I have an older Ariens that my dad picked up used from all auction sale 20 years ago. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles as the new machines, but it runs great and throws snow about a mile.
Bought this for my small back deck in the Eastern Sierra. th-cam.com/users/postUgkxoHYZbq5g9fkcAtinlTqstNlje-UQkCHN We get A LOT of HEAVY snow so I was a bit skeptical but it was worth it! After the first storm of the year this has exceeded expectations! It throws snow very well, even 10-12” + that said the more it piles up the harder it is to maneuver the machine. It is exceptionally light weight and overall exactly what I was looking for. If you have a large amount of snow and a lot of area to clear, you may consider something with a drive engine to help maneuverability, but for decks, second stories, roofs etc, you can’t beat the light weight to great snow throwing ratio. Side note, the chute rotator is a bit flimsy and it initially didn’t seem to work, after a few uses it seems to have loosened up.
All our guys run Simplicity 1022s for sidewalks. They've been used in 12-15inches of heavy snow and still chuck it 25-30 feet at almost walking speed. Super impressed with them for what they are!
I've got a Honda snowblower on tracks that will be 28 years old, still works well and I wouldn't get one without tracks. Ran mine up stairs all the time to clear a landing in the middle of a wide set of stairs.
I’ve got a 1995 yard machines two stage blower, I always run it out of fuel carburetor and tank, change oil every year, spark plug every two years, always takes two pulls to start up and runs with plenty of power. Just proves that if you take care of your equipment, it’ll take care of you.
I live in Maine (plenty of snow and cold).. I bought a Toro Power Shift 624 in 1980 and I still use it every storm.. I also bought an Ariens lawnmower in 1980, 15 years ago I thought I blew the engine as oil ran out on the deck,, I pushed it out back and went and bought a Honda.. Anyway after sitting outside in the rain and snow for 15 years I noticed that the dipstick tube was pulled out (that was the reason for the oil spill and not a blown engine).. I drained the water and oil out added fresh oil and on the 15 year old gas it started and ran on the first pull.. I ran it several times for 10 to 15 minutes and changed the oil (about 3-4 times).. I is back in service.. I have always used non-ehanol gas in all my small engines.. Once in a while I will add 1 or 2 cap of Marvel Mystery Oil to the fuel - mostly on first run coming out of seasonal storage..
Nice Ariens commercial. I have a honda and it kicks butt. I've had it for 8 years now and it still starts like brand new. By the way I live in Manitoba Canada and we get minus 40.
A man‘s man blowers, especially for long driveways and parking lots. Honda HS828 and HSS928A (both track models) truly. My 828 went for 23 yrs. of service, never used stabilizer, full tank for storage and always started within 2 pulls. Bought the 928 3 yrs ago, we’ll see in 20 yrs if it’s still going.
I have a Noma, for over 25 years and clean a lot of snow . the key to having a good dependable machine is to maintain it like the manufacturer recommends, I haven't changed one part since I bought it, most people abuse their equipment and blame the product.
I see at the end of the video you use the snow plow snow shovel. I started using them last year. Fastest way to clear 50-60 ft residential drives with 2-4 in. 2 guys with 4 foot wide shovels can clear a drive in under 5 min. They are also great for quickly tidying up drives. I love your videos.
I have the same exact tire 24" Ariens. Love it!! Omg tracked one looks amazing!! Climbing stairs!! And the pro model looks sweet! The handle design and one stage with rubber augers!! Yess
Lmao at 11:40 I lost it! Unbelievable it started up first pull! Sold. Lol the dude was like yeah duh! Lol great video Stan thanks for your efforts brother.
Right now, Simplicity makes the best American made snowblowers. Specifically the Signature Pro. The overall design of that unit has stayed the same since the early 80's. They all use Briggs, because their owned by Briggs now and their still cheaper than a honda but neck and neck with them. This is coming from someone who has used several different brand blowers. The signature Pro does not get wet inside the gearbox and slip, Ariens has had problems with that lately. The signature pro has trigger release easy turn, its better than auto turn because it is locked when going straight, on Ariens they don't lock and have a tendency to veer one way. Ariens says use poly skids to deal with it. Using a machine commercially, I need steel, poly will be worn out in one storm. The overall stance and build on the frame of simplicity is stronger. Look at the way their built. Ariens used to be a close competitor, but a design that was started in the early 80's and is still that way today wins, its Simplicity. Theirs never been a reason to mess with that design because it was engineered so well. Simplicity still uses a 4 blade impeller, it makes a difference.
I always store my equipment w treated fuel in the carb (I never shut the fuel off and run them dry) It keeps all the gaskets and little rubber bits hydrated so they don't dry up and then upon first start, swell up and not seal correctly. Never had a problem, but I usually store for a 4-6 months at most, typically it's even less because if I notice something hasn't been started in awhile I'll fire it up just to get fuel circulating and then store it again if I need to. Always keep a full tank of treated fuel, keeps out condensation forming due to temperature changes in the shop. I'll even start up my old stand up jetskis in the middle of winter at least once just to get things moving, helps me keep my batteries fresh as well.
