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

After seeing both machines but not using either my gut feeling is that the Arien926DLE is more of a rugged machine than the Honda.  Heavy gauge steel, large impellers, bigger augers, the list goes on and on.  My question is why are the Honda's more $$.  Is it because of the transmission?  That is the only thing I can think of?

I have been blowing snow for 10 years on a Craftsman, 8hp, 28"cut....   1978!!  Just changed the two belts and the impeller bearing but didn't get to the bearing quick enough.  The shaft has been worn down considerably where it goes though the bearing.  The impeller is still banging a bit on the box but no where near as bad as it was before.  (I thought if I ignored it perhaps it would go away)  I don't think that there are too many storms left in the old baby.  So have to pick one of the above.  Was all excited about the Honda until I visited the Arien dealer this morning.  Now.... I am all orange!!!

Thanks for any advice.

Jon

Gary, the Honda costs 2700 plus 15% tax.  The Ariens is 1900 plus tax.

Dennis.. the picture never came through

Jon

Couldn't help but notice your from NB.  There is a spot in Napan called Bremner Farms. You can get a 11.5hp LE Ariens for 2000$ taxes in if you pay cash or visa.

Jon