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.
I have an opportunity to buy an Ariens pro hydro rapid track M#926078 for $1000. The pictures of it look great. It is only a few years old . The owner said it is like new & only used a few times & that he does not need it anymore. The problem is it is located 4 hours away from me. It it worth to drive all that way to purchase it? Your input would be appreciated.
The snowblower sold for $3199 - a new 2022 model will be over $3500. In my opinion, go look at it, bring cash and if the engine runs, if the hydro goes forward/backwards, and doesn't have any major dents - bring it home. Next fall if you don't like it you can easily get $2500 out of it.
@@PaulSikkema Thanks Paul. I did purchase the snowblower. It looked brand new & everything operated great. It was worth the drive. I watched your videos on the machine & that's what convinced me to purchase. Your videos are so informative & I really enjoy them. Thank you so much!!!
On the RapidTrak, I find instead of actually "lifting up" on the machine to put it in "track mode", it's quicker and easier to simply "tap" (no need to step on) that front, lower, steel bar at the bottom of the machine connecting the tracks. It's quicker and you can tell 100% that it's locked in. Just a quick tip that other's with a RapidTrak might find useful.
This challenge scenario is very interesting. "Float" mode tested in a harsh environment. I like the voiceover while demonstrating. A nice pro-level approach to snow blower videography. Also, good to get a sense of the shear pin breakage turnaround time and effort involved.
From watching both videos, you can't go wrong with either machine, Toro or Ariens. Both did a similar job. Comes down to "preference", ala "Ford vs Chevy". I would say the biggest difference between the two would be the auto steer/trans of the Ariens vs the trigger steer of the Toro and what you like better. After using an auto steer, I'd never go back to triggers, but that's my preference. I find it much faster and it leaves me free to use my hands for other things such as rotating the chute or raising it up or down. The RapidTrak, as a fact, based on design, is much, much, easier to move around because of the ability to run in "wheel mode".
While you are waiting watch this video to make sure your Ariens is adjusted correctly. The Toro automatic steer and the Ariens AutoTurn are set up the same way.
Paul, I think it would have been nice to have seen you actually replace the shear pins. To see if the holes line up easily would have been very informative. Thanks for your videos.
Frozen towels aren't as much fun as frozen wet newspapers in the plastic bags. They sometimes make it past the augers into the impellor housing and jam the impellor against the housing. Fastest cure is to remove the chute and use a 2 by 4 to drive the impellor backwards and release the jam. Sad to say I have had lots of practice perfecting the technique. I buy my shear pins by the half dozen for routine jams.
That rapid track certainly has plenty of power! Overkill for me but I can certainly see where this machine fits into the market. Looks like even at the new location you still have plenty of area to play around with the snowblowers!
Yes, plenty of room. In addition I have 4 other houses and a farm I can go play on. If we get a blizzard I'll take these out to the farm and see how they work in 4-6 foot drifts.
This was a great video Paul. I appreciate seeing what this machine truly does. And by all means,. Grab your camera and make an up to date video of this years snow removal. I was going to ask to see the inner workings of the machine such as where the hydrostatic tranny lives. To see it with the belly pan off. 😀
I'd love to but I have NO snow. I've gotten less than 6 inches so far this winter and most of that is now gone. The RapidTrack is still the same inside. Here is a video that shows you all that detail. ruclips.net/video/z_EFRKg33HY/видео.html
Thanks for the great videos. I was kind of set on purchasing the Toro Power Max HD 1232 OHXE, until I watched the video on the Ariens Pro 28 Hydro RapidTrak. Just had a question. Is the Platinum 28 Rapidtrak SHO that much of an " inferior" product to the Professional Version with the smaller engine etc.? Also between the Toro model I listed and the Platinum 28 Rapidtrak, which do you prefer? Thank you, stay well and healthy.
The Ariens Platinum 28 RapidTrack is a residential machine - like the Toro 1232. Both will last you years and years and years doing your own home and few of the neighbors. The Ariens Pro 28 Hydro RapidTrak is a commercial machine (and the Toro Power Max HD 1432 OHXE) These are designed to clear dozens of properties a day, every day, all winter long, and last years. In other words - as a homeowner, you don't "need" the Pro version. The Platinum model is the last one you'll have to buy.
