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

I am looking at getting my first snow blower - for a 100 ft gravel driveway that inclines (and curves) at approx 30 degree.  I am looking at either Toro (305cc) or Troy-Bilt (357cc) as both are costing me C$2,100.  I live in Guelph Ontario where we get a fair amount of snow during the year.  I have looked at the reviews and both these brands seem quite reputable - the Toro will be purchased through a dealer while Troy-Bilt will be bought at a box store.  My concerns are (1) ability to remove snow on an icy incline without slipping, (2) ease of use/handling (as my wife will also be using it) (3) reliability and (4) after sales service.  I am quite confused and look forward to some advice from the experts.

Product websites

http://www.toro.com/intl/ca_en/home/snowthrowers/gastwostage/1028oxe.html
http://www.troybilt.ca/troybilt/product.asp?id=2699&type=6

Thanks.

Congratulations on your new Toro, post what you think after you get a chance to use it. I agree about the gravel, we have paved our driveway but for many many years it was gravel. Huge pain to deal with. The Toro has shear pins for the auger but no shear pins from the gearbox to the engine. Also Toro shear pins are twice as thick as Honda shear pins. If I had gravel I's set the height of the scraper bar a 1/2" off the ground minimum. The Honda with tracks had 3 height settings. But with Gravel higher is better. It's bad enough I pick up leaves in my Toro and it really mulches those