One of the things that I like about the Ariens company is that they protect their little mom and pop dealers. When I was shopping for a snowblower, it was the same exact price at the local dealer as Homer Depot. They have across the board dealer pricing. When you buy at Homer Depot and you try to get warranty work done, they'll send you to the local mom and pop, so you might as well buy there to begin with.
I send people to the local Ariens dealer when they ask me what to buy for a snowblower, they don't sell Ariens at Home depot here in my part of Canada anymore, I like it that way. They get the best service from a dealership.
You guys are great by the way you gotta love the b+s snow series engine that you have to loosen carb to replace pull rope .what a joke I'd love to know who designs this garbage
This is one of the best video's that you both have ever done on the channel, hands down! The quality research that Andy has done, coupled with Taryl's real life experience working on them, made for the best duo in getting the information out to us consumers. This was so well done, I wouldn't mind it if you guys did these for mowers for the spring buy season.
It is nice how this channel helps people out who don't have a Nascar garage full of tools. A gentleman came to my door who had just bought a John Deer 212. He was in scrubs, a nurse, and looking for the guy down the street that had fixed small engines and moved. I said you can do it yourself and he said no no. I asked if he had $300 in tools and he said yes. I showed him the light and had him write down Taryl Fixes All. I hope I sent you a new subscriber. You may not be perfect, but you are perfect for us fans of the Gas Rats Garage. Stay well.
I purchased my MTD Power Pro 22" Two Stage Snowthrower back in 1997. It was made specifically for Kmart. I was desperate for a snowblower so I bought it. I never regret buying it. I live in Northeast Pennsylvania where we get a decent amount of snow. It has the SNOW KING 5 hp Tecumseh. No valve jobs no major issues of any kind. Today it still runs like new. If you take care of it it'll take care of you. I will not buy today's made in China junk.
Also from Pennsylvania, we have been really lucky weather wise. I remember back in the early 90s we use to get pounded with blizzard storms, I kinda miss those storms. Use to have a ton of fun
Same here rckolc. I have the 90's Tecumseh SnowKing engine. Mine runs 2-3 hours hard every time it snows, every since it was new and no valve jobs. I'm in Upstate NY. I guess it is possible the 5 horse engines with valve issues could be due to they don't get run enough to keep the valves clean. Dunno. All I know is I have 3 of these engines and all of them run fine. The other 2 blowers are for backup only. So they get run maybe 1-2 hours a season to keep the fluids flowing. Mine didn't come with a fuel filter, which if yours doesn't have one I recommend adding one. I've had to blow out the jets 3 times a year without the filter. Now with the B&S pancake filter installed, problem solved.
I have several older snow blowers from the 80's: Honda, John Deere, Ariens, Craftsman. They all run great. I have had no problem with the older Tecumseh engines, with the exception that they vibrate a lot. The Hondas are smoother. I also will not buy any of that cheap Chinese crap.
I got a pair of Toros, 524 and 824, bought both new at the same time in 1980. Both have Tecumseh engines. Amazingly strong built machines. Axle bearings which are bushings needed to be replaced a few years ago, carb rebuild kits and regular maintenance it pretty much all I have done to both machines. Keeping everything lubed up is vital for long life. Also changing the engine oil after every season with 5w30 full synthetic. When it's extremely cold, synthetic starts much easier. Just bought a new Toro Power Max HD 1232 for this upcoming winter season. Also picked up a used 2017 Cub Cadet 1X single stage snow blower to clear the deck. It wasn't overly used. Needed a new shoot control cable and low speed jet needed cleaned. New rubber paddles and scraper bar also needed changed. A new one is around 700.00. I think that is absolutely crazy for a single stage. I am now ready for anything mother nature throws at me this coming winter. Great video Taryl. Lots of informative information. There is no doubt you help many of us do it yourselfers. "Grass Rats"
Have had very good luck with my Simplicity 32" Pro series w/ 12HP Briggs. This thing attacks snowbanks! Bought new in '04 for a 140' driveway and parking area. Granted it was kept in a warm garage, but is was trouble free for about 15 years here in the NE. When I downsized I had to put it in an unheated garage, and that's when I had the normal fuel issues you'll see on this great channel. Last year when trying to fire up the cylinder was seized. I panicked, but then sprayed some lube in the combustion chamber and an hour later it freed up and has run fine since. Now I'll do this at the end of every season. Have no complaints with the Nikki carb, except I wish it was easier to drop the bowl to drain- if you need to replace the bowl gasket you have to replace the whole gasket assembly meaning pulling the carb. Not a big deal after you do it once. Mechanically everything has held up well, it's built solid. Will replace the belts at the end of this season and check the friction disk. Also primer bulb and hose. Hope to have it another 10 years. Thanks to Taryl and crew for these great videos, informative and funny. It's not the Space Shuttle!
I have a Poulan Pro, 10hp, 30" that I've been running here in the snowy Northeast for 7 years now. Always starts right up and runs flawlessly. Blows through everything Mother Nature dumps on me whether dry or heavy & wet. Had 14" snowfall yesterday, never clogged up and throws 30+ feet. Haven't had to replace any belts in 7 years. Store it inside garage and do regular maintenance every year keeps it running great. One thing though, I have had to replace discharge chute cable that controls discharge angle twice so far because it rusted and broke at chute but I just leave chute pointedl at maximum up angle now and all is good. Overall, great machine. ANY snowblower can suck if you don't take care of it, regardless of brand but I stand by my Poulan Pro!
39:13 My Spirit is a hand-me-down from my father in-law. I love this thing as it starts in mostly 1 pull. Only trouble I had was the first winter, the worm housing of the chute swivel, broke but I fabbed up a sturdy metal replacement. Thanks, Taryl, for showing us how to service similar drive components !
Great video guys. Here in Michigan, I've found through the years it's good have both a two stage blower for heavy, deep snow, and a good, two stroke, single stage blower for lighter stuff. I completely restored a late 90s Craftsman 11hp 30" two stage unit i bought for $50. It's a beast! I also have the Toro ccr 3650 6.5hp single stage (like you showed in this video), which I completely restored, that absolutely rips! I've been buying, restoring to new, and flipping single and two stage blowers for about 4 years now. Can't tell you how many times Taryl's helped me out while working on these things. Thanks!
Michigan Guy here too, I also have two machines, one two stage and one single stage which is a Toro CCR 2450 that I got for $40 and restored it, for 5 hp that really throws the snow, also just picked up a 3650 for $60 that I plan on restoring. The little Toro’s really are about the best.
was extremely impressed with all the work uncle andy put into this video to teach us grass rats about snowblowers...........and taryl , was also impressed with your use of the word acronym in the video..........there is NOTHING second rate about your videos,,,,,,,,,,,,thanks much.....keep up the good work
I've never owned a snowblower and have rarely needed one. I gave this video a thumbsup because I watch and like all of your videos. Thanks Taryl Fixes All.
I finally have a tip for you Taryl. To quickly replace rubber augers that are riveted on you can use an air hammer with a straight/tapered shaft you may need to grind down the tip a little to punch the rivets out from the side that is dished inward. Thanks for all of your great insights and tips/tricks I watch all of your videos and have fixed many machines using them.
You guys should take a snow thrower and remove the auger and put on a old skewl spiral reel type grass blade! That would be kewl! Love your videos Taryl!
When I shopped for my snowblower back twenty years ago, I did a ton of research. What I found was there were three brands that stood out. Ariens, Honda and Simplicity. Hondas were really expensive, Simplicity had very few dealers and the nearest was 35 miles away, so I went with Ariens. I bought an 824 Classic. It was more than the regular model. The reason being that it was balanced rather than weighted. Because I have a bad back, I can turn the machine around with one hand instead of having to wrangle it. Even though it's twenty years old, there isn't one part that I can't get for it, not that I have needed any. Btw, it has a plastic gas tank. Other than oil changes and regular adjustments, I really haven't had to do anything with it as far as repairs.
A little off-topic, but my Ariens lawn mower (YT12H) is 30 years old, and I can get enough parts for it that I could almost build one from scratch. Original mower deck and transmission, never serviced, in near-mint condition. Ariens also makes the parts, service, and operator's manuals available online for anyone, not just dealers as is the case with Stihl.
Funny you mention Simplicity.... I was just a kid, but my GrandFather had a big Simplicity walk behind 2 stage... Even had like a plastic 3-sided "tent" sort of thing to protect the operator.... Bad ass machine.... Unstoppable... that thing disappeared instantaneously at the inevitable estate sale... My Dad was steamed about that for years, he wanted it.... And we had a Simplicity lawn tractor. Just a little guy... Broadmoor??? 8 horse??? Something like that. Acre yard, week after week, year after year... That thing was really nice.