@@PaulSikkema Well, to throw a curve ball ( or snow ball ), I purchased the Toro HD 1030. I was able to purchase it for a very low price. I will update the performance once it snows. Thanks again for all your help and excellent reviews.
This is a new, 2020 model. Ariens wanted me to use a brand new one when I did the comparison video. Ariens usually takes them back when I'm done with them.
The Platinum is a residential machine - the Pro is commercial. So, the Pro has heavier steel and internal transmission gears. It has a larger motor. It has a commercial grade hydro - the Platinum has a residential grade friction disk tranny. Even the handles are a lot heavier-duty - 1 1/4 inch square tube.
@@PaulSikkema thank you so much. It is the pro for me and I'll wait till I find one. In Canada I'm looking in Saskatchewan and Alberta but there is nothing. One dealer has some coming in March. Hopefully a pro.
Paul, I must thank you for always answering my questions . I'm really on the fence of waiting til next year for 28 EFI Rapid Trak or just buying a carb rapid Trak unit . I hate the big down I experience now with my carb Honda 8hp wheel, plus it's a bear to move around, a workout after using that Honda. I'm wondering if the Rapid Trak would be as easy as driving a car to turn ? In other words no more workout. You've used so many types of snowblowers, if you had your pick of one, would you go wheel or track ?
At GIE-EXPO I spent so time in the Ariens booth and they do have two EFI RapidTraks this year. The one you are probably interested in is the PROFESSIONAL ALPINE EDITION - 28 HYDRO EFI Model 926080 Yes, the Rapidtrak is very easy to use and control. In fact, in wheel mode, it's arguably the easiest snowblower to use on the market. The choice between tracks and tires is really what types of area you have to clear. Wheeled units work well for hard surfaces like driveways, frozen gravel, and even Frozen turf. They whimp out when the snow is packed down like a deep snowplow drift and generally don't work well going up slopes. RapidTrak or track drive. I very seldom recommend tracks. They are slow and in general much harder to use than a wheeled unit. BUT, the RapidTrak is so much different. You get all the ease of use benefits of a wheeled unit and all the traction of a track drive. In my opinion, it is actually easier to use than either one.
Hello Paul, after watching several of your videos I decided on the Ariens 28 Hydro Pro Rapid Trak w/ the B&S Polar Force Engine. I won't pick it up until later next week. Just had another quick question. In a previous video from a year ago you clarified that you were not actually in track mode, but a 4th kind of float mode. So to actually get into track mode the back wheels should lock into position when you first pull the trigger and lift up a little on the handle bars. To get back into wheel mode just tilt the machine back or pull the trigger and tilt the machine back to lock the rear wheels back up? Then to get into "dig in mode" pull the trigger and lift up on the handle bars so the back wheels extend further down? Thanks for all the good info!
Were you still able to find a new RapidTrak with the B & S motor ??? Or is it a used machine you're picking up ??? I know the B & S motor hasn't been sold on that unit in two years.
does the snowblower have an adjustment for the auger height like the honda does so you can snowblower over red brick walkways. and has anyone taken one off a dump truck in reverse down steep ramps trying to see if it rolls or if it just flys down the ramps like a wheel snowblower does
This snow blower uses a hydro (hydrostatic) transmission so it does not freewheel. You have to start the engine and then drive it off the ramps. (there is a freewheel lever you can release when the engine is off but even then the snowblower is very hard to move - it won't fly down a ramp) I have a porch with four steps and I regularly drive this snowblower up on it. I can also back it down the steps or drive it down the steps and it has plenty of traction so it never slips. Ariens offers a heavy-duty poly skid shoes if you have a lot of pavers and don't want to scratch them. Also with the snowblower in the "wheel mode" it's almost balanced on the tracks so it doesn't have any weight on the front end. In other words even with the cast iron skid shoes it won't scratch your brick pavers. I have a 50 feet sidewalk with street bricks (old Purington Pavers) and it's never left a scratch.
@@PaulSikkema Thank you because i looked at honda and the honda does clog on wet snow they made a new chute for them and even honda says on their website that around the boston mass area snow more people have problems with it clogging in the chute. I also tried the husky at the dealer to drive up ramps with their hydro ran great coming down the steep ramps on a tiny hydro amount applied as soon as i hit the steep ramp grade it flew down like it was a old style wheel snowblower. So I will go check this model out thanks again.
