stealth94rt

Thanks very much for that additional info. I ordered my machine from HD yesterday (I went with the Platinum 24).

I tried to get it through the local dealer - I found another dealer in the area that had it in stock, and asked my dealer if they could obtain it from the other one. However, they wanted to charge me a $25 delivery fee, which they said I would not incur if I purchased it from HD and it went to them for setup and delivery. So, I went the HD route.

I'm very excited about it, and I can't wait for it to arrive (and then get some snow...)

Thanks to all who replied. Since my local dealer does not have the Platinum 24, I think I will get it from HD. The dealer told me she would have to pay an 8% shipping charge if she special orders one from Ariens, but if I get it from HD it will come to her shop directly for the setup and delivery.

I want the Platinum 24 because of the traction control and quick chute adjustment (the handwarmers are just  bonus). I'm primarily getting the unit to open up the end of my driveway (about 3-4 cars wide) when the township plow rolls by. It's a bear to shovel by hand and my little single-stage blower couldn't handle the icy chunks. I wanted something that will be quick to turn and adjust, as I am somewhat trying to dodge traffic as I'm working down there.

Thanks again.

I was ready to purchase the Ariens Platinum 24 snow blower from the Home Depot. However, I've read various posts on the Internet that state the Ariens snow blowers sold by HD are not the same as the ones you would get from an Ariens dealership (even though HD is listed as an Ariens dealer on the Ariens website).

My local dealer does not carry the Platinum 24 model. However, they stated that when you order a snow blower from HD, it goes to your closest dealer for setup and delivery. I've also read posts on the Internet that state the same thing.

I then contacted HD customer service (via their online chat feature) and they didn't seem to know anything about this.

So, my questions...
1. Should I buy an Ariens Platinum 24 from the HD store (online)? Are their units the same (and same quality) as those carried by the Ariens dealerships?
2. If "yes", will it go to the local Ariens dealership for setup before I receive it?

Thanks for any help you can provide on these questions.