Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE Snowblower on Gravel, Pavement, and Turf
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- Опубликовано: 19 окт 2024
- Like this video? Would you like to see more in the future? Please hit the subscribe button to help this channel out. This is the first time I used the new SnowMaster. I had a chance to use it on 4-10 inches of snow on cement, gravel and turf. The snow ranged from 4 inches of powder to slush to 10 inches of nice heavy snow. Enjoy! You can read more at movingsnow.com
Be nice! I know snow blowers a lot better than video editing....
Update Dec 2016:
Hi, Paul:
Just wanted to say thanks for your recommendation. I purchased a Toro SnowMaster after your last email and it's been in my garage, anxiously awaiting the first snow. We got some snow (about 8 inches) on Sunday, December 4th here in (south suburb of Chicago) and it was wet and heavy. I got out my Toro and started it up hoping that I was not in for any disappointment. It was amazing!!! I did both my driveway and my neighbor's driveway along with the sidewalk on my side of the street from corner to corner. Piece of cake. Two of my neighbors stopped by to admire the machine. I'm thrilled to know that I can keep up with the weather and to know that I don't have to depend on neighbors when the heavy snow comes.
Thanks again.
Maggie
Disclaimer: I purchased this snow blower myself. Toro did not compensate me in any way for positive comments and likewise other companies did not pay me for negative comments.
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Nice video Paul. I have the Snowmaster 724 QXE and I am very happy with this hybrid snowblower from Toro. You are right about the personal pace not being jerky. If you look at any other videos of people clearing their snow, you will see people nudge their machines forward when their tires need more traction. With the personal pace I found that if you push down on the Snowmaster it will feel like it wants to get away from you. A couple of hours behind the machine and anyone should be able to master this snow blower. Only two things left to test out. A very deep snow and it's longevity. In my honest opinion. I think Toro has a winner here.
Appreciate your help in me buy a new 824 QXE. I do have a White Snow Boss 1350W, a 33" cut, 13 HP monster that I love, but I had nothing between it and my steel snow shovel, Dakota Blade, and a Craftsman leaf blower... I'm 66 and shoveling 225' of sidewalk and my big drive is plenty... hasn't arrived yet, but I'm stoked to get it. I have a heated garage, so my blowers (I use a leaf blower when it is powder snow) and all my three different shovels are there and I'm a maintenance Nazi so, yeah, my stuff is in good condition. Thanks again Paul!
Great Job Paul. I just picked up one of these Toro 824 Snowmaster 252cc at ACE Hardware. Great modern snow blower for midwest towns that only get 6-12" of snow. It will get up to 18" if needed which is nice to know. I can't wait to try mine out! Thanks again Paul.
Great video! Strongly considering upgrading to this unit this winter. Thanks for the review!
Thanks for the video. Just bought the Toro 824 QXE, my first snow blower. Looks easy. Now I we need snow
Looks great! I want one for our tough Minnesota winters.
that was the most thorough answering video I have seen.
cheers
Thanks for the great video I’m picking mine up tomorrow
We just bought a 724 but I figured they are all basically the same. This helped me to figure how it works. Thanks
great video. the 724 is under-powered. yours run very good. no bog. your smooth with that drive system they incorporated. that's a good machine.
Yes, with deep or wet snow you will have to go slower with the 724. Any snow less than 8 inches or so though and the 724 works just as well.
Best snow blower for the money
Nice blowing ! Happy holidays had 2 nice snows here already we are in suburbs oof mpls MN !
Thanks. Looks like a well made machine.
I've had a chance to use my new Snowmaster 824QXE four times now, on snow 2 to 4 inches deep, and I am afraid I am not impressed. It is VERY noisy. It blows a LOT of smoke when you start it. We only have a small two car garage and short driveway (30' long) about the same width. If I go down the middle of the driveway, the unit doesn't throw the snow far enough to reach the yard. I end up throwing the same snow a second time. The machine jerks forward when you engage the personal pace. So I have taken to just pushing the thing. Today the snow was only about 2 inches deep, but wet and slushy. The machine threw that snow only about 2 feet tops!
My final beef with the machine is the way it SUCKS gas. The gas tank is large - twice the size of the one on my push mower. I can clear the driveway of 3" of light snow twice, and I have to refill the tank. What is up with that?
+PanamaSticks I strongly suggest that you take your snow blower to a dealer and have them address the issues. Of the thousands sold I've only had one other person comment about a throwing problem. The one I have here performs a lot better than the 24 inch two-stage machines I've tested it against. This one will blow blue smoke when you first start it but the smoke clears right up when you open the choke. As long as the starting lever is in the choke position it will blow blue smoke. Again, if your smoke does not clear right up get it to a dealer. When you say noise - is it engine noise or other parts of the machine? The engine noise on the one I have here is quieter than a gas powered push mower but not as quiet as the Craftsman Quiet Snow Blower.
