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

Finally did it.I received my Simplicity signature series pro 11570E snowblower today.I heeded your advice and stayed away from the gizmos.I also like it simple.It has the Briggs snowtek 11.5 hp engine,28in width ,crank handle(very reliable and simple) and the chute deflector that looks like an engine oil dipstick.I really like the frame, talk about robust frame it's sick no other company has a frame like that...After hearing some guys have problems with the new model,I figured I'd go with the previous model.No electric chute to worry about and I have nice ski gloves to keep my hands warm and it's one less thing I have to worry about breaking down(hand warmers) and stealing power from the main objective..snow removal.Your're right Borat these things r built for durability.Grease Zerks ,cast iron auger gearcase ,all steel frame,B&S OHV engine, etc etc.So I say goodbye to my Sears 5hp ,20in wide snowblower.It was reliable but couldnt throw snow for crap and if the snow was wet...clog city.Looked over the manual but might need some help in what I should do to keep her purring.I live in NY paid $1800 USD.The guys delivered it for free and set it up for me.Probably could of got it for less but what the heck times r bad and I want this place to stay in business....And I'd rather pay $1800 for a simplicity pro than $1859 for a Toro 1128 oxe with plastic and an aluminum gearcase.U r right toro is out of control with their prices...

Good for you!

Staying away from the gimmicks is a wise move.  I know it's hard to resist.  I'm like most guys and attracted techno wizardry (like fish to lures)  but when it comes to machines that  work in a hostile environment, simple & strong is best.   You might want to line your chute like I did with a piece of Krazy Karpet.  It's a bit of work but will save the chute from paint chipping and rusting. I'm not certain but the chute liner might have even improved throwing distance.   I'd also recommend a good going over to make sure axles are well greased, cables routed efficiently etc. 

I know that you've been reading a lot of posts and certainly did your homework.  With proper care & maintenance, your machine should last a good long while.  These Simplicity machines are long term investments.  Sure there's a bit of a premium to buy quality but it's not excessive as it is with some brands.  The previous Craftsman machines that I owned did yeoman service and after ten years, they showed it.  Welds began to crack and rust, controls began to malfunction etc.  It had a few years left in it but it was on it's way out.  I'm confident that the Simplicity chassis will outlast the engine whereas the old Tecumseh engines on my other machines outlasted the chassis. 

Let us know how it works out for you.