@@patrickmorrissey2271 Hello Patrick that plastic hood was the poor mans cab. When your Grandpa had that unit most vehicles had 2 wheel drive (one wheel peel) on top of having bigger accumulations back then. The ole timer was a clear thinker. No body knows who ended up with the rascal? REALLY!!?
I've got one of those 8 horse MTD blowers. Been going strong for 22 years now. Replaced belts, cables, carb and the starter. Starts up every time. Only gets used 3-4 times a year really. Can't complain.
1998 Toro CCR 2450 GTS. Metal carb, running 100:1 Amsoil. Changed the paddles once. I'll run in in snow so deep, you'll just see the snout sticking out as it keeps flinging the snow. Best thing I ever bought and I have bought a lot of toys over the years.
Good old Ariens 8524 here, it’s a snow eatin’ monster that never lets me down. You really can’t go wrong with an Ariens powered by an 8.5hp Tecumseh Snow King engine, fantastic quality! I used to have a crappy “Yard King” snowblower that was a real tin can. The sheet metal was so thin the sides would bend and get pushed into the auger. I think it was made by Murray but I’m not sure, I could never find any parts or info on it.
I have a 1965 Ariens Snow Throw. Same year I was born (it was my Grandpa's). An amazing tank of a machine. Engine replaced in the early 90's with a Briggs Snow King. Starts quick. I did that trick on the impellor where you install a small piece of a rubber on the edges of the impellor blades to eliminate the gaps around the impellor & the chute. Not the thing can do any kind of snow... almost throws a mud puddle. There are no safety gizmo's of any kind. If you put it in gear and let go there's nothing to stop it. It has wheel chains which makes this even less stoppable. Love that thing.
1971 Sno Thro here. Older than me and in great condition. I put a newer HSK70 on it and replaced a few bearings here and there. Starts first pull at half choke.
Thanks guys! Weirdly enough I have the large green Craftsman with the big 9hp Tecumish engine... And the Craftsman 2-stroke that Andy had. My Craftsman 2-stroke runs great though, got if for free and fixed the carb then good to go!
Last year I bought the toro battery snow blower. It has handled 4 major snow storms of over 10" and a dozen of over 3". Under that I just use shovel. I can do my drive and sidewalks and my neighbors on a single charge with 12" wet snow. Toro is simple. Not all bells and whistles. The handle to turn shoot is a little low so I cut and threaded and added more rod so I don't have to bend down. The ryobi and ego both look nice but I just see so many potential breaks with the fancy options. As Steven Lavimoniere says, Keep it simple stupid. Enjoyed this video!
Avoid avoid avoid avoid John Deere 44” snowblower units at ALL costs the gear box’s are made of glass and the sheer pins are crazy priced compared to other companies. I have 2 44” blower assembly’s for the d and E series and Apparently the 300 series all use the same gearbox to made in India. You cannot get parts at all for the gear boxes the only way to fix it a new box in Canada retailing at $700 plus. The local John Deere dealership felt bad and get me a special price of 575+ tax on it but I haven’t picked it up yet. Anybody looking to buy a blower for a John Deere by a Berco blower around the same price from what I can see.
Mustie, I live in Ontario Canada, I own a 73 and 74 Sears ST 16, they are absolute tanks. I have most of the attachments, the blower has never failed me, it also takes three men and a boy to put it on.😂 They really don’t make them like they used to.
have a Honda 9-28 with wheels instead of tracks, 12 yrs old and still starts on 1 crank and sip fuel and throws snow like a much bigger machine. Love it!
1971 Ariens Sno Thro, replaced the engine with a newer HSK70, replaced some worn bearings here and there. Best feature is let the clutch out and it goes on its own. It will chew up and spit out golf ball sized rocks no problem.
I have the same one. Mine has the original 6hp Tecumseh. Doesn't burn oil. I figure it'll outlive me. If the engine blows I have a NOS 5hp Tecumseh to replace it or just buy one of those Predator engines for $150. I have lots of parts too and an old 1968 Sno Thro without an engine so hope to get that going when I retire someday as a fun project. Surprised more people don't grab these for cheap and fix them up since they'll outlast a new one. Most people don't care I guess...
I have a 30-year old Ariens snowblower, works like a champ! 8HP 24 inch width 2-stage, very little trouble at all! We get almost 200 inches of snow a year, so it gets lots of work...
Best I've ever used (and I own) is a GIL-35210-B which is a neat old Montgomery Ward Vertical shaft 3.5hp single stage self propelled. It's completely different than anything on the market now as it's extremely powerful and works better than you'd ever believe even in the deepest and wet snow. It has some strange inner workings, I'm actually working on it right now giving it a refresher. Excellent videos by the way, never miss them and always like them.
@@MazichMusic They don't make them like that anymore, all metal and a little rubber-no plastic. It's actually a decent machine, but maybe I just like it for the novelty
Hi I use the Honda HS35 snow blower and it works like a charm, I got it and all it needed was a carb cleaned and it fired right up no issuses throws snow far. Sometimes the older snow blowers are better than the new ones but it depends on how it was looked after as well maintnece.
I have one of those Honda HS621 units and that thing will throw some deep heavy show! I love it. Bought it not working from a guy and I took it apart, cleaned up the carb, but the correct auger belt on it and it kicks butt now♥
I got an old Canadian 2 stage walk behind snowblower about 25 years ago which was built with a right angle gearbox on the side instead of a worm gear from the shaft of the 2nd stage to the 1st stage. I’ve kept it up on a shelf with plans to turn the 2nd stage housing and fan into a leaf blower attachment on my Toro 522xi. Didn’t get to using it, now selling off most of my lawn and garden equipment.
Hey wait a minute!... I have one of those Craftsman units just like Uncle Andy's and it's worked great for me over the years. The only issue I had with it was once in a while the drive belt would pop off. Sometimes it would be hard starting when cold, but it has electric start and that would fire it right up. I got a tractor with a snowblower now, so it doesn't get used anymore. I did notice that the paddles were starting to wear the last time I used it, but it did the job. Good for small jobs or a sidewalk.
I've got one of those craftsman 2stroke single stage. Love it. Loud as hell but took me 17 bucks to get it running after 10 years of sitting. Changing the rivited paddles sucked but luckily I found a small company around me that still makes the paddles. Love the ole Tecumseh.
I've got an old Grey craftsman 2 stage from the mid 90s. It's a 24in with the hm80 8hp tecumseh. Was using that snow blower when I was a little kid. My dad gave it to me this year. It's been sitting with gas in it for about 5 years. New carb, guide shoes, oil, spark plug, and some pb blaster, and it's as good as new. It put in some work this year. About $100 in parts beats paying $1000 for a new one.
I own two snowblowers that I use for different situations. I have an old Toro CCR 2000 and it is the most reliable snowblower I have ever owned. Never ever had a problem with the engine. Starts every year and it’s fairly powerful and lightweight. Super easy to use. The only repairs I’ve ever done were replacing the paddles, skid and belt after 30 years of use. Fantastic for snow up to 6 inches, but it has enough balls to chuck deeper snow if it’s light and fluffy. When the snow is deep or wet and heavy, I bring out the Ariens Deluxe 28 2-stage snowblower. It works great if there’s a lot of snow on the ground. The engine that was on mine was a 250cc LCT engine which worked fine under most conditions but was a bit underpowered with deep heavy snow drifts and ice. I’ve stalled that engine a couple times and I have to go slower. That LCT engine developed a rod knock after 3 years, right when the warranty expired. I decided to go nuts and repower it with a 16 HP Vanguard v-twin on the snow blower. This engine in particular has a pull start and electric start, compact exhaust system, and its very reliable and powerful. I increased the auger pulley on the engine to 4.5” to take advantage of the additional horsepower. And boy does it blow snow now. It shoots it like a canon. It’s got good power most of the time but it occasionally struggle with really deep wet snow, however it chucks the snow out faster so it can intake more snow at a faster ground speed, much faster than I would with the LCT engine. The weight increase is noticeable but it isn’t too bad. I only use the Ariens if we get a big blizzard but most of the time I use the little Toro CCR 2000 because it is lighter and much easier to use, and in light snow I can outpace the 2-stagers and it clears down to the pavement really well.
Bought a Toro Power Clear when they first came out with electric start and the R tek Briggs engine. Has always ran great. Can't be in a hurry to change paddles, they have to go a certain way. Other than that, it's been really good! Would recommend!