Paul, I have read several reviews on the auto turn and people seem to either love it or hate it. Is the auto turn only effective in wheel mode or when the tracks are down also? I would be using it on a uneven uphill driveway and that seems to be the most complaints when using it on uneven surface.
The Auto-Turn is the easiest to use. Most of the people who complain either want it to act just like their old trigger steer or they don't have enough experience with 2-stage snowblowers to know that snowdrifts and rough pavement will push any snowblower around. It really steers just like a shopping cart. Hold the handles and point it where you want it to go. But - just like a shopping cart if you let go of the handles or stop steering the shopping cart goes all over the place on rough ground. If the front hits something you have to hold the handles to keep it going straight. To answer your question specifically the Auto-Turn works all the time but just like a trigger steer on tracks it will be harder to turn with the tracks locked down. (It's an auto-locking differential - not an automatic power steering system) Myself I can easily make a course correction when clearing something like your driveway with it in track mode but when I want to turn 90 or 180 degrees I just pull the trigger under the handle to release the tracks, push down on the handles and the tracks lock up in wheel mode. Then I can turn easily. This whole process takes 2 seconds and after 30 minutes it will be natural for you.
@@PaulSikkema Thank you for the detailed explanation that all makes sense. One more question. I just saw at my local dealer a 2020 Ariens Professional 28 Hydro RapidTrak 926060 with the Polar Force Pro by Briggs & Stratton. Any reliability issues with this engine? I know Ariens now puts their own engines in the newest models.
The B&S is a commercial engine and has a great reputation. You can't go wrong with it. A few readers have mentioned that their local dealer is discounting that model wit the Briggs about $500 because it is now two years old. (No changes to the new Rapidtraks - they just need to move inventory)
Hello and thank you for your videos! I have the opportunity to purchase Ariens 36 inch professional Hydro Pro Snowblower - Model 926055 - which has been discontinued by Ariens. To the best of your knowledge, why did Ariens discontinue this product? Does it manifest issues while operating? Should I just purchase the latest model instead (926070) and pay about $1,000 more? Thank you kindly for your guidance
It's the same snowblower with a different engine. The model you are looking at has a Professional Series Briggs & Stratton. The new models have the Ariens AX Professional series. There is nothing wrong with the Briggs, in fact it's one of the best horizontal shaft engines on the market. At $1000 off you are getting a deal!
While you're driving can you move the hydro lever to change the speed without have to stop? 2nd question, is the EFI worth the extra cost in your opinion? Thanks!
Yes, I've used this one enough that I never stop. I can move the speed control from forward to reverse and then back to forward without stopping the snowblower. It makes cleanup very fast. Yes, EFI is worth it. Like the EFI in your car EFI doesn't care about stale gas, etc. It automatically adjusts the fuel mixture to compensate. It's especially useful for higher elevations because it automatically adjusts for higher altitudes. Because its electronically controlled the engine has more available power.
Yes, this would be a great snowblower for your driveway! It has the power to handle any snow and throw it a long way from your driveway. The RapidTrak gives it more than enough traction to go up and down your slopes. Plus, with the tracks up it's great for working around the buildings and other tight areas.
@@nicholassanzari9603 I bought the compact track 24 and it is a beast of a machine. If your driveway is very large I would recommend the larger one. If you have something like mine which is 3 cars wide, the 24 is great.
Hi Paul, I'm looking for a new snowblower to clear a driveway that is about 2 car's wide and about 3 car lengths long. The issue I have is that it's very steep and slippery. I currently use an older model Ariens 824 Classic that works ok but sometimes will slip or I have to give it a push to get going up the slope. Should I be considering a track drive snowblower? I live in southern Wisconsin near Madison.
