Buying Large 2 Stage Snowblowers?

Question

My neighbor has a concrete business, and does snow removal during winter. He always buys these large Craftsman 2 stage snowblowers for his jobs. It seems like he always has problems with them, and they are not even a year old! The plastic chutes break, shear pins break, and sometimes they dont run very good. He also has an older Toro. The Toro never has any problems! I told him today that he should invest in a brand new Toro, or Ariens snowblower instead of a Craftsman because that is what the professionals use, and they are made to handle the tough jobs. Besides they are much easier to get parts for, and probably have a better warranty. I never have problems finding parts for my 35 plus year old Ariens snowblowers. Am i right?

Answer 1

Obviously he is getting what he pays for. The Craftsman requires a smaller initial investment, but down time costs money, too. The less expensive machines may have the same engines as the pricier models but the frames and transmissions are not as strong.

Answer 2

I live in MN as well and just finished dealing with the same snow you're talking about. Snowblowers are not one-size-fits-all. You need to consider the amount of surface you need to clear, the type of surface (gravel, paved, etc.) , whether or not you need to clear snow at night, whether or not you must clear inclined areas. Living here, I can tell you that you do not necessarily need a two stage machine. I've owned well over a dozen snowblowers and though two stage machines have their advantages a good single stage machine might be right for you. For best results, go to the site linked below and fill out their questionnaire. Educate yourself for a day or so before making a purchase so you don't throw away your $$.

Answer 3

yep the flimsy plastic ones cant hold up,