I have also read that treated fuel is only good for maybe 3 months? Winter is longer than that, and so is the summer. So is it just as easy as re-treating the fuel half way through the season or not?
jay b I have done the same thing for years at the recommendation of my repair shop who told me verbatim what you said. In 1999 I bought one of troybilts last series before they went to all cheap plastic construction and its built like a tank. I drain the old gas in october then refill with fresh treated gas. Then change oil and lube everything I can and fire it up. While we usually don't get a lot of snow in southern ohio, the day before a snowstorm IS NOT the time to go start it to make sure it works. Usually the snow we get is very heavy and there is no way I can move it with bilat hip replacements using a snow shovel. Plus I work at a level 1 trauma center and I have to be able to get out. That thing is a back saver and a lifesaver and I maintain it meticulously and keep it in my garage.
I have a compact 22. 6 years old it still starts up and works amazing. It is very compact and never had problems, I have Never property winterized it (whoops) and after a few pulls each year it continues to fire up
I live in Western Newfoundland, we get 16 feet of snow per year. If you can beg borrow or steal the extra money, get a Honda. I have an HSS928 and it's incredible in the worst conditions. Can't say enough good things about it, no matter what the plow pushes up the Honda just knocks it down. My only regret is not buying the damn thing years ago.
Honda makes some really nice stuff, not sure if they still make them but they used to make a 4WD lawn tractor too which I heard were great machines, just expensive in the initial purchase.
I have a 20+ year old Honda snowblower, HS828 with tracks. Should be mandatory where I live. 250+ inches of snow a year, you are out doing the driveway 3 times a day sometimes. Wish I would've started with the Honda and stuck with it since.
@@getin3949 tracks are the only way to go, and you'll like the leveling lever if your driveway has grass and gravel. You can easily set the exact height of the cut so that it's not cutting sods just blowing snow. I do a path to my neighbours shed for him across his lawn. Works great, and doesn't tear up the lawn.
Love the hydro-pro 36... only issue we have ever had with it is back to back days at sub zero where we had to take a heat gun to the engine block before we could get it to turn over
I bought my 1982 Ariens 20 inch 2.7 hp 2 stage 3 years ago off craigslist. Its the little engine that could. Starts on first pull and I don't even drain the gas out of it in summer, but always put seafoam in it when I get fuel. I just got to take it slow on the piles from the street plow.
I remember that snow storm, my girlfriend went into labor during that. We didn't have a snow blower so we had to borrow a tractor from our neighbor to plow our driveway so we could get to Brainerd. He was born April 2nd.
Ariens snowblower are beast my dad was using in the past an old 10 hp with almost no more protection on the carb etc.. this machine still choochin snow !!! they are tough reliable and start right on when you need it here in Quebec we know how its important :) lolll
Its just slightly used, of course it start on the first pull ! By the way the gas left in the engine is only a problem, if there is water in it, and its often due to the adding of ethanol or snow/ice/water that fall in the tank when opening the gas cap. Unless you don't use it for many many years. Then the trick was quick-start spray can. Never used it myself, but i seen my dad and grandfather start dirty old rusted engines. (owner of an aproximatively 15 to 20 years old Snow Blower that still work, even if i never checked the oil and its loosing some bolts each year)
I clear snow for a living in London, Ontario, Canada. I use only Toro and Poulan Pro single stage blowers (unless I need my Grasshopper 4-foot riding snowblower, which is also a great machine). There is no need for a steel cage around a single stage blower. The only need for steel is in the handles and for the auger shaft. I'm 50 and not necessarily in fantastic shape, but I can lift the blowers in and out of my pick up truck by myself with relative ease. Adding steel to the cage adds weight. And sliding a blower on its handles in and out of a truck (when you're clearing 60 properties per night) would cause the handles tremendous strain, likely breaking them within a short period of time.
Well, a small steel rod is also needed for the shaft for the wheels. However, none of the steel has to be extremely rigid, since single-stage blowers are weighted very well, and the 50-60 pounds is spread evenly between the wheels, the scraper bar and the rubber auger.
I bought an ARIENS 724 in 1996 and it still starts first pull first run every year Only problem I have is they made certain parts obsolete so if they break youre screwed Good thing its a tough machine
I really enjoy all the enthusiasm but most importantly is your honesty about everything you use in your business as well as the equipment you use for your own personal use as a home owner. Thank you! I'm wondering if you could do a review on 2 pieces of consumer grade snow removal equipment. #1) Toro SnowMaster 724 24 in. W 212 cc 2 - Stage Electric Start Snow Blower. This unit is build very similar to their single stage snow thower (which I already own the Toro PowerClear 518 18 in. W Single Stage Snow Blower. They both use rubber replacable spinning blades (which is supposed to help them spin faster) but is is really a 2 stage snow blower or a beefed up single stage snow blower? #2) SnowSport 180 snow plow (this unit fits either on a rear OR front receiver) it is much smaller to the ones you use in your contracting business but I thought I would at least ask and just see what you thought of them. Thanks again just for being the honest person that you are. Gary S Hansen Sr Cudahy, Wisconsin
Somthing id like to see is atv plows and wether they can be practical for companys, such as in between posts near buildings and walk ways.keep in mind you can get hydraulic systems with a V-plow, aside from pull plows and manual/winch operated ones. Toro grand stand with blade would be cool too 🤷♂️
For some strange reason, you can't purchase the Platinum 28 SHO with wheels, only tracks. That's odd, because you can get wheels on the 24 and 30 inch version of the same model.
