighborhood snow removal contractor had pushed a wall of snow in front of our mailbox roughly 9'x12' x 5' high. The post office wouldn't deliver any mail to us because they couldn't get to our box. It took another two hours the second day for the Ariens 24 to eat 500+ cubic feet of ice snow mix and open a huge path for mail delivery.

I doubt we will ever again face a snowfall that this Ariens 24 can't handle. The single lever chute control was a great feature on the Platinum model that I would really recommend. It was worth the extra money.

Overall, I am completely satisfied with my selection Ariens and Snow Blower Direct. The Ariens is quality machine (in spite of the instructions) that does just what it advertises and it's made in the USA. The 3 year warranty is the best I found on any machine. Most others offer only a two year warranty. Snow Blower Direct was a very easy to place to shop and buy. I would recommend them as well.

I'm a very happy customer.

A couple of years ago I retired from Northern Virginia suburbs to the countryside in WV. In Northern VA we had a great little MTD blower for 10 years that worked just fine on a short driveway.

In WV we've got a long drive and parking area roughly 100' by 25'. I can't shovel anymore and we really struggled through the December 24-inch snow storm.

When we got hit twice in Feb with another four feet I ordered an Ariens 24 Deluxe Platinum from Snow Blowers Direct. Of course everybody on the east coast was ordering at the same time and I had to wait for a backorder.

SBD shipped the... more

My husband & I are very pleased & thankful that we bought our snowblower from Snow Blowers Direct--especially with the 2010 record setting snowfalls for February in our area of southwestern Pennsylvania!

My husband always used the plow on our garden & lawn tractor in the past and there was never a problem. But this year the snow was so deep (one snowfall was 27+ inches) that he couldn't open up our driveway. We called our neighbor who has a large farm tractor with a snowblade but he couldn't even get out of his own driveway, which was level!

Another neighbor saw us shoveling and offered to use his snowblower on our driveway. We were sold on the effectiveness of his snowblower, which was rather small in size!

Immediately after our neighbor left, we decided to purchase a snowblower. I went online & searched for snowblowers and thankfully found your site (all local stores were sold out and didn't know if or when they would be receiving more)!

My husband & I discussed the different features of the various brands & models and then I ordered our Ariens after reading reviews from other customers. The reviews were very positive and gave a lot of information that helped us in deciding which snowblower would meet our needs. I ordered online that morning.

Our delivery was delayed one extra day because of another snow storm--the freight company couldn't make it through! The next day as I was viewing your site again, your supply was greatly diminished--I'm thankful I didn't delay in ordering.

Needless to say we've been using the snowblower quite regularly due to the continual storms and are very, very pleased with everything about it! The ease of operation was extremely important to my husband & myself as we are both disabled and we needed something to do the work for us. The Ariens certainly took care of that concern!

Thank you for making shopping for a snow blower easy! The home delivery made things a lot easier too.

We have been telling everyone we know about what a great product you sell, the ease of ordering and the great home delivery!

My husband & I are very pleased & thankful that we bought our snowblower from Snow Blowers Direct--especially with the 2010 record setting snowfalls for February in our area of southwestern Pennsylvania!

My husband always used the plow on our garden & lawn tractor in the past and there was never a problem. But this year the snow was so deep (one snowfall was 27+ inches) that he couldn't open up our driveway. We called our neighbor who has a large farm tractor with a snowblade but he couldn't even get out of his own driveway, which was level!

Another neighbor saw us shove... more

Once the blower arrived it took about 35 minutes to unbox it and assemble the necessary small parts. The instructions leave a bit to be desired, but if you take your time you'll figure it out pretty easily.

Although Briggs and Stratton ships the engine without oil, Ariens must add the oil before they ship it from the factory to the various distributors. I fueled it up, and it started on the second pull.

It took a couple of minutes to become comfortable with the controls, but after two passes in the driveway I became a self-professed expert.

Now for the best part: we still had 22 inches of crusty, icy, snow on the sidewalk after our last storm here in DC.. and this snowblower cut right through it.

Be careful where you're aiming the chute because this thing throws the snow further than anything blower I've seen or operated.

My neighbors watched me for a few minutes and had to come over to see my new toy. I'm very happy with this purchase and can't wait for it to snow again.

My only complaint is the chute discharge elevation. Every once in awhile when you move the control to raise it, it doesn't move. However, once the discharged snow hits it, it opens right up. Lube didn't help so I'm going to try some teflon strips to see if that will keep it working perfectly.

Final thoughts: the engine is easy to start and very strong, the unit handles with ease, it throws snow a mile, and the serrated auger cuts through that icy crusty snow with ease.

You won't be disappointed......unless it doesn't snow!

Once the blower arrived it took about 35 minutes to unbox it and assemble the necessary small parts. The instructions leave a bit to be desired, but if you take your time you'll figure it out pretty easily.

Although Briggs and Stratton ships the engine without oil, Ariens must add the oil before they ship it from the factory to the various distributors. I fueled it up, and it started on the second pull.

It took a couple of minutes to become comfortable with the controls, but after two passes in the driveway I became a self-professed expert.

Now for the best part: we still had 2... more

I've never owned a snow blower so I'll admit I have no point of reference.. I ordered the snow blower on a Saturday after receiving our first huge wave of snow. SnowBlowersDirect turned it over to the shipping company on Monday.

The next two days we got a second wave of snow (a blizzard really) which shut down our state for a few days and delayed delivery. I'm glad I paid for "lift gate service" since it would have been tough to coordinate getting help to take it off the truck.

When it showed up, I didn't hear the truck arrive, the next thing I know a neighbor helped them get it into my open garage so when they knocked on my door it was already sitting in my garage.

