BEFORE YOU BUY A 2-STAGE GAS SNOWBLOWER AT HOME DEPOT IN 2024, WATCH THIS! (Avoid This One)

[@GarageGear]

PROTECT your snowblower with this! Thank you for supporting the channel! 👍 👉 amzn.to/3O8CkIm

[@GarageGear]

@ it works well too. For the price I just stick with fluid film.

[@JohnBachik]

@@GarageGear Picked some up last week! Used it on both of my Ariens blowers! Thanks for the advice, JB!

[@steve8803]

@craftbox9633 Rust check coat and protect works perfect and is way cheaper than Fluid Film. Rust Check has been around for over 50 years. They know what's up!

[@andybub45]

I run a small engine shop. We’re in NC so we’ve never had a snow blower come in, but as far as the engine goes they are the same as what’s found on pressure washers, chipper shredders, etc. one piece of advice I will give: get something with a name brand engine (Honda, Kohler, or Briggs and Stratton). Do NOT get something with a generic no name engine. You will have a really hard time finding quality parts and many of the parts will be obsolete or very hard to get in several years. If I lived up north and had to pick one at Home Depot, the Murray looks like the best one to me.

[@davidspearie6921]

An Illinois mechanic here. Even some B&S engines are made in China just like MTD's Powermore engine.

[@nodak81]

In my experience, most of those no-name Chinese engines are just clones of a name brand. Parts are often interchangeable. Not always, but often.

[@andybub45]

⁠@@davidspearie6921yes I’ve seen those too. But at least you can get a real parts diagram and have somewhat easier access to parts

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate you sharing this andy

[@Matthew_Does_To_Many_Things]

@@davidspearie6921yeah I hear that too as well as common issues is rods going out on those snowblower engines. I like old flathead Tecumseh’s or Briggs otherwise I hear those LCT engines are fine and you can get parts. Sadly all are made in china and Honda clones.

[@douglaslippertindy]

It’s fun to see the massive inventory in the upstate NY area vs. central Indiana. I started blowing snow in Gaylord, Michigan as a kid in about 1969, with a John Deere two-stage. Back in those days, it would start snowing in November and end in March. Sometimes the snow banks from the thrown snow would be five feet or more. These days, the 1989 Simplicity doesn’t even get fuel until a storm is certain. It would be my hope that, with people like you, that interest is kept high for refurbishing and maintaining older equipment. It amazes me what still useful mechanical devices people toss aside. Keep up the good work, JB.

[@GarageGear]

@@douglaslippertindy hey Douglas I’ve noticed a shift in our weather patterns over the years too. It almost seems like winter comes a little later now. I hope interest stays high for older equipment and technology. When you compare it to new stuff it’s night and day. Thanks for watching my friend

[@125southernnh2]

I've had my 26" Cub Cadet for 5 years now. No rust, no broken parts, always starts and easy to work on.

[@GarageGear]

@@125southernnh2 thanks for sharing 125

[@AllenReinecke]

I went to Lowes for an Ariens Deluxe 24 inch blower. I wanted one in a box to assemble myself. They said they had 9 but all assembled and not available in the box. Also, they'd been stored outside and the display models were rusty already! They said some were last year's machines. $79 delivery! I went to Ace Hardware and they ordered one and gave me free delivery 3 days later right into my garage! ❤❤

[@AllenReinecke]

Today, I'll be disassembling it, greasing, rustproofing the joints, and checking it before assembly and motor break-in in preparation for the season.

[@StlrNtn95]

That's a great machine! I bought it new, in the crate from Ace as well.

[@AllenReinecke]

@@StlrNtn95 just finished it, and its first oil change. All nicely protected and waiting for snow!

[@StlrNtn95]

@@AllenReinecke Nice! You won't be disappointed. We're getting snow right now but unfortunately not enough to really stick.

[@GarageGear]

@@AllenReinecke appreciate you sharing this Allen!

[@hattrick2219]

Reviews should include comparison of the transmission. No longer live in snow country but when I did I passed on all these junk machines and bought a Honda with a hydrostatic transmission. Had it 10 years and it never missed a beat.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing

[@brihm3869]

I have a Troy 28" Storm I bought in 2008 and it's going strong. Comes with lights abd heated handle. I love this thing.

[@GarageGear]

@@brihm3869 thanks for sharing

[@kirkthebeerslinger]

Hey JB...I hear you on the lights...I have gotten into the habit of wearing a headlight for winter snow work whether with a shovel, backpack blower or either single or 2 stage snowblowers...helps me see and be seen - especially handy to see when refilling fuel tank or replacing sheer pins etc

[@mikemontagne2703]

Hello from Kamloops British Columbia Canada 🇨🇦. We had our first of this seasons ❄️ snow fall. Albeit only a sprinkle, and it melted soon afterwards. Great idea mentioning the headlamp, I've seen them occasionally, but you sold me. Especially, for those very early mornings, after a say 20 cm snow fall, and the city snow plow has kindly left a plow berm blocking my driveway.

[@kirkthebeerslinger]

@mikemontagne2703 you definitely beat us on the 🌨️...I am still finishing fall clean-ups - but the headlight comes in handy when putting equipment away in the dark at this time of year...I picked up a 3-pack with batteries at Costco on sale...keep one in each vehicle just incase I have to change a tire or even fill up washer fluid on the side of the road...cheers!

[@mikemontagne2703]

@kirkthebeerslinger Thank you again, we've had a Costco here for some years, it's only a few minute's drive away, 20 minutes walk. I'll keep my eyes open for them, or better yet, my wife's been asking what I wanted for Christmas. Have as best as possible enjoyable, winter, as for me. Were I to win a lottery, it's New Zealand's 🇳🇿 North Island, I never ever want to see that "White Blight" unless it's on the top of a very distant mountain!

