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

Considering getting an older Ariens blower, but am wondering about the different types of controls that are out there. I'm assuming that the older machines have some of the controls mounted beside the motor like this one,


and the newer machines have the more conventional on the handlebars like this one,


What's the difference for ease of use, are there preferences out there, is one better than the other?
I've not studied either one up close, so, dumb question, can the impeller/auger housings be interchanged between these two types?

Thanks

   Got out and did RPM auger check by sticking some tap on the auger blade and counting the revs for a number of seconds.   For an old Ariens 910962 the count was 100 RPM on the auger so the impeller is probably 1000 RPM.  The engine RPM should be on the money but 100 seems low.   I'll have to do it again and see if it comes out the same.   It's a bit confusing to watch the tape on the auger.  They go by pretty quickly.  A better thing would be to make a mark on the rake shaft as it easier to watch.