Cub Cadet 2X 30" Max Walkaround Review

[@skyemac8]

For the money the Cub Cadet model here is a good deal. Good size engine, easy and uncomplicated design. Thanks for the review, Paul!

[@MrTopgear67]

Just bought a 2x 34 max with a 420cc engine, can’t wait to try it. I’ve adjusted the blue slide shoes at max height as my driveway is all gravel. I live in Quebec Canada, on a mountain where the snow falls are in feet, not in inches…great review thanks.

[@PaulSikkema]

Feel free to leave a comment below. (I do moderate the comments so it may not show up right away) Thanks for watching and please Subscribe!

[@ajs0078]

Hi Paul, after a thorough review of your website MovingSnow.com and viewing almost every snowblower posting on KZbin I can honestly say that absolutely nobody comes anywhere close to providing the quality and knowledgeable presentation that you offer. You should be on payroll for all the big three (Toro, Ariens and Cub Cadet / MTD ). Based on the fact that I have a local dealer nearby, I decided to purchase the Cub Cadet 2X30" Max today, while they still had one available, and I am anxiously awaiting our next big snowfall. I'm still going to be looking for that video on the undercarriage though. Keep up the great work. Thank you.

[@freezing71]

I live in caribou Maine. Needless to say, we get a lot of snow up here. I bought one of these exact machines off a friend of mine when it was 10 years old. I’ve never owned a snowblower that moves snow as well as these do. The deeper the snow gets, the matter this machine gets and just starts throwing it even further. I liked it so much that this winter I went out and bought a brand new machine identical to this one. I couldn’t be happier with it. And the other machine that I bought off my friend, I now keep it my father’s and do his driveway with that one which is now 11 or 12 years old. I actually sold my plow to go out and buy one of these snow blowers. Simply put, it is super powerful. We just had a 14 inch storm here in Caribou this past Friday. This machine cut through it like it wasn’t even there. And when I finally got to my fathers to do his driveway the snow was up to my waist at the edge of the driveway close to the road. That old machine just mold right through it. I would recommend one of these to anyone and in fact already have

[@davidmoran4471]

Cub needs to have a link on their site to this video, much more informative than the one they have for marketing.

[@richardtheriault449]

Thank You Paul for the great video, I just bought a 3X 30 and used it for the first time last night in a foot of snow. It performed very well throwing the snow a bit further than my old machine. I had an Ariens that lasted for about 20 years and was convinced to buy the Cub Cadet because of the capability of throw snow further. It did great with out ever riding up on top of packed snow at the ridge line from the plows… my ridge line is about 50 feet long. Thanks for explaining the design features as well as the power steering and the hand wormer switch. (I was wondering what those switches were for) I see why they wanted you to do the video, very professional. RT

[@allanhazzard1148]

I just bought this model today after we had a massive dump of snow. Will not get mine for a few days but this review was super helpful in allowing me to understand the features of the unit. Great review.

[@ThaiMac]

Bought this machine today, your video review put me over the edge.

[@PaulSikkema]

Great to hear!

[@superduty1046]

Another detailed review. It's nice to see how the different brands are designed. Thanks Paul!

[@PaulSikkema]

No I don't. Cub Cadet does not list power on either the U.S. or Canada sites and they don't use the 357cc in Europe.

[@cgrscott]

I enjoyed your snow blower review videos a year ago. I have been trying to find your channel again. This time I subscribed.

[@iceman3169]

Paul , I very much enjoy your videos ! I don't normally comment but seeing a cub cadet I had to jump in . 3 years ago I purchased a cub cadet 3x HD. I live in upstate NY get plenty of snow . Good machine throws alot of snow ,easy to operate, good steering ,plenty of power. However ... it absolutely eats auger belts . Tried a range from cheap to $40 Kevlar belts . Took it to several dealers who said it was a "design flaw" and was a common problem . 1 winter spent nearly $300 on belts . Low speeds ,not over working it,belt dressing tried everything, All same result, I ended up buying a toro 1432HD and very satisfied . I never would have switched if it didn't eat belts . Awesome content keep up the great reviews !

[@cgrscott]

I have a Cub Cadet 524 SWE Snow Thrower that I bought new in 2010. It's a two-stage 24" with a 208cc engine. It's still holding up well. I live in northern Kentucky so, it gets light use every winter. This winter I have been using it more than usual. I run the fuel dry in the spring to prepare it for storage but, I use fuel stabilizer as well.. It stays in my partially heated garage, that is attached to my house, all-year-round so, it has not been rusting. I change the oil once a year when the engine is hot. The MTD engine made this model affordable for me.

[@officerdanko6922]

nice job very thorough I love my Cub cadet equipment parts are easy to get ebay etc... and if you need something faster mtd usually has it to my door In 1-2 day's plus on the yard tractors the pricing is very reasonable

[@ryanfitzgerald7054]

I have a very similar machine to this.. the 30" Pro from a couple years ago. Looks almost identical, only obvious difference is the motor on mine is 420cc instead. Not sure why they went to a smaller motor for the new ones, but pretty sure 357cc is still ample power.

