syracuse

Thanks again for the follow up note.  I've decided on the Toro snowblower.  One shop I visited here in Syracuse also said that the new Ariens were giving them problems as well.  They said the Toro products are tried and true - design hasn't changed much in the last several years, and they've been very reliable.  I'm putting my money on the Toro - going to have it delivered next week (when the temps are going to rise into the 50's in Syracuse, NY - go figure!).  Thanks for your insight mech12....much appreciated!

Thanks for the feedback.  It's nice to hear from someone that has worked in the snowblower business.  I'm reading alot of positive things about Ariens here in this website, but my friends who have Toro LOVE them!  I definately plan on buying my new snowblower from a dealer, not HD, Lowes, etc.  Service is very important after the sale.  I was wondering if the 8HP engine on the Toro will sacrifice much power compared to the 9.25 HP engine on the Ariens.  I was also concerned with the Toro's plastic discharge chute, compared to the all steel chute on the Ariens.  I was also warned to think about how many Toro dealers are around to service Toro, vs. Ariens dealers.  Lots to think about.

P.S.  I'm just curious....what kinds of problems were the new Ariens giving your shop?  Were they snowblowers bought in the last year or 2?

Thanks.

I just stumbled across this web site tonight when I was searching for any reviews I could find on 2 snow blowers that I'm interested in.  I am excited to see all the knowledgeable people on this site who have such great advice.  Can anyone give me their opinion on these 2 snow blowers?

Before I came to this site I was steering towards the Toro 826 LE, as I have heard friends who love their Toro's.  After reading up on the comments here from owners on Ariens, I'm starting to wonder if they make a better machine.  I live in Syracuse, NY where we get record snowfall every season.  We often hit 200 inches of snow each winter.  I have a 2 car-wide driveway that can park 4 cars long.  I currently have an old John Deere (15 + years old).  It has given me so much trouble the last few years, I'm tired of putting a few hundred dollars into it each winter.

I'm looking for a reliable snow blower that will last a long time.  I'm guessing that both brands make good machines, but want to spend my money wisely.  I'm definately buying from a dealer (not Home Depot as I've had bad experiences with them in the past).  The price is close....the Toro is on sale right now for $1,050 and the Ariens is on sale for $999.  Any feedback on these 2 models would be greatly appreciated.  I'm going to purchase my new snowblower by next week, as the snow is flying here in Syracuse.  Thanks everyone!  Happy Holidays.

Jim