Assembly consists of tightening bolts on the handle, attaching the discharge chute and the cables that control it and requires a couple of wrenches and a pliers. The directions supplied apply to a couple of different models so you need to pick out the parts that are applicable to your model.

Once I got it assembled it took only one pull to get it started. (I have yet to try the electric start) I put it to work clearing the walk in front of our house.

The instructions for the snow blower say it works best on new snow, but I was up against snow that was 4 days old and starting to ice over a bit. The snow was pretty high in places (we had a 4 ft pile where snow fell off the roof) and with a bit of work it was able to get though.

Now I'm just waiting for more snow...

I've never owned a snow blower so I'll admit I have no point of reference.. I ordered the snow blower on a Saturday after receiving our first huge wave of snow. SnowBlowersDirect turned it over to the shipping company on Monday.

The next two days we got a second wave of snow (a blizzard really) which shut down our state for a few days and delayed delivery. I'm glad I paid for "lift gate service" since it would have been tough to coordinate getting help to take it off the truck.

When it showed up, I didn't hear the truck arrive, the next thing I know a neighbor helped them... more

I ordered my Ariens Deluxe 24 Platinum machine one Sunday and by the next Sunday I was blowing snow.

Delivery was amazingly fast and friendly, set-up was straightforward, and, believe it or not, the machine started on the first pull, without me even trying out the electric start feature.

Not the second or third pull, mind you, but the FIRST pull!! And I'm a 72 year old weakling!!

Now all I need is a bit more snow to fully develop my skills. We've had record breaking snowfall here in Southwestern Virginia this year, but, of course, it stopped the day my new blower arrived!

I guess it would be worth it, just for the "insurance" against any more snow, but I'd still like to try it out on one more 12 inch dumping.

I'd be happy to recommend "Snow Blowers Direct" to anyone who asks, and even to those who don't!

I ordered my Ariens Deluxe 24 Platinum machine one Sunday and by the next Sunday I was blowing snow.

Delivery was amazingly fast and friendly, set-up was straightforward, and, believe it or not, the machine started on the first pull, without me even trying out the electric start feature.

Not the second or third pull, mind you, but the FIRST pull!! And I'm a 72 year old weakling!!

Now all I need is a bit more snow to fully develop my skills. We've had record breaking snowfall here in Southwestern Virginia this year, but, of course, it stopped the day my new blower arrived!

I... more

Online order from SnowBlowersDirect was extremely easy, however the shipping company came up a bit short.

I had called the terminal in advance suggesting a straight line truck. The next day, the driver calls and asks for directions to the house and asks if a tractor trailer will get in and out - I said no.

I had to drive into town and meet the truck in order take delivery. Thankfully, SnowBlowersDirect immediately refunded me the cost for lift gate service since it was not needed.

Snowblower assembly is easy with only having to assemble the chute and handle bar. This machine is a breeze to handle with the auto-traction control, and chute positioning is easy and quick- no handles to crank.

Fantastic is my description of SnowBlowersDirect and the Ariens snowblower. The Ariens is everything it says it is and working with SnowBlowersDirect has been a pleasure.

Now all I need is some snow.

Online order from SnowBlowersDirect was extremely easy, however the shipping company came up a bit short.

I had called the terminal in advance suggesting a straight line truck. The next day, the driver calls and asks for directions to the house and asks if a tractor trailer will get in and out - I said no.

I had to drive into town and meet the truck in order take delivery. Thankfully, SnowBlowersDirect immediately refunded me the cost for lift gate service since it was not needed.

Snowblower assembly is easy with only having to assemble the chute and handle bar. This machine is a b... more

I bought this for my wife because I am usually at work when it snows and she was getting very crabby about shoveling a lot of snow.

Ironically, she has never got to use it because I suddenly find time to clear the snow now that we have a blower.

I have to say that so far this has been a great blower. I have never had any piece of yard equipment that started as easily as this does.

We haven't had any huge snows yet but it has handled what we have gotten with ease. The headlight and hand warmers are really handy and nice to have.

The only thing I have to be careful of is not shooting the snow across the street and onto my neighbor’s driveway:)

I bought this for my wife because I am usually at work when it snows and she was getting very crabby about shoveling a lot of snow.

Ironically, she has never got to use it because I suddenly find time to clear the snow now that we have a blower.

I have to say that so far this has been a great blower. I have never had any piece of yard equipment that started as easily as this does.

We haven't had any huge snows yet but it has handled what we have gotten with ease. The headlight and hand warmers are really handy and nice to have.

The only thing I have to be careful of is no... more

My ST24DLE throws snow great and has plenty of power but has one major problem. Every time I used it last season when the temperature was below 20, the cable that controls the chute and the funky new chute directional control always froze and the chute would not lock in position. This was a real pain.

I had my old ST824 for 35 years and never had a problem because the chute controls were u-joints and shafts. The gearbox on my old unit finally went out last season and the parts were back ordered. If I have the same problem with controls freezing this year I will probably sell the new Ariens and repair my old ST824.

SBD RESPONDS: You might want to try Ariens Sno-Jet Non-Stick spray; it should help keep ice from building up. You can find it in the Accessories section- just click on "Non-Stick Sprays".

You may also want to contact the tech support folks at Ariens, toll free at 800-472-8359. They will have helpful suggestions to solve the freezing problem while keeping your warranty intact.

My ST24DLE throws snow great and has plenty of power but has one major problem. Every time I used it last season when the temperature was below 20, the cable that controls the chute and the funky new chute directional control always froze and the chute would not lock in position. This was a real pain.

I had my old ST824 for 35 years and never had a problem because the chute controls were u-joints and shafts. The gearbox on my old unit finally went out last season and the parts were back ordered. If I have the same problem with controls freezing this year I will probably sell the new Ariens... more