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

I have to buy  a new snowblower this year. I finally gave up on my Ariens 524, just too small at 5 hp and 24in.  I have an L shaped house and the top of my drive is about 50 ft. by 35 ft. in front of the garage. My truck is always parked on the side opposite the garage, so I end up with a 50X35 ft. E shape and have to blow the snow about 40 ft. to the edge of the sloped drive that goes on down to the street, about 24X70. The ariens just wouldn't throw that far. My neighbor sometimes comes over with his 9hp X 30 in. Sears blower and he just goes in circles on the enclosed part gathering snow without blowing and then blows it out when he reaches the edge. A large scoop is a plus.  I got an email from a place in NH that will sell me a Toro 1028LXE for $1431.00 or a Husqvarna 10527 SBE for $975.00. The Husky has a 10.5 hp Tec. Engine and a 27 in. path. Toro is 10 hp land 28. Both have the same controls, remote chute, power steering, etc. Both prices are tax and shipping included. I am wondering if the Toro is worth the extra $475.00. I live in NE ohio and we get about 4-5 in falls 6-7 times per year and a couple 10-15 dumps a year. Appreciate the advice.

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