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

Just wondering how much parking lot area is too much? I own a Honda 1132 and I am wondering if it will be enough machine to clear my 7500 square foot parking lot. We have paid for plowing in the past but I am wondering if anyone else uses a walk behind snow thrower to clear this kind of space? I use the Honda on my gravel 300 foot driveway and I love it! It's a great machine and for the first time in years I am looking forward to snow! Just wondering if clearing the lot at work is a realistic goal. Thanks, Rifboy

Well, I would say that it depends on the volume and type of snow you're dealing with. I have roughly 4700 sq.ft. of paved surface at home, and if there's no more than 2 1/2-3" of snow, it takes me roughly 90 minutes to do the entire area,,,, with a shovel (24" scraper and regular snow-shovel). Heavy, wet snow takes considerably longer,,, let's say 3 hours for the same 3" snowfall. An 8"+ snowfall meant a good 8 hours of scraping / shoveling, which is why I bought my HS1132TC.

That said,, my local snow-removal contractor, is willing to clear my driveway on a "per-event" basis, such as a major storm,,, for a very reasonable amount. ($25.-$40)

I have had the Honda for about one year. You are right though, it is amazing to watch how well it works. I have used it primarily for my home where it is really overkill. As for getting the lot plowed, well we pay between $100 and $150 per "event". Annually, that doesn't add up to the price of this machine but It would sure be nice to chip away at the costs now that I own it. I also do not want to shovel that lot! We'll give the Honda a try and see how it goes. Now to see what can be done about those handle bars! I am 6'3" and they really are on the short side. Rifboy

I do not know why Honda's are so short.  I guess to aide in steering. I'm 6'2 and have no problem with my Ariens 924108.   I would love to get a Honda  HSM1336ic Hybrid. Check it out on u-tube.  With that machine I can stay home , put a camera on it and run it with remote control in my living room watching it on my big screen tv. They want  $8,000 for it though .  I don't think the wife will be happy

They are probably designed for 5 foot 2 average male 40-55 years old.  :)

I keep looking at the handlebars and wondering how I can effect a change there. It will not be a casual change as there are no simple solutions that I can see. Extensions might get me a little but I am concerned that too much will weaken the bars and the other concern is that the cables might move a little but there certainly is not a lot of room for stretching. The other thing I am contemplating is removing the gusset at the bend in the bars and changing the angle of the bar ends. Then I could weld a new gusset in and re-finish the bars. I think this would allow me the biggest change. I'm trying to see what these changes will have on the controls before I begin though.

Rifboy

I think there a 2 inch extension kit that you can buy online.  Can't remember where though.

I would not hack into the handlebars though.  That is designed to be strong as one piece.  Plus, you can only add two inches of height before you run out of cable lengths.  If you ever want to resell it, it might put off would be buyers.

I think the benefit is minimal for the troubles and risks.