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

I am looking at buying my first snowblower and would like to get your comments on which of these two machines I should buy, it is a toss up. I like the steering capabilities and the joystick of the Toro, but I also like the size and power of the Ariens. Is the Ariens 1130dle easy to turn at the end of the drive way, and also how reliable is the l-head engine. Thnaks

Thanks everyone for your feed back and it is helping me. The only thing I was wondering is why the 1130dle doesn't have diferential lock, like the next model down, it would be nice at the end of the drive way when going through those snowbanks.

I was also wondering if the Ariens, after you start the auger and the drive system can you take one hand off the levers to change the controls, say to turn the chute. Will it still continue to go forward and blow snow.

The Simplicity 9528 (now 1428) has both traction lock trigger release as well as one hand operation. 

sberoy wrote:
All Ariens models 624 and larger have the control interlock you're referring to.

The 1027LE doesn't have a differential, only a remote locking and unlocking axle (locks and unlocks the left wheel for easier turning).

There is no need for a differential lockout on the 1130DLE because in locks and unlocks automatically as needed. Traction like a solid axle and the maneuverability of a differential at all times.

PK

I just want to thank all of you who helped me with my choice, I purchased a Toro 1128oxe today, and it should arrive tomorrow. I really liked the Ariens also but they didn't have much of a selection of the pro series at the local dealer. The main reason for opting out for the Toro was I got it for a good price and it comes with the Tecumseh ohv engine on it. I also like the chute controls. So thanks.