Used Two Stage Snow Blowers

[ahaidet]

Anyone have any recommendations. I have been scanning Craigslist in my area to find a deal on a good used one. Any brands to avoid? Any brands that you recommend?

I have found a couple of Toro’s, an MTD, a Murray and some craftsman ones.

Craftsman has tracks looks like an older but very high end model.

Toros are a little older as well but seem well cared for.
Same with MTD looks to be well cared for.

 

[Call me the Breeze]

I have an old Ariens 30+ years and still going strong!

 

[Intel]

Our old toro lasted 30 + years. Upgraded to a 4 cycle honda this year as I am no longer living at home to shovel.

These were all just blowers without any movement or tracks. I never liked the tracked ones as they are rather slow unless you have crazy amounts of snow.

 

[Ggg]

IMO MTD, Murray are both "throw away" quality similar to their lawn mowers. My father (70 yro) has an electric start (110v) Craftsman, about 11 yrs old now it is still running good, but he only has a small typical Chicago suburban driveway. I made his drive axle into a solid one piece axle (no differential) he likes the added traction and said it stays on path easier. I asked about turning he said no big deal. Aherns, Simplicity made good blowers back in their day. I know Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna make them too, but I have no first hand experience.
x2 what intel said on the tracks

 

[StingRay]

Old Toro's are nearly bullet proof. I have an Ariens myself. The old ones are pretty much bullet proof as are the higher end new ones. There are however some lighter duty new stuff that probably won't be running in another 30 years. Honda's are good and expensive. Everything else I consider a Bic lighter. Throw away when it doesn't work any more.

 

[alpha property]

the old mtd's from the mid 80's are the cats @$$, my guys that take care of sidewalks only run them and shovels

 

[ahaidet]

I got replys to some of the emails I sent to the Craigslist ads.

The toro's are from approximately 1990.

The MTD is a 2000.

I'm guessing the MTD is of the the "Throw away" era.

Is 1990 near the vintage of the older Toro's you guys mention?

 

[Intel]

My dads was bought in 1975.. used it until 2008. Have a toro lawnmower from the 1980's that is still ticking (just put new wheels on it). Would need knowledge from some other members on the newer ones.

 

[m289271]

Can't go wrong with an old Toro. Mine's over 25 years old and I've had very few problems outside of regular maintenence.
I guarantee that the MTD and Murray are being sold because they're ****. The Chinese mowers/snowblowers are hard to get parts for, so they become throwaways.

 

[metal1313]

im actually in the same boat. im looking for a blower but dont want anything big. with a long narrow driveway theres only about 24-30 inches between the cars and the house. im looking at a sno-tek by ariens. the only difference i can see is that the same model ariens has electric start. for 200 more, its something i can live with out. they are about 600, but i also have a few gift cards which would make it the same as a used model.

and just for merk..its made in the usa.....not sure about the engine though.

 

[JerseyJim]

I have the tracked Sears model. It's 14 years old at this point. I also have a larger Troybilt with double wheels. It depends on how much you have to clear and how much snow you get. I love the tracked model. No need for wheel weights. It will go through anything. Steering is fantastic. You don't have to bulldog it and it literally pivots on a dime.

Yes it is slower. I used it in a driveway that was about 150 feet long with a 24 x 30 parking area. When I moved into a house with a much larger driveway, I bought the 45 inch Troybilt. I have kept the Sears blower because it is great in tight spots like between the cars. It does not however throw the snow very far so that's something to keep in mind.

 

[jake00]

I've got 3 old Toro's theyre 21" 2 stage with 3-5hp tec's they keep going

 

[lilredex]

If you get any kind of snow, look for an 8HP min. Most of those that have Tecumseh (Snow king) engines have a power take off (extended camshaft) type of engine and no transmission of any type. This makes it difficult to add a larger import copy of a Honda engine, 'cause they only have one output shaft. (and it'll run backwards at twice the normal speed) Look under that plastic cover to see for sure.

Right now I am scouting for a 24" blower that I can easily fit with a larger engine, mine is a 5HP MTD (too small when the blowing gets tough). Not easy to find....cheap, around here.

My favorite little Simplicity blower........just couldn't handle the wetter Toronto snow.

 

[IDASHO]

I finally broke down and found myself a "snow removal solution" this year.

I went round and round with the available options. But spending 3k on a nice 2-stage walk behind snow blower just wasnt going to happen.

This is what I did...

Step 1:

Picked up a used '89 Cub Cadet Hydro garden tractor for $400

Step 2:

Remove the mower deck + bagger, service, do a couple of small repairs, and clean it up. $150

Step 3:

Buy used Cub Cadet single stage snow blower. $300

Step 4:

Rebuild snowblower, and install on tractor. $200

So, for less than $1200, I have a sweet snow blower, that can do MUCH more than blow snow

 

[nate379]

I have the same thing, just on a 90s C Man 20hp tractor and the blower is a 2 stage. My driveway is just under 100ft long and 25 feet wide, no way I was messing around with a walk behind unit.

