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Abby’s Guide > Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) > Discussions > Snowblowers and engine choices - Ariens vs Toro vs Simplicity and L-Head vs. Tecumseh OHV vs Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV - Yow!

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bfguilford


Joined: Oct 23, 2005
Points: 4

Snowblowers and engine choices - Ariens vs Toro vs Simplicity and L-Head vs. Tecumseh OHV vs Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV - Yow!
Original Message   Oct 25, 2005 9:23 pm
I live on the shoreline in CT, where we get anywhere from 0-6 storms (6-12 inches) plus some smaller snowfalls per winter (and this winter is predicted to be on the high side). My driveway is around 150 feet (single wide with a slight incline for 100 ft and double wide plus and flat for 50). It is mostly paved except for a 10x20 patch in front of one of the garage doors (the one that I would likely store the snowblower in).

My budget is $1,000. So far, I am considering four snowblowers:

1. Ariens 7524E ($760), 24 inch with a 7.5HP Tecumseh OHV.
2. Toro 826LE ($899), 26 inch with an 8HP Tecumseh L-Head.
3. Ariens 926LE ($999), 26 inch with a 9HP Tecumseh L-Head.
4. Simplicity 8560E ($999), 24 inch with an 8.5HP Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV.

What would you recommend (and why)? Thanks.
Replies: 6 - 9 of 9Next page of topicsPreviousAllView as Outline
bfguilford


Joined: Oct 23, 2005
Points: 4

Re: Snowblowers and engine choices - Ariens vs Toro vs Simplicity and L-Head vs. Tecumseh OHV vs Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV - Yow!
Reply #6   Nov 3, 2005 9:19 pm
Well, it came down to the Ariens 7524 and the Simplicity 8560 (I eliminated the Toro and 9 HP Ariens because I prefer OHV to L-Head engines). My wife eliminated the 11.5 HP Ariens because I promised not to spend more than $1,000 (she just doesn't understand the concept of toys).

After comparing the two again (and again and again), I'll be going with the Simplicity. It has a couple of features that I prefer (one-hand operation, an extra 3 inches of height and the slightly more powerful Briggs OHV engine). Of course, there are features on the Ariens that I prefer as well (the 12 inch impeller, easier to operate chute control and the $210 savings). Dealer quality is about equal as well, according to friends who know both dealers.

Thanks for all your help. Maybe I won't hate snow as much this winter!

faithfulFrank


He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep
to gain what he cannot lose....


Location: Batavia, N.Y.
Joined: Jan 20, 2004
Points: 1067

Re: Snowblowers and engine choices - Ariens vs Toro vs Simplicity and L-Head vs. Tecumseh OHV vs Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV - Yow!
Reply #7   Nov 8, 2005 12:47 pm
Congrats on your decision!  Simplicity is a good snowblower....i'm sure you will like it.
Let us know how it works out for you!

Frank D.

Ariens 1332DLE Pro, Exmark 52" HP ZTR, Gardian Generac generator, Shindiawa T230  Excell/Honda PW, Craftsman rototiller, Favorite IPE- My Mac + Ipod- No Windoze for me!
Boyzfan


Joined: Nov 15, 2005
Points: 9

Re: Snowblowers and engine choices - Ariens vs Toro vs Simplicity and L-Head vs. Tecumseh OHV vs Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV - Yow!
Reply #8   Nov 15, 2005 10:00 pm
I think you will be happy with the Simplicity. I live South of Buffalo where we get up to 250" a year! I bought the 11HP and just love it. I have a long and wide driveway. Yours should be plenty big enough. My 11HP is a little bulky at times, but I need the power at the end of my driveway. They are a really nice machine.
faithfulFrank


He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep
to gain what he cannot lose....


Location: Batavia, N.Y.
Joined: Jan 20, 2004
Points: 1067

Re: Snowblowers and engine choices - Ariens vs Toro vs Simplicity and L-Head vs. Tecumseh OHV vs Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV - Yow!
Reply #9   Nov 15, 2005 10:48 pm
I just looked at the Simplicity's yesterday....although I'm partial to the Ariens, I liked what I saw.....the local dealer is a friend of mine...got a catolog, etc.

There is nothing like having a good robust snowblower here in western NY....!

Frank D.

Ariens 1332DLE Pro, Exmark 52" HP ZTR, Gardian Generac generator, Shindiawa T230  Excell/Honda PW, Craftsman rototiller, Favorite IPE- My Mac + Ipod- No Windoze for me!
Replies: 6 - 9 of 9Next page of topicsPreviousAllView as Outline
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