Hey. How about the telling us about what type of cold gear you wear. Especially your boots and gloves. Keeping our feet warm and our hands protected means a lot to us guys who need to be out there on these cold days ahead.
Went to Home Depot today and walked past the blowers and let me tell you, ariens blowers are the only ones left that are built with metal and real welds All the other big 2 stages I saw had plastic chutes, unreal
Simplicity still makes a good solid blower and uses Briggs engines they own Briggs , imo nothing beats a commercial toro 2 stage bullet proof and moves the snow way better then ariens
Certain cub..not Home Depot models and hd toros have steel shoots. Some were just smart enough to put same parts on all models. Wouldnt call toros Bulletproof. My new 1028 hd is a lemon i swear..lol
A lot of machines have a small gap between impeller and the side wall. Seen videos where guys cut peices of mud flaps and screw or bolt them to the impeller blade. Prevents it from freezing up by scraping it clean every pass. Also greatly improves throwing distance. Many TH-cam video about this.
My grandpa and uncle couldn't figure out one day, why the snow blower wasn't starting. So they took the whole thing apart and investigated, clean the carb check belts, oil, chains, gears, check electric started. Ok put back all together, only to realize the key was missing from inside the house. Lesson learned.
I have Troy-Bilt, Deere and some Kubota on the heavier end of things. I DO like the (relatively) easy replacement of the impeller on the single stage blower even though I don't HAVE a single stage , yet that is. I may look at one for the deck and a few other areas where a 2-stage or plow would be overkill.
The pickup truck friendly loading bars should a must on any peice of power equipment over 60 pounds I aggravated a couple of broken ribs lifting a rented rototiller out of My truck this spring
Honestly, I'm impressed by the startup on yours. We have a 2001 John Deere (not sure of the model) that we bought used from a friend for 500 dollars, and that thing runs like a complete beast and has never failed us.
Right now I am looking to buy a new 2 stage snow blower. I have had a Toro that has last over 25 years. An actual comparison between 2 stage 24" or larger in snow and features would help out a lot..Thanks
9 year old Troy Bilt 2 stage 28 inch: small headlight and heated hand grips. Chews through frozen snowbanks. I can pack up an 8 inch snow with my plow then whip that blower out and blaze a trail right through it. When the town packs the street up against my driveway (dead end street) you need a skid steer to push it back because the bank gets too high and too solid for even a Mason dump. OR, I break out the blower and move it up, over and behind the bank. Our Ariens for the shop isn't great, but is better then just shoveling.
The snow shovel you had at the 14:50 minute mark. How do you like them have my eye on buying one curious what you think of them??? Thanks Plus I always use non Ethanol Gas for all my small engine stuff makes life so much easier I have not cleaned carbs in 10 years at least and they pop off first or second pull at start of season. Love the Two Stage with muti use tracks on the deck Cool.
I have an old (15 tease or so) track drive MTD that has been abused, but it still keeps going. The tracks would drive up stairs, push through the packed snow bank at the end of the driveway, and climb itself in and out of the shed with ease. I also (now) have a stone driveway and I can lift the front of the machine just off the ground (in a transport mode) where the tracks support the whole front so I don't suck up gravel. I even had an ice storm once which left about an inch of ice and this thing has so much traction it buckled the ice in front of it and just chewed it up and spit it out (that was at the last house with a paved driveway). I did 3 neighbors driveways that day and they were all amazed because their wheeled 2 stage blowers were useless.
One thing to note, the track drive is cumbersome to maneuver. Either rely on the forward and reverse speeds and the power steering (triggers to disengage either the left or right track) or give yourself a hernia trying to muscle it around. Even in "free wheel" mode the tracked unit takes at least twice the effort to maneuver over a same size wheel drive unit. It's a beast when you need it, but not worth the effort for less than 5 of so inches. I can shovel faster. When the snowpocalypse hits and my neighbors have to go out 3 times, I go out at the end and power through it. It can have snow over the top with the chute and engine pushing it out of the way and still push right through. It's an absolute beast!
This new track design looks good, ease of turning. But perhaps less traction than the traditional design? It doesn't look like those rear rollers do much for weight on the tracks.
What is your tire preference for the trucks? My uncle liked to buy the commercial tread get stuck H/T. Do you run the cheap A/t’s (hankook, chaparral, etc) or winter specific tires(Bridgestone, Goodyear, etc)? Also do you start plowing mid storm or wait until the whole event is over? I liked to try and keep the fast food chain places clean while it was snowing when I was on duty. Then start the large jobs once it was over. My uncles approach was wait til it’s over then go out.
