Ever wondered just how old your trusty Ariens snowblower really is? Knowing the age of your snowblower isn't just a matter of curiosity; it's crucial for ordering the right replacement parts, understanding its value, and even determining if it's covered under any warranty. Luckily, Ariens, like many manufacturers, embeds a secret code within the serial number of their machines, allowing you to unlock this information. This guide will walk you through the process of decoding your Ariens snowblower's serial number and uncovering its manufacturing year, so you can keep your snow-clearing companion running smoothly for years to come.
Why Knowing Your Snowblower's Age Matters
Beyond satisfying simple curiosity, knowing the age of your Ariens snowblower is genuinely practical.
- Finding the Right Parts: Snowblower parts are not universally interchangeable. Knowing the year of manufacture ensures you're ordering the correct parts that are compatible with your specific model. Imagine ordering the wrong belt or scraper blade – it can lead to frustration and wasted money.
- Estimating Value: If you're considering selling or trading in your snowblower, knowing its age is essential for determining its fair market value. A newer machine will naturally command a higher price than an older one, assuming both are in comparable condition.
- Warranty Information: While most snowblower warranties don't last forever, knowing the manufacturing date can help you determine if your machine is still covered, potentially saving you money on repairs.
- Maintenance Schedule: Older machines might require more frequent maintenance. Knowing the age helps you establish a realistic maintenance schedule to keep your snowblower in top condition.
Cracking the Code: Where to Find the Serial Number
The first step in determining your Ariens snowblower's age is locating its serial number. This is usually found on a sticker or metal plate affixed to the machine. Common locations include:
- Rear of the Housing: This is perhaps the most common location. Look for a sticker or plate near the engine or behind the operator controls.
- Near the Engine: Check around the engine mounting bracket or on the engine itself. Sometimes, the serial number is stamped directly onto the engine.
- On the Frame: Inspect the frame, especially near the wheels or tracks.
- Under the Control Panel: In some models, the serial number might be hidden underneath the control panel. You might need to carefully lift or remove the panel to access it.
Important Note: The serial number is a unique identifier for your specific machine. It's usually a combination of numbers and letters. Be sure to write it down accurately, as even a single incorrect digit can throw off your search.
Decoding the Serial Number: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you've located the serial number, it's time to decipher it. Ariens uses a specific system to encode the manufacturing date within the serial number. While the exact format can vary slightly depending on the model and year of manufacture, the general principle remains the same.
Understanding the Format:
The serial number typically consists of a series of digits, often separated by dashes or spaces. The key to unlocking the manufacturing year lies in the last two digits of the serial number. These digits represent the year the snowblower was manufactured.
Example:
Let's say your Ariens snowblower's serial number is 1234567899. In this case, the last two digits are "99," indicating that the snowblower was manufactured in 1999.
Handling Exceptions and Edge Cases:
While the "last two digits" rule works in most cases, there are a few exceptions to keep in mind:
- Model Number First: Some older Ariens snowblowers might have the model number at the beginning of the serial number. Be sure to skip the model number and focus on the remaining digits.
- Early Models (Pre-1970s): Serial number formats for snowblowers manufactured before the 1970s can be less consistent. You might need to consult an Ariens dealer or use online resources specifically dedicated to vintage snowblower identification.
- Re-manufactured Units: If your snowblower has been re-manufactured, the serial number might have been altered or replaced. In this case, determining the original manufacturing year can be challenging.
Finding the Model Number:
While we're focused on the serial number, it's also a good idea to locate your snowblower's model number. This is usually located near the serial number and is essential for finding the correct parts and service information. The model number is usually a series of numbers and letters that uniquely identifies your specific snowblower model.
Using the Ariens Website for Verification
While decoding the serial number yourself is a good starting point, the most accurate way to determine your Ariens snowblower's manufacturing year is to use the official Ariens website. Ariens provides a serial number lookup tool that can provide detailed information about your machine, including the manufacturing year, model specifications, and parts diagrams.
Steps to Use the Ariens Serial Number Lookup Tool:
- Visit the Ariens Website: Go to the official Ariens website (www.ariens.com).
- Navigate to the Support Section: Look for a "Support," "Owners," or "Service" section on the website.
- Find the Serial Number Lookup Tool: Within the support section, search for a tool specifically designed for serial number lookup. It might be labeled as "Parts Lookup," "Model Lookup," or something similar.
- Enter Your Serial Number: Carefully enter the serial number you found on your snowblower.
- View the Results: The tool should display information about your snowblower, including the manufacturing year, model number, and other relevant details.
Troubleshooting the Lookup Tool:
- Incorrect Serial Number: Double-check that you've entered the serial number correctly. Even a minor typo can prevent the tool from finding your machine.
- Website Issues: Sometimes, websites experience technical difficulties. If the tool isn't working, try again later.
- Older Models: The online tool might not have information for very old models. In this case, you might need to contact an Ariens dealer or consult other resources.
What if the Serial Number is Missing or Damaged?
Unfortunately, serial number stickers can sometimes become damaged or fall off entirely. If you can't find the serial number on your Ariens snowblower, here are a few options:
- Check Old Records: If you purchased the snowblower new, check your original purchase receipt or owner's manual. The serial number might be recorded there.
- Contact the Previous Owner: If you bought the snowblower used, try contacting the previous owner and asking if they have the serial number.
- Consult an Ariens Dealer: An authorized Ariens dealer might be able to help you identify your snowblower's model and approximate age based on its features and design. They might also have access to historical records that can help.
- Engine Serial Number: While not ideal, the engine's serial number might provide some clues. Contact the engine manufacturer (usually Briggs & Stratton or LCT) with the engine serial number, and they might be able to provide an approximate manufacturing date for the engine. This can give you a rough idea of the snowblower's age.
Important: Without the serial number, it can be difficult to accurately identify your snowblower's manufacturing year. Be prepared to provide as much information as possible to the dealer or manufacturer, including photos and a detailed description of the machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the serial number usually located on an Ariens snowblower? The serial number is typically found on a sticker or metal plate on the rear of the housing, near the engine, on the frame, or under the control panel.
- What do the last two digits of the serial number usually represent? The last two digits of the serial number typically represent the year the snowblower was manufactured.
- Can I determine the exact date of manufacture from the serial number? While the serial number usually indicates the year of manufacture, it doesn't typically provide the exact date. For more precise information, contact Ariens directly.
- What should I do if I can't find the serial number on my snowblower? Check old records, contact the previous owner, consult an Ariens dealer, or check the engine serial number.
- Is it possible to find parts for older Ariens snowblowers? Yes, parts for many older Ariens snowblowers are still available. Contact an Ariens dealer or search online for aftermarket parts.
Conclusion
Unlocking the secrets hidden within your Ariens snowblower's serial number is a key to understanding its history and ensuring its continued performance. By following these steps, you can easily determine its manufacturing year and gain valuable insights for maintenance, repairs, and valuation. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to keep your snowblower running strong for many winters to come, making those snowy days a little less daunting.