Feel free to leave a comment below. (I do moderate the comments so it may not show up right away) Thanks for watching and please Subscribe! If you would like me to help you find the best snowblower for you please tell me where you live, what types of surface you want to clear, and how much area you want to clear
Another thing to consider when choosing a blower is: Do you really want or need to blow snow 45-60 feet? If you have a small-ish lot, and/or close neighbors, you will end up either blowing the snow all over their properties, or always "choking down" the chute deflector to keep it closer. Thanks for always showing every working aspect of all the machines you review, Paul. No one does it better.
I have a Cub Cadet 2x24" I bought 3 yrs ago. It works great here in Colorado. Just used it today in our big 2ft snow storm. It works great! Was able to clear my 3 stall driveway with aplrox 6-8 inches and sidewalks in about 30 minutes. When I got down to the slush, I had to spray the shute with silicone. I was able to move it easier and it didn't clog. Overall it's a great machine capable of moving a lot of snow. It doesn't get clogged as long as you keep it slow and steady on the deep stuff.
I borrowed this snowblower from my neighbour since one of my shear pins broke for the first time on my 2007 Ariens Deluxe 28 and I didn't have it handy at the moment. First thing I noticed is how weak the discharge of the snow is, I understand you dont want to send the snow 40ft out but with the chute fully up, I could barely send it 10ft away whereas my Ariens would throw that at least 20ft out with the same angle. Secondly, this machine is heavy and harder to move around. And lastly, he had the track version, not wheel version and it's a total pain to turn around. Forward speed is good, reverse speed is sloooooooow. Shear pins on this Cub Cadet model are the weak brass ones with metal clips. My Ariens' are the bigger 5/16" x 2" with bolt and it's the first time I break one in 10 years. So there's that to think about too.
Pretty good machine to throw that slop. My old Snapper would struggle to throw this slop. My new to me Ariens 1128 from 2004 throws it like nobody's business.
Its a solid machine for the price. Would've came in handy yesterday in Chicago I had 11 inches of heavy snow and my single stage did it.. but what a workout it was
All of your vids are full of the best, honest info Paul. I do actually own the Troy-Built Storm 30" with the 6 augers. I know that you say they clog up, but when treated with a ceramic coating, they do just fine in wet snow. (Not slush). Like you say, these MTD machines throw about 25-35', but quite honestly that is almost too far for my needs sometimes. I was thinking of adding the impeller kit to mine, but I really find that I do not need it. Just my 2 pennies........ Keep up the GREAT work Paul!!
Thanks for the feedback. I've had no luck with the 30 inch models with the 12 inch auger. I've had the Troy-Bilt, Craftsman and Yard Machines to review over the last 10 years. But - Up in Wisconsin where I lived at the time they get a lot more snow.
I have the 42" 3 stage snow blower attachment for my Cub Cadet XT1 Lawn Tractor. Bought it 3 years ago, used it once haven't had enough snow since LOL. Scared the storms away I guess.
Great video Paul. If a snow blower can blow that kind of wet heavy snow without clogging, it will handle the fluffy light stuff with ease. From all the research and reviews I have observed, the three stage machines are not worth the extra cost and don't seem to be as efficient as a quality two stage 14 in auger and impeller machine. As far as blowing distance goes. One can adjust the angle on the shoot to control the desired distance. Or just lower the RPM for less trajectory. For my property, a machine that can blow snow a longer distance is a bonus. That is, if the wind direction will cooperate. Always enjoy your non bias and informative reviews.
Several reviewers on Home Depot's website said that the wheels fell off their machine. The pictures they posted would have me wait until Cub Cadet sorts out the problem before I purchased this machine.
I've used the DIY fix, using a rubber piece attached to each impeller arm on the last few snowblowers. It does wonders with wet snow, even puddles of slushy stuff providing you have enough power in the engine. Highly recommend doing it if you often get wet snow and need to clear more than just your own driveway.
So you buy a new snow blower and then have to modify it to make it work right? While this "mod" is popular with mechanically inclined people over on the snowblower forums, most people nowadays don't have the tools or technical expertise to do this correctly. They prefer to buy something that works "right out of the box."
Hey Paul This machine runs nice brand new. It’s a heavy machine that utilizes too many cable to operate its functions chute control up , down , swing right , swing left. Then turn right and turn left. Overkill on cables , weak cheap plastic components. They improved some of its functions from several years ago. One being the chute control handle What a horror story . As a small engine tech and who has done a lot of repairs, research on equipment/machines myself I wouldn’t even recommend this machine.
