QuestionHi Eric,
I am in the market for a two stage snow blower and like to get your opinion on reliability and ease of repair. The blower is for residential use 50 x 20 ft driveway and 100 ft of walk The driveway is inclined about 10 deg halfway up. Average annual snowfall here is about 28 inches, but it varies widely and can be wet and heavy. So, I think this blower will get average use overall.
Two models I am considering are the Ariens Sno-tek comp 24 # 920402 and Ariens comp 24 #920014. These two seem to be pretty solidly built for there price range. But, I will consider others also.
The major differences between the Sno-tek/ Ariens are:
LCT 208 snow engine / Briggs 900 Polar force engine
aluminum gear case/ cast iron gear case ( both have steel gears)
plastic chute / steel chute
auger busing/ auger with replaceable bushings
One concern is the engine. For the most part I have read positive reviews of the LCT engine. But I was surprised find, in my research at least, that the Briggs was not a clear winner between the two in terms. What do think about the engines and other components?
Thanks
AnswerI prefer replaceable bushings and the metal chute if you plan to keep the blower for more than 5 years.
As for LCT engines they are fairly new to the US market. An LCT engine is a Chinese manufactured product similar to a Briggs & Stratton engine. Unfortunately many Briggs & Stratton engines are also made in China but at least they have an established design and a robust replacement parts network/distribution system. B&S engines are considered a low line engine, but they usually considered better than an LCT.
I would go with the Briggs engine as you will not have any problems finding replacement parts.
As for any small power equipment you will get more life with proper service and use. Frozen newspapers and rocks are really hard on snowblowers so try to avoid running over them.
Let me know if this helps.
Eric
