Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

OK.  I've read many posts about Ariens being a good model to go with.  I now am not sure which model to choose.  I live in Baldwinsville, NY (Northwest of Syracuse) which averages about 120-140 inches of snow per season (lots of lake effect snow).   I have a 45  foot paved driveway which is about 2 to 2.5 cars wide.  I guess the best model for my money is probably the Ariens.  But I am trying to figure out if it is worth it to go with another $500 and get the pro ($1000 vs. $1500).  I know what the differences are (OHV engine versus L-Head... the differential turning, etc).  I'll throw this in to.  I have a very bad back (L5-S1 disc degeneration) so I can't shovel anymore.  I need to get a snowblower that I can use without hurting myself and which my wife can use if I am in bad shape.  Any and all help is appreciated.  Thanks in advance.

wxhall,
I agree with both of the guys above.....Try both.  You can see from the brochure that there are basically 5 differances between them....

1) L head engine vs. OHV
2) bigger tires
3) cast iron gearbox
4) heaver skidshoes
5)    TRACTION CONTROL WITH REMOTE LOCKOUT vs. pin lock

Those differences are easily worth the extra in my opinion.  If you plan on having and using this for 20 years, whats an extra $25 a year, and higher resale value.
With a bad back, You will LOVE the traction control.......it can be explained, you just have to use it to know it is worth every penny.  I have it, I know. 

Frank D.