You may have this model confused with the older Cub Cadets that had the 4-way joystick. This model only has one more cable than the Toro/Ariens machines. It uses two for the deflector. All the other cables you mentioned have been replaced with a crank. (And yes, the new Craftsmans are still using that horrible joystick) Even the shifter cable has been replaced with a heavy steel rod. If you want to get a closer look at this machine check out my walk-around video here: th-cam.com/video/HoItL4VYb3o/w-d-xo.html If you want a rats nest of cables have you seen the current Husqvarna's?
Hey Paul Thank you for the update. I’m going to check it out for people that ask me about certain snowblower ms and which ones to look at purchasing. Excellent video tutorial
I have noticed the same thing on my year old Cub Cadet 2X 26, it always moves the snow either wet or fluffy, and when the snow is lighter .. it really throws a long distance. I would buy one again ... my only complaint, as on so many new machines, I wish the LED lights gave off more heat to melt snow on the lenses. They are bright but cool. It's not just here .. my vehicle LEDs do the same thing. thanks.
I ended up buying this snowblower a couple weeks ago, and I’m pretty impressed. Two of my immediate neighbors have Ariens Deluxe models (28 and 24), and they work great - they let me try them out. But, I loved the larger tires and beefier frame on the MAX Cub. As you mentioned, it does lag slightly behind the Ariens in terms of throwing distance, but the Cub shoots a denser, more accurate stream of wet snow. I’m not a huge fan of the plastic housing around the controls (just not much on plastic, in general), but don’t let the plastic trim fool you, folks - the machine is incredibly heavy and feels like a tank. Another thing I actually like about it better is the manual directional controls; just feels crisper. The shoot crank utilizes a stiff cable instead of a rigid piece of round stock. I think I like the rigid stock a little better; since it doesn’t flex, the response time is a bit quicker. Heated grips are comparable. The 357cc engine hasn’t bogged down on me at all so far, even when pushing 12”+ of snow in 3rd and 4th.
i have the toro 860 max. when i use it tomorrow morning, i will have at least 24 inches. we will see how that goes. keep up the video's. From upstate NY, out.
Your snowblower is the same machine as the Troy-Bilt 2860. I had one around here for many years and it is a great "smaller" machine. If you want to see the difference between your snowblower and this Cub Cadet watch this video; th-cam.com/video/xanW6hSzqJQ/w-d-xo.html (The Cub Cadet is basically the 30 inch version of the Arctic Storm)
Love your vid's......re. your comment about the Compact 24 and this snow ( I am about to purchase a Compact next week - live in Pt Huron Michigan ). Is there any way to operate the Compact to handle snow like this? I am think drive slower/take smaller cuts etc.
Yes, My neighbor has a new Compact 24. It took him a while to make the first pass down his sidewalk but once he got that done he was able to make 1/2 passes and get this heavy slop cleared. He didn't clog the snowblower once.
I would think that by the machine not throwing the snow as far, it would also lessen the possibility of launching rocks through car and house windows LOL.
Greetings Paul, I would like to politely request your help and thank you in advance for any time you are able to spend helping with some expert advice. We are currently in the market for a new blower to replace an old and dying single-stage Toro that has honestly never worked well even when it ran well. We have been seriously looking Cub Cadet and their 3x line. Our current location is only around 800 ft² of driveway + sidewalks but we are building a home and the new driveway area will be over 4x that including a large 30'x60' pad in front of the garage with over 100 ft of driveway to the curb + walking paths. We get primarily 4-8" snows (of all types, but typically moderately wet) with the rare deep snow of 1-1.5' and have always had a problem with early AM plows leaving us locked in until we dig out with shovels. I don't know if the plow problem will be as bad at the new place in a year but it is motivating our higher end selection to avoid that backbreaking work. Still, I'm frankly a bit lost as to whether I want or even need a big 30"+ wide blower, but more so confused about the differences between something like a 30" HD and the MAX or PRO (which are only available in 30" models). I know the center augur is larger in the later two models but I have no idea how much difference that even makes to begin assessing if the extra price is worth it. That doesn't even get into things like track vs wheel or standard vs hydro-static transmission or if the 3x is even worth the extra cash compared to the 2x line in terms of actually getting through the packed snow and ice. What we really want is the machine that will do the job reliably and never leave us struggling with shovels. What we really don't want, is to pay for a bunch of fancy overpriced features that make no real difference when it comes to actually removing snow and ultimately only add to the maintenance costs of the machine over its lifetime. Thanks again for any time you are able to spend assisting us! PS - Thank you for your website as well, it has been a wonderful resource!
