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

Are the Sears Craftsman snow throwers any good? I'm looking for a quality two-stage unit with Briggs and Stratton power. These are the two models I'm considering:

$1200 - 88115 - 11.5 Intek, 30", steel chute, power steering, extra bells and whistles
$800 - 88195 - 9.5 PowerBuilt, 29", plastic chute

Is the top one worth the extra dough? How much of a difference is there between the Intek and PowerBuilt? Are there comparable models in my price range from other manufacturers?

My info:
Annual snowfall: 50" (Usually several large storms)
Property: Gravel driveway - approx. 80' long x 2 cars wide. Also - 20' gravel walkway.

Since it's my first winter on a new private road, I don't know what to expect in terms of plowing. It's possible I'll need to clear a 100' car-width path to the main road.

The new  more expensive Craftsman snow blowers that are built by Husqvarna (AYP) are very high quality . They have strong welds,good engineering design,  have well designed ,logical controls, heated grips and power steering. Also a hydrostatic transmission is standard in some models.  Some of the lower priced  Craftsman snow blowers are built by MTD. I would recommend to get one that has a Briggs and Stratton  engine as other engines are in some models.

Come on already! this is a 6 year old thread!

I want to bump this thread to the top. I was thinking of buying that same worn out craftsman thrower from the local thrift shop.... Ha ha ha..... J/K - Friiy