26:25 I got that MTD single stage 21" 4.5HP TecuMich 2 stroke E-start in 2013 for 90$. In 22' it finally wouldn't start never touching the carb. Throws 15 inches of Detroit slush 10+ft. Just bought a 2-stage Snapper 422 4hp TecuMich 4 stroke, 3 speeds+reverse & posi-traction for 50$. Starts one pull. You want the most powerful single stage for man handling it & throwing in a truck. Or the smallest possible 2-stage so it doesn't man handle you. I'm sure its under powered, but they work great.
I just got an early 70's Ariens "Sno-Thro" 24" for $60 bucks and while the old Tecumseh on it does start, it's pretty tired. Thinking of swapping it out for a Predator 212 or a Honda GX200. The rest of the unit is in great shape and built like a Sherman tank! The chute control is a steel rod crank style, no cable, turns easy and you can even aim it backwards which is good if the wind is blowing in the wrong direction, lol. The auger has grease zerks on it making it much easier to lubricate and what I love, put it in gear, let out the clutch and it drives itself, even if I let go of it, LOL! Yeah, it only has 3 forward speeds and 1 reverse but I can live with that just fine.
Bought a Honda HS 50 back in 82 0r 83 that still starts on the second pull and throws a bunch of snow with the only repair needed was to replace the impeller belt. So when I decided I needed a bigger more powerful blower, I went with a Honda HS928 TAS in 2003 and depending on the depth of snow, I decide which one to use. I try to keep up on maintenance as I know repair parts are quite expensive.
14:50 Picked up one of those Toro 418ze snow blowers at a garage sale for 10 bucks. Sure enough, the carb was gummed up like Taryl mentioned. Somebody tried to take it apart, and lost all the nuts and bolts and tried to put standard nuts on the carb studs, messing up the threads! I had to buy, some metric nuts and bolts, and chase the metric threads on the carb mounting studs. The governor linkage also had to be replaced as well as it was all bent up by this nitwit. The brass jet in the float bowl has a opening that is TINY! I can see why these gum up so easily. I drilled it out to a bit larger size. That's it, and it didn't affect how it runs at all, still runs great. All in all, I spent 40 bucks and put in some elbow grease and I have a machine that cost $500 new and it's only 10 years old with very little wear!
I had a Toro snow pup my dad got used from a neighbor in the 1970s. I'm not sure of the actual date on it but you could not kill it. It got a lot of use after the Northeast Blizzard of 1978. It was used to clear a roof off of a car dealership and took a beating.
Rebuilt a 1983 tracked Honda hs50 , Built up the scraper mount, new edge from an old shovel, one new bearing, cleaned and painted all the red and put belting rubber on second stage paddles. It works like a dream, starts first pull!
Honda tracked model and Gravely Sno cannon dog catcher strong but expensive. We had a huge ministorage complex 5 acres 300 etx doors in NYS wet snow long island. We bought aa MTD gold 10hp blower. It never broke still running since 1998.
Pulled a Toro powerlite from the rubbish 5 or 6 yrs ago. Cleaned the the carb, and fresh gas. Best little dependable machine ever. Handles even the heaviest snow, and cleans to the pavement.
I had a powersmart push mower come in last year were the owner put it in some long grass and the crank broke in 1/2. After talking to the customer I just put a used briggs 5.50 motor and new blade on it and he said it worked better then the new one ever did.
Hilarious! Nice job fellers. I live in Georgia, still have my Toro 3521 (1984 era). And it starts, normally with a single pull! And yes, people come up to me and ask me what it is. Often as not they think it's some kind of rototiller.
I have a Toro CCR Powerlite-E single stage snow blower that use talked about this is the first winter that I used it and I was impressed with it for what it is it has done a decent job so far and I just bought a Troy Bilt storm 2410 24 inch path. Thank you Taryl and uncle Andy for sharing your knowledge on this video with us.
I never heard you talk about the cub cadet snow blowers. Its the type of mower i have. I was thinking of investing in the blower of the same brand. Good idea or bad idea?
Until my dad bought that Toro S-200 with electric start no less, we as a family had always shoveled our 2-car wide driveway by hand. I don't know what possessed my father to buy that snowblower that particular year, but it was an absolute lifesaver because the snowfall that year and next in SE Wisconsin was next level.
Bought a new troybilt 2410 in 2014. I put an impeller kit in it not long after new and with meticulous maintenance and always using stabil in fuel not a single issue! I did adjust valves this season. Looks new still as well! Read alot of bad on the interwebs, but I've never had a single issue.
I found a 2 stroke single stage white outdoor snow blower thrown out with the trash a couple summers ago, cleaned the carburetor and replaced the drive belt.... It worked well last winter and this winter, granted the rubber on the auger is worn to the point of making a 1 inch gap between the rubber paddle and the housing but still works surprisingly well👍
I have a Tracked Honda HS928 had it for 12 years has hydrostatic drive , the machine has been very reliable , is designed for easy service (The auger assembly can be easily removed without having to pull the blower housing off the machine). the only thing I have ever had to service is the main auger bearing and auger belt , used in semi-commercial service for 3 households for all its life , the machine is a beast and can even handle the removal of the piles heavly packed snow after roof snow removal which used to break the drive on friction disk driven machines requiring a lot of service . the hydro-static drive makes moving it a dynamic fluid fingertip operation in both directions , only downfall as with all tracked machines is its slow to transport from one location to another.. the extra traction is a big plus in my case in the removal of packed down heavy snow . never had an issue with with finding parts, and still does not burn a drop of oil to this day. another feature I like is the handle mounted throttle , when blowing very light snow or in a tight area, or an area where there could be chunks ice embedded with the snow that would cause damage , I can lower the engine speed to selectively reduce the force of the thrown snow.
I have a really old MTD 24", Tecumseh Power King 8 HP Engine like the one you showed in your video. It still runs but it's getting rusty. Think I bought it in the 90s. I have replaced the rubber drive wheel, electric starter and kept the engine maintained. Need to tweak the engine which I have and gotten some ideas on how to do and play with the governor. I dont have a tach unfortunately and looking for a good reliable tachometer. I see you use the Echo and thinking about it or do you have another one you recommend? I have seen and thought about adding some rubber to the second stage impeller. Seen some videos on how to do that or there is kits you can buy. What's your thoughts on that? The claim is it will increase the throwing range of snow a lot. My biggest issue is usually in the Spring and you start throwing slush. The rubber adding to the impeller is suppose to help keep the chute from plugging. When slushy, I also lose traction since the rubber disc loses its grip to the wheel and yes, I have a pan under the machine? Looks like I might of lucked out when I bought that machine from experience and what you said on your video.
In the past 4 years I've found a Toro 2450 and Toro 3650 in the trash. Both needed paddles and scraper bars (About $40 spent on each one on EBAY) and they now perform like new. I would only recommend a 2450 or 3650 if used. Parts are readily available and they have tons of throwing power! At my old house I had to be careful not to throw snow across the ST into my neighbors drive. His $1,000+ 2 stage couldn't wing snow more than 10' while I'm throwing snow 30+ feet. And to your note on the belt cover getting worn out from rubbing the ground, That's true. I fixed that on the 3650 with some scrap metal and my $100 harbor freight 110V welder.
I can’t say enough about Ariens oem parts support. I have a 1989 st824, parts availability is great. John Deere is the local dealer to me so also really good for getting parts. I repowered it with a 13hp Honda. There’s nothing it won’t go through. Except belts now haha
Great video, we need more like that. My fav. snowblowers are the old Toro machine, I have an old 832 dating from 1976 and a 826 dating from 1989. I just want to keep these tanks going.
I remember I being at my uncles house in the mid sixties and we got 5 inches of snow, fortunately he had a little Toro snow pup brand new. When I ran that thing I was hooked. It was fast light and strong. I later bought an S200 and really liked it. Been with it for 35 years. Yes they are a pain to work on but I really like the light weight and that’s why I like it to this day.
I never used a single stage snow blower so my worst snow blower was an ancient Yardman (MTD?) 2 Stage left by my stepdad. The Auger belt was super long (42") because it drove the front auger directly instead of driving a transfer box. So the belt went around the engine drive pulley, past the auger control idler, around a couple of guide rollers that force it to go 90 degrees to drive a pulley on the auger shaft. I burn a belt almost every snow storm as working the auger control would cause the belt to jump off the guide rollers. I replaced the Yardman with the Huskee 24" 2 stage (MTD) 2014 model bought new. The Powermore Chonda engine runs great. I only need to yearly drain/run dry the gas tank and perform an oil change. My only issue was one of the cleanout tool mount plastic studs sheared off first winter. Other wise it has been a solid performer these last eight/nine winters
I used to work on those damn S-200s back in the mid 80s thru the early 90s. Hated taking all those covers off to get at the Suzuki in there. Had to tune them rich after rebuild so they would fuel under load. Sold a lot of aluminum handle bars too.
