Septemeber 28, 2011, Walk-behind snowblowers and lawnmowers will continue to be serviced by John Deere dealerships but new ones will no longer be sold after the existing stock has been sold.  I recommend you look at the Snapper snow throwers if you want a direct match to the existing John Deere’s or look at Craftsman snow blowers if you want the best value in the industry. You can find all my reviews of these snow blowers by going to this page:  2011 Snow Blower Reviews

The 726E compares to the Craftsman Model 88691 2 Stage Snow Thrower with power steering.  The Craftsman has 4 way chute joystick, extended chute,  power steering, poly-tech glide shoes, and a larger motor for a street price of about $250 less.

Specifications:

4-cycle OHV Briggs & Stratton Snow Series Engine (205cc) with 9.00 ft-lbs gross torque power, Push button 110V electric start standard, Recoil start with large mitten grip, Aluminized Lo-Tone muffler for reduced noise
26-inch clearing width
Friction disk drive with 6 forward/2 reverse speeds, Pin lock wheel differential system
Alumimum gear case, Steel auger with notched flighting  (Farming term for the auger)
New steel dash with tubular handlebars
Remote chute rotation with 190-degree turning radius in only 3.5 turns
Manual chute deflector
Heat-treated, reversible skid shoes
3-quart fuel tank
Fresh Start® fuel cap standard
13-inch by 5-inch X-Trac tires
2-year consumer warranty, 90-day commercial warranty
Includes tool box and clear out brush
The John Deere Promise is not available on this product

My Opinion:

The 726E has a metal discharge chute and a 3 quart fuel tank, otherwise there is nothing special about this machine.  This size Deere snowblower does have a good reputation from the owners but I’m not sure paying an additional $250 over the Craftsman Model 88691 is worth the extra money.  What is really interesting to me is the Craftsman has a 90 day no questions, return policy…….the John Deere is not eligible for the 30 day John Deere Promise (30 day money back guarantee) Craftsman has in-home service available for their product.  It is unclear from the literature if John Deere will repair your snow blower at your home.

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