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

Hi guys, I'm new here and need advice or opinions. I'm either going to get a carryover 9526 pro series track drive ariens or a honda 928 track drive snowblower. The ariens has the ohv briggs on it, hand warmers, and I have heard they turn easier than the honda. I have a honda generator so I know how smooth they are. Oh, I can buy the ariens for 300.00 less than the honda.

Thanks, Coldfingers

I haven't used either unit so I am just going from the spec and my memories of comments on this forum.

1. Both manufacturer's have a good reputation;
2. I have a B&S Snow Intek engine and am very impressed with it. Honda engines have a very good reputation;
3. The Honda units have a hydrostatic transmission which allow on the fly speed changes and "infinite" speed variability. Personally I find 6 forward speeds to be more than enough;
4. The Ariens units have a differential which will make turning much easier. The differential can be locked so that it is like the the Hondas, hard to steer. Personally this is the deal maker, I have enough trouble turning a wheeled unit with locked axles, tracked would be worse.
   

I currently own an HS828 the model before the 928. I dont find the Honda hard to turn. I simply hold the drive lever and spin it with one hand. Im not sure of the Ariens, but I have NEVER clogged my Honda. Water, slush, slush to powder, nothing seems to clog it. I just recently found out about the Ariens track drive units, buts thats about all I know about them. Previous snowblower was a Simplicity 860, I wouldnt trade my Honda for anything... well maybe a HS1132 or the 1336 Hybrid.

I went and bought the ariens 9526 pro track model, I'm sure the honda is a great unit as well. I got a deal on a carryover model so that helped me make up my mind as to which one I was going to get. Thanks guys.


Coldfingers