I have had to replace several plastic chutes. The issue with them is where the chute pivots. When it is cold, and the snow is crunchy the chute top of the chute rips at the the bottem edge of the deflector.
I go through at least one a year. Purchasing this machine was a mistake for where I live, it will do fine if all you get is six or so inches. When the snow piles up at two to three inche an hour this machine is out of its element.
I am going to but another machine with a metal chute. I do not care what you call it plastic, composite , or polymer it is a fact thay a brittle when subjected to extreme cold. By the way if these issues were operator error craftsman would not have issues keeping up with demend for the replacement part.
That is my two cents, With that said I believe I will go back to old faithfull Ariens. I am also considering Honda.
Does any one have any other suggestions, if you have never seen 30 inches over night save your comments please.