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

Bought an 8526 three years ago at Home Depot and, although it's performed flawlessly, it's just too hard to control.  I've been spoiled by using an old  Ariens with a real differential prior to this which was nimble and turned on a dime.

Is it possible to modify the model I have to include a DLE type differential, or am I better off selling it and getting another?

The pin drive constantly pulls to one side when one wheel is engaged, and is impossible to turn an a tight radius when both pins are engaged.

It is that series.  I'll give up on it.  Sadly. 

Thanks for your help.

Giving up on this 8526LE and starting to look at a replacement only because it's so hard to handle.  What I had years back was great.... one of those 1970 7HP Ariens tanks that turned on a dime effortlessly.

I don't have a large area to do, but need something that can be maneuvered without difficulty through some tight corners.  The old Ariens did that well.  I see current models Platinum, Deluxe etc and am totally confused by the  drive systems, not so much understanding the descriptions but rather converting it to practical "how will this handle" terms. 

What's the base model Ariens that'll handle very nimbly?  Am going to be taking a huge loss on depreciation selling the perfect 8526, and not spending a lot on the next would be good.

Help is appreciated.