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

Went to to my local dealer, pretty much convinced I would purchase an Ariens 7524E or possibly a 926LE.  They also showed me a Snapper 185245E.  Size is an issue as i have limited space to store.  The 926 seems huge compared to the 7524. The Snapper unit is very similar in footprint to the Ariens 7524.  The Snapper is 40lbs heavier, 8.5HP B&S Intek Snow OHV engine, plastic chute, larger 15inch tires, taller intake(if thats what it is called), Free Hand Control, Chute control on top console, is wired for optional light accessory, cast iron gear case and 2year/2year warranty.

Anybody have any experience with the Snapper units?  How do they compare to the Ariens in quality?  I did forget to ask the dealer about the drive type compared to the Ariens.  The Ariens 7524E is $830 and Snapper 185245E is $1000.  Your feedback will be most appreciated.  Thanks

i ordered a 926DLE and until it arrived, i was convinced i had made a mistake - that it wouldn't fit.  well, it fits perfectly.  plenty of power, great chute controls (better than the toro joystick imho), starts right up, and all steel.  would highly recommend the ariens, but have no experience with the snapper to compare to.