Ariens Snowblower: Pinning The Wheels Question

[Robert11]

Hello:

Have a new Ariens Compact Model 7524 snowblower.

Wish to pin both wheels to the drive shaft.

Have been getting contradictory answers to the following question I have regarding the correct way to do it. Their manual, catalog pictures, and what the dealer has set up on his floor seem to vary regarding the following:

Both ends of the drive shaft have two radial holes to accept the locking pin. The pin goes through the wheel hub, of course, but you have (by moving the tire a bit inward or outward on the shaft) the ability to use either hole in the shaft to connect the wheel to.

Seems that the inner hole, the one closer to the blower frame, would be better as there would be less bending force on the shaft, but if the tire's hole was aligned with the outer hole on the shaft for the pin there would be a bit more stability, perhaps.

Which is the correct one to use for locking; the inner or outermost shaft hole ?

Thanks, Bob

[Pop]

Try it & see.

[Captain Joe Redcloud©]

The inner hole is for locking. When you unlock the wheel, put the pin in the outer hole to keep the wheel from falling off. The hub should always be aligned with the inner hole regardless of whether it is locked or not.

Commodore Joe Redcloud©