Well, The cub Cadet snowblowers are good machines but you have a lot of area to clear so I am going to suggest a couple of true commercial snowblowers. These snowblowers are built to handle all the snow you get and the large area you will have to clear. They will clear the 4-8 inch snows quickly and get the deeper snows done - even if the snow is very wet and heavy. I strongly recommend buying the Ariens and Toro's through your local dealers. Basic Commercial Snowblower: Ariens Pro 28. 6-speed friction disk. Model 926077 Basic with hydro: Ariens Pro 28 Hydro. Model 926068 Hydro and Tracks Ariens Pro Hydro RapidTrak Model 926078 Ariens also has these available in the 32 inch size. Toro also has professional 6-speed friction disk snowblowers in the 28 and 32 inch size. Finally, Toro has a high-end residential model that will work quite well. If you are on tight budget this snowblower will give you 10 plus years of use. www.toro.com/en/homeowner/snow-blowers/power-max-hd-1232-ohxe-38842
Hi Paul, great review. Have you ever tested a 3x30HD ? How well does it work vs a 2x ? I have a 14 cars driveway with a lot of snow here, all gravel, would you go Cub Cadet 3x, Ariens or Toro? My goal is to be able to steer easily, be able to take 15+ inch of snow, and wouldn’t mind taking gravel… Thanks
Yes I have and I don't like the Cub Cadet 3-stage. The 3x30HD will clear snow faster than a Cub Cadet 2X30HD but it won't clear snow faster than the 2X30 MAX in this video. This 2X30 MAX uses a 14 inch impeller and a front auger that aerates the snow and makes it easier to move through the snowblower. The 3x30HD only has a 12 inch impeller and doesn't aerate the snow. Besides the 3x30HD just has too many moving parts spinning at high speeds. (It splatters 4-8 inches of snow all over the place) Residential - I suggest the Ariens Platinum 30 SHO or the Toro 1030. Commercial - If you want a heavy-duty snowblower I recommend the Ariens RapidTrack Pro or the Toro 1428. (I love the Ariens RapidTrack Pro for gravel but it is $3000)
Paul - appreciate the videos. I had long written off MTD but you convinced me to reconsider them. How does the 30 MAX compare to the 2X 30 Pro? I have a 100 foot 2 car wide driveway and deal with Nor'Easters and wet, heavy snow. I was considering either the Toro 1428 OHXE or the Ariens Professional 28. Curious what your thoughts are.
The Pro has a larger engine and front headlight. That's the only difference I can see. You get what you pay for at the Pro level. The Toro will throw the farthest The Ariens will throw the fastest (more snow) and almost as far as the Toro. The Ariens handles heavy/wet snow the best. The Cub Cadet 2X 30 Pro won't throw as far and has the least capacity of the three but it is the best Cub Cadet has to offer - better overall than the 3X versions. It's a good solid snowthrower for the price.
They are not available down here in the U.S. so I can't get one easily. That said, Owners love them. They are heavy, tracked and that gives them a lot of traction. They have hydrostatic transmissions and electric chute. They climb stairs better than you do. They seem to last forever. Negatives. They have no steering. With solid axle tracks they are a real pain to turn on pavement - not so bad if there is snow. Most guys don't do 180s with them - they go forward and back all the way up to make the next pass. I don't quite understand all the details - but models like the 624J are built in China but there are others made in Japan. The owners favor the made in Japan models.
Why not just buy a snowblower that was designed and built right the first time? For the price and labor to install a "kit" you could move up and have the right one if you need to throw snow farther.
The engine on the Cub Cadet is the same PowerMore engine MTD uses on all their snowblowers. It has proven very reliable BUT - it has no fuel shutoff valve so fuel stays in the carb all the time. So, you MUST use a fuel stabilizer in the fuel and DON'T use fuel more than 30 days old or it could potentially gum up the carb and it won't start.
Paul, I bought the Toro 928 in 2019 and used it for the first time yesterday and again today. Starts with 1-2 pulls from cold and throws snow like a beast. Even today after the plows covered our driveway and then the rain came. There is one issue I hope you can help with. In reverse it makes a clunking sound. Clunk-clunk-clunk steady and rhythmic but only in reverse. Can you point me to any videos that can help me diagnose the issue please?
The one I have made the same noise when it was new. It's not a problem and my Toro dealer and I could never find out why it made that noise. The noise went away after I used the 928 a couple of times. We even pulled the trans case covers and couldn't figure it out.
@@PaulSikkema I found this noise is caused by Toro leaving the chain from the friction wheel drive to the axel to loose. When going in reverse the chain is so loose it grabs the small top gear teeth and snaps loose due to force. I noticed this while doing an inspection of the bearing retainer clips on the axel (per your recommendation from a previous post) as I have a tolerance issue there. I also have the clunk, clunk that is mostly in reverse (due to the chain traveling backward over the gear where the slack is against the gear). Can actually notice the gear is starting to wear due to loose chain. When I roll the wheels back the friction from the chain and the gear grabbing sends the vibration or clunk-clunk to the friction disk axel making it sound worse. And like you said in one of my previous questions. There is no adjustment for this, other than cut a link off. Mine is probably to the point a hole link could be taken out and there would still be 1/4" play, plenty not to seize up. All other videos I have seen show the chains all being really loose on these and after actually see it clunk-clunk when turning the wheels reverse with the service cover off I think this is the answer Toro is ignoring. I like Toro and was (am) actually a Wheelhorse owner but this does not sound right!
