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

Hi  I live in New England and I have decided to buy a snowblower. I am thinking that an entry level one might work. Any suggestions between the lowes, home depot or sears brands:

Areins ST520EC, troy built 31AH63N2711, or craftsman 31AS6BCE799

All of these are a 5.5 hp double stage snowblowers for around $600. What is the value to go for the more expensive units like the Areins ST624E 6 hp or few that are 7.5 hp for about $750

Thanks,

The value depends on snow conditions, area to clear (size and configuration), how many times on average you need to clear snow for any given year, and how much time you're willing to spend doing the job. If you clear snow less than say, 10 times a year and you have "standard" driveway/walkway then an entry level 2-stage model should do fine, even if the snow is heavy. Of the three models you mention I would choose either the Ariens or Craftsman, would decide after seeing them first because there are rumors of  Ariens downgrading some models for mass-market stores. Craftsman are relabeled versions of other makes but afaik usually pretty reliable albeit a little basic. Troys are, err..., well, they have a dubious reputation but I honestly don't know the reason(s) because I have never operated one or known anyone who had. I live in a very snowy area and most folks who own snowblowers around here (a lot of people) tend to like the big boys Honda, Ariens Pro et al. Never seen a Troy up here but 30+ year-old Ariens, Toro, Craftsman, etc. are pretty common.        

ariens is very good,i dont know anything about troy built,and if you want to actually use your machine instead of wondering when sears is going to repair it,i wouldnt get one of them,craftsman brand is junk.my brother had one,i did his driveway every snowfall,his blower was a p.o.s.hope this helps

donjag wrote:
With Craftsman I think that depends on original model, and luck.