I started buying Honda power equipment from weed eaters to mowers and never looked back. Once the Toro Briggs and Stration snowblower gives up the ghost ir will be replaced with a Honda model. Reliable and no downtime with Honda.
just a note on the single stage. The little hole on the paddle would be the wear indicator. Once you start cutting into the hole it's time to replace. Almost identical to the Toro Power Clear models. If Arien's has made it easier to work on the engine that's a win right there!
Hey Stan, I was wondering if you would do a review video for Ariens Power Brushers for snow removal or just using a power brush for snow removal in general?
Stanley, Another great video!!! Can't wait for the next one. Just wanted too tell you that you've inspired me too start making videos of my landscaping company!! What camera do you use?
I have an Arien's 2 stage that is a little over 10 years old and has a Techumse 9.5 hp engine on it. the paint shows the age for the entire unit but the engine fires first or second pull every time. That is even when its -20 out. Never had any issues with it and still runs perfect considering that not once have we ever prepped it for out of season storage
Can be done, a guy in town here has an old 2 stroke Detroit on the back of an old power wagon. It runs a power pack which feeds an 84" hydraulic blower on the front.
I for sure want the pro single stage. I have seen them at my dealer and they are heavy duty for sure . I only use single stage , much faster , lighter than dual stage. A light would have been nice on the single stage. I can throw snow like a champ with single stage, faster and cleaner than a dual stage any day of the week. Unless it’s super wet snow.
Have three of those pro 21’s. They work well the handle design would be nice if it reached my tail gate but it doesn’t. One more thing about the handle I wish it had a quick fold option because it takes up a little extra room on the truck. The only real problem I had with the snow blowers was the throttle would freeze a little and it would sound like it was going to though a rod but the blue flames were cool. One big perk of the pro 21 you can access the engine without taking the entire snow blower apart and you can adjust the tightness of your engagement handle.
A competer has a snow pusher blade mounted on the front of a zero turn radius mower for clearing shopping center sidewalks. I'd like to see what you have similar to this.
I wouldn't buy anything but an Ariens. Have had two in 40 years and never let me down. My Pro model for the last 6-7 NY winters can throw my snow on my neighbor's roof. I'm old and beat up and I need a snowblower that actually works.
I’d like to see a review of the Toro Grandstand Multiforce with its winter attachments. I know you’re a Grandstand fan and would like to get your opinion on the Multiforce. I heard from my local dealer they’re in the process of designing a snowblower attachment for it, and from what I’ve seen they currently still have the Boss Plow and a Power Broom.
Snowblower review with no snow? Makes no sense! It's like comparing lawn mowers on pavement.
lol...
I have an older Ariens that my dad picked up used from all auction sale 20 years ago. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles as the new machines, but it runs great and throws snow about a mile.
Bought this for my small back deck in the Eastern Sierra. th-cam.com/users/postUgkxoHYZbq5g9fkcAtinlTqstNlje-UQkCHN We get A LOT of HEAVY snow so I was a bit skeptical but it was worth it! After the first storm of the year this has exceeded expectations! It throws snow very well, even 10-12” + that said the more it piles up the harder it is to maneuver the machine. It is exceptionally light weight and overall exactly what I was looking for. If you have a large amount of snow and a lot of area to clear, you may consider something with a drive engine to help maneuverability, but for decks, second stories, roofs etc, you can’t beat the light weight to great snow throwing ratio. Side note, the chute rotator is a bit flimsy and it initially didn’t seem to work, after a few uses it seems to have loosened up.
All our guys run Simplicity 1022s for sidewalks. They've been used in 12-15inches of heavy snow and still chuck it 25-30 feet at almost walking speed. Super impressed with them for what they are!
Awesome ! Thanks for viewing !
Pretty good idea next time my truck needs work I'll just challenge my mechanic too fix it
Comparing snowblowers on grass is like comparing boats on sand. AMAZING
I just got one like you own and I am so glad you like it's performance. I should have nothing to worry about.
I've got a Honda snowblower on tracks that will be 28 years old, still works well and I wouldn't get one without tracks. Ran mine up stairs all the time to clear a landing in the middle of a wide set of stairs.
I’ve got a 1995 yard machines two stage blower, I always run it out of fuel carburetor and tank, change oil every year, spark plug every two years, always takes two pulls to start up and runs with plenty of power.
Just proves that if you take care of your equipment, it’ll take care of you.
Very true! Thanks for the comments
I run an ariens, bought one after I saw the pro guys up here run them. best unit I have ever ran.
I was going to say that the gentleman doesn't seem to enthusiastic then I understood why @ 8:28. And I respect that now. Also great vid.
Glad you like the video, thanks !
My son has a st350 ariens that is old as dirt has never failed us. Has cleared snow as high as 15 inches.
