Ad Blocker Detected
Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors. Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker for Movingsnow.com.
7 Best Residential Track Snow Blowers For 2020-2021
A track snowblower can be a huge advantage. This article will discuss why you may need a tracked machine and the 7 best on the market this fall. Note: Some of the snow blowers on this list are only available through your local dealer.
If you decide a track snowblower is not the best choice for you please check out this article The Best Snowblowers For You! Fall 2020
Why You May Want a Tracked Snow Blower:
- If you have a sloped driveway. If your driveway slopes enough that a wheeled unit has a hard time going up the hill a tracked snowblower offers a lot more traction.
- If you have packed down snow and/or ice under the snow. Tracks offer a lot more traction for icy conditions and the front of the auger housing on most track drives can also be locked down to scrape driven on snow off cement and blacktop better than wheeled units.
- If you have sidewalks that get plowed full by the city snowplow. The extra traction of the tracks will help you push through that heavy snow.
- If you have uneven terrain to clear. If you have grass or dirt trails or paths to clear. Track drives have the extra traction you need to clear turf and soft ground.
- If you get a lot of drifts where the snow packs so hard you can walk on it. Again, the extra traction of the tracks will help you push through that heavy snow.
Three Types Of Track snowblowers on the market this fall.
Two-Point. 
Original Design. Found on Husqvarna, Honda, and most Chinese made snow blowers. This design has been around for at least 30 years. The rubber track is driven by a lugged wheel and another wheel the same size keeps the track tight and on the ground. Originally the drive wheels were metal but today most are plastic. They are generally very slow compared to the other types. They generally don’t have a lot of clearance under the transmission so they will get stuck easily when trying to clear “off-road” areas. Most 2-point track systems will let you lock the front of the snowblower 1-2 inches off the ground for transport.
A little secret: Most hydro snowblowers that use trigger steering all use the same transmission. There are only a couple of variations on the market. So – the transmission gear ratio on a track drive with small drive wheels will be slower than another model with larger drive wheels. That’s why a Honda tracked snowblower is considerably slower than the Husqvarna track drive or the new Toro TRX with the large drive wheel.
Three-Point. 
Newer design. Found on Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Ariens, Husqvarna, and on the new Toro Power TRX HD. 3-Point tracks give you more clearance under the snow blower’s transmission so you won’t get stuck as often in deep snow. Most also have a larger main drive wheel than the 2-point systems so they are faster and they will allow you to get your area cleared faster.
RapidTrack. 
Latest design. This system is unique to Ariens snow blowers. This track drive uses a drive wheel that’s basically the same size as regular snowblower tires. This gives you the speed and maneuverability of a wheeled unit but also the traction of tracks when you need it. I’ll discuss how it works below.
Recommended
1. Ariens Platinum 28 SHO RapidTrak: 28 inch 369cc $2399
The Ariens Platinum RapidTrak is the best value tracked snow blower for any homeowner who wants to clear snow fast, have the best traction when you need it, and all the features you can get on a high-end residential snowblower.
First, the Ariens Platinum is a top-end residential blower. It includes heated handgrips, Super High Output (SHO) impeller, Auto-Turn Steering Technology, and a premium Ariens engine. The tall 21” housing height eats up the drifts. The 14” SHO auger and impeller blow snow up to 55 feet and will clear up to 75 tons/hour. In my opinion, the Ariens Platinum SHO handles regular snow, heavy snow, wet snow, and even slush better than any other residential snowblower on the U.S. market.
Second, tracks are unrivaled when it comes to traction, but you can’t beat a wheeled snow blower for maneuvering around objects. The Rapidtrak system is exclusive to Ariens and allows you to switch between a wheeled or tracked machine with just a single lever mounted on the right handle.
Preset adjustments on the RapidTrak system allow you to change between three different positions. Track Mode (position 1) is for typical snow removal, tracks are flat on the ground, providing significantly more traction than a wheeled snowblower. Wheel Mode (position 2) turning and traversing around objects. In this position, the rear of the tracks lifts off the ground, leaving the snowblower with just the tracks around the big wheels contacting the ground. The snowblower acts just like a wheeled unit. In fact, in this position, the snowblower is well balanced and very easy to turn. Finally, Dig-In Mode (position 3) delivers extra traction for those extreme snow conditions. Opposite of Wheel Mode, in this setting, the rear of the tracks push down and lock. This not only gives the tracks maximum traction, but the slight downward angle of the tracks pitch the auger at a steeper angle into the snowbank allowing you to clean hard-packed snow.
In my opinion, the Ariens RapidTrak is the second most significant technology improvement in walk-behind snow blowers in the last 15 years. (Overhead valve engines (OHV) engines with electronic fuel injection (EFI) being the most significant)
After you look at all the advantages the Ariens Platinum RapidTrak is the best value tracked snowblower for anyone who wants to clear snow fast, have the best traction, and have all the features you can get on a high-end residential snowblower.
This is a dealer only snowblower so here is a link to the Ariens website where you can read more and find your local Ariens dealer. Ariens Platinum 28 SHO RapidTrak.