Wait until you have gotten the throwing and smoke issues fixed. If there is a belt or gearbox issue the Personal Pace jerkiness may be fixed then too. I did find that I didn't know how to use the Personal Pace. I thought I had to push on the handle to get it to move. You don't - you just start walking with your hands on the handle and the Personal Pace keeps the snow blower the right speed as you walk. It took this old man a few minutes to get used to it.
+Paul Sikkema Thanks for your response. I don't get blue smoke. I get a lot of black smoke when I start it. It is VERY loud. I worry about waking up the whole neighborhood. And it is not a smooth sounding idle. The engine lopes irregularly. Nearest dealer is 35 miles away, and out in the country, so roads can be treacherous this time of year. Also I don't have a vehicle to transport it, as I have a small economy car. (I had the machine delivered.)
I will see if I can get a friend to take it by truck when the weather gets a bit better.
pretty kool Paul... thanks for posting your experience with a new Snowmaster unit. Was nice of you to attempt plowing the gravel and grass areas to give us additional insight. As you mentioned the rocks I would also want to be careful exactly where the chute is pointed for fear of hitting vehicle/bldg windows.
I was looking at the 724 212cc unit but I'm now thinking that I would be better off overall getting the 824 with the 252cc engine... might not seem like much 40cc difference but for the price the extra power impact of the engine might put less overall strain on the engine... over the long haul.
was nice that you took the time to setup the second camera... I thought I saw something fly up and almost hit that camera?...
You also mention with some text on the screen about it not being jerky. The type of forward movement (something Toro wants to coin as Personal Pace) is using a radically different form of movement control. For years I've used a traditional 6 forward and two backward speed 2 stage snowblower which also hand the smaller levers under the handle to turn left or right. My wheels were independent and much larger than the 824 wheels, if one wheel slipped the other would grab hold. The 824 has no reverse but pulling it back is quick easy because the unit is much lighter than the majority of two stages. I found with my two stage that I really couldn't do a tight turn radius unless I paid serious attention to what I was doing... It could I suppose do tight turns but you really had to watch what you were doing and which of the fixed speeds you were running at. So over time I simply didn't do tight turns.
This new Toro turns on a dime and leave 5 cents change... it's amazing in this regard you end up not trying to manhandle it like a heavier 2 stage so I'm looking forward to this...
I think it's just a question of learning how to use the Personal Pace aspect... I don't think I'm going to miss the two small under the handle turn leavers and the left and right controls on the upper part of the handles for movement and auger control...
There was another approx 2 minute video posted showing a snowmaster moving through seriously wet snow and that's what actually sold me on the unit. I'm sick and tired of cleaning out a 2-stage from being fudge packed in the chute.
Thank you for posting because right now there's not a lotta videos up showing how the new Toro Snowmaster works... in different situations...
+John Kajfes I feel the 724 is fine for many people but if you get the occasional 10-15 inch snows I'd opt for the 824. Either way, the SnowMaster is 50 lbs lighter than a typical 24 inch 2-stage and with the automatic steering it's so easy and simple to use. It does not need a reverse and is easier to pull back than a push mower.
That was a 6 inch stick from a birch tree.
Another hour with the machine and I'll have the Personal Pace down pat. I still want to push on the handle instead of just to walk behind it.
+Paul Sikkema
There was one thing I totally forgot to mention. There's no light on this model and for a unit in the 1000 dollar range I would have like to seen this feature.
I live in the Toronto area and during the snow season it can get dark pretty quick up here. Sure there's street lighting and one can turn on garage lights but really folks who live on country lanes etc I guess they're out of luck and would have to decide...
In trying to explore it further I've come to no conclusions as to why this type of feature is dropped on certain models other than the engine doesn't have an alternator to supply the voltage need for a light.
I might mention that I plan to get around the issue by getting a trail bike type of light... there's tons of them on the internet if you google them and way too numerous to go into much detail other than the one I choose includes a device for mounting the light on a band you can wear on your head or better still a mounting device for the bike handle bars (in our case the cross member under the Personal Pace is a good mounting spot. Mine uses rechargeable 18650 batteries, Is LED, will last about 4 hours + on a charge and you can easily disconnect the battery pack to keep that part of unit inside i.e. freezing up to the pack or recharging until such a time as you find yourself outside on a dark evening snowblowing.
I went the trail bike type because of the mounts they are supplied that can be fixed to tubular framework rather than spending extra time modifying some other type of LED light...
+John Kajfes The main reason you don't find lights on snow blowers is to keep the cost down. I'm sure Toro wanted to keep the snow blower competitively priced with the 2-stage residential machines. Toro chose to use their Premium engine but to keep the cost reasonable for this model didn't include the alternator, fuel shut-off and throttle.
SweetHome just rated the Cygolite Dash 350 USB Bicycle Headlight as the best commuter light. It has the brackets to mount it to the handle quickly.