@@fierceflyer5 Check the tension of your drive chain when you have a chance. Just take off the back service plate, 4 screws. As I mentioned above, mine is very loose and grabs the gear teeth in reverse causing the clunk!
A year ago I inherited an almost new 2X24 Cub Cadet...from one time being a builder of quality machinery, to being bought by MTD and becoming a cheaply built gas powered garbage can. After two snowfalls I sold the pitiful thing and started up my 30 year old Honda HS80...don't be fooled by the name, these are not the Cub Cadet blowers your father knew.
I have to argue on this one. The 2X24 has had many improvements over the last 20 years. Larger engine, better parts inside, more reliable controls and overall better reliability than your fathers old 326 or 328. That said, you get what you pay for most of the time with American made snowblowers. The 2X24 was one-third the price of you HS80 so I would expect the Honda to be a much better machine.
Did you get hit hard with snow a week or so ago? We got a good 7 inches near Ottawa last Sunday night. My old Craftsman/Husqvarna 27 had no issues with it
You can find the current price and order it here: www.pjatr.com/t/8-12365-5755-199030?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cubcadet.com%2Fen_US%2Fsnow-blowers%2F2x-30inch-max-snow-blower%25C2%25A0%2F31AH8DVS710.html%23start%3D4
Hello, I am torn between Ariens Platinum 24 SHO (24") 369cc Two-Stage Snow Blower w/ EFI Engine Model: 921053 And this Cub Cadet 2X (30") 357cc Two-Stage Snow Blower w/ EFI Engine Model: 31AH5GVO71 Which is the better choice?
Just so you know the Cub Cadet EFI is a 12 inch impeller, six flight auger snowblower. It does not have near the capacity of the model in this video. If you get heavy, wet snow you won't like it at all. It also does not have the capacity of the Ariens Platinum 24 SHO. This Ariens is one of the biggest, baddest snowblowers available for it's size. If you need the larger width look at the Ariens Deluxe 30 EFI.
I understand. In this case though the street is a snow route and only the center has been cleared. (In the video the curb is only 5 feet from where I'm working) Later that day the city came through and actually cleared the street - and put all that slush right back on the sidewalk...
They probably do but I have a feeling they are too busy ticketing cars that are parked along the ambulance routes (this is one of the routes) Just so you know - after this video I got the loader tractor and opened up the driveways of the people older than me all this street. I also cleaned up after the snowplows who left a bigger mess than I did.
Good point! What I didn't show in this video is I took the farm tractor and used it to clean back to the curb along the entire street. The city left almost 6 feet along the curb and no one could park there.
You are one of those who either shovels or snow blows and throws the snow into the plowed road. Don't do that. Geez, Show some respect. Don't be a jerk.
What you didn't see is after the snowplows came through (it's an ambulance route) I took my loader tractor and cleaned the whole street back to the curb. They only clean the travel lanes on this street and never clean the parking spots.
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Feel free to leave a comment below. (I do moderate the comments so it may not show up right away) Thanks for watching and please Subscribe!
If you would like me to help you find the best snowblower for you please tell me where you live, what types of surface you want to clear, and how much area you want to clear
Thats interesting to know.
I have an old Toro 1028 HD with tecumseh engine. Any type of snow you tackle, no problem, it never clogs.
Another thing to consider when choosing a blower is: Do you really want or need to blow snow 45-60 feet?
If you have a small-ish lot, and/or close neighbors, you will end up either blowing the snow all over their properties, or always "choking down" the chute deflector to keep it closer.
Thanks for always showing every working aspect of all the machines you review, Paul. No one does it better.
I have a Cub Cadet 2x24" I bought 3 yrs ago. It works great here in Colorado. Just used it today in our big 2ft snow storm. It works great! Was able to clear my 3 stall driveway with aplrox 6-8 inches and sidewalks in about 30 minutes.
When I got down to the slush, I had to spray the shute with silicone. I was able to move it easier and it didn't clog. Overall it's a great machine capable of moving a lot of snow. It doesn't get clogged as long as you keep it slow and steady on the deep stuff.
I borrowed this snowblower from my neighbour since one of my shear pins broke for the first time on my 2007 Ariens Deluxe 28 and I didn't have it handy at the moment.
