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

Well I am set on buying a new snow blower but I am trying to figure out which one.. I am looking at the new  Ariens Deluxe 27 and last years 27LE. Both are priced the same at the dealer $999

I am also looking at a 08/09  Snapper 1428 or a 08/09 Simplicity 1428 either one $999 as the dealers are willing to match the price of the Ariens. I ruled out the 09/10 machines from them as I am not sure of the motors for the chute rotation. Both these machines have the 305cc Snow MAx engines. I do like having the remote control for pitch  on the machine compared to Ariens not having it, it seems like a mistake by Ariens not to include it on their machines as it seems like a long reach to me to change it on the Ariens

The 08/09 27LE has the Briggs Snow Max 305cc while the 09/10 Deluxe 27" has the Briggs Snow series 250cc motor. Are there any differances between the Snow Max and Snow series engines other than the obvious of one being bigger. Are there any new design improvements to the 09/10 machine over last years model that would make me want to get the 09/10 model.

The Snapper/ Simplicity have cast iron gear boxes while Ariens has an Aluminum gear box. What are the internal differances between the insides of the units.

When you look at the units side by side on the floor its hard to tell any differances in design as far as engineering goes and most salespeople have no clue

What are the strenghts and weakness of these machines.

giocam wrote:


Same in my situation.  Easy to find Ariens and Toro, but Simplicity?  I think there may be a dealer about 60 or so miles away.  Too bad.  I'd really like to check them out.  I've heard very good comments about Simplicity.  The thing is, you've got to consider the manufacturer's reputation, PLUS ease to getting the blower to and from the dealer for any kind of service.  Add to that the reputation of the dealer!

I have a 2006 Simplicity 305cc B&S engine 28".  Excellent machine.   Designed well and built like a tank.   Newer machines may not be as robust.  However, that can also be said about competing brands other than Yamaha and Honda.

 I  now use only  Husqvarna snow blowers ,having used others in the past..  Every Husqvarna model is well built and will last longer than  the others.   Ariens also. build a good machine  Most of the others including John Deere are just relabelled models built by MTD or Briggs and Stratton.

Stay away from ARIENS. junk. junk machine - read my overview and problems. Not worth any $$$$$. Mark

I purchased the Simplicity 1428 with cast iron gearbox, it has treated me well these past five years. No issues to mention only regular maintenance. They can handle all conditions for sure. It does blow snow really well and is build with a heavy gauge of steel. I have no regrets with the purchase whatsoever :)