+John Kajfes I use an LED headlamp. I suppose if I were going to put an enclosure around the snow thrower to cut down on the wind, I would need a light attached to the frame, but for now, the headlamp provides plenty of light and gets the job done.
It's great to see you back to posting videos and reviews! I thought I would leave my question in this video do to my topic. I own 2 snowblowers, an areins pro 28 and a toro 721e. The ariens is just unstoppable, but I love the toro for cleaning right down to the cement. My problem is that our driveway has a large open area, 70 by 50 or so. What I'm wondering is if a snowmaster does as good a job at surface cleaning? The 21 inches takes awhile to go over everything, there's no remote for the shoot and the throwing distance is short. Is there a good, larger alternative to the 721? I'm not worried about heavy or deep snow performance, the areins does that work. Plus my wife can easily start and use the toro by herself. Thanks!
No, the SnowMaster does not clean down to the pavement like the 721. Why? because it has a scraper bar like your Ariens so the front auger will not touch the ground.
The only snowblower that is wider than the 721 and cleans down to the pavement is the Simplicity 1222EE. But it's only one inch wider and not even close to the 721 for performance and long life.
so, about the only way to get faster is to increase the HP so you can walk faster. The 21" Power Clear® 821 has more power but you lose the electric start.
Municipal and commercial operators use a power brush for the larger areas www.ariens.com/en-us/power-equipment/lawn-products/finishing-tools/power-brush#models
Hi Paul. Love your thorough reviews.
We just moved into a rental and are responsible for the shale driveway snow removal. It's like Item 4, but smaller bits.
I have health issues so I really need a self propelled snowblower and it's been recommended to me that with this kind of driveway I should stay away from 2 stage machines. If you don't prefer this machine on loose materials then do you have another machine in mind that might fit my needs better? I live in the Hudson Valley of NY. We get slush, Nor'easters, and regular 4" storms.
If you have a different opinion on a gas powered 2 stage ariens on this shale driveway, I'm all ears on that as well. Preferably in the 24" range. I'd like to keep it om my gated and covered side porch.
I suggest a snowblower where you can adjust the skid shoes so the snowblower doesn't dig into the shale. So, that rules out all single stage snowthrowers including this one.
Your best choices are 2-stage machines that are balanced very well, The Ariens Compact, Ariens deluxe 24, Toro 824 are the best choices. With these snowb lowers you can adjust the skid shoes so that there is up to 1/2 inch gap under the scraper bar. That will allow you to ride over the shale and not throw it out onto the lawn.
@@PaulSikkema Glad to read that Paul, and thank you for your time. I was looking at an Ariens deluxe 24 before this. My local dealer carries the model.
Thanks for the video Paul. I was wondering if you have encountered any of those blocks of ice that form in the wheel wells of cars, and drop off in the drive way. I wonder how the Snowmaster, which doesn't have shear pins, reacts to hitting one of those.. You don't always see the ice, because it will be concealed by snow.
+PanamaSticks The SnowMaster is a single stage snow blower and they don't have shear pins. The front auger is spinning fast, very fast so I expect most of the time it will either shatter the chunk of ice, throw it out the front or just bounce off the obstruction. I had a few chunks that froze from the snow plow and it just shattered them.
+Paul Sikkema Thanks Paul. I bought one of the machines, but haven't had a chance to try it yet. Tomorrow!
Love your videos. Would this snowmaster be good for Redmond Oregon area? For being first snowblower ever bought. How deep will this handle snow. And ice chunks at end of driveway? Only removing snow on driveway and sidewalks. Or recommend toro 826?
The Snowmaster can handle 12 inches of snow on hard pavement and sidewalks but it is a lightweight machine. Meaning, it's very fast for 4-6 inches but if you get a lot of heavy, wet snow it will struggle with traction.
The 826 will handle any snow you ever get.
Thankyou love your videos keep it up thanks again Andre Williams Redmond Oregon
Love all your videos keep it up!!!!
What broke. Something goes flying out at the 2 minute mark. Was it the rubber paddle part that let go or did you run something over.
That was just a chunk of bark that was frozen to the concrete.
Paul,
I'm watching all your videos now in regards to snow blowers..lol
So I first thought this was silly gimmick from Toro. Looks just like a two stage minus the middle impellar but has the blades that look like a single stage. It's not cheap that's for sure but it appears that it works quite well.
I have heard mixed reviews about the single control stick to control the chute. How did you like it and any issues with it moving about as you were using the machine?
I thought that a two stage snow blower is what I would need here in Northern VA but from more research it appears a single stage is actually more designed for our type of snow because we don't get a lot of it and it's not really powdery, the next day it's usually heavy and wettish...
This actually looks like it throws the snow much further than a single stage. I have noticed that many single stage blowers kick back snow from under the machine, but I did not see that happen at all with your video of this Toro. Would you say the design is better than a single stage and conider Toro's hybrid a good thing or a niche type thing?