[@GarageGear]

I like where your headlamp is at Kirk! 😉 smart thinking! 👍

[@mikemontagne2703]

@kirkthebeerslinger I apologize Kirk, I inadvertently hit the 👎, definitely wasn't intended (👍).

[@jaybooth4815]

Great seeing the different snowblower selections available JB. Honestly, I wouldn't buy any of them. Probably not from a big box store either...IMO. the price is insane too. I'd personally support a local business that sells Ariens. USA made and not to much difference in price. But definitely worth the extra cost. Enjoy the weekend my friend! Great video. What's up for the weekend?

[@johnwalker6121]

Local dealers sell the professional models while the big box stores a consumer version. One big difference is serviceability, friction tire in the transmission on pro model is much easier to replace than consumer version. Because the pro model is expected to see much more usage I'm sure there are other differences. If your buying for the first time, the extra $$$ may mean the unit will be the only one you ever need.

[@jaybooth4815]

I still have my 99 Troy Bilt that’s built like a tank and runs great. I normally use a John Deere X370 with the 44 inch snowblower due to shoulder issues but the Troy Bilt is a great backup! Thanks for the feedback.

[@GarageGear]

Hey Jay! I prefer buying from a dealer too. Better service! Viewers really seem to like seeing what’s out at other stores. Switching things over slowly in the garage. All the mowers are pretty much wrapped up. How about you?

[@jaybooth4815]

Mowers are wrapped up. The JD, Troy-bilt and Ariens are ready to go. Enjoy the rest of the weekend my friend!

[@GarageGear]

@ you’re good to go my friend! 👍👍👍

[@Subie-Driver]

Interesting. I live in the great white north (Canada). This past spring I replaced our well used 10 hp, 18 year old Craftsman snowblower. What did I buy? Wait for it…a Cub Cadet. 420cc 28”. Big engine for lots of throwing power. I looked at all the brands but my decision boiled down to price and how many times a winter it gets used. I just could not justify forking out the HUGE $$$ for the Ariens for the number of times it gets used. Plus, I have watched all your videos on snowblower care so it’s going to last, and last, and last…what’s the first thing I did with it?…gave it your full monty of snowblower lubrication rust care. Bring on the snow!

[@GarageGear]

@@Subie-Driver RIGHT ON SUBIE! Appreciate you! Thanks for being a cool fan! Happy snowblowing season my friend

[@skydancerforever]

I just bought a used Orange Remington RM 2410 with a 208 cc engine. Looks brand new. No scratches or rust anywhere . no wear on the skid bar. Did a complete service that you show in your videos. grease auger shafts, adjusted belts, has non ethonal gas in it. changed oil, greasesd wheels, adjusted cables and adjusted front skid gap . She's ready to go. starts 1st pull evertime. Like how i can idle it down too. Bought it for $250.00. Sold my Toro single stage power clear 721QZE that i never did like.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing skydancer

[@artistlovepeace]

Thank you for your opinions and videos. I stress out every pre-winter before we get the crazy snow here in MN. I have a twenty year old snowblower and it's been on it's last legs for many years. I might buy a new one this season so I don't have to deal with this old rusty machine. Your videos and opinions help me decide on what brand and what product will get that snow out the driveway with the least stress. Thank you.

[@GarageGear]

@@artistlovepeace glad these videos are helping you with your decisions. 👍

[@waterbuck]

Another buying tip on these is not to buy at the beginning of the season. If you have a low snow year, you can find many blowers at Lowes, and Home Depot, for 15% off or maybe more by March 1st. I got a sweet deal on a 30in Ariens back in March of 2020, paying around $1000 for a blower that today is close to $1900.

[@GarageGear]

@@waterbuck great tip 👍

[@patfinn8859]

Just bought a cub cadet 2 X 28 inches at tractor supple on 12/19/24 for $ 1377. Took 200 dollars off for me. Used it today. I do live in mid Michigan. Got 2 inches of snow yesterday. Happy with the snowblower !

[@GarageGear]

@@patfinn8859 thanks for sharing pat

[@chalion8399]

Now, this is interesting. I watched then commented on your Lowes Snowblower review, then found this one and watched it. Now the Cub Cadets seem to have made some major changes in the 10+years since I purchased mine. Mine, looks like your 3X you have in your shop, but mine is a 26 inch thrower, 6 augers (which look larger too) and 357cc motor(PLUS a big central light). It does have an electric starter, but needs to be plugged into an outlet. Also does have pull start. I'm thinking of getting a powerbank/inverter to help with that starter for making my back like me more. (No heated grip, which now annoys me, lol).

[@chalion8399]

Also, just subbed.

[@GarageGear]

Sounds like you’ve been doing a deep dive into garage gear videos! 👍

[@smallblock412]

Drive past Home Depot, stop at Lowe's, and pick up an Ariens. 😁

[@GarageGear]

@@smallblock412 RIGHT ON SMALLBLOCK! Or should I call you SMARTblock?🤔👍

[@DKLabs99]

I’m about to do that very thing except I’m picking up some oil for my Ariens lol

[@lanceglover4530]

Keep driving past Lowe’s and find a local Airens dealer who doesn’t have their inventory sit out in the rain and will service what they sell!

[@DKLabs99]

@ also a good point but mine was still in the box and I assembled it when I got home

[@smallblock412]

@@GarageGear I answer to anything 😆

[@jakemanchester5139]

I still use an Ariens Professional model that I purchased new in 1996. My driveway is over 300 feet long. We get up to 10 feet of snow per year where I live. The machine NEVER failed me. Only replaced skids and scraper bar. Belts ONCE. Incredible machine.

