Gas Snow Thrower recommendations

I would really like to buy a gas (not gas/oil mix) snow thrower for the coming Ohio winter. My driveway is about 1766 sq ft (2 cars side-by-side, 3-4 cars long approx). I have looked and it seems that some are for driveways 2 cars wide by 2 cars long. I would like it to clear up to a 12" of snow if possible. Any ideas? I would also like to not try and break the bank. Thanks!

 

What is your budget? Do you know if you want a single or dual stage machine?

First, keep an eye on this section of the forum. You'll see a lot of people talking about gas pouring from their carburetor or it won't start or it surges or only runs with the choke on... At the end of the snow season next spring make sure you properly winterize the engine and remove all the gas or else you may be back here posting similar problems.

 

Go to a big box store and buy a $400 to $600 machine (from 5 to 8 HP). Two stage. Use silicone spray to make the chute and auger parts slippery. Expect the machine to last about 4 to 5 years (maybe 7 if you're lucky). Be sure buy extra shear pins. Be sure oil is in it before you start it. Buy ordinary gas but don't let it sit for more than a month.

 

I guess I dont know the difference between single or dual stage.

Any recommendations on a particular model?

 

Single stage only has augers that bite into the snow (usually electric type or small 2 cycle engines). Two stage has an impeller at the back and bottom of chute that spins and throws out the snow.

 

If you get mostly wet, heavy snow in your area of Ohio - as we do in the southwest corner, get a two stage. I have a single stage and spend as much time clearing the chute with a stick as I do blowing the snow. Once this one dies, I will shop for a two stage. Also, the two stages are usually self propelled where the singles will pull themselves a bit by the auger but do require more manual pushing.

 

BTW...don't be lured in by brand names. For instance an Arien's is no better than a Toro. Arien's also makes an off name brand sold by the big box stores. They are no different than the higher priced units. Unless you pay the price on a Cub Cadet you won't get any better quality.

 

I'm thinking maybe this one

http://www.menards.com/main/p-2389967-c-12409.htm

 

An MTD made unit. They're OK, same as an Ariens, no better, no worse. Seems like a high price, but that just might be the time of year and demand is great. Check out your local small equipment dealer. You might be surprised at what they can do for you. Plus you'll get a little more service if you need it.

Engine brand is Powermore. Never heard of them. I would prefer a name brand such as B&G, Honda, Kohler,Robin Subaru, or Kawasaki. Powermore might be a brand name of one of these makers.

Whatever you get, use fresh gas or always put in a stabilizer. Spray unit with a silicon film. Make sure the augers are always loose on the shaft (not frozen or rusted to the axle). Be sure to have spare shear bolts on hand.

Hint, if you're like me I go right out into the street as I clear the drive. I plastered my unit with lots of reflectors. It's amazing how drivers don't see people in the road.

 

OP - For your driveway length and width you might be better off with a 2 stage.

Because of the width and type of snow (wet) you could see a 2 stage will do a better job. The extra boost on the throwing will get the snow out of the way. If your piles get a little high or you are trying throw into the wind, it makes life much easier.

Often you may be throwing to the side and forward you will appreciate it. I had a 8hp 2-stage in the northern MI (100" os snow annually with a peak of 200") and it did the job fine because it was usually "sissy" snow that fell very frequently, but I had to throw a little further to avoid filling my neighbors driveway. In that situation, many people got by just fine with single stage because of narrower or shorter driveways.

Dick

 

I think he pretty much decided on a two stage. As the one he plans on getting.

As I write this post I'll be getting ready to use my rebuilt snow thrower (several times over the past several years, damn you Ariens). We are being forcasted for a lake effect warning over the next 36 hours.

This is happening right now within the past 20 minutes.

 

I must say, I really liked my snowblower and it did a wonderful job this winter

 

I have had 2 Toro 2 stage 21 inch snow blowers that lasted 20 plus years each with very little upkeep required beyond the norm. Gas drained and carb run dry at end of season and no problems. I would buy another!

 

I have had Toro Units (live in Ohio) for 50 years (I'm 68) I gave my last one to my Son-in Law in 2000 and it was 10 years old when he got it. I bought a Toro Snow commander same year to replace it, and it has been trouble free as well. These were both 2cycle units, single stage. These two Toro's will probably outlast me. Doesn't get better than that!