Sorry for all the questions again but figured you'd know because you've done a lot of snowblowers..lol
Thanks,
-Nigel
I suggest going over to movingsnow.com. We have discussed all the fine points of this machine there. But, I'll answer these here for you also.
It works wonderfully! I like it a lot. I've have a dozen brand new snow blowers around for testing at any given time and I always grab the SnowMaster first. It's fast and the 824 I have has plenty of power for any snow you would get in VA.
The quick chute is the easiest chute on the market to use. Some people complain that it's too easy! Any of them made in the last 5 years will not give you any issues. It has notches and tabs so it won't move around.
The SnowMaster will not work on gravel or turf. The SnowMaster does not clean down to the pavement like a gas powered single stage does. It has a scraper bar like a 2-stage. It handles the wet, sloppy stuff a lot better than most 2-stage snow blowers. I was clearing a foot of slush last spring and I could not get it to plug.
The SnowMaster in my opinion throws about twice as far as the best singles stage I've had here to test. It will handle 12-16 inches of "normal" snow without a whimper. If fact I feel it throws farther than all of the Chinese 2-stage machines I've tested so far and throws farther than all the U.S. made 2-stage machines under $800.
Finally, it's fast. It's half the weight of a 2-stage machine. It's just a little more than a single stage. It has full power to both wheels and auto turn so it's as easy to turn as a push mower. Did I say it's fast? It is twice as fast as the comparable 2-stage Toro snow blowers and I'll venture to say it's pretty close to twice as fast as all the other 2-stage machines under $1000. Most of the time it will throw snow as fast as you can walk.
Paul,Thanks for the info. Went to your site and read everything, and went on the snow blower forums. Picked up the 724 QXE! I love it. Very easy to move and very easy to put together. I can't wait to get snow now, which is a first... normally I DREAD it and despise having to go out side and shovel... Bring on the snow!! Can't wait to use it!!
Hello Paul,it was strange seeing you do a Toro machine review vs. Ariens. I can no longer wrestle my Honda 1332 Track drive and am now looking at this machine. How difficult is it to maneuver? Do you feel it is better than the smaller, although maybe the same engine, plastic model by Toro? I know ou really are not familiar with me, but do you think I’d be happy with this? It looks like it makes a u-turn easily when doing strips up and down he driveway. Thanks for anything you can advise me.
This snowblower is as easy to use as your self-propelled Toro lawn mower. You'll love how easy it is to maneuver.
A couple of things to know about it. 1. It's very lightweight compared to the 1332. It has plenty of traction for 2-10 inches of snow but it will struggle trying to go through a snowplow drift of heavy snow. Just bust through the drift and then take 1/2 passes and it works fine.
2. The Personal Pace takes a little getting used to. If the snowblower doesn't have enough traction it the front will buck up on you. Just put one hand on the steel bar/handle under the Personal Pace and guide it with that. It's will work fine then.
3. It's meant for hard surfaces like cement, blacktop, pavers etc. It has skid shoes but they are designed to just keep the scraper bar up a little - just enough so it doesn't catch on every crack in you sidewalk/driveway. You can't adjust it high enough for gravel and won't work on turf.
@@PaulSikkema thanks Paul, in my case I “think” it will do all I need it to do. You input is honest and helpful.
I know you have done many videos for Ariens products. Would you recommend one of theirs instead of the Toro being discussed?
Thanks once more.
No, The SnowMaster appears to be a great choice for you! You will really like how fast it is. You'll find you can clear 2-8 inches of snow faster with the the 24 inch SnowMaster than you can with the larger 32 inch machine.
@@PaulSikkema thank you,Paul.
Hello Paul... how is the rubber scrapper (along with the nuts and bolts that hold the replaceable rubber scrapper) holding up? I just got mine delivered today and have no snow to put it to work but by looking at the rubber part, it concern me a bit as I don't know how it supposed to break up the chunk of packed snow/ice left by the plow truck.
+Paul C I expect that rubber scrapper to last years. It doesn't touch the ground so there is no wear point. Toro is exceptional anyways with their front paddles. Most owners never have to replace the rubber on the single stage units.
Hi Paul, I used to get advice from you after I got my 824 QXE regarding the whining noise. After owning for a year, I felt that it struggled a little bit for EOD of my MN driveway as the driveway locates at the right corner of the road, so the plow truck alway dumps all those slush (on average 18-24in height) before turn into the main road. I am thinking to trade it with Toro powermax 826 OAE next year. I don’t want to go with HD version as I am small guy with 5ft3 and 160lbs. So I think Toro HD will be too heavy for me. The snowmaster is still working with EOD as I usually take either 1/3-1/2 cut, but the wheel is spinning like you told others. Snowmaster is my first gas snowblower and I never tried any 2 stage gas snowblower. Do you think the powermax 826 oae would be a major upgrade from snowmaster? Or it wouldn’t be much different since it isn’t really much heavier than snowmaster. Thanks
Yes, the 826 OAE would be a major upgrade compared to the 824 SnowMaster. It throws snow a lot farther and since it weighs twice as much it will go through the plow drift easier. If you wanted to stick with a 24 inch I recommend the Ariens Deluxe 24 or Ariens Platinum 24 SHO.