[@GarageGear]

@@jakemanchester5139 awesome thanks for sharing jake

[@workingshlub8861]

ariens from a real dealer or a honda ...nothing from big box comes close

[@iffykidmn8170]

@@workingshlub8861 Bought my Ariens 28 Deluxe from Home Depot about 5-6 years ago I have been happy with it.

[@125AXer]

I have a 32 year old Craftsman 8 HP 26" unit with track drive. Yes, I have needed to do some repairs and maintenance over the years, but it still starts and runs great. Picked up some really heavy duty skids at the end of last season, need to get them installed! We nicknamed it "The Beast" because it does take a lot of effort to operate it.

[@GarageGear]

awesome my friend. Thanks for sharing that. Hopefully you have many more years with her

[@polaridoo1]

Bought a new TroyBilt XP3090 a few years ago. It has plenty of motor and a 30-in wide open mouth. It never powers out and it handles powder snow good, but it absolutely sucks on wet heavy snow. It doesn't clog very much, but the balance is off and it constantly rides up on the snow. If you luve somewhere that gets a lot of snow, I think a tracked machine is the only option. I'm getting ready to drop 3,500 on a Honda because once you've had a horrible winter with a marginal snowblower, you either want to move to Florida or solve the problem with proper equipment.

[@GarageGear]

Smart way to solve the problem with a Honda. I’m going to be doing a review on those in a few weeks. Stay tuned

[@gpalmerify]

Yeah, gotta agree with you JB plastic parts on high wear areas and sub-zero temps not good. The lack of a headlight is disapponting on some of these is a miss. The engines and starters need to be designed for cold for sure and those small diameter augers make it seem like they're compsensating for lower power output. We moved to Texas and I had to give my Snapper 2 stage 10 hp away I'd love to see how that older machine would perform against these newer ones.

[@GarageGear]

@@gpalmerify hey gpalmer I bet that old snapper would run circles around these newer ones. Did you move to Texas for work? Better temps?

[@Matthew_Does_To_Many_Things]

Those old snappers with 10hp Tecumsehs were unstoppable

[@CeeJayC3903]

I was looking at these, and I ended up getting powersmart 250cc w/ 26". Great value overall for what I needed. 250cc Briggs Stratton engine, headlight, heated handles, and got an additional 2 year warranty that extends the manufacturers 2 year (4 total) for $730. Ran on the first pull. Researched all the replacement parts and ease of getting them, and we were golden.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing this! Hope she treats you well for years to come

[@Bryan-109]

@GarageGear No other way to say it. These videos are REALLY cool. Thanks for the content. Hoping you can give me a hand with the question that I posted on the Toro comparison mower video from a few months back.

[@GarageGear]

@@Bryan-109 hey Bryan! Thank you my friend! If I didn’t answer your question a while back send me an email. It’s in the video description

[@Bryan-109]

@GarageGear Thanks so much for responding! I framed it wrong. What I meant was that the video was from a few months back, but I just posted the question. You are the only KZbinr that I know of that has grown and still answers questions. I wish I could convey how cool these videos are and what they do for me. Thank you very much again. Bummer that I can't find a new carb!

[@GarageGear]

@@Bryan-109 ok I try my best to get back to people within 24 hours. Sometimes it’s a lot but I make an effort. Did you post it in an email? Sorry just want to get this right!

[@Bryan-109]

@GarageGear Nope. You were all good. I posted it on the Toro video, but realized it was from 4 months ago. I then posted it on a recent video for a best effort to get a response. Most KZbinrs only respond to recent video. BTW, it is completely understood. It must be tough managing all of that. I am the same person that emailed you about the Merch. Hopefully one day, you can sell the blue shirt with the white writing. I don't typically like blue, but like that shirt for some reason.

[@GarageGear]

@@Bryan-109 ah got it! No problem. I don’t have a say on the clothing here on KZbin. But keep an eye on the merch to see if they print the color scheme you’re looking for. 👍

[@nodak81]

We bought our 30" Troy-Bilt Storm XP about 15 years ago and it's been a workhorse through all these New England winters. I have to clear a 150 foot gravel driveway as well as two paved parking areas for about 15 cars. Haven't had to repair anything but routine maintenance. My only complaint is that it doesn't have a fuel shut-off and it was difficult to fit one in there.

[@paulmysliborski4832]

Agreed. I have had my Storm for 7 years. Zero problem with meticulous maintenance.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing nodak. Fuel shut offs are definitely not easy to put on those.

[@es-qf2gw]

@nodak81 the old two stroke, two stage where great back in the day!!! But in 25 won't touch a two stage, three stage are much better and they don't get clogged in deep heavy wet snow because of the auger in the shoot.

[@cardo1111]

You know we would prefer a quality Ariens or Toro model any-day of the week. Good eye pointing out the differences making the Murray the best buy of the bunch. Murray more budget friendly a brand has made durable snowblowers over the years. I'm sure some of their tank like units from the '70's are still in service today.

[@lukem7203]

I use to own a John Deere snow blower that i was told was actually made by Murray. Great machine, wish I still had it.

[@cardo1111]

@@lukem7203Those were built like tanks.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for being a cool fan cardo! Definitely would prefer an ariens or even a toro!

[@ChuckP25.]

Nice video JB. Thumbs up from Iowa.

[@GarageGear]

@@ChuckP25. appreciate you Chuck! Thumbs up back at ya from Buffalo 👍

[@grege9862]

Your channel is really helpful. I'm so glad I got the all steel Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO for only $50 more than the same sized Cub Cadet 2x at Home Depot. It was a no brainer.

