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

Amazon has a deal going for a Poulan Pro 8.5 hp 27 inch snow blower (PP8527ES) for $639 (list $999) (minus an additional 10% for YARDSALE promo code posted on the web page, valid until Monday 3/5/2007). They also have a deal going on a Poulan Pro 10.5 hp 30 inch snow blower (PP10530ES) for $759 (list $1299)(also minus an additional 10% using the promo code). Shipping on either is a flat rate $99. Total costs would be $675 and $783 respectively (not including tax if applicable).

It sounds like a good deal to me given the features of the machines so I've been trying to do a little research and wanted to get some opinions on Poulan Pro. I'm leaning towards the larger 10.5 hp 30 inch model, as it has power steering whereas the 27 inch model does not. It would appear that the PP10530ES model is the same as the Sears Craftsman 88105 ($1049.88 on clearance) and the Husqvarna 1130SBE ($1199 at Lowes, but 11hp vs. 10.5). From what I've gathered, they are all the same machine with different branding and different engines.

Unfortunately Amazon's site lists very little information about the Poulan Pro and I am not able to find very many reviews about those particular machines.

My current machine is an 8hp 24in Murray with the Tecumseh Snow King engine. It's probably 10-12 years old now and I haven't had many issues with it. However the new machines I've seen with the remote chute joysticks are twisting my arm and tempting me to get a newer, bigger, toy (err, tool).

Does anyone have a Poulan Pro snow blower that they can provide some feedback on?