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

I currently live in the Chicago land area and use a 1980 Toro 724 that I rebuild (Craigslist Special).  I purchased the snowblower with no engine for $35 (the engine had been taken for another project).  I found an engine in a separate listing for $50.  I added a new muffler and rebuilt the carb for $30 in parts.  For  $115, it seems I have a capable machine.  So far the only issue I have is the chute clogging when I go through very wet deep slush.  Do you think adding rubber to the impeller would solve this problem?  Would I be better off buying a larger engine? I know Toro did sell this fame with an 8 HP engine.  I does seem like this blower is limited to the intake of its drum style auger.  I would be interested in hearing some first hand opinions on how these old machines perform compared to the new machines.  I do know this machine is about as durable as they come.