I have an Ariens Deluxe 24 snowblower purcased maybe eigth or nine year ago. It has the 254 cc AX engine that was initially filled with 5w-30 M1 EP and subsequntly changed with the same after one season and maybe five to eight hours of use. Rolling the clock forward, this macine hasn't been fueled or started in two years. I have no record of when the oil was last changed, but I'd wager that it doesn't have five hours on it. At present we have no snow in the forecast and a smaller 21-inch 2-cycle showblower is up and running.
Two questions come to mind. First, does it matter that the oil might be going on five years old if it has at best five hours on it? Second, should I put some E0 fuel in the tank now and see if it will start after sitting idle for two years? We are overdue for a big snowfall here in SE Pennsylvania. My instincts tell me to fuel it up and start it. Any alternative opinions?
Two questions come to mind. First, does it matter that the oil might be going on five years old if it has at best five hours on it? Second, should I put some E0 fuel in the tank now and see if it will start after sitting idle for two years? We are overdue for a big snowfall here in SE Pennsylvania. My instincts tell me to fuel it up and start it. Any alternative opinions?