The problem with track drives is most of the manufactures are only putting tracks on the most expensive, Pro models. That said, A wheeled snowblower that's well balanced will have great traction and the Toro and Ariens models have optional tire chains if that';s not enough. Watch my videos on the Ariens Deluxe 28, Toro 828, Ariens Deluxe SHO and Toro 928. For that small of drive also look at the Ariens Compact and the Toro 826 OAE
Personally, I don't use dig-in mode unless I absolutely have to. I have old blacktop and rough concrete and it wants to catch that really abrasive stuff. Instead, if I have some tough snow to clear I'll take 1/4 or half-passes with it in normal track mode. That said, 1. Make sure you have 1/8 to 1/4 inch gap under the scraper bar. 2. Some owners have switched to poly shoes and they state it pushes easier in dig-in mode. 3. When you put your snowblower in dig-in mode the whole machine is "humped" in the middle. The front tracks are off the ground and the back of the skids shoes are also off the ground. I suggest adjusting the skid shoes by putting 1/4 inch plywood under the scraper bar, put the machine into dig-in mode, loosen the skid shoes and make sure they are level with the pavement. Then tighten the shoes. The shoes will now be level and they won't dig in as quickly. That should help a lot.
Do you meant the auger interlock is not working? When you have both levers down and you let go of the right hand lever it doesn't stay down? Check out this video: ruclips.net/video/TsjdwjGwnbE/видео.html
@@PaulSikkema I had a top of the line Honda 7/24 track snowblower. It cost me $4,500.00 Canadian in 2007. It was awkward to maneuver with the track and the chute kept getting plugged. I sold it. I will never buy another Honda snowblower. Overpriced and overrated. I drove snowmobiles for 8 years from 1966 to 1973 inclusive. Yes, we all have varying opinions. After looking at the very expensive track snowblowers, I can appreciate the wheeled snowblowers. Just add chains if needed. I grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and we had various types and brands of snowblowers. We even had a snowblower on a small tracked machine. The best snowblower back then (Mid-70's) was an Ariens 8 HP two stage with chained wheels. It blew the snow over the power lines and it would keep burrowing into a 7 foot snow bank. It was unstoppable. My dad sold it when we moved to Victoria, British Columbia in 1979. I wish that he had kept it. As for lawnmowers, I have had top of the line mowers as well. I had an Ariens Professional with a 5 HP Briggs and Stratton Commercial engine. The best gas mower that I have owned. It lasted from 1993 to 2012. The crankshaft bearing went. I had a top of the line Honda Commercial mower. It was very expensive, heavy, awkward to maneuver and the quality of cut wasn't that great. I sold it to a landscape company. So far, I have a Toro Personal Pace 60 volt lawnmower. It is lightweight and does a nice job on the lawn. I had an EGO Select Cut. Pure crap! It left uncut blades everywhere. I sold it before people realized how bad they were. I am selling the remainder of my EGO lawn tools. I went with an ECHO gas blower vac, and a Makita 18 volt multi-system. I don't know if Ariens is still good, but it is hard to get out west. There is Toro. Toro is good so far. I have the gas QXE 824 with Personal Pace. It goes through almost anything and it is light enough that I can lift it onto our deck or my truck. I also have a brand new Polaris Sportsman 570 Ride Command Edition with plow/power angle, and custom made drift cutters. I don't do videos, but I have experience with different brands. Like cars, it comes down to brand preference, quality and job performance. Everybody is different. I like Ariens and Toro. I have read complaints about the tracked snowblowers. If you get a rock/branch or anything caught in the track/cog, it could cause a problem. Wheeled snowblowers have stood the test of time. They have been around before we were born.
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.
I have an opportunity to buy an Ariens pro hydro rapid track M#926078 for $1000. The pictures of it look great. It is only a few years old . The owner said it is like new & only used a few times & that he does not need it anymore. The problem is it is located 4 hours away from me. It it worth to drive all that way to purchase it? Your input would be appreciated.
The snowblower sold for $3199 - a new 2022 model will be over $3500. In my opinion, go look at it, bring cash and if the engine runs, if the hydro goes forward/backwards, and doesn't have any major dents - bring it home. Next fall if you don't like it you can easily get $2500 out of it.
@@PaulSikkema Thanks Paul. I did purchase the snowblower. It looked brand new & everything operated great. It was worth the drive. I watched your videos on the machine & that's what convinced me to purchase. Your videos are so informative & I really enjoy them. Thank you so much!!!
On the RapidTrak, I find instead of actually "lifting up" on the machine to put it in "track mode", it's quicker and easier to simply "tap" (no need to step on) that front, lower, steel bar at the bottom of the machine connecting the tracks. It's quicker and you can tell 100% that it's locked in. Just a quick tip that other's with a RapidTrak might find useful.
