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

Quick intro: From eastern Mass (half way between Boston and Providence RI). Need to invest in a snow blower that is robust yet easy to steer - well, one that has a good steering system. I'm about to have L4 & L5 vertebrae fused and during the healing process will need a blower that won't make me screw things up by bulling it around. Anyway, been doing a lot of research (lots of free time - disabled from work until back is fixed) and I am narrowing my search down to the Toro's OEX's (Power Max 826OEX, 828OEX, or 1028 OEX) and the Husky with power steering and the high impeller speed (11524E & 14527E) Questions, how do these steer? At this point that is the priority, I will tackle the other differences later. OR do you know of a RELIABLE machine that needs no body twisting or pulling to steer it. (I read reports that Troy-Bilt have unreliable reverse gears) thanks -Bill

About oil. Whice oil are you using? How often to you check the oil? How often did you have to Add oil? How often do you make a oil change? Dose a brand new engine need a early oil change to wash out possible menufactoring particles ? Hope don't ask to much questions, I'm brand new to the world of small engines... Thanks !

JoelKlein wrote:
Remove the cover just behind the chute,.  Use a nutdriver,  Ensure that when you "press" the joystick button, the gear under the removed cover becomes unlocked, allowing the chute to move...The cable is installed at the factory..