[@cardo1111]

As always a comprehensive review Paul 👍🏽 I don't like the absence of a fuel shut off especially on a machine that may not be used much. MTD products will often get a bad rap but the reality is they are more than adequate for most and will last with proper maintenance. I had a model 640F that I bought in the mid 90's at Costco it served me well for nearly 2 decades. I have an Ariens Platinum 24 SHO now and am happy with it, outside of the fuel tank cap design and low fuel tank capacity for its engine size. I do miss the left hand drive control on the MTD seems more intuitive to me.

[@PaulSikkema]

Yes, 90% of the problems owners complain about MTD products would never happen if they used a fuel stabilizer, checked the belt tension regularly and stored them inside. I know of thousands of MTD snowblowers that are 13-30 years old and start every time. I'd like to see Cub Cadet build a 24 or 28 inch snowblower like this one to handle heavy/wet snow better. I don't have problems with any snowblower with a fuel shutoff valve. I turn the valve off and let the engine run out of fuel before I put it away. I use SeaFoam, K100 or STA-BIL 360 Protection in all snow blowers and the ones without shutoff valves I store with the tank full. That keeps the carbs from gumming up and clogging the fuel jets. The first snowblower I had with interlocks was left-hand control but after using dozens of them over the years I now like the right-hand control better - because I'm right handed.

[@glennhaake1912]

Thank you for your thorough review. I found it very helpful.

[@jimdonahue5723]

Nice review Paul. Lot's of great information. Thank you.

[@ronsteitz4535]

I own a Cub Cadet 826T 1970s machine and I have never replaced any cables.still purs like a kitten..👍😀

[@spiderman0863]

They don’t make them like they used to.

[@virgilk3447]

Paul....great videos... I'm at 8000 ft in Colorado, so we get some wet snow early, but most of season it's of course powder. Not unusual to have 14-16'" storms. The wet snow comes in March and April (our wettest months annually). Driveway is two cars wide and six, almost seven cars long with a steep incline at the top. I've looked at the Cub Cadet 2x 30 Max, Cub Cadet 2x 30 HP, Toro Power Max 826 OAE and Power Max 826 OAHE (heated handles) and the Ariens 28 Deluxe. For the money, it seems like the Cub Cadet would be a good buy, but I worry about their long-term reliability. I'm partial to the Toros, but my Toro dealer can't seem to get the 826 OAE (but available at the orange big box store) or the OAHE. The Toro can get either the 24 inch (again no heated goops) or the 30-inch with heated handles, but that pushes the price to $1700 and not really wanting to spend that much on a new machine. Any thoughts/recommendations you have greatly appreciated. And are any of these models without heated handles capable of being adapted with heater handle kits? It's hard to tell from specs. Thanks!

[@PaulSikkema]

To be frank, you need the Ariens Deluxe 30 EFI. It Automatically compensates for the higher altitude - meaning it starts on first pull every time and always has the same power as if the engine was at sea level.

[@PaulSikkema]

EVERYONE is having supply chain issues. If you really want the 826 OHAE work with the dealer. It will show up eventually.

[@naterose9856]

Great review, my local dealer sells CC and Toro and I’m in the market. Good to know how this measures up. Since I’ve got a 120’x55 driveway, and approximately 50-60’ of snow. I’m gonna go with the Ariens deluxe 28 sho from a dealer farther away. Thoughts?

[@PaulSikkema]

The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is an excellent choice!

[@81joiseyboy]

I suggest checking the gearbox/ transfer case at the auger.. mine was a bit low, filled er up with 00 grease. Greased up the shift rod as well, and antiseized the wheel bolts & cable adjustments. Ounce pound somethin somethin ;)

[@lars9631]

Very nice job! Thank you

[@alextrem10]

Hi Paul, great video as always. Are you considering doing a comparison in deep snow like you did last year. I would really like to see this machine against the Toro 928.

[@PaulSikkema]

Absolutely

[@ajs0078]

Hi Paul, I love watching your videos and I have made several purchases as result of your knowledgeable product insight. At present, I am in the market for a new snowblower and hope to see your video of the Club Cadet 2X30 Max gear mechanism. I have my decision narrowed down to either the aforementioned product or the Ariens Platinum 30 SHO. Thanks.

[@cardo1111]

Get you hands on both machines, if it were my money I would go with the Ariens Plat 30 SHO, only peeves with the Ariens is a small fuel tank for engine size with a tricky fuel cap. Good luck!

[@cfgrammer]

Hi Paul, this was very helpful. I am in Western New York (but not in the city of Buffalo) which has been in the news lately with a little bit of snow. After our November storm I ordered the 2X 30" through Cub Cadet, but neglected to use your link! I would like to send you a tip or commission. Do you have PayPal, or can I send you a check? By the way, my local Cub Cadet dealer does not deliver, so I had it shipped to my home and assembled it myself. I am quite satisfied with the machine. It's bigger than I expected, but very easy to control with the steering levers, and I love the electric start. I also got the cab, and am very happy with that, although if I had known it is apparently the same one sold at Home Depot for $30 less I would have ordered through them.

[@PaulSikkema]

Thanks, it's not necessary though. If you would like to contribute look at the icons just below the video - do you see the like button? In that same line there is a heart with a $ sign in it. Click on that and you can make a donation to my channel.