[@GarageGear]

Smart shopper my friend

[@EAGLEDRIVER77]

JB, I certainly appreciate all of your videos. Very informative, which makes it easier to purchase wisely. Just traded in my 8 year old Ariens Compact 24 for the Deluxe 28 SHO. Keep up the fantastic work!👍🏻

[@GarageGear]

@@EAGLEDRIVER77 ROCK ON Eagle! Let me know how you like the new ariens!

[@happydays8171]

Started out buying a Craftsman 26' in 06, black Friday for around $500. Worked fine first couple years, but everything seemed wear fast after that. Traded it in on a Husqvarna 924 HV. Looked like the civilian version of their industrial model at a much lower price in the $800 range at my local dealer. Bought 2014, everything still seems tight. The spring on top of the chute broke, simply went down a couple rings, bent that with a pliers, and wha-la. Added a little extra tension which it needed. The hose going from the fuel primer plunger was too short from the factory and came off 2nd year. Replaced it with a longer vacuum hose, works fine. Has an LCT 208 cc 6.3 horseed engine. LCT claims to do some manufacturing in their Greenville SC plant, but most is done in their Shanghai plant. Been a good engine so far. Has big tires and a headlight that I enjoy. Many speeds to choose from, like 8 in all. Still selling in the $800 range, $900 out the door. I found in my quick search of dealers in writing this, but wasn't paying attention to the dates of the manufacture .

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing this happy days!

[@mikecleveland823]

Another FYI - make sure you can get common parts locally or you keep a few extras on hand. Last week I snapped a shear bolt on my Husqvarna and didn't have any spares on hand. The only store that stocks these locally was out of stock. I ended up driving 60 miles (round trip) to get shear bolts. At the same time, MTD shear bolts are available at almost every hardware store. Just food for thought.

[@GarageGear]

@@mikecleveland823 thanks for sharing mike

[@iffykidmn8170]

My Ariens came with two extra shear bolts mounted right on the chute so they are easy to find if ever needed.😉😁

[@pit4955]

club cadets are MTD and Murray’s are Briggs and Stratton with many MTD parts There are headlight kits that are way superior than the ones that are standard. Other than that your demo is on point great heads up, thx for sharing 👍👍

[@GarageGear]

@@pit4955 thanks for sharing pit! Appreciate you ! Have an awesome weekend!

[@anthonyelectric6045]

Thanks JB. I’m glad I have my old Ariens blowers. Although heated handgrips would be nice, I’ll take the heavy duty build and real augers and cast iron gear box any day. I’m on the coast of CT now and my machines don’t get the proper exercise 😂

[@GarageGear]

@@anthonyelectric6045 ROCK ON with the oldies my friend! 👍

[@walleyeye]

I cant help but notice in your videos when you compare them the one thing you dont mention is the type of carburater. Does it have the old style tecumseh float carb or the pos briggs nikki carb? Interesting that the Murray blower seems like the better built one and the one I’d buy.

[@GarageGear]

Hey walley! This is Information that I’ll have to dig a bit more in depth into.

[@frankcastle5294]

Another great vid JB and hope you're doing well up there. Big Bills game tomorrow! Hope I'm not being counter-productive or stepping on your toes here but if anybody in southern PA is looking for a new snowblower cheap....my Dad left me his new never used Troy Bilt 2600 and sitting in my storage building taking up room. Sell for reasonable offer. Thanks JB. Regards, John

[@GarageGear]

@@frankcastle5294 hey John! Doing well! You? Not stepping on anyone’s toes. Have you checked out fb marketplace?

[@g.k.1669]

Purchased my Yardman 2 stage from Home Depot in 2001 and it is still chewing through the Michigan snow. Every spring I wash it down and then fog the engine and then spray the whole thing down with rust preventative oil before placing it into the shed for the summer. Change the oil at the beginning of the season and then dream of my future retirement in Florida.

[@GarageGear]

@@g.k.1669 thanks for sharing gk

[@craig_sez8534]

I used my dads honda (forget it #)track version a few times one year when i waa home to visit...What a great machine,it worked so well at blowing the snow far away,smooth as a babys butt and didnt get stuck like tires do...When the told me how much,my jaw was in the snowbank!!

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate you sharing this with the community my friend.

[@The_Mace]

I've said this before... No light on your snowblower? Get a headlamp (the kind you wear on your head)! I actually think it works better...everything you look at will be illuminated. It's also a nice alternative to JB's Harbor Freight lamp idea... 🤣 Also... JB, are you going to do a similar video on single-stage snowblowers, for those of us who don't need a 2-stage?

[@GarageGear]

The headlamp is definitely a great idea mace! Perhaps I’ll have to pick one up. I was thinking about doing a single stage review video. The depot only had 2-3 gas ones. I’ll check out lowes too. Appreciate the idea my friend! Have a good rest of your weekend.👍

[@dt6126]

Years ago I was looking for a 2 stage snow blower. I went to Home Depot and found a Yard Machine they had. I got the numbers off the snowblower and went to my friends hardware store. We tried looking up the snowblower and couldn't find it. None of the blowers numbers matched Yard Machine products on their site. From what I understand those companies make products just for Home Depot. Just wondering if you've ever run into that?

[@GarageGear]

Not really. It may have been a fluke. Thanks for following along.

[@bobbob6162]

Great work..ty, I like to see your 3x version, I see you leaning on my machine at the end…..waiting to see were I went wrong, I do like mine, it worked well in deep snow, don’t know about others….ty Bob

[@GarageGear]

Hey Bob! The 3x cub cadet I have is 30 inches wide. How about yours? How old is yours too? Mine is about several years old.