Paul, thanks for the advice. I will look into both Ariens and toro.
How difficult is it to install a new auger in a 724 qxe or 824 qxe? I took a chunk of blade out when I hit an obstruction.
Thank you for your excellent and informative videos and especially movingsnow.com. I just ordered a 824 QXE which will be stored in a garden shed about 75 ft away from the driveway. I'll need to move the machine across the "lawn"... It's really dirt and (not very nice looking) grass... to get to the driveway for every use. I read in one of your earlier comments that being a single stage machine this should not be run on grass or gravel. Could I just tilt the machine back, avoiding auger paddle-to-dirt contact, while driving it across the lawn to the driveway? Any concerns about tilting back too far and damaging that extended oil drain pipe?
Rod, no, you can't tip it back far enough to hurt the oil drain. This snow thrower use the Toro personal pace system and if you try to move the snow blower in grass, etc. the front just bucks up and down. With a little practice you should be able to get it across your bare spot.
Hi Paul,
I bought the Toro 724 QXE single stage in March but haven't used it. I'm moving into a new house that has a gravel driveway if about 150 feet. The manual says not to use this on a gravel driveway. Should I return it and get a stage 2? If so, which one do you recommend? I won't get big drifts at the house.
Yes, you need a 2-stage. The 724 QXE is designed to scrape snow off of a hard surface. The front skid shoes are not adjustable so it will pick up rocks. Also since you can't adjust the skid shoes the front will catch all the time in the uneven gravel. I suggest the Toro Power Max 826 OXE (homedepot.sjv.io/JaPe) or the Ariens Deluxe 28 (homedepot.sjv.io/5bx3)
@@PaulSikkema thank you Paul. I will take a look the snownlowers you suggested. 😀
Hi Paul, I live in the Detroit area, and tend to clear many of my neighbors sidewalks. Having said that, using my old Snapper single stage, I prefer to accomplish this as fast as possible. Would you recommend this Snowmaster or a true 2-stage, such as The Husqvarna ST-224,for where I live? I plan on selling my Snapper and would like to only have one Snow Blower in the garage to handle most conditions well. Thanks!!!
Hi JJPhat, Sorry, I had to think about my answer for a day. The Snow Master is a good choice for the amount of snow you get. It will handle deeper snow than your old Snapper and it will be twice as fast as the ST-224 for 2-10 inches of snow. It handles most snow plow drifts well enough - again better than your Snapper but not as well as the ST-224. If the snow plow typically leaves you less than 18 inches of snow it will get the job done. It handles heavy wet snow a lot better than the ST-224.
The only thing I want to caution you about. It has powered wheels like the ST-224 and has auto-steer like the ST-224P but it's weighs somewhere between your Snapper and the ST-224. If you have sloped driveways to clear it may traction problems - but it works just fine the rest of the time.
Paul Sikkema Appreciate the reply! That was what I was hoping you’d say! Thank you!
@@PaulSikkema hi Paul. I am seriously considering snowmaster, but my driveway which is 6 Suv big and square in shape has a noticeable slope. I would say about 18 inches drop over 32 feet length. would this be a problem for snowmaster in terms of traction? any recomandations? Thank you in advance for your opinion.
I live in southern Ontario.
Your slope is not that great. The SnowMaster will do a good job. Enjoy!
I like the idea of this thing but I wish Toro would have came up with it back when they put the 7hp 141cc R*Tek 2 cycle engine in their blowers.
Hi Paul. Love your videos but one small suggestion. Skip the music. People who are seriously interested in these blowers would much rather hear if and how much the motors bog down in different conditions.
Yes, I agree, this video was back when I didn't have a clue how make a video and was listening to other people tell me what I should be doing. So, please check out some of my newest videos. I still don't know what I'm doing but at least I killed the music...
Ok Paul. Just sold my 45 year old Jd 726. I hope that wasn’t a mistake. I need a replacement. I completely believe you know what you are talking about with these blowers. You also know what our winters are like in Chippewa Falls. So I am going to base my decision heavily on your recommendation. Concrete driveway 20’x 60’.Pretty flat. No sidewalks. City comes through and does their thing in the morning usually and I don’t get to clean it out till evening. Blowers on my shortlist are
1. Toro Snowmaster 824 QXE
2. Ariens deluxe 24”
3.Toro Powermax 24”
4. Troy-built Storm 2460
Thanks for your thoughts. Price matters to me but getting the right blower matters more.
My first choice for you is the Ariens Deluxe 24. It will handle ANY snow you get and with the power steering, it is very easy to use. It is well worth the price and will last you many, many years. Tell Josh Smith at Union Trailer I sent you. 715-874-6363.
