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

Hi there folks,

I've been poking around the forum here hoping to pick up some advice on a snow thrower purchase. Here's my question - does anyone have a Husqvarna model, particularly the 524STE? Any feedback would be appreciated on this or other Husky models. I stopped at a dealer to look at them and was impressed with the contruction and features. The 5hp is in my price range although I might consider jumping up to the 8.5. I like the idea of the extra width and the light might be a nice feature too. Do I need the HP though? I used an older 5 hp Craftsmen, 22 inch 4-5 times a season in some pretty considerable storms. Maybe 12-18 inch snowfalls/drifts. I had to work hard with it at the end of the drive from plow spill overs. It gave out this year - gears are shot and an estimate was $200-$250 for repairs. It appeared to be enough machine and that's why I'm considering the Husqvarna 524STE. But maybe that built up snow from the plows contributed to the failure of the Craftsmen, and will it be the same for the Husky?
Any advice would surely be appreciated.

Note: I'm also finding that I can find the 5hp as well as the 10 hp at this time of the season, but no Husqvarna in the mid-range.

Regards,
Matt