whitedog

cavebear53 wrote:

you need to do more research marine. if you go to the sears site and look at what is offered you will see that the only ayp machine is  model #881060 the 14.5 lb torque unit with briggs power. the give away is the wrap around handlebar design. some of the other machines are absolutly mtd built. just look closely at the stamped sheet metal augurs - example would be the 33" or 45" machines. you are correct that the mtd site does not mention craftsman as one of their brands, this is because the craftsman brand is private labeled for sears. mtd does build private label machines for other companys like sears and northern tool.http://www.sears.com/shc/s/s_10153_12605_Lawn+%26+Garden_Snow+Equipment_Snow+Throwers%2C+Gas

best regards,

mark

cavebear53 wrote:

without having the sears model number there is no way you can know if the machine he is looking at is built by ayp or mtd.

or to rephrase your statement SOME craftsman's are built by ayp

depending on which sears model it is they may all be built by the same manufacturer - mtd. troy built and yard machines are both mtd machines. only difference is the paint. looking for a machine you can own for 25 years? buy a ariens or toro or simplicity from your local dealer - not home depot.

best luck

the hondas are fine machines. the toros, simplicitys and ariens are also fine machines as well as american owned and manufactured.

you will get more horsepower and features on the non honda machines for less money. it seems that the honda name is worth about $400.

any of these machines will last a lifetime with basic maintainence. please buy from a local dealer you are comfortable with and not from a home depot or other box store. the local dealer will be able to provide you service and advise that is simply unavailable at the box store.

try to use all the machines you are considering under power in a dry run to see which you find the most comfortable and easiest for you to operate and manuver. see that the handlebars are at a comfortable height ( a common complaint re: honda is that the handlebars are to low - in fact there is a kit available to raise their height.).

best of luck with your purchase and post here to let us know what you get.

best wishes and happy new year.

i will open the bidding @ $750