2nd choice is the Toro Power Max 824. It does not have power steering but it is a good snowblower for our area. It also does not have the capacity for wet/heavy snow like the Ariens but it will get the job done. Tell Jason at Eau Claire Lawn I sent you (715) 834-7118.
I also have the SnowMaster here but I use a 2-stage instead most of the time. The SnowMaster is very light so it has a hard time going through a snowplow drift that's been sitting and settling for a while.
Finally, I like the Troy-Bilt storm 2460 and it is very comparable to the Toro 824 but the only Troy-Bilt dealer we have is Barstow Street Auto and they usually don't have it in stock.
Great video, but no music please. We watchers like to hear power tools in action. Can’t do it with music.
I've heard that if you have plow piles (as I do: packed, hard, icy) then dual stage is the only option ... correct?
Scott, In general yes. Single stage snow throwers don't work on hard packed end-of-driveway snow. But the Toro SnowMaster is different and it will work for many people. Why? It has powered wheels with automatic steering like a two-stage so it has traction to push itself through a snow bank. It has plenty of power to throw the heavy snow from a snow plow. It's also a very "open" design so wet slush doesn't plug it - ever. I've seen it push thru freshly plowed 24-30 inch piles. I've used it myself on 18 inches of heavily salted snow plow snow.
Of course, it only weighs 1/2 as much as a typical 24 inch 2-stage snow blower so if you let your pile freeze up you'll be out there with a good shovel breaking up the snow so that the SnowMaster can throw it.
Paul Sikkema Thanks for such a fast and thorough reply! I have the option to get an 824 snow master or 826 power max for the same price. I REALLY like the new tech/ease of repair in the master but the max has that heavy duty torque. Opinion?
Would you recommend snowmaster 824 or the smaller one snowmaster 724? Or should i go for the single stage toro with 250 cc? I have a long concrete driveway no gravel
I really can't give you a good answer. If you would please respond and tell me what city,st you live in so I can tell how much snow you get. Also, will someone drive on the driveway before you get it cleared? The SnowMaster is faster than the 21 inch single stage but it won't clear driven on snow.
@@PaulSikkema
I live in detroit Michigan and no one will drive into my driveway.! I don’t mind do a little shoveling to get rid of little snow leftover after using either machine.
Thanks, The Snowmaster is a good choice. The 724 will get the job done - but you'll like the 824 for doing the end of driveway snowplow pile. I know you also get heavy/wet so every so often and the 824 will handle that very well.
@@PaulSikkema
thank you ! I have a 6 yrs old Toro 826 powermax with the 250cc but it is a little too heavy and sometimes the chute got stuck with the heavy snow!
@@PaulSikkema The 824 Snowmaster is a single stage machine.
I need to buy a machine. Do you think this blower would eat through 2 or 3 feet of snow?
No! You need the Toro 826 at a minimum. A better choice would be the Toro 828. If you had to have a 24 inch the Ariesn Platinum 24 SHO is the best choice for that much snow.
@@PaulSikkema I greatly appreciate your response. I'd hate to invest that much to find out the hard way. Thanks for the info.
I have, but you need to take it in chunks.
Just wondering of you have tried this with the skid shoes all the way up on a gravel drive ? I am looking for a easy to use snow blower for my wife and our drive is gravel. If the shoes were all the way up this would prevent it from grabbing gravel and or grass.
Nathan, This is hard to explain but Toro did not design these skid shoes to be adjusted. You can't raise them up to go over rocks. It really is designed for hard surfaces only.
Take a look at the Cub Cadet 524 SWE, the Craftsman 88694 and the Husqvarna ST224P. They all have power steering so they are easy to use. They are all balanced well so they are easy to turn. She doesn't have to "handle" any of these because all the controls allow her to drive it.
@@PaulSikkema How about after market skid shoes?
The SnowMaster is unique and there are no aftermarket skid shoes available for it yet.
@@PaulSikkema I hope things have changed. I have only gravel and grass. I just bought one of these, my first snowblower. I started watching videos and found that skids need to be adjusted down for my uses. Like you said, no adjustment. Ordered aftermarket Armorskids listed to fit my machine. From the picture on the website, it looks like they will bolt right on, so when I recieve them I will see. I may have to "custom fit" if it dosen't.
Ammending my comment. As I stated, I just purchased this 824 QXE new this year (Oct. 2020). Maybe the machine has been redesigned, but I was wrong about being able to adjust the skid height. It's not much, but it can be raised 1/4 inch. I found this out today because I just got my new armorskids delivered today. Very fast delivery. The bolt spacing is 2 1/2 inches. They bolted on easily. I found a couple of big nuts that were 7/8 inch in diameter, and set under the sheet metal housing next to the skid on each side for a spacer. Unbolted the stock skids using a 1/2 inch socket. Replaced with the Armorskids. These things are made in USA and built like a tank. A bit pricey, 48 bucks on Amazon, but have long runners made from 1/8 inch steel welded to the adjustment plate. There is a skinney end so they can be reversed for pavement use. Remind me of miniature snowmobile skis. I now have 1/4 inch clearance from ground to the plastic scraper. There is a lot of adjustment either way. Almost looking forward to snow this year.
