i am new to the world of snowblowers.
we live in Oakville Ontario which receives a far amount of snow each year. average fall will be a few inches but the odd time we get the big snow fall and considerable drifting. we have a double driveway about 40 ft long and 50 ft sidewalk. i am looking for a machine that will handle the majority of the snowfalls we receive and would like to keep the size of machine to a minimum primarily due to expense and storage space.
i am looking in the used market but not 100% sure I want to buy used due to the lack of warranty and generally i'm not that comfortable assessing the condition of a small gas engine.
the machines i'm considering are as follow:
Murray 5hp, single stage, 21 inch with Tech engine CAD479 at HD
Ariens 5hp, single stage, 22 inch with Tech engine CAD661 at local dealer.
Toro, 3.25 hp, single stage, CAD569 at local dealer
Based on my research the Ariens is the superior machine however it comes at a 38% premium over the Murray. Toro seems to be a good name but based on specs the Ariens seems to give you better value.
Bearing in mind my needs and that cost is a factor, is the Murray machine adquate?
Would the Ariens and Murray both have the same engine or does Tech make different engines for different mfgs?
Are there other options out there that would fit in my budget. ie. $400-$700
Thanks