[@surestepbath]

Very nice and informative videos. I only have Cub Cadet dealer in my area and next closest is Ariens which is a 3 hour drive from me, This being the case thinking of the best model Cub Cadet has. Can you tell me why I would want to go with a 2 stage vs a 3 stage or vise versa. You have spoke positively of the 30 Max 2 stage. Is this a better option than the 3 stage. Cub cadets web site claims that the 3 stage moves 50 % more snow. However would like to hear your thoughts. Thanks

[@PaulSikkema]

I try not to say anything about snowblowers I don't like. That said, DO NOT BUY A 3-STAGE! The front impeller (accelerator) spins too fast and throws snow all over the place unless you are in at least 14 inches of snow. The accelerator behind the gearcase is known to bust shear pins just about as fast as you can put them in. If your dealer does convince you to buy the 3-stage make sure you go home with AT LEAST 5 bags of extra shear pins and be sure you know how to change the ones on the accelerators BEFORE you use it in snow. If you can get the 30 MAX you will be a lot happier with it over the years than a 3-stage.

[@ronwestcott5299]

I bought a cub cadet 26 3x not happy with it it eats shear pins on center impeller. my dad has a cub cadet 2x throws snow well doesn’t eat shear pins like mine.

[@PaulSikkema]

I'm sorry for your purchase decision. Yes, that a big issue with the 3X snowblowers. The two center "accelerators" are spinning way too fast for the size of the shear pin. For 90% of the buyers out there the 3X is NOT better than a 2-stage snowblower. My running joke when I visit a Cub Cadet dealer and they try to sell me a 3X is: "Do you include at least 6 BAGS of shear pins? Because I know I'll need probably them the first snowfall." Don't get me wrong all brands have a snowblowers or two that should be scrapped and - Cub Cadet has many good snowblowers - but the 3X series is not one of them.

[@billfleming8281]

Very thorough . Thx

[@ronsteitz4535]

Seems I’ve been out of touch for a while. My old mowers and snowblowers have American made engines that have held up for many years keeping me out of the new marketplace. A little disappointed we still aren’t making our own engines.😐

[@albertkazemian603]

Nice video. I have 3x 30 inch. 420cc , it's a beast

[@andyjones611]

Is cub cadet moving away from the 3X models it seems home depot does not carry it anymore and we do not see ads for the 3X? For my part, I like my TORO 928 a lot thanks to you it's a real snow monster.

[@PaulSikkema]

The Home Depot carries all the Cub Cadet models - just not in your store. You can fine them all on homedepot.com. The Home Depot tends to only carry the inexpensive models in the stores. That said, Cub Cadet has eight 2-stage and eight 3-stage in their offering right now. Most of the models are heavy-duty or Pro units.

[@NorthernShrew]

Hello, would you recommend this over the Troy Bilt Arctic Storm 30" for central Vermont?

[@PaulSikkema]

This is a tough choice. Both machines are identical except: The Cub Cadet has a nicer dash and better lighting. The chute crank and deflector control are easy to use. It's $200 less that the Troy-Bilt The Troy-Bilt has the electric chute/deflector control but a single headlight. The chute control is fast and won't break. Otherwise the two machines use the same parts - just painted a different color...

[@NorthernShrew]

@@PaulSikkema thanks so much! I went with the Cub. My Cub mower has been a reliable beast. I appreciate all of the points you made in the video. Happy/ safe Season!

[@ankh2684]

I have noticed some reviews on Cub’s website that the wheels are falling off of these, what say you?

[@PaulSikkema]

What's interesting about this is Cub Cadet uses this same transmission for many different snowblowers. In fact, MTD uses the same transmissions on many of their different brands. So, why are there two instances of the wheels falling off only on one model of a Cub Cadet? This is most likely just a random assembly problem or an issue with a small batch of parts that were sent to the Cub Cadet assembly line. The axle is held in place by a c-clip. My guess is either the groove that holds the c-clip was not cut deep enough or the c-clip itself is bad. Was the cutter dull that makes the groove? Was part inserted into the machine that makes the groove correctly? Did the machine operator set up the milling machine correctly? Did they use a new vendor to make the c-clip and the vendor didn't make it to spec? Was there just a bad batch of metal that the c-clip was make from? Hopefully, this problem only happened to a few parts and we don't end up will thousands of MTD snow blowers with the axles falling off.

[@Jay_Hall]

@@PaulSikkema Paul, the front wheel feel off my 1 year old Huskvarna XD tractor and it was because the clip came off. Hmmmm Dealer gave me some new clips.

[@PrakashWaghwani]

Great video Paul! I live in New Jersey and have shortlisted ariens deluxe 28 and cub cadet 2x 30 inch as right now both of them are for the same price ($1200). It seems ariens is the most popular one but cub cadet has more to offer on specs (100cc more, 30inch, more auger blades, etc). Which one would you recommend?

[@PaulSikkema]

Do me a favor please. Watch this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpPUc3p9a89kp6M In there I talk about a Craftsman snow blower and the problems the owner was having. (The Craftsman is the same design as that Cub Cadet 2X 30 you are looking at.) I talk about why more auger flights is not better, why the smaller 12 inch impeller on the Cub Cadet is not as good and quite a few other things like how the cables are designed and so on. By the way, a good 30 inch snowblower that can handle that last snow storm you got will cost around $1600-$1800. You get what you pay for...