[@bobbob6162]

@@GarageGear Mr GarageGear, My snowblower is one season old (December 2023) , Home Depot (around the corner from Schwab lol) 26” wide with a 357 cc engine ( clueless what HP that is ) it has lots of plastic on it lol…. I like it so far, just curious about others that size. Thx Bob

[@GarageGear]

@@bobbob6162 got it thanks for sharing! We’ll see how she does this winter

[@Three.5]

Great video as always JB!🤜🏽

[@GarageGear]

@@Three.5 thanks for watching three 5👍

[@barney6888]

I bought a Murray in 2003 and with basic oil change, filter and grease, it still starts on the first or second pull. If you're having trouble getting it started, reach under the left and push up and drain gas from the line. It has too much water in it. Bob's yer uncle.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing barney

[@kevenpietrasik6738]

did you do a video yet on extra lighting for your snowblower? I have a light already on it , but would like to add another , thanks

[@GarageGear]

May do one down the road here!

[@kevenpietrasik6738]

@@GarageGear ok thanks

[@chuckscherer4057]

Do they have power steering kits for 2 stage snow throwers?

[@GarageGear]

@@chuckscherer4057 now as far as I know Chuck

[@Bryno64]

Could only find the pull cord replacement on the Cub 3X. I was looking at the 3X 28/30 couldn’t find to many videos that were made within the last year or two. Are you happy with the cub or would you go with the deluxe from Lowe’s? Appreciate your videos

[@GarageGear]

Ariens deluxe all the way. Going to be doing some videos on the 3x soon. Thanks for being a cool fan bryno

[@Bryno64]

@ thank you for the response. Looking forward to more vids. Power watched a few yesterday. Saved a couple on the maintenance. Great content

[@GarageGear]

@@Bryno64 awesome my friend! Appreciate you! 👍

[@Bostonharborwater]

I won’t hate on the Troy bilt. I just gave away my 26” with the 208cc. It definitely wasn’t a beast but it handled New England slop. Just took a minute to get through it. It was very reliable. Blew one shear pin the whole time I had it. That and it was only $500 new when I bought it in 2015. Mine even had a headlight. 🤣

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing boston

[@minnesota-hk1vp]

Thank You for sharing!

[@GarageGear]

@@minnesota-hk1vp thanks for watching Minnesota! Have a good weekend

[@johncorbett3109]

I owned and operated a small engine shop for 15 years in Calgary (right next to the Rockies). We sold Honda! More dough but wayyyy more go! I also sold Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Tecumseh and for some RV installs Onan. Without question parts were always available for Honda and they always had the part at my shop within 2 days. What's so interesting about that is Hondas did not breakdown like the others mentioned above. These others were not as reliable for parts. Did you know if you look inside a Kohler or Briggs you will find they are made in China or other Asian countries. You will never regret purchasing a Honda. 🇨🇦

[@craig_sez8534]

I totally agree but that price is just so hard to swallow,its the only reason i dont have one here...Oh im on the eastcoast,novascotia..Hows it goin eh!!lol

[@GarageGear]

Hondas definitely last. They are definitely a buy once cry once kinda deal lol!

[@MPjustaman]

Bought my Toro single stage and love it.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome MP! 👍

[@JDSWeather]

Hey bud you should do a video on how to add an aftermarket headlight to a snowblower that doesn't have a headlight

[@GarageGear]

Love this idea! Thanks for sharing JDS

[@mikegrappone9078]

Great video! Did you go in early in the morning or after closing? Thanks for creating.

[@GarageGear]

@@mikegrappone9078 hey Mike! I went late at night before closing. That way it was quieter! Still had people coming up to me while I was filming lol!

[@electroddxful]

Great video JB. 🙏👍🙏👍

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate you Ray! Have an awesome weekend bud

[@TomStruebing]

I had a troy built storm, lasted ten years. Never changed the oil, never did any maintenance at all. just fuel conditioner in the spring. was still running fine but the deck rusted completely out. bought a Toro to replace it four years ago and have had no problems.

[@GarageGear]

@@TomStruebing thanks for sharing

[@oldguysrock2170]

I bought a Cub 30” three stage walk behind. It work great but the number of sheer pins increases. Replacing the sheer pins on the center blades is tough there is snow and ice stuck in there. My only complaint is the gear drive leaks oil if it sits.

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate you sharing this

[@dahnielable]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge! Do you have any thoughts on Wen 2-stage snowblowers? They're only $500 where I'm at in Ohio. I get the "buy once, cry once" mentality, but if I can go without breaking the bank on this I'll get the cheaper (Wen) option. Tell me to run from it and I will...

[@GarageGear]

@@dahnielable I dahniel! I would avoid that brand. That’s a Chinese made snowblower. Junk anyway you look at it and if there ever was an issue, warranty work and maintenance would be a pain because shops refuse to work on them. Have you considered a gently used one? Perhaps a smaller ariens that’s only a few years old?

[@dahnielable]

@@GarageGear Thank you for getting back to me with the anti-reco! Points taken. I'll double my budget and go kick some tires based on your recommendations. Thanks again.

[@GarageGear]

@@dahnielable your welcome my friend! Let me know what get down the road

[@dahnielable]

@@GarageGear I ended up going with the McFlurry. They didn't even have a floor model to look at, so I basically went off your recommendation for a solid, budget blower. For about $70 I found a way to add headlights with a DeWalt battery and some offroad LEDs. It was a solid recommendation, thank you.

[@GarageGear]

@ RIGHT ON Dahniel! Very cool! Let me know how she performs for you! 👍

[@lalajee143]

I love your videos ❤

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate you Lala! Thanks for watching!

