Snowmann

That model was built in 2001. They used a "standard duty" R2 932 series drive. Starting in 2003 similar units used a high performance drive (models 932104 and 932105). These were easier on friction disks. There is a kit to upgrade older models, 53212100. List price is $155.10. Jack's small engines sells it for under list price. Also make sure to check and lube the axle bushings with oil, both hex shafts for the friction disk carrier and drive plate (NLGI 2 grease), and check the bushing for the drive plate (05512000). This bushing can be damaged by lack of lubrication or over-tightening of the drive cable. Also, be sure to buy Ariens OEM friction disks. Aftermarket parts of this type are poor. I hope this helps.

What is your model and serial number? I might have some insight for you if I can identify the machine more precisely. Model number starts with a 9.

L3 isn't simple GL5 synthetic oil. You should wait for the good stuff. Also, put some cardboard under your gear case and make sure it isn't leaking.

+1

The current spec factory-fill for that gear case is 5 fluid ounces. The filler screw level is 8 fluid ounces. 8 will work fine, but predisposes the rear input shaft seal to a higher risk for seeps. The oil level should be kept below the rear oil seal if possible. If you slip a 2x4 under your wheels only (long side on the ground) and drain the case to filler screw level it will put you at 5 ounces. Note this is for the split style aluminum large Ariens XS gear case only. Be sure to clean the threads and re-seal the filler screw upon reinstallation.

Also, 00 liquid grease or Bentonite grease will fail your gearcase almost immediately. Steel gears require better EP protection than brass (which is why Honda and Toro also use various EP gear oils instead of grease). Ariens L3 gear oil is much better than virtually anything else you can buy for this application. I would not recomend using anything else, especially any of the greases or oils used in other gearcases.