Something satisfying watching someone else snow blowing 😂 Thanks for the video Paul
This challenge scenario is very interesting. "Float" mode tested in a harsh environment. I like the voiceover while demonstrating. A nice pro-level approach to snow blower videography. Also, good to get a sense of the shear pin breakage turnaround time and effort involved.
Nice video! I also appreciate the background history of the neighborhood/town.
I've enjoyed your videos and often wondered where you lived. I had no idea that Iowa got so much snow.
Thanks Paul...very informative and satisfying!
From watching both videos, you can't go wrong with either machine, Toro or Ariens. Both did a similar job. Comes down to "preference", ala "Ford vs Chevy". I would say the biggest difference between the two would be the auto steer/trans of the Ariens vs the trigger steer of the Toro and what you like better. After using an auto steer, I'd never go back to triggers, but that's my preference. I find it much faster and it leaves me free to use my hands for other things such as rotating the chute or raising it up or down. The RapidTrak, as a fact, based on design, is much, much, easier to move around because of the ability to run in "wheel mode".
I can't wait to replace the Areins
The auto steer is a bear to turn.
I will get a Toro with triggers
While you are waiting watch this video to make sure your Ariens is adjusted correctly. The Toro automatic steer and the Ariens AutoTurn are set up the same way.
Once again great job Paul thanks for reviewing both back to back.
Paul,
I think it would have been nice to have seen you actually replace the shear pins. To see if the holes line up easily would have been very informative. Thanks for your videos.
Paul, that's not a fair comparison with the Toro. You didn't run a "frozen towel" through the Toro yesterday. 🤣😂🤣😂
Now that's funny!
Frozen towels aren't as much fun as frozen wet newspapers in the plastic bags. They sometimes make it past the augers into the impellor housing and jam the impellor against the housing. Fastest cure is to remove the chute and use a 2 by 4 to drive the impellor backwards and release the jam. Sad to say I have had lots of practice perfecting the technique. I buy my shear pins by the half dozen for routine jams.
That rapid track certainly has plenty of power! Overkill for me but I can certainly see where this machine fits into the market. Looks like even at the new location you still have plenty of area to play around with the snowblowers!
Yes, plenty of room. In addition I have 4 other houses and a farm I can go play on. If we get a blizzard I'll take these out to the farm and see how they work in 4-6 foot drifts.
Oh that sounds like fun! Hopefully we get a good blizzard this year!
@@PaulSikkema Be careful. Don't get lost. ;-)
This was a great video Paul. I appreciate seeing what this machine truly does. And by all means,. Grab your camera and make an up to date video of this years snow removal. I was going to ask to see the inner workings of the machine such as where the hydrostatic tranny lives. To see it with the belly pan off. 😀
I'd love to but I have NO snow. I've gotten less than 6 inches so far this winter and most of that is now gone.
The RapidTrack is still the same inside. Here is a video that shows you all that detail. ruclips.net/video/z_EFRKg33HY/видео.html
Thanks for the great videos. I was kind of set on purchasing the Toro Power Max HD 1232 OHXE, until I watched the video on the Ariens Pro 28 Hydro RapidTrak. Just had a question. Is the Platinum 28 Rapidtrak SHO that much of an " inferior" product to the Professional Version with the smaller engine etc.? Also between the Toro model I listed and the Platinum 28 Rapidtrak, which do you prefer? Thank you, stay well and healthy.
The Ariens Platinum 28 RapidTrack is a residential machine - like the Toro 1232. Both will last you years and years and years doing your own home and few of the neighbors.
The Ariens Pro 28 Hydro RapidTrak is a commercial machine (and the Toro Power Max HD 1432 OHXE) These are designed to clear dozens of properties a day, every day, all winter long, and last years.
In other words - as a homeowner, you don't "need" the Pro version. The Platinum model is the last one you'll have to buy.
@@PaulSikkema Well, to throw a curve ball ( or snow ball ), I purchased the Toro HD 1030. I was able to purchase it for a very low price. I will update the performance once it snows. Thanks again for all your help and excellent reviews.
Hi Paul cool video as usual. Just curious, is this the exact same rapidtrak you were testing last season or did Ariens send you another one this year?
This is a new, 2020 model. Ariens wanted me to use a brand new one when I did the comparison video. Ariens usually takes them back when I'm done with them.