First thing I noticed is how weak the discharge of the snow is, I understand you dont want to send the snow 40ft out but with the chute fully up, I could barely send it 10ft away whereas my Ariens would throw that at least 20ft out with the same angle. Secondly, this machine is heavy and harder to move around. And lastly, he had the track version, not wheel version and it's a total pain to turn around. Forward speed is good, reverse speed is sloooooooow. Shear pins on this Cub Cadet model are the weak brass ones with metal clips. My Ariens' are the bigger 5/16" x 2" with bolt and it's the first time I break one in 10 years. So there's that to think about too.
Pretty good machine to throw that slop. My old Snapper would struggle to throw this slop. My new to me Ariens 1128 from 2004 throws it like nobody's business.
I have a Toro 1128 Power Max OXE, which throws everything!
Its a solid machine for the price. Would've came in handy yesterday in Chicago I had 11 inches of heavy snow and my single stage did it.. but what a workout it was
All of your vids are full of the best, honest info Paul.
I do actually own the Troy-Built Storm 30" with the 6 augers. I know that you say they clog up, but when treated with a ceramic coating, they do just fine in wet snow. (Not slush).
Like you say, these MTD machines throw about 25-35', but quite honestly that is almost too far for my needs sometimes.
I was thinking of adding the impeller kit to mine, but I really find that I do not need it.
Just my 2 pennies........ Keep up the GREAT work Paul!!
Thanks for the feedback. I've had no luck with the 30 inch models with the 12 inch auger. I've had the Troy-Bilt, Craftsman and Yard Machines to review over the last 10 years. But - Up in Wisconsin where I lived at the time they get a lot more snow.
Ceramic coating,nice idea,thanks...
I have the 42" 3 stage snow blower attachment for my Cub Cadet XT1 Lawn Tractor. Bought it 3 years ago, used it once haven't had enough snow since LOL. Scared the storms away I guess.
Great video Paul. If a snow blower can blow that kind of wet heavy snow without clogging, it will handle the fluffy light stuff with ease. From all the research and reviews I have observed, the three stage machines are not worth the extra cost and don't seem to be as efficient as a quality two stage 14 in auger and impeller machine. As far as blowing distance goes. One can adjust the angle on the shoot to control the desired distance. Or just lower the RPM for less trajectory. For my property, a machine that can blow snow a longer distance is a bonus. That is, if the wind direction will cooperate. Always enjoy your non bias and informative reviews.
Several reviewers on Home Depot's website said that the wheels fell off their machine. The pictures they posted would have me wait until Cub Cadet sorts out the problem before I purchased this machine.
I've used the DIY fix, using a rubber piece attached to each impeller arm on the last few snowblowers. It does wonders with wet snow, even puddles of slushy stuff providing you have enough power in the engine. Highly recommend doing it if you often get wet snow and need to clear more than just your own driveway.
So you buy a new snow blower and then have to modify it to make it work right? While this "mod" is popular with mechanically inclined people over on the snowblower forums, most people nowadays don't have the tools or technical expertise to do this correctly. They prefer to buy something that works "right out of the box."
Hey Paul This machine runs nice brand new. It’s a heavy machine that utilizes too many cable to operate its functions chute control up , down , swing right , swing left. Then turn right and turn left. Overkill on cables , weak cheap plastic components. They improved some of its functions from several years ago. One being the chute control handle What a horror story . As a small engine tech and who has done a lot of repairs, research on equipment/machines myself I wouldn’t even recommend this machine.
You may have this model confused with the older Cub Cadets that had the 4-way joystick. This model only has one more cable than the Toro/Ariens machines. It uses two for the deflector. All the other cables you mentioned have been replaced with a crank. (And yes, the new Craftsmans are still using that horrible joystick)
Even the shifter cable has been replaced with a heavy steel rod. If you want to get a closer look at this machine check out my walk-around video here: th-cam.com/video/HoItL4VYb3o/w-d-xo.html
If you want a rats nest of cables have you seen the current Husqvarna's?
Hey Paul Thank you for the update. I’m going to check it out for people that ask me about certain snowblower ms and which ones to look at purchasing. Excellent video tutorial
Nice job, Paul. Definitely agree that the Toro throws much harder!
A Toro? Are you high?
I have noticed the same thing on my year old Cub Cadet 2X 26, it always moves the snow either wet or fluffy, and when the snow is lighter ..
it really throws a long distance. I would buy one again ... my only complaint, as on so many new machines, I wish the LED lights gave off more heat to melt snow on the lenses. They are bright but cool. It's not just here .. my vehicle LEDs do the same thing. thanks.