[@derrasenmaher9730]

The Murray seems to be a good deal for the money. I miss the old Toro Snowblowers with Tecumseh engines, they where absolut solid machines.

[@GarageGear]

@@derrasenmaher9730 they were built so much better back in the day! Have a good weekend derrasen! 👍

[@robertknight4672]

I have an old Sears Craftsman snowblower that was made by Maury and they were even courteous enough to list on the speed control lever what type of snow each speed is good for.

[@GarageGear]

@ that’s pretty cool! Wish they would still do that!

[@frankcastle5294]

Agree. All those blowers that came out of the MTD plant with metal trans cases and Tecumseh Snow King motors were really great and easy to service and repair.

[@runnikee6986]

Isn’t your suburban driveway really short? Why do you want a headlight so badly? Do you not have outdoor lights on your house?

[@GarageGear]

I live on a corner with a long wrap around sidewalk with no light.

[@jbanke1]

Great review! Idea for your channel. How about doing a comparison of an older snowblower vs a newer model? I.e. toro 521 vs a new cub cadet? It'd be interesting to see how the older models compare to the newer ones.

[@GarageGear]

@@jbanke1 Iike that idea! 👍

[@Tinman386wisconsin]

For those that can't get out find a Ariens in there area, Amazon has them and deliver free with prime. I was going to go this route until i found a great deal on a 5 year old machine. It's in excellent shape and any bugs it may have had should be worked out by now if it ever even had any. Now it's up to me to take good care of it and keep it in good condition.

[@Three.5]

I have an old 1032 with a 10 hp Tecumseh that I plan on restoring. Will replace my current Powersmart 212 2 stage once it's up and running👌🏽

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing and watching tinman

[@rickydrone9274]

I also believe the headlight is definitely a major component they have left out and definitely a huge mistake. But, with the latest technologies, especially with L.E.D. lighting, or other types of lights used on 4wd vehicles, a little creativity should be able to add one or two. I also have a question. WD-40 makes a white lithium grease, that sprays through a straw. Could that also be an option to add to the gear box?

[@GarageGear]

@@rickydrone9274 hey Ricky I would not use that white lithium grease in a gear box. Problem with it is that once it’s flung off the gears to the sides of the gear box it stays there and doesn’t relubricate the gears. You’ll want something like 00 grease for that

[@BigDaddysGarage]

Congratulations on 100K! 👏👏👏

[@GarageGear]

@@BigDaddysGarage thanks Flint! Couldn’t have e done it without you! 🫵👍

[@spresc2180]

I am so glad I retired and moved south from New England where I now have zero need for a snow blower and my snow shovel “may” get briefly used every 5 years or so.

[@GarageGear]

Wow that’s awesome! I hope to do the same someday

[@tomvarano3283]

JB keep calling them as you see them.👍

[@GarageGear]

You got it Tom! Enjoy the rest of your weekend bud! 👍

[@robertknight4672]

If I'm using a snowblower that does not have a headlight play if it's dark outside I will just wear one of those lights you can strap to your head. What's the word for people to see me because as long as the street lights are on I can see my sidewalk pretty well. I've also put some reflective tape on my snowblowers I don't have headlights

[@GarageGear]

@@robertknight4672 good tips here Robert!

[@mega64219]

You remind me of Scotty the Auto mechanic dude.Good informative videos nice 😂

[@GarageGear]

RIGHT ON Mega! 👍

[@ChevyCitation]

Sup JB 👋

[@GarageGear]

@@ChevyCitation hey Chevy! Thanks for watching bud!

[@liljoeii6091]

I have a Toro I wish I would have came with a headlight to and there's no way to hook up a headlight I mean I heard you say buy some kind of Dollar Tree thing and stick it on there thumbs up definitely thank you for the video

[@GarageGear]

@@liljoeii6091 you could even get a rechargeable led bike light and stick it on the handlebars. That would give a lot of light! Thanks for watching joe

[@Vermonstah707]

As a small engine shop owner/operator in northern NH after watching this video I'd have to agree the Murray looks better built. Anything made by MTD _ TroyBilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, etc have become cheap crap over the last few years. As you pointed out those control cables are SO thin, they break frequently & they're just overall cheaply made. I have people ask all the time what brand should I buy & I always say Ariens, I know they cost more but really not that much more when you compare similar models to the cheaper brands & they're so much better built

[@GarageGear]

RIGHT ON Vermont! Thank your for sharing this information! 👍

[@drwisdom1]

The headlight on my snowblower was never great, the plastic cover has yellowed and gotten hazy, now it is blown and I am not replacing the bulb. Why? Because I have a rechargeable LED headlight for my head I use with our grill. I now use it with the snowblower and it is much better.

[@GarageGear]

Awesome Dr wisdom! Thanks for sharing

[@hammerman8919]

Hello Garage Gear, new subscriber here and was looking for but cant find a video trouble shooting my Craftsman snow blower where the auger is turning even though the handle to engage it is not depressed. After watching previous video's on your channel today regarding auger belt / pulley adjustments I realize I need to tighten this belt but it's got me curious as to why the auger turns when handle not depressed. The blower has less than 15 hours on it but is 12 years old. I was using it today but was very slow going due to the slow and sometimes no impeller speed. Any idea why the auger is turning while not engaged? Thank-you

[@GarageGear]

@@hammerman8919 sounds like something is up with your belts and cable adjustments. I would check your cable tension first and see if it’s too tight. Welcome to the tribe my friend! 👍

[@hammerman8919]

@@GarageGear I'm beginning to think that the previous owner may have made a tension adjustment when trying to solve the real problem being the auger belt adjustment. 2 days ago was my first time out with it. Your video's gave me the confidence to get in there and do it myself. . Thanks 👍🏽

[@GarageGear]

@ RIGHT ON Hammerman! Glad the videos gave you a confidence boost! 👍

[@davejohnson5479]

I'll take any one of 'em because they sure beat shoveling! I have an Ariens deluxe 28 and I love it. Buffalo weather can be mean.