What is the main difference between this machine and the Platinum SHO 28 Rapid Track.
Your info is the best out there. Much appreciated
The Platinum is a residential machine - the Pro is commercial. So, the Pro has heavier steel and internal transmission gears. It has a larger motor. It has a commercial grade hydro - the Platinum has a residential grade friction disk tranny. Even the handles are a lot heavier-duty - 1 1/4 inch square tube.
@@PaulSikkema thank you so much. It is the pro for me and I'll wait till I find one. In Canada I'm looking in Saskatchewan and Alberta but there is nothing. One dealer has some coming in March. Hopefully a pro.
Paul i got a 89 john deere walk behind snowblower that ariens prolly built
I have John Deere possibly the same year. TRX 26 . Love it. Looks like new. Caterpillar tracks. Tag on it says made in Canada.
Ariens are the best
Paul, I must thank you for always answering my questions .
I'm really on the fence of waiting til next year for 28 EFI Rapid Trak or just buying a carb rapid Trak unit . I hate the big down I experience now with my carb Honda 8hp wheel, plus it's a bear to move around, a workout after using that Honda.
I'm wondering if the Rapid Trak would be as easy as driving a car to turn ? In other words no more workout.
You've used so many types of snowblowers, if you had your pick of one, would you go wheel or track ?
At GIE-EXPO I spent so time in the Ariens booth and they do have two EFI RapidTraks this year. The one you are probably interested in is the PROFESSIONAL ALPINE EDITION - 28 HYDRO EFI Model 926080
Yes, the Rapidtrak is very easy to use and control. In fact, in wheel mode, it's arguably the easiest snowblower to use on the market.
The choice between tracks and tires is really what types of area you have to clear. Wheeled units work well for hard surfaces like driveways, frozen gravel, and even Frozen turf. They whimp out when the snow is packed down like a deep snowplow drift and generally don't work well going up slopes.
RapidTrak or track drive. I very seldom recommend tracks. They are slow and in general much harder to use than a wheeled unit. BUT, the RapidTrak is so much different. You get all the ease of use benefits of a wheeled unit and all the traction of a track drive. In my opinion, it is actually easier to use than either one.
Hello Paul, after watching several of your videos I decided on the Ariens 28 Hydro Pro Rapid Trak w/ the B&S Polar Force Engine. I won't pick it up until later next week. Just had another quick question. In a previous video from a year ago you clarified that you were not actually in track mode, but a 4th kind of float mode. So to actually get into track mode the back wheels should lock into position when you first pull the trigger and lift up a little on the handle bars. To get back into wheel mode just tilt the machine back or pull the trigger and tilt the machine back to lock the rear wheels back up?
Then to get into "dig in mode" pull the trigger and lift up on the handle bars so the back wheels extend further down?
Thanks for all the good info!
Yes! It's that easy!
Were you still able to find a new RapidTrak with the B & S motor ??? Or is it a used machine you're picking up ??? I know the B & S motor hasn't been sold on that unit in two years.
does the snowblower have an adjustment for the auger height like the honda does so you can snowblower over red brick walkways. and has anyone taken one off a dump truck in reverse down steep ramps trying to see if it rolls or if it just flys down the ramps like a wheel snowblower does
This snow blower uses a hydro (hydrostatic) transmission so it does not freewheel. You have to start the engine and then drive it off the ramps. (there is a freewheel lever you can release when the engine is off but even then the snowblower is very hard to move - it won't fly down a ramp)
I have a porch with four steps and I regularly drive this snowblower up on it. I can also back it down the steps or drive it down the steps and it has plenty of traction so it never slips.
Ariens offers a heavy-duty poly skid shoes if you have a lot of pavers and don't want to scratch them. Also with the snowblower in the "wheel mode" it's almost balanced on the tracks so it doesn't have any weight on the front end. In other words even with the cast iron skid shoes it won't scratch your brick pavers. I have a 50 feet sidewalk with street bricks (old Purington Pavers) and it's never left a scratch.
@@PaulSikkema Thank you because i looked at honda and the honda does clog on wet snow they made a new chute for them and even honda says on their website that around the boston mass area snow more people have problems with it clogging in the chute. I also tried the husky at the dealer to drive up ramps with their hydro ran great coming down the steep ramps on a tiny hydro amount applied as soon as i hit the steep ramp grade it flew down like it was a old style wheel snowblower. So I will go check this model out thanks again.
