Ariens Corporation offers a full line of both single stage and dual stage gas snow blowers. Plus, all fourteen of the current Ariens snow blower models come with tires that do not require chains for traction. That means you will have less wear and tear on your driveway and walks. There is also a Power Brush™ which can clear light snow and leaves. Add to that the three years standard warranty and it is easy to see why so many people buy an Ariens snow blower.
The most popular Ariens snow blower models that have the best track records are the 8 HP ones, especially the 824E model with its Tecumseh Snow King L-Head engine which has six forward and two reverse speeds. Both the impeller and the auger are oversized. The Ariens measures 14 inches instead of comparable brands with only 12 or 12.5. The size increase allows the snow blower to move more quickly and to expel more snow. Even so, it is still very maneuverable. The tires are a good 15 inches wide, the same width on their larger 10 and 11 HP capacity machines.
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The one downside that consumers found in snowfalls over 12 inches is that the intake of 21 inches is a bit small for such a powerful engine. It does, however, clear a 24 inch path, which is a timesaver as well. One tip consumers give is to have an extra pair of sheer pins handy for the pinlocked axles.
The 842E works well even in heavier snowfalls, shooting snow up to 50 feet from the adaptable shoot that can rotate 200 degrees. The electric start mechanism and chute clearing device come as standard. Optional are the drift cutter and the front-end weight kit for more hilly terrain.
The Sno-Tek® line is also popular. All of these Ariens snow blower styles have a 208cc engine. The 22 has a single transmission engine and a 22 inch clearing width, while the 24 and the 26 have six forward and two reverse speed transmissions with 24 and 26 inch clearing respectively. If you have limited storage area, consider their Compact Sno-Thro® 20 or 24 with fold down handles, 205cc engine and 12 inch impeller.
At the other end of the scale, if you are looking for a professional style, the Sno-Thro® Pros are the power horse machines you need with up to 324cc. Their clearing capacity ranges from 26 to 36 inches. Each have both automatic traction controls and hand warmers. Consumers on several review sites gave the 1028 five stars, even those living in heavy snowfall areas like Michigan. However, it doesn't have a steering option. The other popular workhorse model is the older 524. First manufactured in 1980, a lot are still going strong. So you if you find one in a garage sale, don't pass it up.
For over seventy-five years, Ariens has been known as the "King of Snow" for a reason. Customers find the Ariens blowers durable and trustworthy year after year beyond its three year warranty period. Found at Home Depot and Sears as well as through other dealers, these snow blowers are well known for their work, even in heavy snow conditions.