Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

Just wanted too put some of the old funiture in the new place.

Richie wrote:

I bought a 1028LXE yesterday at my local dealer. I originally went in to go with the Husky and walked out buying the Toro. Here's why: 1. The joystick control on the Toro for the chute is an absolute pleasure to operate. 2. The gear transfer case is a monster compared to the Husky's. 3. The chute and impeller opening on the Toro is MUCH wider and bigger. There's no "clearing stick" needed or provided w/it. 4. The toro uses high-impact plastic which is a non-stick surface for snow. With metal, it's eventually gonna stick when it wears down. 5. You can hold down both levers in tandem with only one engaged (on handlebars), and use your other hand to direct the chute. 6. The Toro was lighter to manuver and was much more center-weighted compared to the weight distribution on the Husky. 7. The Husky is a re-branded machine made by another company. The Husky definitely looks a little cooler with it's orange colors and prestigious brand name, but.... The Toro name (in our heads) was in the past associated with subpar equipment but I think this snowblower is really the way to go if you need to buy one... -Ed

Saw Husqvarna model 96723 10.5 HP with  "power steering" at Lowes for $1000 and have a 10% coupon.

Was contemplating the Ariens 926DLE over the similar LE model because it handles reportedly so much easier.

Is the 96723 worth looking into?  Is it in the same class as the Ariens reputation?  Need something that's powerful and easy to maneuver.

The Husvarna is almost $600 less...  tempting or fate?

Snowman,

where do you live? how much snow per year? what size area do you have to blow? The Husqvarna would probably be okay but if you have a larger area to clear or get heavy snow farily often you'd be doing yourself a favor by getting the Ariens. They are made to go the distance.

AZ 

Boston area.  Driveway about 9' X 30 and paved area to clear about 30X40.  The larger area is shaped like the letter "E", so a nimble machine that handles easily is a must as there are lots of turns to be made.  I also need to pile the snow on one side of the "E" as well, so it must be easy to change chute direction.

Thanks for any recommendations. 

BTW, my 1970 7HP Ariens tank has done the job for years but it's time to retire it.

This thread is like your parents house.  No matter how far you roam its good to come home once in a while!

snowman wrote:

well for a cheaper price than the DLE model, the 11528LE has a trigger lock which assists in turning.  I find the LE just fine with one wheel unlocked and since it has pretty big air tires with both locked it can turn ok and seems easier to turn than my old 70's Hahn-Eclips Snow Giant.

EGreen wrote:

I mean I find the 926LE just fine with......etc.  It can have either wheel locked or unlocked so the exhaust in the face problem (you may have read about) is solved by unlocked the righ wheel instead of left.

The 11528le is even easier because you can "on the fly" lock and unlock the left wheel.

Might finally have a reason to start the old girl tomorrow.  Longest stretch I can ever remember in a New England Winter without any plowable snow.