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

Just purchased this 11.5 hp machine after surfing the web and reading brochures.  I couldn't resist the closeout price of $905.  List price, I believe, was $1,299.  I planned to buy a 9.5 or 10 hp but this was too good to resist.  Also purchased Sears three year "at-home" repair warranty for $99.  This is my first venture in snowthrowing after a life-time of shoveling in Massachusetts.  I just turned 65 on Jan. 31, and thought it was time to stop pushing the odds (or Gods), spend a few bucks and finally have fun with snow removal.  The salesman said the machine was returned unused by a customer who thought it was too large for his needs and that was the reason for the unusually low price.  He said it was technically a used machine, however, the sale to me was written up as a new one.

I checked Sears website and this machine, 88115,  was sold out nationwide.  Coincidentally, while the sale was being written up, two other customers wanted to buy it.  Guess I bought the last one.

I would appreciate any input from all of you folks out there in snowland about this or other comparable two-stage machines.  I think it has 6 speeds forward and 2 reverse.  I'll be clearing a 120 ft long by 12' wide driveway in addition to a sidewalk and front entrance walk.  I'll never forget the Blizzard of 78 and another whopper that hit us last March 2005.  I had to be plowed out three times.  This machine might be considered oversize for my needs but if we get hit hard a few more times in addition to our normal 8"-to-12" snowstorms, it should meet the worst-case challenges.  Also any maintenance information would be helpful.  I plan to take care of it with proper maintenance in hoping this machine will last a long time.

I'm waiting for delivery (arrives late next week) and forgot what it looks like.  Frustrating after buying a new toy.  By the way, does anyone have the cab attachement?  It's on sale for $99.  If so, do you think its worthwhile?  For now, I bought a ski mask for $14.95. 

Snowbound,

Do keep us posted on your experience with the machine. When it arrives, make sure there is oil in the engine before starting it and give it a good look-over before you start blowing snow. Also, it might be a good idea to change the oil after a few hours of operation to get rid of any contamination left over from the manufacturing process. After you have some spent time blowing snow, please post a review of your machine.

AZ

nibbler wrote:

Nibbler,

Thanks.  I always wear ear protection (when I don't forget).  I was concerned about a grouchy neighbor.  I'll be discreet with operating hours, of course. 

AZ,

I'm looking forward to submitting a review.  I also found the owners manual on the Poulan website.  Thanks for the tip.  I'll compare when I receive the Craftsman.

Snowbound,

The manual I am referring to is the Service Manual!!

Tells how to fix, check, and what to check specs!!

It is 51 pages of photos, specs, how to remove, replace, repair your blower.

What you have on order is the Ops manual!!!

This is the service Manual, what the dealers use!!!

                                                                      Fred

jubol wrote:

Thanks.  I'm waiting for the "Owners Manual" according to Sears.  Could you post the website on here? 

Snowbound,

Email me through this forum with your regular email address, and I 'll email you the site.

                                                   Fred

Fred,

Thanks for the offer but for privacy reasons, I don't reveal my e-mail address.