mfduffy

Earlier, someone asked for a link.  I see that additional research was done, but here is an article from the time period when Tecumseh's desmise was first reported.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122602502818007621.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

When I was researching machines a couple years ago, I noticed a difference in the directions for the large frame vs the pro model. The manual for the Pro indicates that you should disengage the drive before shifting. I was under the impression that was because the location and design of the shift lever makes it possible to drop into 5th gear pretty easily -- that is, a safety issue. Is there anything about this design difference that explains the instructions?

Curious though, why maintain and build two different drive systems if the newer is more robust?

Having trouble with the chute and hand warmers makes sense -- since they both draw on power from the same source... maybe just a bad wiring harness. But the drive, too -- that's weird. What are the chances?? Sorry about your trouble folks. Please report back with the solutions.

Regarding the electric chute control on the Simplicity -- I posted the section below in another thread where someone was asking about a 'backup' to the electric.  I've run the machine in at least a half-dozen bouts of sub-zero temps with fine, blowing snow and have never had any issues with the chute control.  I store it in an attached garage, so there was ample opportunity for melting and refreezing.

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I have a Simplicity Pro series blower. There is no "backup" to the electric rotator... just like there is no backup to the linkages on the manual. In either case, you could disassemble and rotate the chute, but what's going to hold it there? I understand that folks fear gadgets, but it is a relatively standard windshield wiper motor -- very reliable and designed for the elements. It's readily accessible and connected via a wiring harnesses -- so, it seems simple enough to swap out parts should you need to. I keep the switch on the handle lubricated with WD-40 to prevent sticking and the motor's gear-head lubed annually, same as a manual linkage. My dealer is small and local, they've been selling solely Simplicity for decades.

Now, having said that -- I wouldn't spend extra money just to get the electric rotator. But neither would I for a second rebuff all the upgrades on the Pro series, because of it. If you think the other features are worth it -- go for it!

Oh, and you forgot the heated handles -- they provide no added driveway clearing function, but they sure are nice :)

Snowmann wrote:
If Snowman's statement is accurate -- we need to ask B&S to update their website... below is from their FAQs (link follows). It is widely known that B&S has plants all over the world, but it was my understanding from the local newspapers, that the reason was primarily to serve those markets -- rather than to ship heavy, cast-iron bore engines all over the world for subsequent final product assembly. Certainly, local news is biased for the hometown company, but still.


Are Briggs & Stratton engines, pressure washers, generators, etc. made in the U.S.?

Over 90% of our engines and products are manufactured in the USA.

The only exception would be the Vanguard horizontal shaft, V-Twin and 3-cylinder liquid cooled engines (All Vanguard vertical shaft single cylinder engines are made in the USA). The Vanguard horizontal shaft and V-twin engines have many of its components made in the USA and are assembled in Japan.

All Vanguard engines are engineered in the USA.

We design, engineer, and assemble the vast majority of our generator and pressure washer products in the United States. Please refer to the packing label for a specific country of origin information.

http://faqs.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faqs.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=1393&p_created=947899980&p_topview=1