It was either a snowblower on a tractor or a plow on an ATV or truck.

 

[ripsnortMN]

My old man uses his Ariens 1967 model. I bought a brand new 9hp 26" ariens in 2005. This will be the only snowblower I will ever buy. It will outlast most other brands.

 

[Uncle Buck]

I have an old Ariens 30+ years and still going strong!

Old Toro's are nearly bullet proof. I have an Ariens myself. The old ones are pretty much bullet proof as are the higher end new ones. There are however some lighter duty new stuff that probably won't be running in another 30 years. Honda's are good and expensive. Everything else I consider a Bic lighter. Throw away when it doesn't work any more.

im actually in the same boat. im looking for a blower but dont want anything big. with a long narrow driveway theres only about 24-30 inches between the cars and the house. im looking at a sno-tek by ariens. the only difference i can see is that the same model ariens has electric start. for 200 more, its something i can live with out. they are about 600, but i also have a few gift cards which would make it the same as a used model.

and just for merk..its made in the usa.....not sure about the engine though.

My old man uses his Ariens 1967 model. I bought a brand new 9hp 26" ariens in 2005. This will be the only snowblower I will ever buy. It will outlast most other brands.

I bought my Ariens new in 1978 and it is still ripping and snorting like new. Ariens was the pioneer in snowthrows. Old Toro, or Jackobsons, or even Snappers, or John Deer were not bad either, but since I have had the Ariens this long I will vouch for it. They are just bulletproof. Damn near indestructable.

 

[Costner]

I bought a used Huskey or Husky (not sure about the spelling) from my father who had it for around five years before me. I've been running it for five or six years since and the only thing I've ever done is replace a sheer pin and install a tube in one of the tires that had a slow leak around the bead.

A lot of the off brands all come from the same factory anyway - they just get different colors of paint and different decals. They can come from MTD, Yard Machines, or any of the specialty brands you buy from big box retailers or the local tractor supply company. In my case it uses a 6hp Briggs & Stratton engine which is typical of these models. Anything with a B&S or Tecumseh engine is probably just fine although newer models typically come with some upgraded features like upgraded chute controls, heated hand grips, serrated cutting blades etc, etc.

I spent a whopping $250 for mine. I see similar models for sale on Craigslist all the time for $300-$400. Sure in an ideal world I would own a Honda or a Ariens, but honestly they run in the $2000 - $2500 range. At that point I don't care if it lasts three or four times as long as my cheapo because I could buy ten of what I have for the same money.

Frankly I don't even want my snowblower to last 25 or more years because every few years they come out with better features that I would like to have. I'd much rather buy a new one every 10 years and sell my old one so I can have better equipment.

What I have cuts snow and throws it as far as I need it to. For something that sits in the garage eight months a year and generally is only used 15 times a season I don't see the need to spend a couple of grand when a few hundred gets the job done.

 

[jam022316]

Not exactly used, but I have this Yard Machines I bought from Home Depot 3 years ago, and I absolutely love it. Starts everytime and blows snow up to around 40 feet.

http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xr5/R-100646699/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

 

[Packard V8]

I hope to never learn about the durability of newer Chiwanese products, because my Simplicity with the 7-HP Briggs & Stratton is only thirty-five years old and going strong. It has a cast iron transmission, chains on the tires and these last two years were the heaviest snowfall in history here in Spokane, WA. We got more than eight feet of snow both years. Not much by Syracuse standards, but plenty to move off a 100' driveway and 150' of sidewalk.

thnx, jack vines

 

[kbs2244]

I have an older Craftsman with the tracks.
I have no idea when it was made.
But it is an older one without the bulldozer style steering.
It is a real bear to turn.
But the 5 HP Tecumseh is a first or second pull start even after sitting all summer.
(I do a pretty good job of putting it to bed.)

2 summers ago I had to get a new friction wheel for the trans.
It was too old for getting the part from Sears.
After a little coaxing, I got the real mfg. name from them and was able to order it.

I only have it because it was given to me.
If I was shopping I would be looking for a Toro.
24 inch with at least 5 HP.

I have a 200 x 12 foot drive leading to a 25 x 30 parking area in NE Illinois.

 

[RPH]

I have a Honda unit with tracks, 20 inch wide. Throws snow 60 -75 feet. Easy to steer, will walk up on the deep stuff. Will dig down on layers. Like any Honda unit I have they work great. About 12 years old.

