Aside from some feature differences (power chute rotation, etc), the advantage of the former Snapper "large" models from last season is that you get a full size "Simplicity Style" blower head. I don't see how these new ones could be marketed as "medium" platform models with 16" wheels and 27/29" widths..?
Comparing these to an Ariens 24" or 27" Deluxe results in a long list of advantages in the Ariens favor:
3 year warranty versus 2 year
The Ariens frame is fully welded (25 welds) from 4 pieces of steel. A gusseted box frame, solid section cross-brace, backplate, and a triangulated steel sub-frame (more of an engineered truss). The Snapper is a bolted together frame, with a simple flat doubler-plate under the engine.
The Ariens uses the large ~6" friction disk (.625" wide) while the Snapper employs the small 4.34" diameter disk (.5" wide) . The larger disk allows for a larger contact patch, more drive torque, and a longer lasting drive. The final drive ratio (ratio from the friction disk to the wheels) is also superior (over 15% better).
The Ariens spec'd 249cc Briggs engine employs forged crankshafts and ball bearing journals while the Snapper uses cast cranks and sleeve bearings.
The axle on the Ariens models is 1" diameter, the Snapper is .75"
The Ariens models use all steel dash panels, those new Snappers appear to use plastic.
The Ariens uses ball bearings on the high speed friction disk cross-shaft while the Snapper uses sintered bushings (not a great idea for high speed shafts unless submerged in a wet sump).
The large XS auger gear cases use larger drive shafts and a stonger alloy steel auger gear with a hunting tooth design for long term durability.
The Ariens Deluxe models employ a dual belt auger drive to allow continuous maximum power output to the auger without necessary belt adjustments from belt stretch (single belt on Snapper). The driver pulley for this belt drive is also heavy cast steel to handle continuous full power. The Snapper is brazed sheetmetal (another Murray part).
The Ariens uses a larger 14" impeller and 14" augers for increased discharge capacity and throwing performance (versus 12/12).
The 27" model comes with a trigger activated remote axle lock which is superior to the axle mounted lockout on the 29" Snapper. No bending down to lock the axle.
The list goes on...
These newer Snapper models (M1429E and M1227E) seem to have a few more convenience features though; remote cap deflector, 1" larger wheels, power chute features, drift cutters, but perhaps at the expense of performance and durability.
This is comparing a Ford Ranger to an F250 in essence.
This message was modified Aug 4, 2009 by Snowmann
