Here’s the diff. https://amzn.to/3l9s47m

Hi Richard, Do you want the weight kit because you are installing the snow cab? The weight is for a counterbalance to the snow cab.
The Platinum 24 is balanced over the wheels so adding a front weight all by itself actually reduces the traction. If your snowblower is riding up, check your shear pins and make sure they are in place.
I suggest taking a 10 lb sack of bird food, (or something 10 lbs) strap it to the top of the auger housing, and see if it really is what you need before you spend the $60.

That said, the Ariens website states, “Fits Ariens Classic, Compact, Deluxe, Platinum and Professional models.” The Classic and Compact are also 24-inch machines so it will also fit your snowblower

Hi Jamie, About 40 inches. You don’t lose much height by dropping the handles because the chute control and chute stick up almost the height of the handles.

Hi Sam, The Ariens Deluxe 24 will throw a lot better and won’t plug. That’s my first choice. In fact it will probably throw twice as far most of the time.

Your machine has a 179cc engine. Other 24 inch machines with the 208cc motor will also throw farther, but not as far as the Ariens Deluxe. The Troy-Bilt 2420, Husqvarna ST224, Craftsman 88173, Ariens Compact 24 to name a few. The Toro 724 2-stage will also throw farther.

The 24 inch machines that throw the farthest are the Ariens Platinum 24, Husqvarna ST324P, Troy-Bilt Vortex, Craftsman Pro, and Cub Cadet 3X 24.

Hi Tony, The two biggest issues with the Compact 24 track is the machine is a solid axle snow thrower. 1st. To turn it you have to skid one track. It’s very, very hard on pavement even with snow on it. I also feel you need to be physically capable of sliding that track around and not losing your footing. 2nd, it small. It may take you all day to clean that much driveway. Don’t get me wrong, I like the Ariens Compact but the track version is a monster to use.

Now, Since you only average 40 inches or so the Compact’s residential rating fits but it’s too small and it is hard to use.

I also am very concerned about a wheeled unit if the drive is that steep. At the very least you will need chains on the tires and poly shoes in front.

I suggest you take a look at the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890 277cc 4-cycle Electric Start Specialty Snow Thrower.

This snow thrower will have the traction you need. It’s a decent size with enough power to handle the occasional heavy snow. And the best part, it has power steering so it is easy to use. It just fits into you budget and will last. If you don’t want the free shipping from Amazon – Lowes also carries it.

Here is the link to Amazon: Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890 277cc 4-cycle Electric Start Specialty Snow Thrower