Winter sure came fast: they're already predicting freezing temperatures and most of the trees are still green.  Anyway, I'm looking to replace my old snow blower and I was hoping for some recommendations.  I currently have a Yard Machines, 3 HP, 21", auger propelled, 2 cycle, model 1652649.  This has done a good job over the years I've had it, but it must have picked up too much road salt and all the major parts are rusting too badly to salvage.  (Getting a new one would be cheaper than replacing all the parts that have gone bad anyway.)  I'm also hoping to find one with a 4 cycle engine so I'm not trying to mix gas and oil in a blizzard.  The size and power of the old snow blower seemed about right for my needs, so I'm looking for something in the same range.  Any suggestions?

http://www.snowblowersdirect.com/reviews.php?source=goog&kw=snow+blower+reviews&gclid=CPutw8rqrZ0CFSDxDAodUQsVjQ

Check out this site for SnowBlower Reviews. I know we discussed this topic here on the Forums. You can do a search and see what many other members have to say about their favorite brand or model. Mine is an Ariens two stage 24" with 5 speeds forward plus reverse. The reverse feature comes in handy more than you would think it needs. It's also 4cycle and no gas/oil mixing. One other feature I enjoy at my age is the Elec. Start with this 10hp engine. Once it's been started it pull starts rather easily for short shut downs to clear the chute or move a car out of my path etc. etc.. That reminds me....I don't remember if I changed the oil at the end of the season. I usually do but you know how CRS can be. LOL.....I do remember I ran the gas out of it till it was dry and wouldn't start back up.

 

 

Thanks Oldman, I'll keep looking around to see what other people have said.  I'm actually looking for something a bit smaller than yours.  I can't find a picture of my exact snowblower, but this one looks close:

I( think old man was on the right track, but maybe you just don't need one that big. I used to get the biggest, baddest equipment I could find, whether trucks, tillers, or snowblowers. But my wife is getting on in years now. It is getting more difficult for her to manhandle the heavy stuff. A few years ago I bought a Troybilt snowblower that has done very well. I think it is called the Pony. It is a 21 or 22 inch with rear wheel drive and a good auger. It is only 5hp, but has 3 or 4 forward gears and reverse.  She can handle it quite well. It is large enough to do a good job, and small enough to handle well. By golly, sometimes it looks like she is having so much fun out there, I almost want to try it myself.

(Edit)  I forgot to say, I bought the electric starter with the snowblower, but it has always started so well I have never put it on.