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

Thinking about doing a little side-work and I'm wondering if anyone has any complaints about the Ariens ATC concept?  It kind of freaks me out to think about NOT having both wheels fully engaged.  I think I would prefer having the levers to disengage a wheel, but this is contrary to what their PR is advocating.

I just don't quite get the concept.  Is it 1WD unless it slips?  or is it 2WD unless one is "blocked?"

I know that a lot of areas I'd be doing were on a bit of a grade.

Also, The wheels of today are a lot "grippier" than those of old.  Are chains really necessary?

You can overdrive even in first gear, especially when going into EOD piles.  This happens when the wheel speed is faster than the auger processing the snow.  If the wheel or tracks slips on the snow, this is less stressful on the drivetrain than friction disc slipping.