Early 1970s Ariens snowblower for a neighbor down the street. The old engine was blowing smoke and tired. He looked at the price of a new Ariens ($2000+ at the local dealer) and decided to re-power this one. I dropped in a Predator 212cc, replaced the belts, tires got tubes, new skid shoes, and replaced a few bushings/bearings here and there along with a gearbox service. I painted the chute as well.
The only issue is these Predators are jetted pretty lean for emissions, and they will surge when running full throttle in the winter. To remedy this I drill out the stock carb jet from .028" to .032", also swap the China plug for an NGK, and run it for a few hours with 15w40 for break-in then changed it out with Traveller 5w30 I had on hand.
Runs mint now, I love saving these old machines.
The only issue is these Predators are jetted pretty lean for emissions, and they will surge when running full throttle in the winter. To remedy this I drill out the stock carb jet from .028" to .032", also swap the China plug for an NGK, and run it for a few hours with 15w40 for break-in then changed it out with Traveller 5w30 I had on hand.
Runs mint now, I love saving these old machines.