[@GarageGear]

Agreed my friend! Any of these are better than a shovel. 👍

[@donhgr]

I don’t understand the headlight, my Areins doesn’t have one neither does my Toro and never needed it here in Colorado where I’m at. Definitely not doing it at night and nobody in my neighborhood ever has that I can remember either

[@nodak81]

I have to leave for work at 6 AM, it's dark until 7 AM. My driveway needs to be cleared. Figure it out...

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing don!

[@donhgr]

@@nodak81 me too and it gets done when I get home so I don’t wake the whole neighborhood up! I can tell you from 45 plus years knocking on doors as a lineman to get in back yards most people don’t shovel snow before work. Those headlights I can’t imagine provide much light anyway

[@mikecorgan]

For those watching this video...I'm going to bite the bullet and get an Ariens 24" Platinum SHO, it will be a stretch. It's Ariens only 24" SHO. Otherwise it will be the 28" Deluxe. Based on experience I believe it will be worth it. Plus Ace Hardware rewards points & the current Ariens promotion. Rationale: 1. Ariens 24" - maneuver, transport, store. 2. SHO - Bigger engine and higher output for production and task completion. Ability to throw snow at a greater distance to manage accumulation over the season. 3. Controls configuration - user friendly, limiting points of failure and frustration. 4. Manufactured with quality materials, durability and longevity. Put the Armorskids on and anti-seize/rust prevention maintenance based on Garage Gear protocol.

[@GarageGear]

@@mikecorgan RIGHT ON MIKE! Enjoy your new snowblower when you get it! 👍

[@Matthew_Does_To_Many_Things]

It’s the battle of MTD v Briggs and Briggs is the winner for me. I wonder how it preforms against the Ariens classic 🤔

[@GarageGear]

That would be an interesting side be side test!👍

[@slotcarfan]

I recommend looking at how easy oil changes are. My sons new Husqvarna requires an oil pump to drain and a funnel with tube to add it. No oil drive pipe like all my other blowers have had.

[@GarageGear]

@@slotcarfan that is a pain on the new husqvarna snowblowers

[@williammack3018]

Hey JB yhou can't beat the HONDA. Check the features. Very important is the variable height adjustment on the auger intake , especially if you have a gravel drive./

[@GarageGear]

RIGHT ON William

[@edwinf9999]

Who makes the engines?

[@GarageGear]

@@edwinf9999 hey Ed the Troy bilt and cub engines are made in China by powermore. Some Briggs engines are made in the USA but some aren’t. I believe the Murray briggs engine is also made in China as well.

[@johnw4067]

I have a 30" 3X Cub Cadet from 2016. It has a 420cc engine. Been great but probably only put 6-10 hours on it. Much less snow than we used to get!

[@GarageGear]

@@johnw4067 thanks for sharing john

[@redneckcanuckdieseltech]

1. Crank shoots suck to use while walking with a blower cable shoot highs can be nice but cables do need to be lubricated 2. heated handles are useless since you should be wearing gloves and if you don't the snow landing on the back of your hands freezes them all the same 3. headlights are mostly useless on walk behinds cause all they light up is a cloud of snow Features to look for should include serrated cuts on the auger, large wheels, an electric starter and easy belt access

[@GarageGear]

@@redneckcanuckdieseltech thanks for sharing

[@jonnysnipes3123]

wish toro still made the 2 cycle 2 stage model. i got one back in 07. thing was a beast i still have today. its not a single stage either its a 2 stage 2 cycle so all you gotta do is mix the gas n oil and fire up

[@GarageGear]

Those were good ones!

[@annettesurfer]

Gee I watched this even though S.E. Michigan doesn't get that much snow anymore ever since global warming increased. Not many good sledding days anymore and my kids never had a chance to even pull their new ice skates out of the box before their feet grew. Things sure have changed.

[@GarageGear]

Times are a changing!

[@RaptorTide]

What about Wen 24" 2 stage snowblower good or worst. I have an Sears Craftsman engine rebuild 1year and 2nd this year probably tomorrow or soon

[@GarageGear]

@@RaptorTide wen snowblowers are Chinese junk. Not sure what you mean by the rest of your comment. Did you rebuild one?

[@RaptorTide]

@GarageGear a service repair rebuild it. Its an old engine. Just trying to find one but don't know what to get new. Power Smart Cub Cadet Airens(best but expensive) etc.

[@Johnsonfan169]

I never buy a snowblower new. I prefer to buy used b/c it’s obviously cheaper and I like older machines b/c there is very little plastic. Just bought a Ariens 524 from Facebook. So far everything works, it drives and the augers turn. Just waiting for some snow to really test it

[@GarageGear]

@@Johnsonfan169 awesome my friend! Thanks for sharing

[@Ricken2022]

You won’t mind that manual adjustment on the Murray snowblower, once you buy the cable type and need to replace it after 3 yrs for 75.00 .. basically a bike cable ..

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing and watching ricken

[@cdpond]

Murray's are a beast. I bought one from Home Depot twenty years ago. 8hp engine, electric start. No light, but I don't clear my snow in the dark so that's a zero-need item in my opinion. But that thing I abused horribly. Did I ever drain the gas tank or oil at the end of the season? Hell no. Just add more fuel at the first snowfall in the winter, and crank it till it fired. I sold it when I went full cordless electric a couple of years ago, and it will likely last the new owner another decade or more. Why did I sell my Murray? Laziness. I just got tired of dealing with gas. Simple as that.