Paul, I have read several reviews on the auto turn and people seem to either love it or hate it. Is the auto turn only effective in wheel mode or when the tracks are down also? I would be using it on a uneven uphill driveway and that seems to be the most complaints when using it on uneven surface.
The Auto-Turn is the easiest to use. Most of the people who complain either want it to act just like their old trigger steer or they don't have enough experience with 2-stage snowblowers to know that snowdrifts and rough pavement will push any snowblower around. It really steers just like a shopping cart. Hold the handles and point it where you want it to go. But - just like a shopping cart if you let go of the handles or stop steering the shopping cart goes all over the place on rough ground. If the front hits something you have to hold the handles to keep it going straight.
To answer your question specifically the Auto-Turn works all the time but just like a trigger steer on tracks it will be harder to turn with the tracks locked down. (It's an auto-locking differential - not an automatic power steering system) Myself I can easily make a course correction when clearing something like your driveway with it in track mode but when I want to turn 90 or 180 degrees I just pull the trigger under the handle to release the tracks, push down on the handles and the tracks lock up in wheel mode. Then I can turn easily. This whole process takes 2 seconds and after 30 minutes it will be natural for you.
@@PaulSikkema Thank you for the detailed explanation that all makes sense.
One more question. I just saw at my local dealer a 2020 Ariens Professional 28 Hydro RapidTrak 926060 with the Polar Force Pro by Briggs & Stratton. Any reliability issues with this engine? I know Ariens now puts their own engines in the newest models.
The B&S is a commercial engine and has a great reputation. You can't go wrong with it.
A few readers have mentioned that their local dealer is discounting that model wit the Briggs about $500 because it is now two years old. (No changes to the new Rapidtraks - they just need to move inventory)
@@PaulSikkema Ok sounds good. My dealer only has it marked down about $100 for the current model. But good to know I may be able to talk him down.
Hello and thank you for your videos! I have the opportunity to purchase Ariens 36 inch professional Hydro Pro Snowblower - Model 926055 - which has been discontinued by Ariens. To the best of your knowledge, why did Ariens discontinue this product? Does it manifest issues while operating? Should I just purchase the latest model instead (926070) and pay about $1,000 more? Thank you kindly for your guidance
It's the same snowblower with a different engine. The model you are looking at has a Professional Series Briggs & Stratton. The new models have the Ariens AX Professional series.
There is nothing wrong with the Briggs, in fact it's one of the best horizontal shaft engines on the market. At $1000 off you are getting a deal!
While you're driving can you move the hydro lever to change the speed without have to stop? 2nd question, is the EFI worth the extra cost in your opinion? Thanks!
Yes, I've used this one enough that I never stop. I can move the speed control from forward to reverse and then back to forward without stopping the snowblower. It makes cleanup very fast.
Yes, EFI is worth it. Like the EFI in your car EFI doesn't care about stale gas, etc. It automatically adjusts the fuel mixture to compensate. It's especially useful for higher elevations because it automatically adjusts for higher altitudes.
Because its electronically controlled the engine has more available power.
I would only do the area for my activity, not such large area.
I have a 200 foot steel gravel road, from 5 to 15 degrees steep, would this snow blower do the job
Yes, this would be a great snowblower for your driveway! It has the power to handle any snow and throw it a long way from your driveway. The RapidTrak gives it more than enough traction to go up and down your slopes. Plus, with the tracks up it's great for working around the buildings and other tight areas.
@@PaulSikkema
Thank you for the reply, bring on the winter.Should I buy the 24 inch or the 28.
@@nicholassanzari9603 I bought the compact track 24 and it is a beast of a machine. If your driveway is very large I would recommend the larger one. If you have something like mine which is 3 cars wide, the 24 is great.
Hi Paul, I'm looking for a new snowblower to clear a driveway that is about 2 car's wide and about 3 car lengths long. The issue I have is that it's very steep and slippery. I currently use an older model Ariens 824 Classic that works ok but sometimes will slip or I have to give it a push to get going up the slope. Should I be considering a track drive snowblower? I live in southern Wisconsin near Madison.
The problem with track drives is most of the manufactures are only putting tracks on the most expensive, Pro models. That said,
A wheeled snowblower that's well balanced will have great traction and the Toro and Ariens models have optional tire chains if that';s not enough.