I have owned Ariens snowblowers for 48 years. I still have my original 5hp 20". No problems with any of them. I sold Ariens and Toro in semi retirement. I agree whole hearted about Power Smart. I tried to steer people away from them when I heard of warranty, parts and repair issues.
I snagged a single stage Toro powerclear on a curb sale, and thought the paddle system is insane, designed to wear out, so I made brackets and shoes like a regular 2 stage for the machine. Mike
I own a tracked Honda HS828S (built between 1991-1998) and it is an absolute beast! Damn thing blows snow 50+ feet ! All the parts are extremely good quality. The hydrostatic drive works flawless and is easy to service. High quality keihin carb that's easy to service. My machine still has all the original cables, just shoot cable lube in them each year. These machines were $2600-2800 msrp in the 90's ! I picked mine up used for $500. I did a carb job, cleaned the fuel tank and checked valve lash. Runs like a top ! Highly suggest the Honda 2 stage machines. There's a reason good stuff aint cheap and cheap stuff aint good !
I have the credence clearwater revival Toro 2000, 4.5 hp after nine years of use last summer I change the blade and scraper; the belt was in good condition didn't need to be changed, I like that I got my money's out of it. Happy belated birthday Taryl.
Taryl, I had an older Bolens 824, with a Tecumseh engine. Boy that thing would throw some snow! I put synthetic oil in that rascal and it would start first or second pull, no matter how cold it was. It got me through many winter storms in Connecticut, with no breakdowns at all! Anyway, I love the channel, and I'm proud to say. "I'm a Grass Rat!"
I have an older 8 hp bolens in the yard I bought off my grandfather and it was decently built. I had a problem with the shoot always falling off because of the slide that held it on. I finally did something right with it as it has not fallen off in a while.
In 1988 when we bought our house in the Catskills, the seller left us an Ariens 910018 machine. What a beast !!!. I totally serviced it (so I thought) and then on the first snow, I blew a belt. So then the next Spring I serviced it TOTALLY ... It never failed to clean the driveway, despite my frustration , and running it over the hill into the gully. 20 years ago I bought a Honda HS928. I wasted money on the electric start. It always starts on the first pull. This machine thros snow that the neighbor's machines do not. Of course I had to get a loan to buy it. I just changed the scraper blade and that was an ordeal, but I love this machine. I see so many folks buy a big-box snow blower and a few years they are buying a replacement.
You are totally correct about the Jacobsen! I had one of those when it was the only thing you could get in the late '70's with the 3 bad winters in a row....complete piece of junk!
I've got an old Craftsman 8/26 26" 2 stage snowblower with track drive which was given to me for free which I fixed up and has been a great beast of a snowblower, powered by an 8 HP Tecumseh with cast iron sleeve.
Entertaining and informative video. I have a Poulan Pro PR621 (208cc single stage), that's around 10 years old. It's been a fantastic blower, and puts most of my neighbors 2 stages to shame as far as throwing snow. It was NOT difficult getting parts up until the last couple years, which now the model is old enough parts are running out of stock. As far as replacement part prices, I agree they were $$$ but probably not really any more than Toro or Honda comparatively. I've replaced the paddles, scraper, and engine as the LCT burnt a valve or something. I just retrofitted a Predator from Harbor Freight (swapped the parts off/on) and she's running like a beast again. But I wouldn't recommend buying one at this point, simply because of parts availability is going to dry up. For example, the clutch cable is out of stock and I could use a new one.
I have one of the MTD 21” 2 strokes. The only real issue I have had other than basic maintenance is the frame where the motor cracked to the point that the belt wouldn’t drive and the motor has siting on the axle. I think it is from the fact that the 2 stroke vibrates a lot and fatigue the steel where it mounts. There should really be a mount from the other side of the engine to the cassis. The blower shroud has a lug for it. I ended up finding a mother one for cheep and combining the best parts from both to make one better than it was before and I now have a spare engine.
That Toro S-200 was the worst. I had one that was a hand me down from somebody who must have really hated me. It was older than I am, shot more snow out the back at my legs and feet than it did out the front and it was loud enough to wake the dead! The sound was really the incredible thing. My ears would be ringing, and I was too afraid to run it before leaving for work because the entire neighborhood would have been awoken for blocks around. Even in the evening I was nervous if it was past 9PM. People must not have valued their hearing back in the 70's! I got a new hand me down this year. A Toro 721E. It figures we would not get any snow this season to try it out. I'm kicking that old one to the curb!
I'm glad I live in the south, we run our lawnmowers all year, so what we look for is a metal transmission case, and a thick deck as far as the riding mowers, because we have a lot of sand, so the entire time you are mowing the grass, you're sandblasting the deck. The push mowers blow up before anything really wears out.
I have an old Toro S200 in very nice shape. Dad bought it new in the early 80s and gave it to me about 12 years ago when he upgraded after retirement. He took good care of it. I used it many years when I was a teen and in my early 20s - so I guess I took good care of it too.
Ive always used toro and those old ccr's were old reliable picked up the newer power clears when they first came out with them the only maintenance it's ever had is 3 sets of cutting edge and paddles and the belt and it still starts with 2 pulls every time
I absolutely love my Ariens Deluxe 28! It's an animal! Nothing, not even the most heavy, wet, chunky plow burms can stop it! It's almost entirely made out of metal. Very few plastic components except on lever handles, knobs and switches. I grew up with a little Toro S200 two stroke. That lil sum bish did the job and was far better than shoveling. Then my folks finally bought a Toro 824 two stage in the early 90's they still have today. I thought I died and went to heaven. But my dad is also a maintenance fanatic which definitely rubbed off on me. Hell he even has the Honda lawnmower he's had since the early 90's as well. When I buy yard equipment I spend the time to review them and spend the money on good, reliable equipment.
Toro made a single stage with a hidden gem, 4.5 hp tecumseh 2 stroke, the models with the V belt the slightly advanced timing gives it a nice torque band for a stand up shooter/ small go-cart. 🤙🤘
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I scored a coffee mug.
Taryl With All Of The Nonsence Going On In These Times. I Really Enjoy Your Comedy Skits. Keep The Videos Coming. Thank You And The Crew
Hey there’s a bot commenter on here pretending to be you just so you know.
i also got a scammer with a whatsapp number saying im a winner in a give away
Taryl i see someone looking like you trying to scam folks they commented on my comment
One of the things that I like about the Ariens company is that they protect their little mom and pop dealers.
When I was shopping for a snowblower, it was the same exact price at the local dealer as Homer Depot. They have across the board dealer pricing.
When you buy at Homer Depot and you try to get warranty work done, they'll send you to the local mom and pop, so you might as well buy there to begin with.
I send people to the local Ariens dealer when they ask me what to buy for a snowblower, they don't sell Ariens at Home depot here in my part of Canada anymore, I like it that way. They get the best service from a dealership.
Except for selling in Lowes and every website, they do
You guys are great by the way you gotta love the b+s snow series engine that you have to loosen carb to replace pull rope .what a joke I'd love to know who designs this garbage
That's the same way Speed Queens washers & dryers are done. Speed Queen sets the price on them, not the dealer.
This is one of the best video's that you both have ever done on the channel, hands down! The quality research that Andy has done, coupled with Taryl's real life experience working on them, made for the best duo in getting the information out to us consumers. This was so well done, I wouldn't mind it if you guys did these for mowers for the spring buy season.
It is nice how this channel helps people out who don't have a Nascar garage full of tools. A gentleman came to my door who had just bought a John Deer 212. He was in scrubs, a nurse, and looking for the guy down the street that had fixed small engines and moved. I said you can do it yourself and he said no no. I asked if he had $300 in tools and he said yes. I showed him the light and had him write down Taryl Fixes All. I hope I sent you a new subscriber. You may not be perfect, but you are perfect for us fans of the Gas Rats Garage. Stay well.
Can you please do this with mowers, weed whackers, and leaf blowers? Maybe make it a series? I would love to see more of this!!
