Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): ariens snowblower, spark plug gap, ariens snowblower

Question
Ariens ST 1032 snowblower, model 924052, serial 003105, engine is a 10 hp HM100, 159024C, serial 9019D, carb is a lausen 692 9A18. I took this carb apart and cleaned it and now I need to know what the 2 jet settings are and also how to check/ adjust the float. What is the correct spark plug/ gap and what should I use for oil this winter? Should this blower have a air cleaner/breather on it? It was given to me and there was not one on it? Thanks, Don.

Answer
I'm just getting though a 9 day heat wave and your thinking snow :) Rule number 1, anytime you remove mixture screws you always screw them in just till they seat counting the turns as you go, this gives you the initial setting when reassembling. rule of thumb #2, the main jet usually gets set at 1- 1 1/2 turns out, and the low idle mixture at 1 turn. This is usually the reference point for it to at least run so you can do a fine adjustment once running and at operational temperature. The float level is usually level with the float body of the carb, this adjustment rarely goes out of adjustment, most carbs these day have no adjustment, and is fixed. Just make sure you shake the float close to your ear and listen for any sloshing, or rattling of fuel in it, if so it must be replaced. Spark plug gap should be about .028 to .030  Usually the oil is 5w-30, or in some cases 10w-30 depending on the manufactures recommendation. ALL internal combustion engines require a  air filter, and should have one installed before operating, and installed prior to any carburetor adjustments being done.......Tom