MTD makes good and tuff snowblower and in the wet stuff, you can`t expect to throw that slop 40 ft. Great video Paul as usual
I ended up buying this snowblower a couple weeks ago, and I’m pretty impressed. Two of my immediate neighbors have Ariens Deluxe models (28 and 24), and they work great - they let me try them out. But, I loved the larger tires and beefier frame on the MAX Cub. As you mentioned, it does lag slightly behind the Ariens in terms of throwing distance, but the Cub shoots a denser, more accurate stream of wet snow. I’m not a huge fan of the plastic housing around the controls (just not much on plastic, in general), but don’t let the plastic trim fool you, folks - the machine is incredibly heavy and feels like a tank. Another thing I actually like about it better is the manual directional controls; just feels crisper. The shoot crank utilizes a stiff cable instead of a rigid piece of round stock. I think I like the rigid stock a little better; since it doesn’t flex, the response time is a bit quicker. Heated grips are comparable. The 357cc engine hasn’t bogged down on me at all so far, even when pushing 12”+ of snow in 3rd and 4th.
Man that thing does a great job, it just launches the snow
With 357cc it's really POWERFUL...
Another informative video! Thanks Paul!
i have the toro 860 max. when i use it tomorrow morning, i will have at least 24 inches. we will see how that goes.
keep up the video's. From upstate NY, out.
How did you make out???
not dissing the cub cadet....but my craftsman sb470 does just fine in wet snow as well and it was less expensive
Your snowblower is the same machine as the Troy-Bilt 2860. I had one around here for many years and it is a great "smaller" machine. If you want to see the difference between your snowblower and this Cub Cadet watch this video; th-cam.com/video/xanW6hSzqJQ/w-d-xo.html
(The Cub Cadet is basically the 30 inch version of the Arctic Storm)
Thank you for the review! I felt like the comment about the compact 24 was directly for me! Ha Ha Ha!
Cheers
I like the Compact - especially since it now has AutoTurn. That said, It's designed for "normal" midwest snow - not this slop.
Great review and demonstration. Thanks for sharing.
Love your vid's......re. your comment about the Compact 24 and this snow ( I am about to purchase a Compact next week - live in Pt Huron Michigan ). Is there any way to operate the Compact to handle snow like this? I am think drive slower/take smaller cuts etc.
Yes, My neighbor has a new Compact 24. It took him a while to make the first pass down his sidewalk but once he got that done he was able to make 1/2 passes and get this heavy slop cleared. He didn't clog the snowblower once.
@@PaulSikkema thanks Paul
I would think that by the machine not throwing the snow as far, it would also lessen the possibility of launching rocks through car and house windows LOL.
Good Point!
Greetings Paul,
I would like to politely request your help and thank you in advance for any time you are able to spend helping with some expert advice.
We are currently in the market for a new blower to replace an old and dying single-stage Toro that has honestly never worked well even when it ran well.
We have been seriously looking Cub Cadet and their 3x line. Our current location is only around 800 ft² of driveway + sidewalks but we are building a home and the new driveway area will be over 4x that including a large 30'x60' pad in front of the garage with over 100 ft of driveway to the curb + walking paths.
We get primarily 4-8" snows (of all types, but typically moderately wet) with the rare deep snow of 1-1.5' and have always had a problem with early AM plows leaving us locked in until we dig out with shovels. I don't know if the plow problem will be as bad at the new place in a year but it is motivating our higher end selection to avoid that backbreaking work.
Still, I'm frankly a bit lost as to whether I want or even need a big 30"+ wide blower, but more so confused about the differences between something like a 30" HD and the MAX or PRO (which are only available in 30" models). I know the center augur is larger in the later two models but I have no idea how much difference that even makes to begin assessing if the extra price is worth it.
That doesn't even get into things like track vs wheel or standard vs hydro-static transmission or if the 3x is even worth the extra cash compared to the 2x line in terms of actually getting through the packed snow and ice.
What we really want is the machine that will do the job reliably and never leave us struggling with shovels. What we really don't want, is to pay for a bunch of fancy overpriced features that make no real difference when it comes to actually removing snow and ultimately only add to the maintenance costs of the machine over its lifetime.
Thanks again for any time you are able to spend assisting us!
PS - Thank you for your website as well, it has been a wonderful resource!
Well, The cub Cadet snowblowers are good machines but you have a lot of area to clear so I am going to suggest a couple of true commercial snowblowers. These snowblowers are built to handle all the snow you get and the large area you will have to clear. They will clear the 4-8 inch snows quickly and get the deeper snows done - even if the snow is very wet and heavy.
I strongly recommend buying the Ariens and Toro's through your local dealers.
Basic Commercial Snowblower: Ariens Pro 28. 6-speed friction disk. Model 926077
Basic with hydro: Ariens Pro 28 Hydro. Model 926068
Hydro and Tracks Ariens Pro Hydro RapidTrak Model 926078
Ariens also has these available in the 32 inch size.
Toro also has professional 6-speed friction disk snowblowers in the 28 and 32 inch size.
