Just thought I'd add that the Sear Professional 33", which is the Cub Cadet 933 in black, is on sale for $1700 through 10/4. It has the 16" auger/16" impeller, left/right free wheel 'power steering', and the MTD 357cc engine. However, it also has a 10 turn crank a reach below the console for chute adjustment having not gotten the lastes updates. The auger is a semi-open design.
I've never seen one in person. Based on the 'handlebar issue' between identical weight Ariens and John Deere units my wife and I saw today, seeing in person may be a requirement.
JimmyM, how easy to handle is it?
I think it's pretty easy to handle. The trigger steering works like a charm for me. The weight of the unit doesn't seem to be an issue other than improving traction. But I'm 6'1"/230lbs. So it may be an issue for a smaller person.
The chute rotation isn't an issue. My previous 38 year old Wards/Gilson blower had, what looks like a chain sprocket, that engaged a perforated ring at the bottom of the chute. If the chute ring was too tight, it would bind up. If it was too loose, it would vibrate its way around to some other direction, or the sprocket teeth wouldn't engage enough and it would slip. So a 10-turn worm gear drive is a pleasant change.
I wish I waited on the purchase so I could have gotten the 33" for only $100 more. But, I'm happy with the unit. One thing I wish was different was the shifting while moving. I wish I could move the shifter while the machine was already moving and continuously control the speed. A small nag, but that's it.
Also, it doesn't come with a fuel shut off valve. I installed a panel mount one in one of the metal engine covers. Works nicely now.
