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

1.  I read that the Briggs & Stratton engines are better than Tecumseh -- how true is this?

2.  Research has indicated the best brand names (in approximate order) are:  Honda, Simplicity (Snapper), Ariens, Toro -- is this fairly accurate?

3.  However, since my budget is $1,500 I'm looking for the best VALUE too (not necessarily the best blower).  I'm thinking the best value might be: Simplicity, Toro, Ariens, Honda -- is this accurate or am I way off?

4.  If I spend an extra $500 will I get something SUBSTANTIALLY better than what a $1,500 (or less)  snowthrower can give me? 

I'm not into bells and whistles (i.e. I don't want hand-warmers or electronic shute controls).  If you can offer any advice on the exact brand/model to get, I'd appreciate it!!

(P.S.  I also have a 600 squarefoot deck - is it OK to use a snowblower on a deck?)

Maybe this one?

http://www.prestonhardware.com/estore-product-details.asp?id=24682

The part I find difficult is finding the details of things like bearing/bushings, belt change difficulty, etc.  It looks good for the cash.  Especially the power steering.  I assume this means it actually will use power to turn versus a wheel disengaging and you pushing it around?

It's the 90 degree turn in the snow that I unsure about.

Difference, yours 10.5 Tec L head, mine 9.5 Tec OHV.

It is a great machine that is user friendly!!

Turns on a Dime!

The one hand allows you to work chute controls without stopping!

Also has infinate speeds.

I would buy mine again!!

                                                    Fred

Husky's web site doesn't even list your model and all of the blowers are Fixed Disc.

I don't get it.

All have disk drives, just that Huskies are infinite and others 2, 3 5, or 6 speeds.

                                 Fred

Do you think this http://www.prestonhardware.com/estore-product-details.asp?id=24682 is comparable to the Simplicity L9528E ?

Without physically inspecting the machine, I'd say it's a respectable effort but I'd still swing toward the Simplicity. 

The Husqvarna has a number of features that the Simp doesn't but, I can live without them.  The Simplicity on the other hand has desirable features that I prefer.  For instance it has the ohv B&S engine.  It's one horse power short but being an ohv it will likely outperform the Tecumseh engine and will certainly be more pleasant to live with due to less vibration and quieter running.  Another couple things on the Simp that I like are the chute control rod and the huge cast iron auger drive gear case.  I cannot compare build quality between the two machines because I have not physically inspected the Husky.  I will however take  Fred's word that it's put together well.  Dollar for dollar, I'd still go with the Simplicity. 

True about the OHV.  Is the cast iron gear case that big a deal? Aluminum can be strong if done right.   I see what you mean about the rods.  Less maintenance I take it?