Finally, Toro has a high-end residential model that will work quite well. If you are on tight budget this snowblower will give you 10 plus years of use. www.toro.com/en/homeowner/snow-blowers/power-max-hd-1232-ohxe-38842
I Just found your channel. Great videos. Keep up the good work. I've subscribed!
Honda 1380i is the shit..
Great snowblower
It should be for $9000. For a little more you can get the ride-on Ariens Mammoth 850
Hi Paul, great review. Have you ever tested a 3x30HD ? How well does it work vs a 2x ?
I have a 14 cars driveway with a lot of snow here, all gravel, would you go Cub Cadet 3x, Ariens or Toro?
My goal is to be able to steer easily, be able to take 15+ inch of snow, and wouldn’t mind taking gravel…
Thanks
Yes I have and I don't like the Cub Cadet 3-stage. The 3x30HD will clear snow faster than a Cub Cadet 2X30HD but it won't clear snow faster than the 2X30 MAX in this video. This 2X30 MAX uses a 14 inch impeller and a front auger that aerates the snow and makes it easier to move through the snowblower. The 3x30HD only has a 12 inch impeller and doesn't aerate the snow. Besides the 3x30HD just has too many moving parts spinning at high speeds. (It splatters 4-8 inches of snow all over the place)
Residential - I suggest the Ariens Platinum 30 SHO or the Toro 1030.
Commercial - If you want a heavy-duty snowblower I recommend the Ariens RapidTrack Pro or the Toro 1428. (I love the Ariens RapidTrack Pro for gravel but it is $3000)
Paul - appreciate the videos. I had long written off MTD but you convinced me to reconsider them. How does the 30 MAX compare to the 2X 30 Pro? I have a 100 foot 2 car wide driveway and deal with Nor'Easters and wet, heavy snow. I was considering either the Toro 1428 OHXE or the Ariens Professional 28. Curious what your thoughts are.
The Pro has a larger engine and front headlight. That's the only difference I can see. You get what you pay for at the Pro level.
The Toro will throw the farthest
The Ariens will throw the fastest (more snow) and almost as far as the Toro. The Ariens handles heavy/wet snow the best.
The Cub Cadet 2X 30 Pro won't throw as far and has the least capacity of the three but it is the best Cub Cadet has to offer - better overall than the 3X versions. It's a good solid snowthrower for the price.
Paul, any chance to review some Yamaha equipment such as the 624J unit? I would love to get your opinion on that machine.
They are not available down here in the U.S. so I can't get one easily. That said, Owners love them. They are heavy, tracked and that gives them a lot of traction. They have hydrostatic transmissions and electric chute. They climb stairs better than you do. They seem to last forever.
Negatives. They have no steering. With solid axle tracks they are a real pain to turn on pavement - not so bad if there is snow. Most guys don't do 180s with them - they go forward and back all the way up to make the next pass. I don't quite understand all the details - but models like the 624J are built in China but there are others made in Japan. The owners favor the made in Japan models.
I just bought a 2x28. This is what are lives have become, arguing about how far you can blow snow. Lol
Hi Paul will you be reviewing the husqvarna st324? Thank you
Not this season. Husqvarna hasn't sent anything for the last two years.
Ty
If you really need to Throw the snow that far add a impeller kit
Why not just buy a snowblower that was designed and built right the first time? For the price and labor to install a "kit" you could move up and have the right one if you need to throw snow farther.
just wondering your thoughts on the engine on the cub cadet and what you think about the EFI engines...
The engine on the Cub Cadet is the same PowerMore engine MTD uses on all their snowblowers. It has proven very reliable BUT - it has no fuel shutoff valve so fuel stays in the carb all the time. So, you MUST use a fuel stabilizer in the fuel and DON'T use fuel more than 30 days old or it could potentially gum up the carb and it won't start.
@@PaulSikkema sad that they didn't put a shut off which probably costs less than $2.00.. thanks for the update.
Well done ty
Paul, I bought the Toro 928 in 2019 and used it for the first time yesterday and again today. Starts with 1-2 pulls from cold and throws snow like a beast. Even today after the plows covered our driveway and then the rain came. There is one issue I hope you can help with. In reverse it makes a clunking sound. Clunk-clunk-clunk steady and rhythmic but only in reverse. Can you point me to any videos that can help me diagnose the issue please?
The one I have made the same noise when it was new. It's not a problem and my Toro dealer and I could never find out why it made that noise. The noise went away after I used the 928 a couple of times. We even pulled the trans case covers and couldn't figure it out.
