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

But I dont know anything about Simplicity brand equipment. 

Any feedback on this model, Simplicity in general, and how it compares to the Honda or Ariens?

I am a little concerned about an electric button to control the chute.  I can understand that its convenient but seems like if anything is going to go wrong that would be it.  Otherwise, this one feels like a tank.  I am now leaning towards this one and getting ready to pull the trigger.

Again, thanks in advance for any feedback you can give.

The heated handles are useful (completely unnecessary, but very nice nonethless -- I can frequently go out in very thin gloves, making everything easier).  What I really like about the handles is the thick tubular steel and rubberized cover.  The 1524 is a very manueverable machine and the handles add to that in a surprising way.

[Everyone here has an opion on electric chute controls.  It's a simple design with a pretty standard windshield washer motor.  And Simplicity has been using it on their Pro machines for many years -- it's not new on this line.  I do squirt some WD-40 in the switch to keep it from mechanically icing up, but otherwise, I don't worry about it.]

I bought it and they delivered it two hours later.  Get to test it out in the morning.

Simplicity is overall a well built brand (at the higher models espically)!!

I noticed that when I stop and let it idle, with both levers released it sometimes makes that aweful sound like when the auger is disengaging.  But it doesnt do it once.  It will keep doing it.  I walked around the front and noticed the auger was still turning albeit slowly.  So I turned the throttle down a little and it stopped making the sound and the auger stopped.  Is this normal?  It sounds like the auger clutch is not fully disengaging when this happens.  Any advice appreciated.

I spoke with the shop today and they told me that the units arrive with the auger set very tight.  They used to try to loosen them up a little before delivery but then when the belts wore in they would slip under heavy loads and need to be tightened back up.  Instead he suggested I use it 4 or 5 times and then if it is still too tight he can come down and make a quick adjustment.  I tried it this morning to clean up the small amounts that fell after I did the driveway last night and it was not doing it.  I did notice that the auger kicks in when I barely touch the lever too which would be in line with what he was saying.  I'll keep an eye on it.