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

I am looking at Ariens Model ST926DLE  and am a little concerned that the 305cc 1450 Series Polar Force  Briggs may not be powerfull enough.

This is a heavy machine (282 lbs) and will no doubt need a powerhouse to run it. The next model ST928DLE uses a 342cc 1550 Series Polar Force Briggs and the machine is only 11 lbs heavier.

I would not expect that the Ariens engineering team would intentionally underpower their equipment but lets face it,  good old quality American products are becoming yesterdays news.

Already riding the hairy edge of overkill I don't really need a unit larger than 26" and since Briggs changed the engine performance specs from horsepower to torque I am not sure if  305cc to 345cc would  make much of a difference. If I convert from Torque to HP (Torque x Engine speed) / 5,252 = Horsepower and figure 3600 RPM to be full power, the difference is 9.94 to 10.625 horsies.

So I figure the best thing to do is to ask anyone out there who may have some experience with the ST926DLE if  the 305CC Briggs power plant is sufficient ???

Starwarrior

Hey starwarrior,

I definiely think the 305cc Briggs power plant is not enough in my particular situation. I own one and am going to get rid of it before the snow flies.

The engine should be fine for your needs if ... you are a homeowner doing your own < 100 foot long driveway.

Just be sure to read the Trout2 Guide to Eternal Happyness to keep that snowblower humming for many years:  http://www.abbysguide.com/ope/discussions/49399-0-1.html   

FWIW, The new Yamaha YS928J has a 251CC engine (8.5HP), and weighs in at a hefty 373 lbs. Throughput is rated at 50 tons / hour.

No problems moving lots of snow with my 305cc. I've put her up against snow that was half way up the drift cutters.