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

I am considering replacing my Ariens 926 snowblower with possilby a Honda.  I want a better motor and something that is going to tackle the plowed driveway a little better.  I think if I could get a Subaru motor on a larger size Ariens, I would still consider one but they only offer it on the smaller compact model.  Anyway, I can't make up my mind on a tracked model or wheeled model honda.  I live in Wisconsin and have a 3 car wide driveway and sidewalk to do.  Will the tracked unit clear down to the cement or do I have to shovel the little bit it leaves behind after blowing?  Also, would I be able to turn 180 degrees when I get to the end of my sidewalk with the tracked unit or would I have to make my turn in the driveway because I may need more room to make a turn on about a 4 foot wide sidewalk?  Probably still have to do that with a wheeled unit anyway.  I've head a few people state that the tracked unit moves a little easier when you have a little bit of snow under the track but since I have a concrete drive, I may not have that little bit extra to easy the turn.  I really would like to try one out but most all of the dealers around here don't stock the two stage only the single stage.  I would assume because of price and low sales on the larger units.  I saw a used HS1230TA from about 2004 for $2500 but feel that might be too big.  It looks like new and only has about 4 hours of use.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

John 

Bill_H wrote:

The Dealer had Ramps, so we loaded into my Dodge Caravan!! Just had to tilt auger forward to get bucket in, then tilt back, to get handles in!!

When I got home, I backed up to a packed snow bank, same level as van, laid a plywood sheet on snow, backed it out, drove it down the angled side of the bank, and we are up and running!!!

I will look at Home Depot, see if I can get something like this, there are a few times a year I could use ramps! Thanks for the tip!!

aa335 wrote:

How much standing height do you have under the snow cab? I want to get one but I'm 6'4" and don't want to have to crouch (or modify the unit). Thanks.

DIYer wrote:
 I have about 6 foot 5 height to the top of the cab.  There is an additional 5 inches that I can raise it up higher.  It varies depends on the snowblower handles and where you can attach the frame of the cab.  So it's possible it may work for you.  One thing to consider is the cab will have to be lower than the garage door if you plan to get the snowblower in and out without removing the cab.  One would not want to remove or install a cab in windy blizzard conditions.