Yah, follow the shifter rod to the adjuster and figure it out from there. The Ariens drive is pretty cool. I've seen it and cant believe it works as well as it does.

Or, you could simply drag the snowblower backwards using the armstrong method, 'till spring, when the weather warms up and you can take your time investigating the mechanicals, soaking up the warm sunlight, sipping a brew.

I will try Andy's method...whats the worst that can happen?

The worst that can happen? One time I spent an afternoon hunched over the engine of an old car, determined to get it running, and ended up with a sore back that took several months to finally heal up...With regard to the Ariens, I think you will have to drain the fuel, and then tip the machine forward on the auger tub. Then you can remove an access panel, and look at the innards.