Does the handle fold down? We have limited space in our garage.
No, the handle does not fold down. Most snowblowers do not have folding handles.
@@PaulSikkema There are handwheels to fold the handle down. Most single stage snowblowers do have folding handles. ;-)
Yes, the SnowMaster has knobs on the handles for quick assembly but - on the 724 and SnowMaster® 824 QXE you would also have to remove the two bolts that hold the QuickStick Chute control together and unbolt the clip holding the deflector cable to the snowblower's frame to be able to fold the handle down. You would have to be cautious not to kink the Personal Pace drive cable. You could do it if you are storing the unit for the summer but it would be a lot of work just to put it away between snowstorms.
The 724 ZXR does not have the quickstick so you may be able to fold the handles down but I would still be cautious about kinking the Personal Pace drive cable.
This machine likes to jump over the snow! It might be too powerful. Is there a weight bar we can make a machine heavier?
no, It took me a while to get used to the Personal Pace also. I ended up holding the handle under the Personal Pace control and then using my fingers to push the control forward.
@@PaulSikkema Interesting. Personal Pace works great on my mower but I've noticed in QXE videos that when people hit deep snow they of course end up pushing harder and the machine tends to jump and buck and spin.
If I'm trying to clear the snowplow drift it works best for me to push the metal bar under the personal pace control.
Why have it so high incase you catch a stone it won't fly far and you can set up a drift wall 5 feet from your drive way shooting it down, I have a 420 cc Troybilt vortex 3090 and only blow full length into the garden. It depends how high you set your skid shoes as to how safe it is on gravel I still keep the shoot aimed down.
I have it high in these videos because people want to see how far it throws.
On my front driveway I want to blow the snow to the right as far as I can otherwise I get drifts across the drive. There is also another drive on the left side that you can't see in the video so I want to throw the snow as far as possible on that side also.
Yes, you can set the skid shoes on a 2-stage snow blower so there is a gap underneath the scraper bar . This snow blower though is unique. It's a single stage and uses a floating scraper bar underneath to clear the snow off hard surfaced driveways. The skids shoes only have enough adjustment to allow for wear on the scraper bar. They are not designed to raise the front up to clear gravel and turf.
Why don't you recommend this machine for a gravel? It works just like a two stage and it has skid shoes.
Why can't you just adjust the skid shoes to be high enough over the gravel..
That's the whole point of skid shoes can use it on gravel and any surface.
They don't recommend single stages for gravel because it gets too close to the ground And you can't adjust it. But this machine is just like a two-stage snow blower in terms of how it's built, with the skid shoes and everything else. Also being self-propelled.
I don't get it.
Am I missing something?
The poly "skid shoes" are non-adjustable and ONLY used to help the poly scraper bar to float over cracks in your hard surface driveway. The "skid shoes are NOT used to set a gap under the snow thrower scraper bar. They wear with the scraper bar and are easily replaced when the scraper bar needs replacement.
It does not work like a 2-stage. It is a single-stage snowthrower - meaning the front auger is also the part that throws the snow. Compared to Toro's 2-stage PowerMax snowblowers it is limited in the depth of snow and how far it throws the snow.
Yes, It is a great machine for what it's designed for but it is not designed for use on gravel or turf.
I have one and the skid shoes are adjustable. Look up the owner's manual on the Toro website? It shows how to adjust the skid shoes. Pages 14 and 15.
Is this snowblower good in deep snow?
Depends on the type of snow. The snow blower has an 18 inch intake height. It weighs about half of a a 24 inch 2-stage. That means it will handle an 18 inch drift but - it loses traction when trying to go through the heavy/wet stuff. In my experience, if the snow is heavy, like the snow plow drift, it will throw the snow well but you'll have to take "half-passes" because it doesn't have the traction to push through that heavy stuff.
Would this work on a driveway with a fairly steep hill?
Hi Shane, Yes, this snow blower weighs about 1/2 of a typical 24 inch 2-stage machine so it is easier to handle. It has good tires and will have the traction to get up the hill.
Id love it if toro made a 60v snowmaster
You may get your wish....
@@PaulSikkema id buy that in a heartbeat! I have a ~2005 era 27" Craftsman with a hydro trans that i believe is similar to a Husqvarna that works awesome. If anything, it needs more auger capacity, the Briggs engine on it seems very overpowered, I've gone through 8 inches of snow at high speed and the engine doesn't even load down, the snow just pours out the side of the auger housing. I'd like to be able to lower the handlebars a bit
Does it go in reverse?