ECHO. The best
I purchased my MTD Power Pro 22" Two Stage Snowthrower back in 1997. It was made specifically for Kmart. I was desperate for a snowblower so I bought it. I never regret buying it. I live in Northeast Pennsylvania where we get a decent amount of snow. It has the SNOW KING 5 hp Tecumseh. No valve jobs no major issues of any kind. Today it still runs like new. If you take care of it it'll take care of you. I will not buy today's made in China junk.
Northeast/central pa here too bud...weeather can be shitty...luckily this year has been decent
Also from Pennsylvania, we have been really lucky weather wise. I remember back in the early 90s we use to get pounded with blizzard storms, I kinda miss those storms. Use to have a ton of fun
Same here rckolc. I have the 90's Tecumseh SnowKing engine. Mine runs 2-3 hours hard every time it snows, every since it was new and no valve jobs. I'm in Upstate NY. I guess it is possible the 5 horse engines with valve issues could be due to they don't get run enough to keep the valves clean. Dunno. All I know is I have 3 of these engines and all of them run fine. The other 2 blowers are for backup only. So they get run maybe 1-2 hours a season to keep the fluids flowing.
Mine didn't come with a fuel filter, which if yours doesn't have one I recommend adding one. I've had to blow out the jets 3 times a year without the filter. Now with the B&S pancake filter installed, problem solved.
I have several older snow blowers from the 80's: Honda, John Deere, Ariens, Craftsman. They all run great. I have had no problem with the older Tecumseh engines, with the exception that they vibrate a lot. The Hondas are smoother. I also will not buy any of that cheap Chinese crap.
I miss Kmart...👍
I got a pair of Toros, 524 and 824, bought both new at the same time in 1980. Both have Tecumseh engines. Amazingly strong built machines. Axle bearings which are bushings needed to be replaced a few years ago, carb rebuild kits and regular maintenance it pretty much all I have done to both machines. Keeping everything lubed up is vital for long life. Also changing the engine oil after every season with 5w30 full synthetic. When it's extremely cold, synthetic starts much easier. Just bought a new Toro Power Max HD 1232 for this upcoming winter season. Also picked up a used 2017 Cub Cadet 1X single stage snow blower to clear the deck. It wasn't overly used. Needed a new shoot control cable and low speed jet needed cleaned. New rubber paddles and scraper bar also needed changed. A new one is around 700.00. I think that is absolutely crazy for a single stage. I am now ready for anything mother nature throws at me this coming winter. Great video Taryl. Lots of informative information. There is no doubt you help many of us do it yourselfers. "Grass Rats"
Have had very good luck with my Simplicity 32" Pro series w/ 12HP Briggs. This thing attacks snowbanks! Bought new in '04 for a 140' driveway and parking area. Granted it was kept in a warm garage, but is was trouble free for about 15 years here in the NE. When I downsized I had to put it in an unheated garage, and that's when I had the normal fuel issues you'll see on this great channel. Last year when trying to fire up the cylinder was seized. I panicked, but then sprayed some lube in the combustion chamber and an hour later it freed up and has run fine since. Now I'll do this at the end of every season. Have no complaints with the Nikki carb, except I wish it was easier to drop the bowl to drain- if you need to replace the bowl gasket you have to replace the whole gasket assembly meaning pulling the carb. Not a big deal after you do it once. Mechanically everything has held up well, it's built solid. Will replace the belts at the end of this season and check the friction disk. Also primer bulb and hose. Hope to have it another 10 years. Thanks to Taryl and crew for these great videos, informative and funny. It's not the Space Shuttle!
I have a Poulan Pro, 10hp, 30" that I've been running here in the snowy Northeast for 7 years now. Always starts right up and runs flawlessly. Blows through everything Mother Nature dumps on me whether dry or heavy & wet. Had 14" snowfall yesterday, never clogged up and throws 30+ feet. Haven't had to replace any belts in 7 years. Store it inside garage and do regular maintenance every year keeps it running great. One thing though, I have had to replace discharge chute cable that controls discharge angle twice so far because it rusted and broke at chute but I just leave chute pointedl at maximum up angle now and all is good. Overall, great machine. ANY snowblower can suck if you don't take care of it, regardless of brand but I stand by my Poulan Pro!
39:13 My Spirit is a hand-me-down from my father in-law. I love this thing as it starts in mostly 1 pull. Only trouble I had was the first winter, the worm housing of the chute swivel, broke but I fabbed up a sturdy metal replacement. Thanks, Taryl, for showing us how to service similar drive components !
Great video guys. Here in Michigan, I've found through the years it's good have both a two stage blower for heavy, deep snow, and a good, two stroke, single stage blower for lighter stuff. I completely restored a late 90s Craftsman 11hp 30" two stage unit i bought for $50. It's a beast! I also have the Toro ccr 3650 6.5hp single stage (like you showed in this video), which I completely restored, that absolutely rips! I've been buying, restoring to new, and flipping single and two stage blowers for about 4 years now. Can't tell you how many times Taryl's helped me out while working on these things. Thanks!
Michigan Guy here too, I also have two machines, one two stage and one single stage which is a Toro CCR 2450 that I got for $40 and restored it, for 5 hp that really throws the snow, also just picked up a 3650 for $60 that I plan on restoring. The little Toro’s really are about the best.
was extremely impressed with all the work uncle andy put into this video to teach us grass rats about snowblowers...........and taryl , was also impressed with your use of the word acronym in the video..........there is NOTHING second rate about your videos,,,,,,,,,,,,thanks much.....keep up the good work
Very comprehensive video! Your doing the lords work Taryl!
I've never owned a snowblower and have rarely needed one. I gave this video a thumbsup because I watch and like all of your videos. Thanks Taryl Fixes All.
I finally have a tip for you Taryl. To quickly replace rubber augers that are riveted on you can use an air hammer with a straight/tapered shaft you may need to grind down the tip a little to punch the rivets out from the side that is dished inward. Thanks for all of your great insights and tips/tricks I watch all of your videos and have fixed many machines using them.
You guys should take a snow thrower and remove the auger and put on a old skewl spiral reel type grass blade! That would be kewl! Love your videos Taryl!
Man I love this channel. I hope you guys never stop filming. Great vlog…👍👍👍
When I shopped for my snowblower back twenty years ago, I did a ton of research.
What I found was there were three brands that stood out. Ariens, Honda and Simplicity.
Hondas were really expensive, Simplicity had very few dealers and the nearest was 35 miles away, so I went with Ariens.
I bought an 824 Classic. It was more than the regular model. The reason being that it was balanced rather than weighted. Because I have a bad back, I can turn the machine around with one hand instead of having to wrangle it.
Even though it's twenty years old, there isn't one part that I can't get for it, not that I have needed any.
Btw, it has a plastic gas tank. Other than oil changes and regular adjustments, I really haven't had to do anything with it as far as repairs.
Is Uncle Andy from Philly or Joysey ?
A little off-topic, but my Ariens lawn mower (YT12H) is 30 years old, and I can get enough parts for it that I could almost build one from scratch. Original mower deck and transmission, never serviced, in near-mint condition. Ariens also makes the parts, service, and operator's manuals available online for anyone, not just dealers as is the case with Stihl.
Funny you mention Simplicity.... I was just a kid, but my GrandFather had a big Simplicity walk behind 2 stage... Even had like a plastic 3-sided "tent" sort of thing to protect the operator.... Bad ass machine.... Unstoppable... that thing disappeared instantaneously at the inevitable estate sale... My Dad was steamed about that for years, he wanted it.... And we had a Simplicity lawn tractor. Just a little guy... Broadmoor??? 8 horse??? Something like that. Acre yard, week after week, year after year... That thing was really nice.
@@patrickmorrissey2271 Hello Patrick that plastic hood was the poor mans cab. When your Grandpa had that unit most vehicles had 2 wheel drive (one wheel peel) on top of having bigger accumulations back then. The ole timer was a clear thinker. No body knows who ended up with the rascal? REALLY!!?
I've got one of those 8 horse MTD blowers. Been going strong for 22 years now. Replaced belts, cables, carb and the starter. Starts up every time. Only gets used 3-4 times a year really. Can't complain.
1998 Toro CCR 2450 GTS. Metal carb, running 100:1 Amsoil. Changed the paddles once. I'll run in in snow so deep, you'll just see the snout sticking out as it keeps flinging the snow. Best thing I ever bought and I have bought a lot of toys over the years.
Good old Ariens 8524 here, it’s a snow eatin’ monster that never lets me down. You really can’t go wrong with an Ariens powered by an 8.5hp Tecumseh Snow King engine, fantastic quality! I used to have a crappy “Yard King” snowblower that was a real tin can. The sheet metal was so thin the sides would bend and get pushed into the auger. I think it was made by Murray but I’m not sure, I could never find any parts or info on it.