I live in Maine (plenty of snow and cold).. I bought a Toro Power Shift 624 in 1980 and I still use it every storm.. I also bought an Ariens lawnmower in 1980, 15 years ago I thought I blew the engine as oil ran out on the deck,, I pushed it out back and went and bought a Honda.. Anyway after sitting outside in the rain and snow for 15 years I noticed that the dipstick tube was pulled out (that was the reason for the oil spill and not a blown engine).. I drained the water and oil out added fresh oil and on the 15 year old gas it started and ran on the first pull.. I ran it several times for 10 to 15 minutes and changed the oil (about 3-4 times).. I is back in service.. I have always used non-ehanol gas in all my small engines.. Once in a while I will add 1 or 2 cap of Marvel Mystery Oil to the fuel - mostly on first run coming out of seasonal storage..
Nice Ariens commercial. I have a honda and it kicks butt. I've had it for 8 years now and it still starts like brand new. By the way I live in Manitoba Canada and we get minus 40.
In New England dual stage is a must
Where aren’t you?
That tailgate idea is awesome.
A man‘s man blowers, especially for long driveways and parking lots. Honda HS828 and HSS928A (both track models) truly. My 828 went for 23 yrs. of service, never used stabilizer, full tank for storage and always started within 2 pulls. Bought the 928 3 yrs ago, we’ll see in 20 yrs if it’s still going.
A man’s man. I don’t like the sound of that.😮
I have a Noma, for over 25 years and clean a lot of snow . the key to having a good dependable machine is to maintain it like the manufacturer recommends, I haven't changed one part since I bought it, most people abuse their equipment and blame the product.
Good maintenance is very important
I see at the end of the video you use the snow plow snow shovel. I started using them last year. Fastest way to clear 50-60 ft residential drives with 2-4 in. 2 guys with 4 foot wide shovels can clear a drive in under 5 min. They are also great for quickly tidying up drives. I love your videos.
I have the same exact tire 24" Ariens. Love it!! Omg tracked one looks amazing!! Climbing stairs!! And the pro model looks sweet! The handle design and one stage with rubber augers!! Yess
My Honda HS828 TAS has been climbing stairs since 1996 and is still going!
Honda makes the best snow blowers. I have one hs828 that's 25 years old and one hs928 that's almost 20 years old used commercially
Ariens - The King of Snow!
Lmao at 11:40 I lost it! Unbelievable it started up first pull! Sold. Lol the dude was like yeah duh! Lol great video Stan thanks for your efforts brother.
Appreciate you watching, thanks !
I have a 30 year old ariens snowblower still tackling mother nature up here in Michigan
I do have to say the guy from aierens doesnt really know what hes talking about
Right now, Simplicity makes the best American made snowblowers. Specifically the Signature Pro. The overall design of that unit has stayed the same since the early 80's. They all use Briggs, because their owned by Briggs now and their still cheaper than a honda but neck and neck with them. This is coming from someone who has used several different brand blowers. The signature Pro does not get wet inside the gearbox and slip, Ariens has had problems with that lately. The signature pro has trigger release easy turn, its better than auto turn because it is locked when going straight, on Ariens they don't lock and have a tendency to veer one way. Ariens says use poly skids to deal with it. Using a machine commercially, I need steel, poly will be worn out in one storm. The overall stance and build on the frame of simplicity is stronger. Look at the way their built. Ariens used to be a close competitor, but a design that was started in the early 80's and is still that way today wins, its Simplicity. Theirs never been a reason to mess with that design because it was engineered so well. Simplicity still uses a 4 blade impeller, it makes a difference.
lights, would love to see light bars, strobe lights ect
Thumbs up for the step climb alone. I really did not know the track type could do this! :o
Love my Ariens single and dual stage snowblowers
I always store my equipment w treated fuel in the carb (I never shut the fuel off and run them dry) It keeps all the gaskets and little rubber bits hydrated so they don't dry up and then upon first start, swell up and not seal correctly. Never had a problem, but I usually store for a 4-6 months at most, typically it's even less because if I notice something hasn't been started in awhile I'll fire it up just to get fuel circulating and then store it again if I need to. Always keep a full tank of treated fuel, keeps out condensation forming due to temperature changes in the shop. I'll even start up my old stand up jetskis in the middle of winter at least once just to get things moving, helps me keep my batteries fresh as well.
I have also read that treated fuel is only good for maybe 3 months? Winter is longer than that, and so is the summer. So is it just as easy as re-treating the fuel half way through the season or not?
HEY JAY, you've got QUESTIONS! Look below
jay b I have done the same thing for years at the recommendation of my repair shop who told me verbatim what you said. In 1999 I bought one of troybilts last series before they went to all cheap plastic construction and its built like a tank. I drain the old gas in october then refill with fresh treated gas. Then change oil and lube everything I can and fire it up. While we usually don't get a lot of snow in southern ohio, the day before a snowstorm IS NOT the time to go start it to make sure it works. Usually the snow we get is very heavy and there is no way I can move it with bilat hip replacements using a snow shovel. Plus I work at a level 1 trauma center and I have to be able to get out. That thing is a back saver and a lifesaver and I maintain it meticulously and keep it in my garage.
@Thor The Northern look for trufuel.
