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

So, I'm considering 2 models:  Craftsman 5.5hp dual stage 24" #88355 (can get for $558)     website:  http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Snow+Equipment&pid=07188355000&vertical=LAWN&subcat=Snow+Throwers%2C+Gas&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

OR Yard Machines 2 stage 5.5hp 24" Snow Blower (31AS6BEE700) item no: 7171093 ($650)  website:  http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2422176&cp=1254884.1900505&clickid=lefttnav_catlinks_txt&parentPage=family&searchId=1900505#specs

The seem very similar with one difference being that the Yard Machines one has a knob at the top where handles are and craftsman has that knowb down lower.

I've come to a dead end in my research and and hoping for some guidance.  Thanks so much!

I recommend higher power machines because they can handle deeper snow.  A big machine can easily do a small job, but a small machine has a hard time doing a big job.  That's why I recommended that 8.5 Horse Craftsman over the one you are looking at, even with the mixed reviews.  ( I can find 3 people to tell me bad things about any product.  People are more likely to write a complaint than they are to write praise)  But I think in the long run a higher quality brand is a better buy.

The reason I recommend a Simplicity, Toro, or Ariens (in that order) over a Craftsman is because they will usually last longer.  They have higher quality components, so they don't wear out quickly.  A Craftsman will probably last about 5 years before it needs some kind of major repair.  Maybe longer, depending on use.  But by the time it's 10 years old, you will probably be thinking of replacing it.  A friend of mine has an Ariens that's 10 years old, and it still works like it was new.  It's never been in the shop.   My brother has a Craftsman that's about 13 years old, and he is looking to get rid of it because he's tired of taking it in for repair every other year.  I just replaced a Simplicity that is 37 years old with one that is 10 years old (in like new condition).  The 37 year old one is going to my brother's cabin, where it will probably last another 10 years.

The Ariens 5520 doesn't look like a bad machine.  You have to reach a little to turn the chute, but you don't have to shut the machine off to do this.  It's just reaching forward instead of down.  But it doesn't have electric start. (the 520E is electric start)  That's not a big deal for me, but it might be for you.  The smaller opening of the 5520 actually gives it a little more power.  Instead of the 5.5 horse engine trying to throw 24" of snow, it only has to throw 20" of snow.  This should be less work for the engine.  It will take an extra pass to finish the driveway, but that's not a big deal.  Your best bet would be to go and look at these in person, and see what you think your husband would like. 

Buy the best machine that you can afford, but don't overspend your budget.  There is no reason to go deeply in debt for something like this.  You can always buy another machine down the road, if your needs change.  But if you an afford more, I believe that you will be much more happy in the long run with a higher quality machine.  When you consider the extra $300 over a 20 year life of the machine, it's a pretty small amount.

Maybe give him the picture of the snowblower and the authority to take the checkbook and buy what he wants.  You might even want to consider a used machine.  That would allow you to get a higher power machine within your price range.

But I think he'll be happy with whatever you decide to get him.

WOW.... I did not know this.

$899 for that 10.5 husky is an outstanding deal.

$779 for the ST5524E is list/retail price. You should be able to get the Ariens ST5524E for $699 and the ST724E for $799. These are the often advertised "promotional" prices and are realistic selling prices. If someone won't sell one for that right now, keep walking. Just don't try to get them for that price in the middle of a snowstorm or when they are in short supply.

PK

 I had a HD 20 % off coupon, up to $2000.00 purchase.

I  went to Lowes asked if they would honer it, they said yes.

Bought a new double oven and dishwasher;came to $2100.00, gave me a $400.00 discount!!!

                                                                                    Fred

My experience with older (1988 and earlier) Ariens is that parts and service are available for just about every model made (I have purchased parts for models from the 60's). 

You might consider a used unit from a local dealer, but might be a semi-lame gift, maybe give your husband the option?

In my opinion, your driveway and sidewalk needs aren't that great, you might be able to get by with a smaller unit, but just use patience. 

I am just outside of the 495 belt near Route 2 in Mass, so we do get dumped on (but not in the near future :(

Good Luck.

Ralph