Snow blowers
Jan 15, 2017 08:46:25 #
Jan 15, 2017 09:17:19 #
First thing I look at if the product is made in the USA even if is more expensive I'd buy it. We lost enough jobs to other country's.
Jan 15, 2017 09:21:25 #
jerryc41 wrote:
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/snow-blowers.htm
Consumer reports are not always right.
Jan 15, 2017 09:29:03 #
I spray the chute with a product called "Fluid Film". It is available at Lowes stores. Works great here in the Sierra Nevada where we call our snow Sierra Cement.
Jan 15, 2017 10:32:36 #
Billbobboy42 wrote:
I have done that but an application is short lived. Seems it is needed too frequently to get the job done as quickly as I prefer.
I buy a spray at an auto store made by DuPont that is specifically for keeping snow from sticking. Does a good job on my 60 inch blower on my tractor.
https://www.amazon.com/DuPont-Teflon-Snow-Repellant-10-Ounce/dp/B0031T82NO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484494323&sr=8-1&keywords=dupont+snow+and+ice+repellent
Jan 15, 2017 10:41:38 #
dewardian
Loc: Northern Michigan
I live in northern Michigan, after a lot of research of "snowblowers" websites and user groups, and talking to a few users I had my list down to a two stage track driven machine. I have had the Honda 28" SS for two years. So far this years snow is 80"+. I have not had any issues of clogging. The Hydrostatic gear works wonderfully, as does the battery start. The snow flies out to about 50' Yes the unit is expensive (close to $3000 with tax). I have no buyers remorse.
Jan 15, 2017 10:59:37 #
ntonkin
Loc: western Upper Peninusla of Michigan
I live in the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan where we do get a bit of snow in the winter. I have a Husqvarna 927 SBEXP which is over 8 years old now and I've had no problems to speak of with this machine. I've probably done more gravel throwing than I should have so I've replaced the shear bolts many times. I've never taken it to a shop and it always starts easily, one to two pulls... I've stopped using the AC electric starter as it's really unnecessary. I have a bit of trouble going through deep heavy areas like where the snow slid off the roof, but I don't think any snow blower would go through that easily. If you get really big snowfalls in your area, you might get a bigger engine, I think mine has a 9 or 10 hp engine.
Jan 15, 2017 11:15:05 #
Billbobboy42 wrote:
I would like to hear comments from folks who own s... (show quote)
A couple of tips: most snow blowers have the same make of engine.....Tecumseh. Ecceptions would be Honda and maybe one or two others. Tecumseh is an excellent engine. Mine is about 10 years old and I still don't have to use the electric start....starts first pull every time.
The wetter the snow the slower your speed should be. We get occasional wet snow but mine has never clogged. use it at speed 1 if you have to.
You will almost always have some problems with the single stage. Two stage is better.. Three is best.
Depending on the size of your driveway you may need a 7 to 10 hp engine and a 26 or 28 inch blower.
I should add that the main difference in the quality of most blowers/mowers is the metal and finishings of the rest of the machine.
Good luck
Jan 15, 2017 11:29:46 #
I quit gas powered and went electric years ago. Here in Minnesota we get every kind of snow. Take it slow to lower the load .
Jan 15, 2017 11:48:55 #
Hey, I live in the Midwest, Toledo, Ohio. We get some wet snow at times also. Had to replace our old 2 Stage Snow Blower, Gardenway by Troy Bilt. That thing would clear just about anything. Had a 10 horsepower motor. I know they have now changed the engine ratings due to a lawsuit on that subject. Ended up replacing it with a TORO PowerMax 826OE with a 250cc engine. My driveway is 220 feet long with a double car wide turn-around. So far even in the snow that had more moisture in it, it worked fine, but, I went slow. I am not going to push the capabilities of the Snow Thrower, and possibly cause something to go wrong or break. That is just me though. Also that way I know it is cleared, and most times only have to do it once. Hope that helps.
Jan 15, 2017 12:44:18 #
Bill MN wrote:
First thing I look at if the product is made in the USA even if is more expensive I'd buy it. We lost enough jobs to other country's.
Jan 15, 2017 12:55:50 #
Billbobboy42 wrote:
I would like to hear comments from folks who own s... (show quote)
I did a lot of research this year before replacing my 17 year old craftsman. Based on recommendations from three separate dealers, all recommended the Toro brand. I purchased a 26 inch wide, dual stage, Power Max model. I actually asked the dealers if they had a snow blower, what kind did they own, and one who did not even carry the Toro brand said he owns a Toro. They all felt the build quality was the best. I am satisfied with the unit. Others may suggest other brands, etc and they make have been chosen for reasons important to them. Good luck with your purchase.
Jan 15, 2017 13:05:24 #
EoS_User wrote:
Sound like maybe you need one of our Canadian snow blowers.
Have a look at how we do it.
http://www.chonday.com/Videos/snowblowvch1
Have a look at how we do it.
http://www.chonday.com/Videos/snowblowvch1
I think I could power wash the siding on my house with that machine😎
Jan 15, 2017 13:13:31 #
Bill MN wrote:
Consumer reports are not always right.
Yes, I read the specs on the tested Honda - no electric start. No way do I want a pull start only machine.
Jan 15, 2017 13:25:38 #
Jack47 wrote:
A couple of tips: most snow blowers have the same ... (show quote)
I am sure I have a single stage machine. Did not know about that info at time of purchase. My driveway is about 180' long, equal to two lanes wide from street, ends straight ahead to a 3 car parking apron. Before the apron it turns right to the garage where it is 16' wide.
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