 

[ahaidet]

I think I have found some of the models you guys mention as being "bullet proof". Let me know what you think of these:

5hp Simplicity for $125:
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/grd/1398432869.html

6hp Ariens $150 (needs tune up says ad):
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/for/1396119838.html


5hp Bolens $100:
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/grd/1389394055.html

Another 6hp Ariens $150 (starts on first pull)
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/grd/1373025078.html

 

[ripsnortMN]

I think I have found some of the models you guys mention as being "bullet proof". Let me know what you think of these:

5hp Simplicity for $125:
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/grd/1398432869.html

6hp Ariens $150 (needs tune up says ad):
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/for/1396119838.html


5hp Bolens $100:
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/grd/1389394055.html

Another 6hp Ariens $150 (starts on first pull)
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/grd/1373025078.html

I'd go with one of those Ariens' in that ad. Those models take a pounding. You cant go wrong. That seems like a very reasonable price too.

 

[Uncle Buck]

I'd go with one of those Ariens' in that ad. Those models take a pounding. You cant go wrong. That seems like a very reasonable price too.

Agreed, I do not if Simplicity was chain drive or not. Ariens have the round wheel with the bonded rubber on the edge like Snapper mowers (bulletproof design)< I am referring to the drive system. Bolens has been gone for years I would steer clear of them. Anything any of the Ariens models need you can still get, great product support.

BTW: You will find on pnuematic tires two stage machines that equipping those tires with chains will make a wholw world of difference in how the machine will move through the snow. There is just no comparison to how well they do with chains. After over 30 years it is about time for me to replace my chains, they are about worn through!

 

[madjack]

I've had probably 10 snow blowers (seriously) and part of my business is small engine repair, so I've seen or used just about ever brand and model sold in North America. I live in a mountain community so snow is deep and often, to the tune of over 350" last winter.
Stay away from the track blowers. Some (like the hondas) work well, most are just so much junk. MTD and Craftsman are particularly prone to track and drive wheel failure.
The best I've seen (and now own) for deep snow, nothing beats a Bobcat skid steer. For smaller jobs, The Ariens are good quality and most any small engine shop can get replacement parts for even the oldest models. The best thing I found for small areas like decks is a Toro powerbroom. Built like a shovel with a power head (both gas weed wacker motor or electric models) works great. Gave one to the Mrs.a few years back to keep the yard clear for her yappy mutt, and she loves it

 

[Tech Guy]

I had an old MTD from 1984. Thing started on the first pull every time. Gave it to someone as I aquired for free a 1995 Toro power shift. Apparently worth $1700 US back then. Thing is a tank and I dont even use the electric start as it starts on first pull everytime. Thing drags you if not careful. I also have a newer MTD with Briggs/Stratton engine. Its light duty and does the job, hell of lot lighter than the Toro but I cant see it lasting as long.

 

[TAftw]

Nobody here has mentioned Troy Bilt. Back in the day, these things were built like tanks and were completely different than the Chinese **** they sell today with the name slapped on there.

We have a 24" 8 hp model from the mid to late 90's. They don't make em like this anymore, the build quality on it is better than anything else I've ever seen. It's also COMFORTABLE to use, the ergonomics of it are great. It has a thick METAL chute, unlike just about every one sold today that's plastic. Also the handwarmers are a great addition for our New England winters.

If you can find one on craigslist I wouldn't think twice about getting it. They're excellent machines that will run strong for years.

 

[ahaidet]

Well my search has concluded. Based on the overwhelming support posted here in favor of Ariens, I found a 8hp Briggs powered 24" 1971 Model in very good shape. Starts on first pull, fairly clean, little hard to get into gear sometimes but the linkage probably just needs cleaned and relubed, not a real big deal just not smooth. Here is a picture that the seller sent me. Thanks for the suggestions. I'll add a post when I get to try it out in snow in a few months. Meanwhile I think I might clean it up a little.

 

[Gary S]

I got replys to some of the emails I sent to the Craigslist ads.

The toro's are from approximately 1990.

The MTD is a 2000.

I'm guessing the MTD is of the the "Throw away" era.

Is 1990 near the vintage of the older Toro's you guys mention?

I wouldn't be afraid of the MTD blowers. I bought mine in 1997, and it hasn't had any parts break or wear out yet.
I see more winter here in one year than most of you will ever see in 2 or 3 years. Last winter my blower had to keep up with 100 inches of snow and it did it easily.

We are getting our first snow of the season today. It is snowing right now.

 

[TexasT]

I am a big fan of Gravely.

Nothing like a snow cannon.

Those Ariens ones are good stuff as well as the CubCadet the poster above has. I also Like Simplicity. Keep the belt adjusted. Keep your hands out of the chute and auger.

 

[fireball 440]

I have an old Ariens 30+ years and still going strong!

So do I. Mine is a early 70's model 8hp. Got it for free, cleaned the carb, new bowl gasket, fresh gas, oil change, lubed the shaft. The thing fired right up and is loud as hell. The fan is bent a little, gonna try to straighten that out a bit.