What to consider when buying a new Snowblower.
Over my 30 years career in the outdoor power equipment business I have worked with Companies that have sold Sears, Craftsman, Mtd, Troybilt , John Deere, Ariens, Honda, Toro and Husqvarna and have serviced all other brands snowblower: here is my opinion.
Most people the first question they ask me when looking at a new snowblower is how much horse power does it have? Although this is a great question and should be considered when buying a snowblower I don’t think the horse power or even torque gives you any answers to what I believe is important when picking out a new snowblower.
When looking at purchasing a new Snowblower here are some key factors to consider.
1. How much snow does it discharge; at what rate (tons per hour) and distance.
Some model Ariens snowblowers have the largest impellers in the industry. And different models spin at different speeds. for example Ariens (SHO)(Super High Output) Models.
Also Look at how the Manufacture transfers the power from the engine to the Impeller, again Ariens on most models have more belt to pulley contact 2 ½ belts are used to spin the impeller resulting in less belt slippage under load.
Honda is another brand Snowblower that spins their impeller at high speeds. They are able to do this by using bearings instead of bushing.
2. Traction and ease of maneuverability
Models with power steering gives traction in both tires while going forward and triggers to neutralize one wheel or the other for easy of turning or consider the auto turn triggerless steering featured on select Ariens Models
3. Quality
The first place I look is at the Housing thickness if you can Twist the housing assemble the metal is so thin that I have seen in some case the complete augers fall out of the unit.
4. Ease of use.
Electric start is a nice option as well as power steering as mentioned before. Some units out there that even have fuel injection. (see EFI benefits below)
5. Serviceability
Before you purchase a new unit, it is important to know who will service the unit and will do the warranty work, also where and how accessible are parts after the sale. Some dealers give priority service and are open during extreme weather conditions to service customers who bought from them.
Benefits of EFI Engines
EFI (fuel Injected) Engines are being used more and more in the Outdoor power equipment industry. You can find EFI Engines used on some model Lawnmowers and even some branded chainsaws but for snowblowers EFI engines has been on Select Ariens models for a few years now. Here are some of the Benefits of EFI engine on select Ariens Snowblower.
Easy Maintenance EFI engines don’t have a carburetor, meaning there’s less chance for deteriorated gasoline to clog the fuel system. Reduced possibility for starting issues, downtime and repair costs allows you to pack it away in the off-season with plenty of peace of mind.
Start Smarter “EZ-Launch makes starting simple compared to other snow blowers. Just turn the key and fire up on a single pull in any conditions at any temperature."
Better fuel consumption “EZ-Launch EFI engines create a more fuel-efficient combustion, making every drop of gas count and giving you more snowfalls per gallon.”
Better Throwing performance "Thanks to an electric governor, EZ-Launch EFI maintains consistent speed and throwing performance. So, unlike a typical carbureted engine, it won’t droop or bog down, even in deep and wet drifts.“
Morgan Power Equipment
Post & comments are my personal opinion & are not affiliated with Morgan Power or its Manufacturers