[@PrakashWaghwani]

@@PaulSikkema thanks, Paul. I have checked the video and will go ahead with Ariens Deluxe 28 inch. My only concern with Arien snowblower is about its auto-steering. I have read bad examples as that is #1 complaint from the customers. Apparently, replacing the metal skid shoes with composite skid shoes solves the problem but still, if that's the case then Arien should ship the snowblowers come with the composite pre-installed instead of metal. What do you think?

[@PaulSikkema]

I have a "standard response" that i hope explains all the reason why people just can't get the AutoTurn: I also go into detail on how the AutoTurn works and why it's not the snowblower that is the problem starting around the 40 minute mark in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gam7poGQjKl_j8k Inexperience: People who are new to snowblowers or those who have only owned a solid axle machine assume it should drive like their car or lawn tractor. With a lawn tractor, it will go straight as long as you don't hit a bump or dip in your lawn. You'll have to move the steering wheel to keep it going straight when you hit the bump. Another example, and probably a better one is a Zero-turn mower. With a zero-turn, you have to have both hands on the handles for it to drive straight. Again if you hit a bump you'll have to move the levers to keep it going straight. When you mow along a slope - mowing a ditch - you also have to press the downhill lever more to keep the mower straight or it will wander off. Snowblowers work the same way. You need to hang onto both handles for it to go straight. Solid axle machines and trigger steer are kind of like the lawn tractor. They will go straight until you hit a bump or try to clear a frozen snowplow bank. The Automatic steering models are more like your ZTR. You have to keep both hands on the levers/handles or it will not go straight. But once you get used to the snowblower it's a lot faster to use than the trigger steer. (It will zero-turn ) A properly setup Ariens/Toro and an hour of experience will fix most complaints. - Setup/Maintenance: I've been doing this a long time and the number one reason a machine doesn't work correctly is that the new owner assumes it is ready to go when they pick it up at the big box store. The snowblower is partially assembled and put in a crate at the factory. A forklift moves it to a storage location - then it's moved to a semi - loaded on the semi - bounced around for 600-1000 miles - taken off the semi - and the crate is banged around some more at the big box destination. Someone rips the crate off, finishes the assembly, and puts it out on the sales floor. You take it home assuming it's been checked for proper assembly and aligned and ready to blow snow. The new owner brings it home and starts using it. He doesn't review the operator's manual to make sure it was assembled and set up correctly. It doesn't work right so he blames the machine. You'll notice that when you buy it from a dealer it's assembled, set up, tested, and ready to go. I almost never hear of a machine not working correctly when bought from a dealer. To make sure your new snowblower is set up to drive straight follow this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJzNfWtqhcR4q7c Maintenance is also needed. One skid shoe may wear quicker than the other. One tire may lose some air. If the machine wants to wander around more than it should it's time to do a little maintenance and check that everything is as it should be.

[@PrakashWaghwani]

@@PaulSikkema thanks for the detailed response. I have ordered it from Lowes so I think assembly will be needed. I will check your other video link prior to the first use. thanks again

[@ludblight]

Great video! Do you happen to know the torque or HP this engine puts out? Cub Cadets website doesn't have that info.

[@PaulSikkema]

No I don't. Cub Cadet does not list power (torque, HP, Newtons) on the U.S., Canada or European websites.

[@ludblight]

@@PaulSikkema thanks Paul! I appreciate your response.

[@bipedalbob]

No fuel shut off is a deal Breaker for me, I store my machine through the non use months with a dry carb and empty tank. The only problems I've had yet was trusting fuel stabilizer. I haven't found it as reliable as starting the season with fresh fuel throughout.

[@PaulSikkema]

That's one of the main reasons I use SeaFoam instead of a typical fuel stabilizer. It keeps the fuel fresh a lot longer than the "red" stuff.

[@bipedalbob]

@@PaulSikkema Ive never used it, but a dry fuel system is both cheaper and more reliable, I do my maintenance for the coming year at the end of the season anyway so it's minimal effort before summer storage.

[@richardaquino1640]

@@bipedalbobsome people prefer to store their machine with fuel in it due to gasket drying out and stuff like that. For the summer only I store it with trufuel 4cyl fuel it last 2 years after opening and 5 years unopened check the date on the can if you want to be sure but either way is good.

[@enjinnine3074]

I live in South Lake Tahoe, and I'm seriously under-gunned with my old Yard Machines 8.5 HP 26". Would this blower strike a good balance for me with a budget under 2K, or is there a better value? Our annual average snowfal seems to be about 140" and some years significantly more. Currently, we're getting hit with atmospheric rivers with thick, heavy "Sierra Cement" that can sometimes reach 2-3+ feet in one storm. I'm just clearing a residence with driveway space for 4-5 cars, walkway, and space around the mailbox. I noticed the other day, that a neighbor cleared about 1/4 mile of road with their blower to get out of the neighborhood because the plow hadn't come! That would be nice but not a requirement for me. Also considering Ariens Platinum 24" SHO and 28" Deluxe SHO. I do clear some spots off the driveway ground that's not perfectly flat, so I'm wondering if Ariens auto-turn might not work for me. I'd love to hear your thoughts if you think there's a better fit. Thank you for the thorough information here, Paul!