I have a 1965 Ariens Snow Throw. Same year I was born (it was my Grandpa's). An amazing tank of a machine. Engine replaced in the early 90's with a Briggs Snow King. Starts quick. I did that trick on the impellor where you install a small piece of a rubber on the edges of the impellor blades to eliminate the gaps around the impellor & the chute. Not the thing can do any kind of snow... almost throws a mud puddle. There are no safety gizmo's of any kind. If you put it in gear and let go there's nothing to stop it. It has wheel chains which makes this even less stoppable. Love that thing.
1971 Sno Thro here. Older than me and in great condition. I put a newer HSK70 on it and replaced a few bearings here and there. Starts first pull at half choke.
@@timb7775 Nice. Mines a full choke two pull. Sorta sounds like me 😜
Thanks guys! Weirdly enough I have the large green Craftsman with the big 9hp Tecumish engine... And the Craftsman 2-stroke that Andy had. My Craftsman 2-stroke runs great though, got if for free and fixed the carb then good to go!
Last year I bought the toro battery snow blower. It has handled 4 major snow storms of over 10" and a dozen of over 3". Under that I just use shovel. I can do my drive and sidewalks and my neighbors on a single charge with 12" wet snow. Toro is simple. Not all bells and whistles. The handle to turn shoot is a little low so I cut and threaded and added more rod so I don't have to bend down. The ryobi and ego both look nice but I just see so many potential breaks with the fancy options. As Steven Lavimoniere says, Keep it simple stupid. Enjoyed this video!
great vid, what is your thoughts on riders with snow blowers?
Avoid avoid avoid avoid John Deere 44” snowblower units at ALL costs the gear box’s are made of glass and the sheer pins are crazy priced compared to other companies. I have 2 44” blower assembly’s for the d and E series and Apparently the 300 series all use the same gearbox to made in India. You cannot get parts at all for the gear boxes the only way to fix it a new box in Canada retailing at $700 plus. The local John Deere dealership felt bad and get me a special price of 575+ tax on it but I haven’t picked it up yet. Anybody looking to buy a blower for a John Deere by a Berco blower around the same price from what I can see.
Mustie, I live in Ontario Canada, I own a 73 and 74 Sears ST 16, they are absolute tanks. I have most of the attachments, the blower has never failed me, it also takes three men and a boy to put it on.😂 They really don’t make them like they used to.
@@justaviewerortwo2924 avoid anything John Deere lmao
have a Honda 9-28 with wheels instead of tracks, 12 yrs old and still starts on 1 crank and sip fuel and throws snow like a much bigger machine. Love it!
Stayin in character over 45 minutes ...legendary!. and the expressions at the 42:55ish mark...priceless..🤣🤣
1971 Ariens Sno Thro, replaced the engine with a newer HSK70, replaced some worn bearings here and there. Best feature is let the clutch out and it goes on its own. It will chew up and spit out golf ball sized rocks no problem.
I have the same one. Mine has the original 6hp Tecumseh. Doesn't burn oil. I figure it'll outlive me. If the engine blows I have a NOS 5hp Tecumseh to replace it or just buy one of those Predator engines for $150. I have lots of parts too and an old 1968 Sno Thro without an engine so hope to get that going when I retire someday as a fun project. Surprised more people don't grab these for cheap and fix them up since they'll outlast a new one. Most people don't care I guess...
I have a 30-year old Ariens snowblower, works like a champ! 8HP 24 inch width 2-stage, very little trouble at all! We get almost 200 inches of snow a year, so it gets lots of work...
Best I've ever used (and I own) is a GIL-35210-B which is a neat old Montgomery Ward Vertical shaft 3.5hp single stage self propelled. It's completely different than anything on the market now as it's extremely powerful and works better than you'd ever believe even in the deepest and wet snow. It has some strange inner workings, I'm actually working on it right now giving it a refresher. Excellent videos by the way, never miss them and always like them.
Made by Gilson. I used to sell at Monkey Warts in the 70's. Tillers were Gioson-made , too.
@@MazichMusic They don't make them like that anymore, all metal and a little rubber-no plastic. It's actually a decent machine, but maybe I just like it for the novelty
Hi I use the Honda HS35 snow blower and it works like a charm, I got it and all it needed was a carb cleaned and it fired right up no issuses throws snow far. Sometimes the older snow blowers are better than the new ones but it depends on how it was looked after as well maintnece.
I have one of those Honda HS621 units and that thing will throw some deep heavy show! I love it. Bought it not working from a guy and I took it apart, cleaned up the carb, but the correct auger belt on it and it kicks butt now♥
I've never needed or used a snowblower but I still watched the video from start to finish lol! If the boys make it....I'm gonna watch it!
I got an old Canadian 2 stage walk behind snowblower about 25 years ago which was built with a right angle gearbox on the side instead of a worm gear from the shaft of the 2nd stage to the 1st stage. I’ve kept it up on a shelf with plans to turn the 2nd stage housing and fan into a leaf blower attachment on my Toro 522xi. Didn’t get to using it, now selling off most of my lawn and garden equipment.
Hey wait a minute!... I have one of those Craftsman units just like Uncle Andy's and it's worked great for me over the years. The only issue I had with it was once in a while the drive belt would pop off. Sometimes it would be hard starting when cold, but it has electric start and that would fire it right up. I got a tractor with a snowblower now, so it doesn't get used anymore. I did notice that the paddles were starting to wear the last time I used it, but it did the job. Good for small jobs or a sidewalk.
Good stuff Taryl and Uncle Andy.
I've got one of those craftsman 2stroke single stage. Love it. Loud as hell but took me 17 bucks to get it running after 10 years of sitting. Changing the rivited paddles sucked but luckily I found a small company around me that still makes the paddles. Love the ole Tecumseh.
What's name of that company? I need paddle rubber.
I've got an old Grey craftsman 2 stage from the mid 90s. It's a 24in with the hm80 8hp tecumseh. Was using that snow blower when I was a little kid. My dad gave it to me this year. It's been sitting with gas in it for about 5 years.
New carb, guide shoes, oil, spark plug, and some pb blaster, and it's as good as new. It put in some work this year.
About $100 in parts beats paying $1000 for a new one.
I own two snowblowers that I use for different situations. I have an old Toro CCR 2000 and it is the most reliable snowblower I have ever owned. Never ever had a problem with the engine. Starts every year and it’s fairly powerful and lightweight. Super easy to use. The only repairs I’ve ever done were replacing the paddles, skid and belt after 30 years of use. Fantastic for snow up to 6 inches, but it has enough balls to chuck deeper snow if it’s light and fluffy.
When the snow is deep or wet and heavy, I bring out the Ariens Deluxe 28 2-stage snowblower. It works great if there’s a lot of snow on the ground. The engine that was on mine was a 250cc LCT engine which worked fine under most conditions but was a bit underpowered with deep heavy snow drifts and ice. I’ve stalled that engine a couple times and I have to go slower. That LCT engine developed a rod knock after 3 years, right when the warranty expired. I decided to go nuts and repower it with a 16 HP Vanguard v-twin on the snow blower. This engine in particular has a pull start and electric start, compact exhaust system, and its very reliable and powerful. I increased the auger pulley on the engine to 4.5” to take advantage of the additional horsepower. And boy does it blow snow now. It shoots it like a canon. It’s got good power most of the time but it occasionally struggle with really deep wet snow, however it chucks the snow out faster so it can intake more snow at a faster ground speed, much faster than I would with the LCT engine. The weight increase is noticeable but it isn’t too bad. I only use the Ariens if we get a big blizzard but most of the time I use the little Toro CCR 2000 because it is lighter and much easier to use, and in light snow I can outpace the 2-stagers and it clears down to the pavement really well.
I absolutely love the Ariens SnoThro from the late 60s through the late 70s. Awesome machines especially with a modern engine swapped in.
Yup, same thing I said
Bought a Toro Power Clear when they first came out with electric start and the R tek Briggs engine. Has always ran great. Can't be in a hurry to change paddles, they have to go a certain way. Other than that, it's been really good! Would recommend!
There not much snow where I' live but not going to miss you show they make feel happy!
26:25 I got that MTD single stage 21" 4.5HP TecuMich 2 stroke E-start in 2013 for 90$. In 22' it finally wouldn't start never touching the carb. Throws 15 inches of Detroit slush 10+ft. Just bought a 2-stage Snapper 422 4hp TecuMich 4 stroke, 3 speeds+reverse & posi-traction for 50$. Starts one pull. You want the most powerful single stage for man handling it & throwing in a truck. Or the smallest possible 2-stage so it doesn't man handle you. I'm sure its under powered, but they work great.