@@PaulSikkema I found this noise is caused by Toro leaving the chain from the friction wheel drive to the axel to loose. When going in reverse the chain is so loose it grabs the small top gear teeth and snaps loose due to force. I noticed this while doing an inspection of the bearing retainer clips on the axel (per your recommendation from a previous post) as I have a tolerance issue there. I also have the clunk, clunk that is mostly in reverse (due to the chain traveling backward over the gear where the slack is against the gear). Can actually notice the gear is starting to wear due to loose chain. When I roll the wheels back the friction from the chain and the gear grabbing sends the vibration or clunk-clunk to the friction disk axel making it sound worse. And like you said in one of my previous questions. There is no adjustment for this, other than cut a link off. Mine is probably to the point a hole link could be taken out and there would still be 1/4" play, plenty not to seize up. All other videos I have seen show the chains all being really loose on these and after actually see it clunk-clunk when turning the wheels reverse with the service cover off I think this is the answer Toro is ignoring. I like Toro and was (am) actually a Wheelhorse owner but this does not sound right!
@@PaulSikkema thanks for the quick reply Paul, I really appreciate it. Expecting more snow tomorrow.
@@fierceflyer5 Check the tension of your drive chain when you have a chance. Just take off the back service plate, 4 screws.
As I mentioned above, mine is very loose and grabs the gear teeth in reverse causing the clunk!
A year ago I inherited an almost new 2X24 Cub Cadet...from one time being a builder of quality machinery, to being bought by MTD and becoming a cheaply built gas powered garbage can. After two snowfalls I sold the pitiful thing and started up my 30 year old Honda HS80...don't be fooled by the name, these are not the Cub Cadet blowers your father knew.
I have to argue on this one. The 2X24 has had many improvements over the last 20 years. Larger engine, better parts inside, more reliable controls and overall better reliability than your fathers old 326 or 328. That said, you get what you pay for most of the time with American made snowblowers. The 2X24 was one-third the price of you HS80 so I would expect the Honda to be a much better machine.
Did you get hit hard with snow a week or so ago? We got a good 7 inches near Ottawa last Sunday night. My old Craftsman/Husqvarna 27 had no issues with it
I got rain with that snow making about 4 inches of sloppy mess. East of you, Morris, got over 11 inches
@@PaulSikkema hope you were able to get some footage!
Yes, but nothing I can show you until July :)
@@PaulSikkema wait, what?!?! New Ariens Machines?
th-cam.com/video/R4HdZsrVwVA/w-d-xo.html
how much does that snowblower cost 1000 ????????????????
You can find the current price and order it here: www.pjatr.com/t/8-12365-5755-199030?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cubcadet.com%2Fen_US%2Fsnow-blowers%2F2x-30inch-max-snow-blower%25C2%25A0%2F31AH8DVS710.html%23start%3D4
Just $1500.00, but what is your back worth. (my best bad salesman voice, haha)
Hello, I am torn between Ariens Platinum 24 SHO (24") 369cc Two-Stage Snow Blower w/ EFI Engine
Model: 921053
And this
Cub Cadet 2X (30") 357cc Two-Stage Snow Blower w/ EFI Engine
Model: 31AH5GVO71
Which is the better choice?
Just so you know the Cub Cadet EFI is a 12 inch impeller, six flight auger snowblower. It does not have near the capacity of the model in this video. If you get heavy, wet snow you won't like it at all.
It also does not have the capacity of the Ariens Platinum 24 SHO. This Ariens is one of the biggest, baddest snowblowers available for it's size.
If you need the larger width look at the Ariens Deluxe 30 EFI.
@@PaulSikkema thanks so much. I love your videos and websites. I appreciate your reply and your time. Much appreciated
My blower is no good it won't throw the snow it is a club cadet
Not cool throwing the snow in the clean roadway...
I understand. In this case though the street is a snow route and only the center has been cleared. (In the video the curb is only 5 feet from where I'm working) Later that day the city came through and actually cleared the street - and put all that slush right back on the sidewalk...
I am surprised that city does not have an ordinance making it against the law to blow snow into the street.
They probably do but I have a feeling they are too busy ticketing cars that are parked along the ambulance routes (this is one of the routes)
Just so you know - after this video I got the loader tractor and opened up the driveways of the people older than me all this street. I also cleaned up after the snowplows who left a bigger mess than I did.
but no...cant
Please don't throw the snow in the road. In most towns and cities this ticketable offense. Thank you
Good point! What I didn't show in this video is I took the farm tractor and used it to clean back to the curb along the entire street. The city left almost 6 feet along the curb and no one could park there.
You are one of those who either shovels or snow blows and throws the snow into the plowed road. Don't do that. Geez, Show some respect. Don't be a jerk.
What you didn't see is after the snowplows came through (it's an ambulance route) I took my loader tractor and cleaned the whole street back to the curb. They only clean the travel lanes on this street and never clean the parking spots.