That doesn’t work.
I have a compact 22. 6 years old it still starts up and works amazing. It is very compact and never had problems, I have Never property winterized it (whoops) and after a few pulls each year it continues to fire up
We only use high octane fuel, never have any issues at all. First pull start is always impressive 👍
Yes great job on big red buttons makes things way more simple for any age.
Thank you !
I live in Western Newfoundland, we get 16 feet of snow per year. If you can beg borrow or steal the extra money, get a Honda. I have an HSS928 and it's incredible in the worst conditions. Can't say enough good things about it, no matter what the plow pushes up the Honda just knocks it down. My only regret is not buying the damn thing years ago.
Honda makes some really nice stuff, not sure if they still make them but they used to make a 4WD lawn tractor too which I heard were great machines, just expensive in the initial purchase.
I have a 20+ year old Honda snowblower, HS828 with tracks. Should be mandatory where I live. 250+ inches of snow a year, you are out doing the driveway 3 times a day sometimes. Wish I would've started with the Honda and stuck with it since.
Do you have the track model? I have a dirt, rock and grass driveway.
@@getin3949 tracks are the only way to go, and you'll like the leveling lever if your driveway has grass and gravel. You can easily set the exact height of the cut so that it's not cutting sods just blowing snow. I do a path to my neighbours shed for him across his lawn. Works great, and doesn't tear up the lawn.
I have an old John Deere snowblower and I love the thing
Stanley I have a 24" arens snow teck love the machine runs and blows like a champ
Love the hydro-pro 36... only issue we have ever had with it is back to back days at sub zero where we had to take a heat gun to the engine block before we could get it to turn over
I bought my 1982 Ariens 20 inch 2.7 hp 2 stage 3 years ago off craigslist. Its the little engine that could. Starts on first pull and I don't even drain the gas out of it in summer, but always put seafoam in it when I get fuel. I just got to take it slow on the piles from the street plow.
I remember that snow storm, my girlfriend went into labor during that. We didn't have a snow blower so we had to borrow a tractor from our neighbor to plow our driveway so we could get to Brainerd. He was born April 2nd.
Ariens snowblower are beast my dad was using in the past an old 10 hp with almost no more protection on the carb etc.. this machine still choochin snow !!! they are tough reliable and start right on when you need it here in Quebec we know how its important :) lolll
Its just slightly used, of course it start on the first pull !
By the way the gas left in the engine is only a problem, if there is water in it, and its often due to the adding of ethanol or snow/ice/water that fall in the tank when opening the gas cap.
Unless you don't use it for many many years. Then the trick was quick-start spray can. Never used it myself, but i seen my dad and grandfather start dirty old rusted engines.
(owner of an aproximatively 15 to 20 years old Snow Blower that still work, even if i never checked the oil and its loosing some bolts each year)
Honda snowblowers are supreme. Get what you pay for!
I clear snow for a living in London, Ontario, Canada. I use only Toro and Poulan Pro single stage blowers (unless I need my Grasshopper 4-foot riding snowblower, which is also a great machine). There is no need for a steel cage around a single stage blower. The only need for steel is in the handles and for the auger shaft. I'm 50 and not necessarily in fantastic shape, but I can lift the blowers in and out of my pick up truck by myself with relative ease. Adding steel to the cage adds weight. And sliding a blower on its handles in and out of a truck (when you're clearing 60 properties per night) would cause the handles tremendous strain, likely breaking them within a short period of time.
Well, a small steel rod is also needed for the shaft for the wheels. However, none of the steel has to be extremely rigid, since single-stage blowers are weighted very well, and the 50-60 pounds is spread evenly between the wheels, the scraper bar and the rubber auger.
Great video. I was wondering about the tracks.
I bought an ARIENS 724 in 1996 and it still starts first pull first run every year Only problem I have is they made certain parts obsolete so if they break youre screwed Good thing its a tough machine
My brother said something that's right. There are two types of homeowners in the winter. Those who have a snowblower and those who want a snowblower.
I love my one I have the home owners one great 5 yr old runs like a champ
I really enjoy all the enthusiasm but most importantly is your honesty about everything you use in your business as well as the equipment you use for your own personal use as a home owner.
Thank you!
I'm wondering if you could do a review on 2 pieces of consumer grade snow removal equipment.
#1) Toro SnowMaster 724 24 in. W 212 cc 2 - Stage Electric Start Snow Blower.
This unit is build very similar to their single stage snow thower (which I already own the Toro PowerClear 518 18 in. W Single Stage Snow Blower.
They both use rubber replacable spinning blades (which is supposed to help them spin faster) but is is really a 2 stage snow blower or a beefed up single stage snow blower?
#2) SnowSport 180 snow plow (this unit fits either on a rear OR front receiver) it is much smaller to the ones you use in your contracting business but I thought I would at least ask and just see what you thought of them.
Thanks again just for being the honest person that you are.
Gary S Hansen Sr
Cudahy, Wisconsin
Thanks so much Gary, good ideas!