Watch my videos on the Ariens Deluxe 28, Toro 828, Ariens Deluxe SHO and Toro 928. For that small of drive also look at the Ariens Compact and the Toro 826 OAE
Paul have you moved since videos last year ?
Yes, after living in Chippewa Falls, WI for 15 years I moved to Clinton, IA this summer.
Any reason why my rapid track on dig mode just wants to spin the tracks. Only way to get it moving is to rock the unit back and forth?
Personally, I don't use dig-in mode unless I absolutely have to. I have old blacktop and rough concrete and it wants to catch that really abrasive stuff. Instead, if I have some tough snow to clear I'll take 1/4 or half-passes with it in normal track mode. That said,
1. Make sure you have 1/8 to 1/4 inch gap under the scraper bar.
2. Some owners have switched to poly shoes and they state it pushes easier in dig-in mode.
3. When you put your snowblower in dig-in mode the whole machine is "humped" in the middle. The front tracks are off the ground and the back of the skids shoes are also off the ground. I suggest adjusting the skid shoes by putting 1/4 inch plywood under the scraper bar, put the machine into dig-in mode, loosen the skid shoes and make sure they are level with the pavement. Then tighten the shoes. The shoes will now be level and they won't dig in as quickly. That should help a lot.
@@PaulSikkema thanks appreciate the feedback will try it. Never adjusted the skid shoes just left it how it came from the dealer
Need help brand new rapid track and the auger lever doesn’t stay down any reason why
Do you meant the auger interlock is not working? When you have both levers down and you let go of the right hand lever it doesn't stay down?
Check out this video: ruclips.net/video/TsjdwjGwnbE/видео.html
@@PaulSikkema yes one of the pins fell out don’t know how I just ordered a new part thanks for getting back to me
I think tracks are for snowmobiles.
And I think standon ZTR's are the only mower you should buy. Our opinion doesn't matter unless we are the one's buying it.
@@PaulSikkema
I had a top of the line Honda 7/24 track snowblower. It cost me $4,500.00 Canadian in 2007. It was awkward to maneuver with the track and the chute kept getting plugged. I sold it. I will never buy another Honda snowblower. Overpriced and overrated.
I drove snowmobiles for 8 years from 1966 to 1973 inclusive.
Yes, we all have varying opinions.
After looking at the very expensive track snowblowers, I can appreciate the wheeled snowblowers. Just add chains if needed.
I grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and we had various types and brands of snowblowers. We even had a snowblower on a small tracked machine.
The best snowblower back then (Mid-70's) was an Ariens 8 HP two stage with chained wheels. It blew the snow over the power lines and it would keep burrowing into a 7 foot snow bank. It was unstoppable.
My dad sold it when we moved to Victoria, British Columbia in 1979. I wish that he had kept it.
As for lawnmowers, I have had top of the line mowers as well.
I had an Ariens Professional with a 5 HP Briggs and Stratton Commercial engine. The best gas mower that I have owned. It lasted from 1993 to 2012. The crankshaft bearing went.
I had a top of the line Honda Commercial mower. It was very expensive, heavy, awkward to maneuver and the quality of cut wasn't that great. I sold it to a landscape company.
So far, I have a Toro Personal Pace 60 volt lawnmower. It is lightweight and does a nice job on the lawn. I had an EGO Select Cut. Pure crap! It left uncut blades everywhere. I sold it before people realized how bad they were. I am selling the remainder of my EGO lawn tools. I went with an ECHO gas blower vac, and a Makita 18 volt multi-system.
I don't know if Ariens is still good, but it is hard to get out west. There is Toro. Toro is good so far. I have the gas QXE 824 with Personal Pace. It goes through almost anything and it is light enough that I can lift it onto our deck or my truck.
I also have a brand new Polaris Sportsman 570 Ride Command Edition with plow/power angle, and custom made drift cutters.
I don't do videos, but I have experience with different brands.
Like cars, it comes down to brand preference, quality and job performance. Everybody is different.
I like Ariens and Toro. I have read complaints about the tracked snowblowers. If you get a rock/branch or anything caught in the track/cog, it could cause a problem. Wheeled snowblowers have stood the test of time. They have been around before we were born.