Grab the black bar under the personal pace handle. Pull it backwards. This machine is very lightweight and doesn't need power reverse.
Hi there how do like the snowblower snowmaster
The quick answer is yes. Please go to movingsnow.com and search for SnowMaster. There are many articles on how the SnowMaster performs.
Well I’m thinking about going getting a Snowmaster
Hey Paul - I also have a 824 QXE and used it all last year. I love the machine but this year the auger drive belt keeps burning up on me. Can't seem to figure it out, have you had this problem before? Thanks
Take the belt off and then spin the auger by hand. It should spin freely, it should not hit anything. Pay particular attention to any grinding sounds - you may have a bad bearing. Wiggle the auger up and down to make sure the bearings are mounted tightly. Also check the idler wheel bearing that rides on the belt.
@@PaulSikkema It spins real nice, no grinding sounds. I had to replace the auger mounting flange on the opposite side earlier this year. My guess is the foot on top of the engagement arm is interfering.
That foot is the safety brake that stops the auger from spinning within 3 seconds. It should not rub on the belt when the belt is tensioned when the front auger is spinning. I usually put the snow thrower up on a table so I can check this clearance/tension out .
how easy is it to turn/steer?
It's hard to explain. It's easier than pushing down on the handle of your push mower and spinning it around - but not quite as easy as spinning yourself around.
It's as easy a any single stage snow thrower.
Thank you!
Paul, I cleanup driveways here in Pasco, Wa. I currently have what some people would consider a toy. I have a Toro S-200. It does great for moving fresh powder snow not more than 6" deep. Sometimes my customers wait until 3 or 4 days later to call me to have their driveway cleaned. By that time, the snow is compacted to the ground from the cars running it over. Now I'm looking to buy another machine that will scrape up the compacted ice without too much hassle, Yet I'm not looking for a 2 stage. What would you recommend for me?
Also, I don't know if you would know anything about them, But I'm also thinking of buying a riding mower with a snow blower attachment. Do you have any suggestions for that.
Any info would help.
Cool video by the way.
Thank you.
Please go over to movingsnow and read this article. movingsnow.com/is-a-gas-two-stage-snow-blower-the-best-choice-for-you/
60 v power clear does a better job of cleaning right down to the black top.
Yes, it does. The new Toro e21SP 60 Volt MAX electric snow thrower has made this SnowMaster obsolete.
Does the Snowmaster remove slush as well as the Power Clear? And it looks like Toro is releasing a 60v version of the Snowmaster
Yes, and it has a higher intake for clearing the snow plow pile at the end of your driveway. The auger does not touch the ground but it has a scraper bar (like a 2-stage) to pick up the snow
Wish folks would stop with the awful background music.
This video is seven years old and you are the first to complain! Just kidding - I stopped using background music years ago.
Paul, love the video, I have the same model, but after I turn off the choke, mine surges up and down in a violent manner. please see this youtube video.
ruclips.net/video/gq1z9fhjlU0/видео.html
It did not do that on year one, just on year 2, and recently going on the third wintery season. Any idea on how to remedy the idle up and down surge? I have a feeling that if I can advance the idle speed (somehow), then the up/down surging by governor won't happen. Your thoughts? Thanks in Advance.
made a youtube video of mine with its up/down idle
ruclips.net/video/FKXO3jA4huE/видео.html
Hani, I use SeaFoam to clean the carb. I suggest about two tablespoons in the tank and it should clear most of the rough running up. FYI: The choke controls on snow blowers have notches becasue most of the time you can't open the choke fully and you may even have to adjust the choke after you used the snow blower for 15 minutes or so.
Thanks for your input Paul. The Toro Premium fuel treatment and also SeaFoam did not help fix my problem. Since it is still under warranty, I will be scheduling an appointment with a local dealer soon to see my options. Thanks again for your input. I will update this comment section with how it was resolved.
choke issue
You did bring up a point that most snow blower owners don't really understand. The choke is not automatic and it is normal for you to sometimes have to run the choke lever about half-way open to get the snow blower to run smoothly. Many of the snow blower carbs have notches on the choke movement for just that purpose.
Wondering why they discontinued these?
They haven't. They are just out-of-stock for the year. Toro is out of all snowblowers smaller than the 928 OAE until July/August
@@PaulSikkema ok. A couple of retailers web pages said discontinued. It seemed odd to me as it seems like a well liked machine.
Retailers like The Home Depot don't always explain what's going on with their inventory. For example, if the product is on order but they have no idea when it will be in stock the website will show "Out of stock online, Not sold in stores."
If they have it on order and they know when it's coming they usually will say, "More coming soon."
In this case, since they know there will be no more for the season they say, "Discontinued." So, it doesn't mean that Toro is not going to make anymore - it just means the retailer is out of them for the season. In cases like this, you need to talk to the Brand or one of their trusted dealers to find out if the item is going forward next season.