[@PaulSikkema]

My first choice to the Sierra SnowCrete is the Ariens Platinum 24 SHO. It will handle anything you get and no you won't have any issues - the AutoTurn will work fine. Spend an hour with the AutoTurn and you'll be glad you bought it. If you want a wider machine and you live at a higher elevation the Ariens DELUXE 30 EFI is also a good choice. It will handle the snow and the EFI automatically adjusts to higher elevations I don't recommend any of the Cub Cadet/MTD or Husqvarna snowblowers for your area of the country. Your snow is too wet most of the time.

[@enjinnine3074]

​@@PaulSikkema Thank you for your valuable opinion. I'm going to seriously consider the Ariens Platinum 24 SHO. Excellent information in all your videos!

[@medic2226]

I have my cash in hand. I live in Northern Mi. We get about 160" of snow a year - about 3 to 4 storms that have around 18" max. The rest of the winter, is snows of 5"-8" per time. I am doing just 2 drives. One is 150 ft. the other is 500 ft. ( mostly done by plow). Do I really need a X3 or would this blower be big enough? I hear the x3 don't clear the smaller snows as well or that x3 is just a gimmick . I like the idea of the bigger 14" augers- Thoughts?

[@PaulSikkema]

I'm not a big fan of the 3X - period. This snowblower or any other 14 inch impeller machine from the other brands will do a better job.

[@lancethompson7743]

Cub cadet track 30" or toro trx 32"? Need one for next year but not sure if the toro is worth the extra 1.2k?

[@PaulSikkema]

The Cub Cadet is probably not the best choice but before I suggest a snowblower please tell me a little more about where you live, the area you have to clear and why you want tracks.

[@lancethompson7743]

@@PaulSikkema North Central Pennsylvania.......I have a steep paved driveway, about 150 feet long.....tractor with blower won't make it up even with chains if there is a bit of ice........would rather not spend the money on utv with plow or blower

[@PaulSikkema]

One good tracked snowblower you missed in your research is the Ariens Platinum RapidTrak SHO. It's 28 inches so it very easy to maneuver and on a 8-10 foot wide driveway it will take the same amount of passes to clear it as the wider 30-32 inch machines. It has plenty of power and all the traction you need to go up your driveway. It's only a little more than the Cub Cadet. The Cub Cadet is only a 12 inch impeller - The Ariens is 14 inch impeller and will throw more snow farther. The Ariens also handles heavy/wet snow a lot better. Finally the Cub Cadet can be very "sloppy" clearing 2-6 inches of snow and tends to throw smaller snow amounts all over the place.

[@jdesmo1]

Hi Paul, what recommendation would you have for a smaller machine. This I think is too big for my needs. Average snowfall event here on Long Island is 4-8" or less, rarely 8-12" but can be sometimes wet and heavy as we are by the bay. My driveway is normal width, but about 140' long going downslope from the house to the road. Last winter was mild, we got only 6" total. I think average yearly is about 40"

[@PaulSikkema]

A lot of people have 24-26 inch Cub Cadet snowblowers out on Long Island but if you want a smaller snowblower that can handle all the snow you can get I recommend an Ariens Deluxe 24 or Toro PowerMax 826.

[@jdesmo1]

@@PaulSikkema Thanks for the quick response. For me , less is usually more-lol. I've been making do with a corded Toro 1800 power curve for over 24 years in this house. As a matter of fact, the first one lasted 22 years here, and I just replaced with same 2 years ago, and they are inexpensive. I gave the old one to a friend who still uses it on his sidewalks. Yes it takes me twice the time or more to do the driveway, but its light, easy to handle, no maintenance or repairs or failures ever. Also I study my neighbors with those fancy big rigs, and many struggle with handling/steering those relatively heavy and cumbersome machines even with wheel chains (we are on hilly/steep terrain), often sheared pins, engine problems, drivetrain issues, etc. However, the electric blower is obviously not powerful enough in wet snow and the shoot gets clogged up often, making the job even longer.

[@p5tom]

oh..your vids are the best!@

[@1braincellwhm]

Wish I saw this before getting an ariens. The controls are so counter intuitive that it drives me crazy.

[@PaulSikkema]

It is what you get used to. MTD is opposite of all the rest of the industry. So if you are used to a Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard Machines, Craftsman etc. it does take some time to get used to the other brands.

[@leepinnguin9682]

Is it a 2X or 2 inch? Am I hearing you wrong and CC is too? FYI 357 cc = 13 hp My thanks to Mr. Sikkema for another wonderful video. (if only he could teach me computers)

[@PaulSikkema]

Somedays the mouth just gets ahead of the brain....

[@PFred-ew4zd]

Mr. Penguin 357cc is not 13HP more like 11 maybe.

[@leepinnguin9682]

@@PaulSikkema haha, too funny. I really appreciate that your an honest man! Great videos.

[@cfgrammer]

Thanks!