Somthing id like to see is atv plows and wether they can be practical for companys, such as in between posts near buildings and walk ways.keep in mind you can get hydraulic systems with a V-plow, aside from pull plows and manual/winch operated ones.
Toro grand stand with blade would be cool too 🤷♂️
For some strange reason, you can't purchase the Platinum 28 SHO with wheels, only tracks. That's odd, because you can get wheels on the 24 and 30 inch version of the same model.
Hey. How about the telling us about what type of cold gear you wear. Especially your boots and gloves. Keeping our feet warm and our hands protected means a lot to us guys who need to be out there on these cold days ahead.
Good idea Robert, thanks !
Went to Home Depot today and walked past the blowers and let me tell you, ariens blowers are the only ones left that are built with metal and real welds All the other big 2 stages I saw had plastic chutes, unreal
Simplicity still makes a good solid blower and uses Briggs engines they own Briggs , imo nothing beats a commercial toro 2 stage bullet proof and moves the snow way better then ariens
Certain cub..not Home Depot models and hd toros have steel shoots. Some were just smart enough to put same parts on all models. Wouldnt call toros Bulletproof. My new 1028 hd is a lemon i swear..lol
A lot of machines have a small gap between impeller and the side wall. Seen videos where guys cut peices of mud flaps and screw or bolt them to the impeller blade. Prevents it from freezing up by scraping it clean every pass. Also greatly improves throwing distance. Many TH-cam video about this.
Great Job, such of powerful machine
My grandpa and uncle couldn't figure out one day, why the snow blower wasn't starting. So they took the whole thing apart and investigated, clean the carb check belts, oil, chains, gears, check electric started. Ok put back all together, only to realize the key was missing from inside the house. Lesson learned.
I have Troy-Bilt, Deere and some Kubota on the heavier end of things. I DO like the (relatively) easy replacement of the impeller on the single stage blower even though I don't HAVE a single stage , yet that is. I may look at one for the deck and a few other areas where a 2-stage or plow would be overkill.
I look forward to this videos. Great information.
Thanks for watching David
That sales man needs to work on his power cleans so it doesn't look like much effort to get that single stage into the truck. :D haha
Ariens, Cub Cadet, Simplicity, Husqvarna, Snapper, or Honda. Any of those brands you can't lose.
losted it at climbing the deck. Quality content right there
Here's a helpful hint use a leaf blower when it comes tight areas or your vehicles
The pickup truck friendly loading bars should a must on any peice of power equipment over 60 pounds I aggravated a couple of broken ribs lifting a rented rototiller out of My truck this spring
Honestly, I'm impressed by the startup on yours. We have a 2001 John Deere (not sure of the model) that we bought used from a friend for 500 dollars, and that thing runs like a complete beast and has never failed us.
Need to do a review on the Cub Cadet three stage snow blower vs a two stage. Thanks
Good suggestion, thank you !!
I've got a Cub Cadet 2x24". The machine is a beast.
Right now I am looking to buy a new 2 stage snow blower. I have had a Toro that has last over 25 years. An actual comparison between 2 stage 24" or larger in snow and features would help out a lot..Thanks
You're welcome, glad to be of help!
On older Troy Bilt the markings are in Egyptian hieroglyphs
9 year old Troy Bilt 2 stage 28 inch: small headlight and heated hand grips. Chews through frozen snowbanks. I can pack up an 8 inch snow with my plow then whip that blower out and blaze a trail right through it. When the town packs the street up against my driveway (dead end street) you need a skid steer to push it back because the bank gets too high and too solid for even a Mason dump. OR, I break out the blower and move it up, over and behind the bank. Our Ariens for the shop isn't great, but is better then just shoveling.
I have an Ariens SHO It shoots the snow into the next state I love it. Only downside is that it was 1,100 dollars, but great Machine.
The snow shovel you had at the 14:50 minute mark. How do you like them have my eye on buying one curious what you think of them??? Thanks Plus I always use non Ethanol Gas for all my small engine stuff makes life so much easier I have not cleaned carbs in 10 years at least and they pop off first or second pull at start of season. Love the Two Stage with muti use tracks on the deck Cool.
We have lots of those shovels amazing in light snow where your just pushing. However if you even need to scoop they are worthless.
I have an old (15 tease or so) track drive MTD that has been abused, but it still keeps going. The tracks would drive up stairs, push through the packed snow bank at the end of the driveway, and climb itself in and out of the shed with ease. I also (now) have a stone driveway and I can lift the front of the machine just off the ground (in a transport mode) where the tracks support the whole front so I don't suck up gravel. I even had an ice storm once which left about an inch of ice and this thing has so much traction it buckled the ice in front of it and just chewed it up and spit it out (that was at the last house with a paved driveway). I did 3 neighbors driveways that day and they were all amazed because their wheeled 2 stage blowers were useless.