I just got an early 70's Ariens "Sno-Thro" 24" for $60 bucks and while the old Tecumseh on it does start, it's pretty tired. Thinking of swapping it out for a Predator 212 or a Honda GX200. The rest of the unit is in great shape and built like a Sherman tank! The chute control is a steel rod crank style, no cable, turns easy and you can even aim it backwards which is good if the wind is blowing in the wrong direction, lol. The auger has grease zerks on it making it much easier to lubricate and what I love, put it in gear, let out the clutch and it drives itself, even if I let go of it, LOL! Yeah, it only has 3 forward speeds and 1 reverse but I can live with that just fine.
Bought a Honda HS 50 back in 82 0r 83 that still starts on the second pull and throws a bunch of snow with the only repair needed was to replace the impeller belt. So when I decided I needed a bigger more powerful blower, I went with a Honda HS928 TAS in 2003 and depending on the depth of snow, I decide which one to use. I try to keep up on maintenance as I know repair parts are quite expensive.
14:50
Picked up one of those Toro 418ze snow blowers at a garage sale for 10 bucks. Sure enough, the carb was gummed up like Taryl mentioned. Somebody tried to take it apart, and lost all the nuts and bolts and tried to put standard nuts on the carb studs, messing up the threads! I had to buy, some metric nuts and bolts, and chase the metric threads on the carb mounting studs. The governor linkage also had to be replaced as well as it was all bent up by this nitwit.
The brass jet in the float bowl has a opening that is TINY! I can see why these gum up so easily. I drilled it out to a bit larger size. That's it, and it didn't affect how it runs at all, still runs great. All in all, I spent 40 bucks and put in some elbow grease and I have a machine that cost $500 new and it's only 10 years old with very little wear!
I had a Toro snow pup my dad got used from a neighbor in the 1970s. I'm not sure of the actual date on it but you could not kill it. It got a lot of use after the Northeast Blizzard of 1978. It was used to clear a roof off of a car dealership and took a beating.
Another great video! Having back problems today. I look like Uncle Andy, hunched over and slow to move.
No mention of Yamaha. I used a 24” track model with great results for many years in Fairbanks, Alaska in the late 90’s.
Rebuilt a 1983 tracked Honda hs50 , Built up the scraper mount, new edge from an old shovel, one new bearing, cleaned and painted all the red and put belting rubber on second stage paddles. It works like a dream, starts first pull!
Honda tracked model and
Gravely Sno cannon dog catcher strong but expensive.
We had a huge ministorage complex 5 acres 300 etx doors in NYS wet snow long island.
We bought aa MTD gold 10hp blower.
It never broke still running since 1998.
Do those old CCR1000s have the Suzuki engine? I have several toro mowers with that engine on them and they are awesome.
That's one heck of a review... AND THERE'S YOUR DINNER! Happy Birthday Taryl! (02/21/2022)
Pulled a Toro powerlite from the rubbish 5 or 6 yrs ago. Cleaned the the carb, and fresh gas. Best little dependable machine ever. Handles even the heaviest snow, and cleans to the pavement.
I had a powersmart push mower come in last year were the owner put it in some long grass and the crank broke in 1/2. After talking to the customer I just put a used briggs 5.50 motor and new blade on it and he said it worked better then the new one ever did.
Hilarious! Nice job fellers. I live in Georgia, still have my Toro 3521 (1984 era). And it starts, normally with a single pull! And yes, people come up to me and ask me what it is. Often as not they think it's some kind of rototiller.
Taryl talking Wall hangers is a different story in Florida. It sounds FISHY!!!!🤣😂🤣😂🤣😅😅
I have a Toro CCR Powerlite-E single stage snow blower that use talked about this is the first winter that I used it and I was impressed with it for what it is it has done a decent job so far and I just bought a Troy Bilt storm 2410 24 inch path. Thank you Taryl and uncle Andy for sharing your knowledge on this video with us.
I never heard you talk about the cub cadet snow blowers. Its the type of mower i have. I was thinking of investing in the blower of the same brand. Good idea or bad idea?
Until my dad bought that Toro S-200 with electric start no less, we as a family had always shoveled our 2-car wide driveway by hand. I don't know what possessed my father to buy that snowblower that particular year, but it was an absolute lifesaver because the snowfall that year and next in SE Wisconsin was next level.
I just bought a Toro 724. Paint isn't even worn off the augur for $100 at auction. Glad you approve
Awesome episode!! A Garden Scratcher episode if possible for the Spring coming up would be much appreciated.
Bought a new troybilt 2410 in 2014. I put an impeller kit in it not long after new and with meticulous maintenance and always using stabil in fuel not a single issue! I did adjust valves this season. Looks new still as well! Read alot of bad on the interwebs, but I've never had a single issue.
I found a 2 stroke single stage white outdoor snow blower thrown out with the trash a couple summers ago, cleaned the carburetor and replaced the drive belt.... It worked well last winter and this winter, granted the rubber on the auger is worn to the point of making a 1 inch gap between the rubber paddle and the housing but still works surprisingly well👍
I have a Tracked Honda HS928 had it for 12 years has hydrostatic drive , the machine has been very reliable , is designed for easy service (The auger assembly can be easily removed without having to pull the blower housing off the machine). the only thing I have ever had to service is the main auger bearing and auger belt , used in semi-commercial service for 3 households for all its life , the machine is a beast and can even handle the removal of the piles heavly packed snow after roof snow removal which used to break the drive on friction disk driven machines requiring a lot of service . the hydro-static drive makes moving it a dynamic fluid fingertip operation in both directions , only downfall as with all tracked machines is its slow to transport from one location to another.. the extra traction is a big plus in my case in the removal of packed down heavy snow . never had an issue with with finding parts, and still does not burn a drop of oil to this day. another feature I like is the handle mounted throttle , when blowing very light snow or in a tight area, or an area where there could be chunks ice embedded with the snow that would cause damage , I can lower the engine speed to selectively reduce the force of the thrown snow.
I have a really old MTD 24", Tecumseh Power King 8 HP Engine like the one you showed in your video. It still runs but it's getting rusty. Think I bought it in the 90s. I have replaced the rubber drive wheel, electric starter and kept the engine maintained. Need to tweak the engine which I have and gotten some ideas on how to do and play with the governor. I dont have a tach unfortunately and looking for a good reliable tachometer. I see you use the Echo and thinking about it or do you have another one you recommend? I have seen and thought about adding some rubber to the second stage impeller. Seen some videos on how to do that or there is kits you can buy. What's your thoughts on that? The claim is it will increase the throwing range of snow a lot. My biggest issue is usually in the Spring and you start throwing slush. The rubber adding to the impeller is suppose to help keep the chute from plugging. When slushy, I also lose traction since the rubber disc loses its grip to the wheel and yes, I have a pan under the machine? Looks like I might of lucked out when I bought that machine from experience and what you said on your video.
In the past 4 years I've found a Toro 2450 and Toro 3650 in the trash. Both needed paddles and scraper bars (About $40 spent on each one on EBAY) and they now perform like new. I would only recommend a 2450 or 3650 if used. Parts are readily available and they have tons of throwing power! At my old house I had to be careful not to throw snow across the ST into my neighbors drive. His $1,000+ 2 stage couldn't wing snow more than 10' while I'm throwing snow 30+ feet.
And to your note on the belt cover getting worn out from rubbing the ground, That's true. I fixed that on the 3650 with some scrap metal and my $100 harbor freight 110V welder.
I can’t say enough about Ariens oem parts support. I have a 1989 st824, parts availability is great. John Deere is the local dealer to me so also really good for getting parts. I repowered it with a 13hp Honda. There’s nothing it won’t go through. Except belts now haha
Nice job guys. No snow blowers needed here but I sure enjoyed the info.
Great video, we need more like that. My fav. snowblowers are the old Toro machine, I have an old 832 dating from 1976 and a 826 dating from 1989. I just want to keep these tanks going.
Shear pins: I broke one once so I bought a bag of them so I'd always have a spare and guess what?
That's right...never broke another one since!😅😅😅
LOL! I bought a 10 pack myself and have yet to have to use one! But I'm ready if I ever do!
This is a awesome video! You should do more like these. There's your dinner!