[@Yankees177]

Paul I live in upstate NY. Google tells me my area gets average 60" of snow. I have 3 driveways I do, 80-150ft long but not full 2 cars all the way. We just had a noreaster where we got 30" of snow and I'm done with my troy Bilt 2620 storm. Is this and the Toro 1030 acceptable and which do you prefer and why?

[@PaulSikkema]

The Toro 1030 will be a HUGE step up from your old 2620. It will throw snow 2-3 times farther, it's faster and won't plug on the wet stuff. It's a good choice because it can handle the 6 inchers quickly and also handle the blizzards like the one you just got.

[@snoopysrc]

Paul what did you do with that 2 stage snow joe snowblower????

[@PaulSikkema]

My son-in-law is using it one the south side of Chicago. He loves it!

[@Lakecenterlawncare]

Cub is a good consumer choice. For commercial, Ariens then Toro based on my experience.

[@PaulSikkema]

Cub Cadet does have some Pro models but they are all 3-stage. I haven't seen one to compare them to the Ariens/Toro

[@batmanbluedarker5087]

I’m having a hard time my engine seems locked idk if I put too much oil

[@scottd3532]

Does a extension cord come with the machine when you buy?

[@PaulSikkema]

No, everyone dropped the cord about 10 years ago. Any 110 volt outdoor extension cord with a single plug at the end will work although I recommend a 14 or 12 ga if you are more than 20 feet from your 110 volt outlet.

[@GaryParthe]

Hey Paul, Why is the Max better than the HD model. Engines are 357 cc/ 420 cc respectively. Cdn $ is $3295/$2795 respectively... The Max is almost $500 more. Are the larger Augers worth that and with a smaller engine? thanks

[@PaulSikkema]

I don't know which HD you are talking about so I'll compare the 2X HD and 3X HD The MAX has a 14 inch auger and impeller. The 2X HD has 12 inch auger and impeller. The Larger impeller and auger allow the MAX to throw snow farther than the 2X HD. It also won't clog on heavy wet snow like the 2X HD is famous for. The MAX also has 4 open flight augers which allow more snow into the machine than the 6 closed flight augers on the HD. The open flight augers also aerate the snow which makes it easier to throw. The 2X HD is notorious for the front auger completely clogging with heavy snow. A large engine on the 2X HD does nothing for you because the snow blower is not capable of using the extra HP. 3X HD has a 12 inch auger and impeller. The 3X is notorious for breaking the inner shear pin almost every time you use it on the 3rd stage. If you but the 3X HD because it's cheaper make sure you walk out the door with at least 20 extra shear pins. AND make sure you know how to change the inner shear pin BEFORE you use it the first time. I hear more complaints about the 3X MTD snow blowers than any other snowblower on the market. The 3X NEEDS the extra power just to ram snow through the 3rd stage. It's actually not as good at moving snow as the 2X MAX with the smaller engine.

[@GaryParthe]

@@PaulSikkema Thanks for the quick response!!! I am definitely staying away from the 3X due to the shear pin issue. I was referring to the 2X HD 30" vs the 2X MAX 30". The Max is quite a bit more $. I would have thought the smaller engine on MAX would make it less costly. You clearly state the larger engine size on the HD does not help. So in your opinion, Is it worth the extr $500CDN for the MAX?

[@PaulSikkema]

It really depends on how much snow you get and the type of snow. If you usually don't get more than 12 inches at a time and it's really cold when it snows (light, fluffy snow) the 2X HD is a good choice. If you get a lot of heavy, wet snow. If you more 12-20 inchers than 4-6 inchers. If you want to throw the snow as far away from your driveway as possible. Or if you end up with high drifts or snow plow berms that you have to throw the snow over then the 2X Max is a better choice.

[@GaryParthe]

@@PaulSikkema Thanks for clarifying Paul. Keep up the great work!

[@richardaquino1640]

He mentioned you will have bring your model number and serial number I take a picture in my phone if that helps anyone.

[@ronsteitz4535]

What happened to American made engines on American made Cub Cadet🤔😯

[@PaulSikkema]

The last American engine on a Cub Cadet was 2006. The last American engine on a snowblower was 2009. Here is an article on who makes what: movingsnow.com/2020/2020-snow-blowers-who-makes-each-brand/

[@TheNewGranada]

did cub mention anything about all the complaints about the wheels literally falling off due to a manufacturer defect?

[@PaulSikkema]

I have no information on wheels falling off the Cub Cadet snowblowers. And - I can't find any mention of it on the web. That said, it does pay to check your snowblower over before the first time you use it and then at the start of every season. The wheel is held on the axle with a bolt in the end - check that for tightness. If it has a safety pin make sure it is in place. Also, I recommend putting the snowblower in the maintenance position, remove the bottom transmission cover and then check all the bolts and bearing holders. It's possible (though I've only heard of one instance) where the bolts holding the bearing holder vibrate loose and that causes the axle to also become loose.

[@ericstathis67]

@@PaulSikkema I have a 3x cubby with no issues but if you look at the reviews on Home Depot there are more than enough negative comments to keep me away from the 2x max. ( this is ten13 responding)

[@mrmuskey5202]

@@ericstathis67 Hahahah, probably a Toro Salesman wrote that note…carful what you believe nowadays... mostly B/S out there.