One thing to note, the track drive is cumbersome to maneuver. Either rely on the forward and reverse speeds and the power steering (triggers to disengage either the left or right track) or give yourself a hernia trying to muscle it around. Even in "free wheel" mode the tracked unit takes at least twice the effort to maneuver over a same size wheel drive unit. It's a beast when you need it, but not worth the effort for less than 5 of so inches. I can shovel faster. When the snowpocalypse hits and my neighbors have to go out 3 times, I go out at the end and power through it. It can have snow over the top with the chute and engine pushing it out of the way and still push right through. It's an absolute beast!
Haha awesome I just bought a husqvarna st 430 T can't wait to try it out
Love that handle idea
This new track design looks good, ease of turning. But perhaps less traction than the traditional design? It doesn't look like those rear rollers do much for weight on the tracks.
What is your tire preference for the trucks? My uncle liked to buy the commercial tread get stuck H/T. Do you run the cheap A/t’s (hankook, chaparral, etc) or winter specific tires(Bridgestone, Goodyear, etc)?
Also do you start plowing mid storm or wait until the whole event is over? I liked to try and keep the fast food chain places clean while it was snowing when I was on duty. Then start the large jobs once it was over. My uncles approach was wait til it’s over then go out.
Cool handle design!
I started buying Honda power equipment from weed eaters to mowers and never looked back. Once the Toro Briggs and Stration snowblower gives up the ghost ir will be replaced with a Honda model. Reliable and no downtime with Honda.
Add poly skids to your blower . will help the auto turn a lot .
just a note on the single stage. The little hole on the paddle would be the wear indicator. Once you start cutting into the hole it's time to replace. Almost identical to the Toro Power Clear models. If Arien's has made it easier to work on the engine that's a win right there!
Hey Stan,
I was wondering if you would do a review video for Ariens Power Brushers for snow removal or just using a power brush for snow removal in general?
Good idea, thanks Spencer!
Which of the two stages work best thru iced berms and which works best with heavy wet snow maybe even slush
What makes it professional......ummm I dont know the cup holder
Skid loader r4 tires vs. skid loader snow tires. Would be interesting to see the pros and cons of both types of tires.
I’d love to see what work wear you guys use to stay warm in the cold.
And what lights you guys use on the snow blowers.
Stanley, Another great video!!! Can't wait for the next one. Just wanted too tell you that you've inspired me too start making videos of my landscaping company!! What camera do you use?
im convinced this man could start a rock....
I would like to see a blower mounted on the front of an ATV, like the Rammy blower from Finland for example..
I have an Arien's 2 stage that is a little over 10 years old and has a Techumse 9.5 hp engine on it. the paint shows the age for the entire unit but the engine fires first or second pull every time. That is even when its -20 out. Never had any issues with it and still runs perfect considering that not once have we ever prepped it for out of season storage
How much snow do you need to use a stage 2 snow blower?
how about a truck mounted snow blower?
Now that would be a monster!
@@nicholasierubino8223 Just think in the cab no snow in the face and warm and dry.
Can be done, a guy in town here has an old 2 stroke Detroit on the back of an old power wagon. It runs a power pack which feeds an 84" hydraulic blower on the front.
I for sure want the pro single stage. I have seen them at my dealer and they are heavy duty for sure . I only use single stage , much faster , lighter than dual stage. A light would have been nice on the single stage. I can throw snow like a champ with single stage, faster and cleaner than a dual stage any day of the week. Unless it’s super wet snow.
Have three of those pro 21’s. They work well the handle design would be nice if it reached my tail gate but it doesn’t. One more thing about the handle I wish it had a quick fold option because it takes up a little extra room on the truck. The only real problem I had with the snow blowers was the throttle would freeze a little and it would sound like it was going to though a rod but the blue flames were cool. One big perk of the pro 21 you can access the engine without taking the entire snow blower apart and you can adjust the tightness of your engagement handle.
im looking at the new 2018 14hp 34'' DR snowblower wich not bad for $1,599
@@michaelmactavish1728 I'm looking at the Toro 721, any opinion on this model?
@@jr9764 there more exspensive like honda here wich 13hp 32'' they want $4,599 wich DR 14hp 34'' is $1,599 on sale plus free month home trial
A competer has a snow pusher blade mounted on the front of a zero turn radius mower for clearing shopping center sidewalks. I'd like to see what you have similar to this.
I love those snow I almost cry when I thought I broke mines
Tracks. Stair climbing. Soft replaceable blades. I likeee
I honestly cannot believe how easy it climbed your stairs what the hell!!!!
Shovels? It sounds like a dumb question but what are the best shovels for an operation like yours
I wouldn't buy anything but an Ariens. Have had two in 40 years and never let me down. My Pro model for the last 6-7 NY winters can throw my snow on my neighbor's roof. I'm old and beat up and I need a snowblower that actually works.
Did he ever return to fix those deck boards ?
I don't know anything about snowblowers but most other style equipment don't have primer bulbs?
I’d like to see a review of the Toro Grandstand Multiforce with its winter attachments. I know you’re a Grandstand fan and would like to get your opinion on the Multiforce. I heard from my local dealer they’re in the process of designing a snowblower attachment for it, and from what I’ve seen they currently still have the Boss Plow and a Power Broom.