Purchase Location: Aqua Supply and Irrigation 7071 TRANSIT RD EAST AMHERST, NY 14051 Phone: 716-688-0439
Snow thrower was delivered at my convenience, sales and services reps were very helpful and courteous.
Blower arrived and was demonstrated to me and my father. Ran great, controls all in perfect working order. Great setup. Free oil for first oil change after break in period.
First problem that occurred was the knot on the recoil mitten grip came undone when I was starting it. Minor problem since I have an electric start, called the dealer, blower was picked up, repaired and rechecked from head to toe, returned in less than 24 hours.
This occurred when I was showing the machine off and not during a storm or snow fall so it was little inconvenience. Although areas south and east of my area received up to 2-3feet I received 1-2 inches the first day, then 3-4 the second, drifts increased accumulation in some spots. I waited for the Lake Effect event to end before using the blower.
The blower met and exceeded my expectations. One minor thing I noticed is that the chute likes to rattle during transport, minor problem, doesn't bother me. Some don't like the loud sound of the Tecumseh L-Head but its music to my ears and isn't as loud as some make it seem. When throttle is at idle it’s perfect to talk to neighbors or clear a stick out of the way etc.
The snow was light and fluffy in some spots but heavy and wet in others, the blower took all in stride and the plume of snow got many neighbors interested to watch the "show". This blower far surpasses the old Snow Giant in throwing performance, as it should with a HMSK90 (9HP) engine.
Many have criticized the new chute control but I believe that to be a problem of setup rather than a bad design. My controls work great and the lever allows you to aim the snow where you want it, the other lever that controls distance works great too.
One hand operation is also a great feature and with the chute controls the way they air the machine is easy to operate. I have the wheels locked this time and just as I thought once there is snow on the ground its pretty easy to turn, or at least easier than my old blower with sold rubber tires.
I would recommend this unit to anyone who needs a snow thrower, I would then recommend the 11528LE for those that have wide driveways and would like a trigger locked wheel rather than a pin-lock. The 926DLE I recommend if you need the stronger gear case and need the added maneuverability of a differential. For my needs the 926LE is a perfect replacement to the Hahn-Eclips Snow Giant.
End of season review to come.....but some pictures are availble here: http://www.opeonthenet.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1307&highlight=
Date Purchased: January/2006
Price Paid: $999
Recommend: Yes |
Pros:
-Strong, Powerful Tecumseh L-Head -Easier to turn than older blowers that have solid tires, air tires make it a pretty easy to manuever.
Cons:
-Some say the Tecumseh L-Head is to loud -Minor rattle to chute at times when not blowing snow -Lack of a remote-wheel lock |