[@ilovemy70nova]

Just got this model home and it seems nice but paint is starting to bubble in spots. Have you heard of any known problems with the paint?

[@PaulSikkema]

The "paint" on U.S. made snowblowers like the Cub Cadet is actually a poly that is sprayed on and then baked. As long as the metal is cleaned properly when the the poly is applied it won't peel. It's hard to get edges perfectly clean and even the natural oils from your hands can affect the adhesion of the poly when it's baked on. Humidity can also affect the adhesion. If the spots get too big you can sand them and apply Rust Oleum to protect your snowblower.

[@ilovemy70nova]

@@PaulSikkema thanks it’s brand new and I can see rust stains starting. Should I seek warranty help?

[@jptrainor]

My MTD snowblower (a yardworks) experienced bubbling paint after about 6 years. At year 9 it was getting really bad so I stripped the old painted off the bucket, auger blades, and impeller, and repainted it. Still go strong now at year 14. The paint on the tractor half is original and is still fine. If mine had severely bubbling paint inside the warranty period I would consider it a warranty issue.

[@PaulSikkema]

Paint separation is usually not covered but I'd still check with your local dealer.

[@PaulSikkema]

MTD used to have a lot of problems not getting the steel clean enough before they baked on the ploy "paint." I don't hear of that much with the newer models.

[@jamesorsby7553]

At the rate it's going now, snowblowers are gonna become obsolete. I live in Chicago, and I used my snowblower maybe a couple of times all last winter... all the other snowfalls weren't deep enough for it. I'm hoping for more snow this winter.

[@PaulSikkema]

Snow in Chicago can be very spotty from one year to the next. I had snowplow trucks there in the 90's and one out of every three years we wouldn't get enough snow to even put the plows on the trucks - but, when it did come we worked 24 hours a day to keep up. Just remember, if the climate change is real we will get more snow. Warmer winter bring more snow...

[@jamesorsby7553]

@@PaulSikkema Yeah, something’s not right now, but hopefully this winter, we kinda make up for the last couple of easy ones.

[@bretttamminen5603]

Do you suggest adding tire chains?

[@PaulSikkema]

Todays tires have plenty of traction for normal conditions. The only time you'll need chains is if you are working on ice all the time or you have a steep slippery driveway.

[@rolyf100]

@@PaulSikkema I agree. I’ve been snowblowing in deepest, darkest New Hampshire since 1973. Have had three gnarly blowers in that time. My Toro PowerShift 1132 and Ariens Deluxe both have chains. I have never detected any grip difference with or without chains in any snow conditions. (I’m going to keep that Toro until it dies which isn’t likely to be anytime soon. Might have to shoot it one day.)

[@toasteroverdrive1097]

What other impeller type with the cupped augers are you refering to? At around 8:00 mark?

[@PaulSikkema]

Toro and Ariens have an impeller paddle that's more like a feed scoop. It's cupped so that it grabs the snow and throws it out in one smooth motion. The Toro Pro and Ariens SHO models will throw a LOT farther than the MTD design.

[@toasteroverdrive1097]

@@PaulSikkema Just watched your Toro Power Max HD video and Googled Ariens SHO impeller. Thank you for your answer.

[@ronsteitz4535]

What if I put a cab on it . Will this interfere with lights on sides.🤔

[@PaulSikkema]

The Cub Cadet cab is made for the lights. Use an aftermarket cab and you are on your own.

[@zoelmanuel3968]

can you speed up the reverse mind is way to slow or they are all like that

[@PaulSikkema]

Reverse is usually a slow walking speed but you can adjust it. Follow the shift rod up under the dash to where it connects to the shift lever. The end of the shift rod is threaded. Remove the clip holding the rod to the shifter and move the nut up or down on the threads to adjust the reverse speed. If you "shorten" the rod it will go faster in reverse. Just remember, The speed range is finite - when you speed up reverse the the top forward speed is reduced.

[@jrb737]

Hi Paul are you still planning on reviewing the Toro Power TRX HD Commercial Snow Blower 1428? Thanks!

[@PaulSikkema]

Yes, the Power TRX is next.

[@chadbosko8935]

2 inch 30 inch Max, what does the 2 inch stand for?

[@PaulSikkema]

I did say that in the video - my bad - I meant 2X 30 Max. 2 stage, 30 inch width. (Cub cadet also makes a 3X that has 3 stages)

[@richardaquino1640]

2 stage or 3 stage

[@p5tom]

why no fuel shut off??

[@PaulSikkema]

I don't know. MTD has never put a fuel shutoff on their snowblowers. For storage they prefer that you use a fuel stabilizer and fill the tank with non-ethanol fuel.

[@getbnt66]

Hello Mr. Sikkema, great video reviews on the Airens and Cub Cadet machines. I am looking at either a Cub 2x 28 HD or the Airens Deluxe 28 SHO and would like your opinion about the 2 machines. I live in Thunder Bay Ontario Canada and have a dealer for both. Which is the superior machine in regards to performance and durability (quality). Eager to hear back from you. Thank you. Mark

[@PaulSikkema]

I like both machines and they will both give you years of service. 1. Many people like the chute controls better on the Cub Cadet than the Ariens Deluxe SHO. The Ariens is easy to get used to (watch my video on it) 2. The Ariens has more capacity, a larger engine, throws farther and handles heavy/wet snow better than the Cub Cadet. 3. The control cables on the Cub Cadet will need replacing every 5 years or so. The cables on the Ariens will last the life of the snowblower. 4. Both use shear pins. 5. The Cub Cadet uses trigger steer power steering. It is the better choice if your driveway slopes to one side. The Ariens uses AutoTurn so there are levers to pull to steer the unit. If you have a lot of turning and maneuvering to do it's the better choice.

