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

If you could choose between the simplicity P1628E for $2050 and the simplicity pro11570E for $1900 which one would you pick?For an extra $150 you get the snow series max engine and electric chute rotator.Or would you forego those extras to have the crank chute rotator on the 11570E??Is the electric chute rotator thAT UNRELIABLE AND IF IT FAILS IS THERE ANYWAY TO ROTATE THE CHUTE?

I have a Simplicity Pro series blower. There is no "backup" to the electric rotator... just like there is no backup to the linkages on the manual. In either case, you could disassemble and rotate the chute, but what's going to hold it there? I understand that folks fear gadgets, but it is a relatively standard windshield wiper motor -- very reliable and designed for the elements. It's readily accessible and connected via a wiring harnesses -- so, it seems simple enough to swap out parts should you need to. I keep the switch on the handle lubricated with WD-40 to prevent sticking and the motor's gear-head lubed annually, same as a manual linkage. My dealer is small and local, they've been selling solely Simplicity for decades.

Now, having said that -- I wouldn't spend extra money just to get the electric rotator. But neither would I for a second rebuff all the upgrades on the Pro series, because of it. If you think the other features are worth it -- go for it!

Oh, and you forgot the heated handles -- they provide no added driveway clearing function, but they sure are nice :)

Those model numbers look non-current, not sure what the specs are for each.

However, looking at their model designations, it would seem one unit uses the 11.5 torque engine and the other a 15.5? That's 249cc versus 342cc. The 305cc and 342cc are toting much more under the hood than a 249cc. Even more than the peak power differential would indicate; the 305cc power curve is flatter and of much higher operational quality. The 342 even more so.

PK