I remember I being at my uncles house in the mid sixties and we got 5 inches of snow, fortunately he had a little Toro snow pup brand new. When I ran that thing I was hooked. It was fast light and strong. I later bought an S200 and really liked it. Been with it for 35 years. Yes they are a pain to work on but I really like the light weight and that’s why I like it to this day.
I never used a single stage snow blower so my worst snow blower was an ancient Yardman (MTD?) 2 Stage left by my stepdad. The Auger belt was super long (42") because it drove the front auger directly instead of driving a transfer box. So the belt went around the engine drive pulley, past the auger control idler, around a couple of guide rollers that force it to go 90 degrees to drive a pulley on the auger shaft. I burn a belt almost every snow storm as working the auger control would cause the belt to jump off the guide rollers.
I replaced the Yardman with the Huskee 24" 2 stage (MTD) 2014 model bought new. The Powermore Chonda engine runs great. I only need to yearly drain/run dry the gas tank and perform an oil change. My only issue was one of the cleanout tool mount plastic studs sheared off first winter. Other wise it has been a solid performer these last eight/nine winters
I used to work on those damn S-200s back in the mid 80s thru the early 90s. Hated taking all those covers off to get at the Suzuki in there. Had to tune them rich after rebuild so they would fuel under load. Sold a lot of aluminum handle bars too.
I have owned Ariens snowblowers for 48 years. I still have my original 5hp 20". No problems with any of them. I sold Ariens and Toro in semi retirement. I agree whole hearted about Power Smart. I tried to steer people away from them when I heard of warranty, parts and repair issues.
I snagged a single stage Toro powerclear on a curb sale, and thought the paddle system is insane, designed to wear out, so I made brackets and shoes like a regular 2 stage for the machine. Mike
The paddles are metal, were you having trouble with them?
The advantage of the Toro powerclear 21 is that it cleans to the pavement.
@@wayneessar7489 I know that but putting 75 dollars into a 35 year old unit is not me. (smile) Mike
@@mtwseneca But it hasn't worn out in 35 years?
Thanks for the great info!
I own a tracked Honda HS828S (built between 1991-1998) and it is an absolute beast! Damn thing blows snow 50+ feet ! All the parts are extremely good quality. The hydrostatic drive works flawless and is easy to service. High quality keihin carb that's easy to service. My machine still has all the original cables, just shoot cable lube in them each year. These machines were $2600-2800 msrp in the 90's ! I picked mine up used for $500. I did a carb job, cleaned the fuel tank and checked valve lash. Runs like a top ! Highly suggest the Honda 2 stage machines. There's a reason good stuff aint cheap and cheap stuff aint good !
I have the credence clearwater revival Toro 2000, 4.5 hp after nine years of use last summer I change the blade and scraper; the belt was in good condition didn't need to be changed, I like that I got my money's out of it. Happy belated birthday Taryl.
I love my Honda HS35 got it for free and all it needed was paddles and a scraper blade. It’s never clogged. But I also use snow and ice repellent too.
Taryl, I had an older Bolens 824, with a Tecumseh engine. Boy that thing would throw some snow! I put synthetic oil in that rascal and it would start first or second pull, no matter how cold it was. It got me through many winter storms in Connecticut, with no breakdowns at all! Anyway, I love the channel, and I'm proud to say. "I'm a Grass Rat!"
I have an older 8 hp bolens in the yard I bought off my grandfather and it was decently built. I had a problem with the shoot always falling off because of the slide that held it on. I finally did something right with it as it has not fallen off in a while.
In 1988 when we bought our house in the Catskills, the seller left us an Ariens 910018 machine.
What a beast !!!. I totally serviced it (so I thought) and then on the first snow, I blew a belt.
So then the next Spring I serviced it TOTALLY ...
It never failed to clean the driveway, despite my frustration , and running it over the hill into the gully.
20 years ago I bought a Honda HS928. I wasted money on the electric start. It always starts on the first pull. This machine thros snow that the neighbor's machines do not. Of course I had to get a loan to buy it. I just changed the scraper blade and that was an ordeal, but I love this machine.
I see so many folks buy a big-box snow blower and a few years they are buying a replacement.
You are totally correct about the Jacobsen! I had one of those when it was the only thing you could get in the late '70's with the 3 bad winters in a row....complete piece of junk!
I've got an old Craftsman 8/26 26" 2 stage snowblower with track drive which was given to me for free which I fixed up and has been a great beast of a snowblower, powered by an 8 HP Tecumseh with cast iron sleeve.
Hey guys... I wonder if you could just replace the tips of the paddles instead of having to replace the whole paddle. What do you think??
I tell you what, I'm loving my Snapper/Briggs 28" 2 stage with the Briggs 1150. Very nice. Seems solid
Entertaining and informative video. I have a Poulan Pro PR621 (208cc single stage), that's around 10 years old. It's been a fantastic blower, and puts most of my neighbors 2 stages to shame as far as throwing snow. It was NOT difficult getting parts up until the last couple years, which now the model is old enough parts are running out of stock. As far as replacement part prices, I agree they were $$$ but probably not really any more than Toro or Honda comparatively. I've replaced the paddles, scraper, and engine as the LCT burnt a valve or something. I just retrofitted a Predator from Harbor Freight (swapped the parts off/on) and she's running like a beast again.
But I wouldn't recommend buying one at this point, simply because of parts availability is going to dry up. For example, the clutch cable is out of stock and I could use a new one.
Yeah I have a McCullouch version I got for 20$ it’s awesome
I have question what is your suggest older first stage snowblower reliable easy carry to truck and work site cleaning path?
I have one of the MTD 21” 2 strokes. The only real issue I have had other than basic maintenance is the frame where the motor cracked to the point that the belt wouldn’t drive and the motor has siting on the axle.
I think it is from the fact that the 2 stroke vibrates a lot and fatigue the steel where it mounts. There should really be a mount from the other side of the engine to the cassis. The blower shroud has a lug for it.
I ended up finding a mother one for cheep and combining the best parts from both to make one better than it was before and I now have a spare engine.
I like when the vibration destroys the blower. Free hobby motor!
@@calvinmientke3539 when it fell down it was siting on the blower and had dented it but I pounded it out with a hammer.
That Toro S-200 was the worst. I had one that was a hand me down from somebody who must have really hated me. It was older than I am, shot more snow out the back at my legs and feet than it did out the front and it was loud enough to wake the dead! The sound was really the incredible thing. My ears would be ringing, and I was too afraid to run it before leaving for work because the entire neighborhood would have been awoken for blocks around. Even in the evening I was nervous if it was past 9PM. People must not have valued their hearing back in the 70's! I got a new hand me down this year. A Toro 721E. It figures we would not get any snow this season to try it out. I'm kicking that old one to the curb!
I'm glad I live in the south, we run our lawnmowers all year, so what we look for is a metal transmission case, and a thick deck as far as the riding mowers, because we have a lot of sand, so the entire time you are mowing the grass, you're sandblasting the deck. The push mowers blow up before anything really wears out.
I have an old Toro S200 in very nice shape. Dad bought it new in the early 80s and gave it to me about 12 years ago when he upgraded after retirement. He took good care of it. I used it many years when I was a teen and in my early 20s - so I guess I took good care of it too.
Ive always used toro and those old ccr's were old reliable picked up the newer power clears when they first came out with them the only maintenance it's ever had is 3 sets of cutting edge and paddles and the belt and it still starts with 2 pulls every time
I absolutely love my Ariens Deluxe 28! It's an animal! Nothing, not even the most heavy, wet, chunky plow burms can stop it! It's almost entirely made out of metal. Very few plastic components except on lever handles, knobs and switches. I grew up with a little Toro S200 two stroke. That lil sum bish did the job and was far better than shoveling. Then my folks finally bought a Toro 824 two stage in the early 90's they still have today. I thought I died and went to heaven. But my dad is also a maintenance fanatic which definitely rubbed off on me. Hell he even has the Honda lawnmower he's had since the early 90's as well. When I buy yard equipment I spend the time to review them and spend the money on good, reliable equipment.
Toro made a single stage with a hidden gem, 4.5 hp tecumseh 2 stroke, the models with the V belt the slightly advanced timing gives it a nice torque band for a stand up shooter/ small go-cart. 🤙🤘
I’ve got a 824 Toro from 1984 and owned it for about 10 yrs it’s heavy but to goes thru everything including the side walk snow from the plows
Great video, very informative! Happy birthday Taryl!
Taryl, that crafesman snow thrower at the start on the show is 2 cyl about 20yrs old . i have one still runs good, Electric start
Enjoying your posts,informative entertining, Cheers !