[@getbnt66]

@@PaulSikkema Thank you for the quick response. In other KZbin review comments people complain about the auto steer and how it tugs the wrong direction in snow but set up is likely the problem. In some Cub video comments and forums there are complaints that the snowblower sheers pins more frequently and quality is better for the Airens they say. I don't want to make the wrong choice given the price one must pay post pandemic and in Canada. $2600 In fact 😳. I value your opinion having tested and analyzed many machines. I am leaning towards the Airens. The Cub dealer states the auto turn on the Airens is poor and prone to malfunction. But of course they want me to buy a Cub. Any more advice? Thx

[@PaulSikkema]

1. The Cub Cadet 3-stage snowblowers have a habit of shearing the pin on the impeller behind the gearbox if you try to put to much frozen snow through it. But, you are looking a a 2-stage Cub Cadet so that's not a problem. 2. Cub Cadet snowblowers have a shear pin for each auger flight. (4 of them) They are designed to break immediately if you hit any obstruction. That ALWAYS protects the front gearbox. If you keep the area you are going to clear clean of rocks, bricks, kids toys and door mats - and - mark the landscaping features like curbs, Trolls and garden elfs you won't break shear pins. 3. Personally, I like the AutoTurn. It makes a snowblower a lot easier to use. It is becoming popular enough that other brands are also using the General Transmissions DI 300/500 Differential. (Ariens calls it AutoTurn other brands are calling it automatic steering) The AutoTurn drives just like a shopping cart. Grab the handles and it goes exactly where you point it - just as easily as a shopping cart. If the front wheels of the shopping cart you are using hits a curb or falls into a pothole what do you do? You grab the handle a little firmer and steer it out away from the obstruction. The Ariens AutoTurn works the same way. The snowblower is balanced with very little front weight so moving it does not take anymore effort than the shopping cart. Most of the complaints about the AutoTurn is from people who have only used a trigger-steer snowblower, (they go straight until you pull a trigger to turn) a solid axle snowblower, (they only go straight and are very hard to turn because you have to skid the wheels) or they are used to an older snowblower that has a huge amount of weight on the front end. (and is hard to turn because you have put a lot of down force on the handles to lift the front end up to turn.)

[@brandonmurphy4657]

What machines throw 50/60ft?

[@PaulSikkema]

All the Ariens Professional models and the Toro Power Max HD 1428/1432

[@brandonmurphy4657]

@@PaulSikkema for those prices would I be not be better of going with a Honda ?

[@PaulSikkema]

Nope. These machines are faster, have 30% more capacity and built to last. Plus, if you used the Honda for a day then an Ariens Pro - you would pick the Ariens everytime. They are so easy to use and fast!

[@brandonmurphy4657]

@@PaulSikkema mtd / cub could never dream of lasting like a Honda

[@PaulSikkema]

And yet, my neighbor's all have 30 year old MTD/Yard Machines/Cub Cadet snow blowers that clear the same snow storms as I do every year. They do NOTHING to them and one even has a quarter size hole in the impeller housing from all the snow that's gone through it - but it just keeps on working.

[@rm-dc6tx]

The biggest factor of any snowblower is the engine. Unfortunately the games that manufacturers play is with their engines and the "relative horsepower". One manufacturer will , if you really dig and do some analysis, disclose an approximate horsepower ( like the good old days- when HP meant actual power of the machine). It is stupid and ridiculous that machines don't have a standardized way to calculate HP, that directly correlates to ability of the4 machine to work well in heavy wet snow, not this crap cc measurement. Focus more on the POWER of the machine.

[@billlovett4256]

Grease those shear pins every year! It's no Ariens.

[@PaulSikkema]

Actually, there is no need to grease Cub Cadet augers. The auger flights are loose enough on the shaft that they don't ever rust tight.

[@billlovett4256]

They use salt on the roads here

[@mrmuskey5202]

Just bought the same one, although mine doesn’t have the extra supports on each side or the centre Auger support, I wish it did, only seen it here. It's very similar in a number of ways to others, not sure if it's any better. Compared to my old one that I had to push and pull a lot, I’m hoping this one is easier to move around and throws heavy snow better. Seems like a beast so far. I’ll work it hard and report how it performed in a couple months. I appreciate the in-depth video, well done thank you! Canadian $2,186.00 from a near bye dealer.

[@PaulSikkema]

Just curious - Does your snowblower say 2X 30" MAX on the front auger housing? Does it have 4 auger flights or 6? Cub Cadet also make a 2X 30 HD and a 2X 30 EFI. These two machine use a smaller 12 inch impeller and front 6 flite front auger. They are a very popular snowblower but don't handle heavy/wet snow as well as this 2X 30 MAX