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

I was wondering if the Toro 826 2 stage snowblowers is easier to maneuver than the Ariens 24" Platinum Deluxe.  I purchased the 24" Platinum Deluxe last fall and I'm not happy with it.  Although it has the auto. traction control, I find it hard to turn.  My 70 year old father, who lives with us, will go out to do the snow when I'm out at work.  I can't stop him because he's so stubborn.  He finds the Ariens too hard to turn.  He also had heart surgery a few years ago.  So, last thing I want is for him to have a heart attack while trying to move the Ariens.  I also don't like the fact that the Briggs engine on it has been back firing on shut down.  Briggs can't find a solution for it.  This year Toro will be offering freewheel steering on the 826.   My dealer is willing to give me a pretty good deal on a trade in?  So, would it be easier for my dad to maneuver an 826 Toro with freewheel steering or would I better off looking at a more compact snowblower like the Ariens compact series or Toro 722?  Thank you.

Snowman,

Still trying to decide between the models.  I got a chance to see the subaru powered compact 22.  Wow, it's got a bigger housing at 20" vs 17" on the other compact series but a narrower width at 22" vs 24"  I still also kind of like the toro 722 except for the smooth blades vs the serrated blades on the ariens.  I also like the headlight on the compact 24.  So, what to do?  Compact 22 with Subaru engine, compact 24" with the briggs, or toro 722 with the briggs.  That's where I'm stuck.  Any opinions?