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

I purchased a Simplicity 11570E pro snowblower 2006 model(28"width,11 1/2 hp ohv b&s engine) in nov 2008.I have used it 6 times and its a beast of a machine.I could of got the 09 model but didnt want the electric chute.Honda has nothing on this machine as far as reliability and durability.It might throw snow a little further but who cares.I filled the bucket completely with snow and it would not clog.That 11 1/2 ohv valve briggs with the Simplicity power boost just kept the snow moving.I have blown dry,wet,watery snow with no problem.So Hondas r not the only machine that can blow heavy wet,watery stuff.My handles r welded to that all steel box frame way better than hondas setup.When I turn my handle to the right my chute turns to the right unlike hondas which goes in the opposite direction.And I'll put my 11 1/2 hp up against Hondas 9 hp anyday.Like I said it never clogged and believe me I tried.And as far as that hydro tranny,u can keep it.My friction disc is probably more reliable and how many times do u change gears while throwing snow?Also the Simp. has a cast iron gear box,grease zerks does honda??No...Also try rolling the honda out of the garage even if u put that lever on the bottom of the machine in the release position,it still doesnt roll well.Then u have to bend down again and put the lever in the engaged position to engage the tranny.For once Americans make something as good as and easier to use than the Japanese....And I have about $500 in my pocket since the honda 928was is at least that much more than my simplicity depending where u live.So rock on Simplicty and keep making those great snow blowers.............

mikiewest wrote:

Must be true if you say so.

Let's just say (as a simplicity pro owner) I'm not as impressed.

In fact I am so not impressed that if it gives me much more grief, I'll sell it at a loss, and buy the Honda.

I buy my equipment used.  I'm always looking for that piece that's well cared-for and a great price.  I don't pay retail (taxes, resale ect).  I see a ton of Ariens, a very few Honda, and no Simplicity snowblowers for sale.  I like the look, the quality and the balance of these machines, and I'm guessing so do the people who own them because I don't see them being sold again.  Honda's really really hold their value.  Ariens don't.   

That being said, I do think an 1132tas would probably kick the snot out of a Simplicity snowblower, but just not $1000.00 worth of snot.   All things being equal and if I was the new stuff kind of guy I'd take a chance on the Simplicity brand new.  I'm sure Honda makes really good generators too, but $2500 vs $1000 for the same wattage is an easy choice for me.

The Honda motor is as good as the B+S Vanguard motor  (which I have to say I prefer, and have the pleasure of using on my generator) and in a class far beyond the SnowKing or the lower end of the B+S.  Quiet quiet quiet and very lean on the gas.  Don't waste your money on an electric start because if you can't pull the cord on these babies you're probably not in good enough shape to take a walk.  But $1000? Couldn't do it.  I would however, pay someone to keep their Ariens out of my driveway!

That's a little harsh nhmatt.  However, I have to admit that I agree with just about everything you've said.   I too agree that Ariens is only a shadow of the machine it once was.  Simplicity machines are not infallible.  However, as you have pointed out, used ones are seldom available.  Must be a reason for that!  I know that I have nothing but praise for mine.  Particularly for the price.  Nothing compares to it for the money.  It's probably the best snow thrower value available. 

By the way, are you aware that the B&S Vanguard is made in Japan?   

No I wasn't aware it was made in Japan, but I will testify that in 10 years that engine has started on the first pull and is at least as quiet as the Honda on my 1132tas snowblower.  Its an excellent engine.  Too bad its made in Japan, but to not buy the best, in my opinion is un-American.

nhmatt wrote:

At least you can rest assured that your Vanguard is made to the best standards in the industry.  There's a reason the Vanguards cost more.  Japanese labour and top notch quality of materials and components.  Keep your chin up.  B&S are making considerable progress in their small engine quality.  There was a time when I wouldn't consider a B&S engine unless there was no other way around it.  Now that I've been using one for a couple seasons, I'm being converted.  However, I must temper that comment with the fact that longevity and consistent performance are very important aspects,  We'll just have to see how well it holds up.