[@GarageGear]

Thanks for sharing cd

[@cardo1111]

Congrats on a well-deserved 100,000 subs and Silver Play Button plaque 🎉

[@GarageGear]

RIGHT ON CARDO! Thanks for being a cool fan

[@jtraveny]

what about a toro snow blower?

[@GarageGear]

@@jtraveny Home Depot doesn’t sell toro snowblowers. Lowes does. Here’s the video SNOWBLOWERS TO LOOK FOR AT LOWE'S IN 2024 (And Ones To AVOID) kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIC0ZqKpr8yBpsU

[@jtraveny]

@@GarageGear i saw the video just after asking, also i ordered a toro from home depots website about 2 years ago, are the websites different then the in stores? also really like the ariens models, im helping someone look for one and the compact seems like a really good deal right now at lowes online

[@GarageGear]

@ I would go with the ariens . They are built better

[@darylhannon4723]

I got the club cadet 30in and 420 cc.

[@GarageGear]

@@darylhannon4723 thanks for sharing

[@ibanson]

100K 😮🎉🎉🎉

[@GarageGear]

@@ibanson we made it my friend! Couldn’t have done it without you!

[@gfourmacman]

I have a 26" 3X from Home Depot. I find that the chute is too small to handle any real snow, especially the wet stuff. Very disappointed in it.

[@GarageGear]

Appreciate you sharing this with the community g four 👍

[@glenherbert7606]

Troy-Bilt and Cub Cadet are both owned by MTD Industries which also makes Yard Machine. Cub Cadet I believe is the better one overall.

[@GarageGear]

@@glenherbert7606 thanks for sharing Glen! Have a good weekend

[@glenherbert7606]

@@GarageGear ❤

[@pets7164]

Jb, I also live in Lancaster New York, the Village, I have Couple of questions. Where do you buy Ethanol free gas near us(Form watching all your fantastic videos I know you live in Lancaster,also nice house). My snowblower is 40 years old-yes 1984 yellow Brute 10/32.Tecumseh engine.Purchased at Hectors Hardware .Everything is original but waiting for a Chinese carburetor and starter.i also have to admit And don’t spank me me I’ve never change the oilI but about to. I was wondering who made this snowblower? My Model number and serial number faded.I do know it was made in Canada.If it would help The transmission is chain driven.

[@GarageGear]

@@pets7164 hey pets! Very cool that you’re local and near by. I get my ethanol free gas at the speedway at central and Walden. Second pump in is ethanol free. I don’t know if there was a parent company for brute back in the day but they were built well. Thanks for being a cool local fan

[@craig_sez8534]

I hate the manual chute director...They dont lock in any position and the vibrations throw the direction off..If there was a simple way to lock it,i would enjoy useing it more..

[@GarageGear]

Can’t be the old school design.

[@michaelcutaia6380]

Any of these would be a major upgrade from my 1979 Ariens st350

[@GarageGear]

@@michaelcutaia6380 don’t get rid of that older one!

[@squangan]

I run a 3 stage 420 cc Cub Cadet in the northeast and honestly the thing is useless as a boat anchor in heavy wet snow. Worst snowblower I’ve ever had but I own it so I try and get by with it.

[@GarageGear]

@@squangan wow! I have the same one and I’m going to give it a shot this winter. Just got it. We’ll see how it does. Thanks for sharing squangan!

[@squangan]

@@GarageGear The problem is the 1/2 inch drive belt used to power the entire blower head. It’s just not enough belt to transfer that big motors torque as well as moving those three stages. I’ve tried many different brands of belt and they just won’t hold up, they slip and burn and the only way I’ve found to run it in all but the lightest snow is to crawl forward slowly a few feet at a time and then stop to let it clear when I notice the belt slipping. Lord help you if you don’t catch it in time the belt will burn right up.

[@GarageGear]

@@squangan really interesting info here squangan. Again, appreciate you sharing this! 👍

[@joerobbins1289]

Troy Built, Cub Cadet and Murrary are all the same machine since they are all MTD. Suprised that Home Depot dosent have the rebranded Cub Cadet, called Dewalt

[@GarageGear]

Probably only a matter of time! Thanks for watching joe

[@rickwidlund3512]

Buy at the dealer, that's where you're going to buy the parts for it ! FYI ! 🤔

[@GarageGear]

Smart thinking rick!

[@justinkolan5500]

Jb I can't get over the fact of how great your videos are. Thank you

[@GarageGear]

@@justinkolan5500 appreciate you Justin! A lot of time goes into them. About ten hours per video. Thanks for being a cool fan!

[@BarryPettit-t7k]

Good video JB, I still prefer an Ariens. Honda's are great but very expensive.

[@GarageGear]

@@BarryPettit-t7k thanks a lot Barry! I agree!

[@TheCelltek]

I will keep repairing my Simplicity 860E my dad bought in 1989, all rod and no cables!!

[@GarageGear]

@@TheCelltek that’s the way to do it

[@paulmysliborski4832]

Great vid, JB. One thing I disagree with is the importance of those in-dash headlights. They are almost useless in my opinion. Even if you were to blow snow in low light conditions, the bulbs are weak, and the light is blocked by the chute for the most part. And hell yes...... Bidenomics has made these machines 4-to 700 dollars more than in 2017. That's a fact. So choose wisely, my friends. And heed JB's advice. ;)

[@GarageGear]

@@paulmysliborski4832 hey Paul! Yes a head lamp will do a better job than a lot of those lights. These snowblower prices are no where near what they should actually cost. Appreciate your input bud! Have an awesome weekend!