2. Toro Power TRX HD 1428 OHXE and Power TRX 1432 OHXE 28 or 32 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower
If you want all-out power, speed, and the ability to handle any type of snow you get but and you prefer trigger-style steering the Toro TRX is the way to go. Available in 28 or 32-inch widths these commercial snowblowers will clear snow as fast as you can walk and throw it up to 60 feet. In addition to throwing very, very, very far they are also able to throw the snow right next to you if you want. The double-jointed steel discharge chute puts the snow exactly where you want it to go.
- These snow blowers are built so tough, they don’t use shear pins.
- Unmatched stability, track drive allows you to clear snow from the toughest terrain and steepest slopes.
- Adjust with ease, with the push of a lever, adjust your housing up for climbing and transport, flat to blow snow off a driveway or down to dig into deep snow with Toro’s quick-adjust auger housing lever
- Total speed control, change your speed on the go with the infinitely variable hydrostatic powered transmission
- Powered precision moves, powered with Toro’s king, a 420 cc engine and controlled with power steering for smooth, tight turns
- LED headlights and hand warmers
- Chute control, quickly change the chute and deflector direction with a single, smooth motion thanks to the Quick Stick chute control
- Toro’s patented Anti-Clogging system allows the snowblower to handle heavy, wet snow and light fluffy snow easily without clogging
- This machine is right at home on your two-car drive, large to extra-large driveways, big jobs, heavy accumulation, and making quick work of serious snow, like 15 in. plus of snow
Available through The Home Depot, ACME Tool, or your local Toro dealer
3. Ariens RapidTrak Pro 28 in. 2-Stage Electric Start 420cc Gas Snow Blower Model# 926060 $3099
If you have a long driveway or a huge area to clear and get a lot of snow, I’m including two commercial snow blowers in this list. The Ariens RapidTrak 28 and RapidTrak 32 are heavier duty commercial tracked snowblowers that arguably are the best-tracked snow blowers on the market this year. They have the largest engines and the highest capacity of any other snowblower on this list. I used the 28-inch hydro version all last winter and in my 40 years of experience, it is the best and one of the easiest snow blowers I have ever used. (watch my videos on YouTube) If you have a large area to clear, live in an area that gets 100 inches of snow or more a year, or use a 2-stage snow blower to make money with, it is hands down, the model you should buy. The Ariens RapidTrak 28 in. 2-Stage Electric Start 420cc Gas Snow Blower Model# 926060 $3099 and the Ariens RapidTrak 32 in. 2-Stage Electric Start 420 cc Gas Snow Blower Model# 926069 $3399 (Home Depot Links)
4. Cub Cadet 3X™ 30″ TRAC 30 inch 3-Stage 420cc Cub Cadet engine Model No. 31AH7EVZ710 $1999
Cub Cadet claims that this 3X auger/impeller system will handle twice as much snow as their 2-stage snow blowers. That is true – but understand that claim does not mean it will handle more snow than a high output 2-stage system like the ones found on the Toro Power Max HD and Ariens Platinum snow blowers. It’s not better – just different. That said,
First, The Cub Cadet 3X TRAC is also a high-end residential snowblower. It has heated handgrips, remote chute/deflector controls, a steel chute, and three high output LED lights. It also features a huge 420cc engine so it will power through just about any type of snow. Cub Cadet’s 12″ Induction Accelerator quickly pulls snow, ice and slush through the machine twice as fast as their 2-stage units.
Second, The 3-point track provides a lot of traction and the larger top drive wheel makes it considerably faster than the old 2-wheel tracked systems. Triggers under the handles let you steer the snowblower with just your fingertips. Cub Cadet’s (MTD) trigger power steering is dependable and the easiest of the two and three-point track systems to use.
You can purchase the Cub Cadet 3X™ 30″ TRAC through your local Cub Cadet dealer or The Home Depot here: Cub Cadet 3X™ 30″ TRAC (Home Depot link)
For smaller driveways, there is also the 26 inch 357cc 3X™ 26″ TRAC. $1599 (Home Depot link)
Like Ariens and Toro – Cub Cadet also has a higher capacity PRO series but they do not offer a track drive Pro model.
5. Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2890 Snow Blower Model 28 inch 277cc Troy-Bilt engine No. 31AH7FP4766 $1299
The Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2890 is a great value, residential snowblower. Heated hand grips, easy to use remote chute/deflector, unbreakable high arc poly chute, 3-point track drive, headlight, and even reflective stripes on the auger housing to help keep you safe at night.
The 3-point track provides a lot of traction and the larger top drive wheel makes it considerably faster than the old 2-wheel tracked systems. Triggers under the handles let you steer the snowblower with just your fingertips. Troy-Bilt’s (MTD) trigger power steering is dependable and the easiest of the two and three-point track systems to use.
In my opinion the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2890 is a great value snow blower and will be a good choice for medium driveways that average 40-80 inches a year. It’s not the fastest snow blower on this list but it is dependable and will last you a long time.
You can purchase the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2890 through your local Troy-Bilt dealer or The Home Depot here: Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2890 Snow Blower (Home Depot link)
6. Ariens Compact Track 24: 24 inch 252 cc
This Ariens Compact Track has plenty of power and average capacity. It is a great choice if you have a small steep driveway and/or have sidewalks that get a lot of snow.
7. Honda 28 inch 270 cc HSS928AT / HSS928ATD $2709 $2909
Honda snowblowers throw the snow a long way and the previous HS models have a rabid fan base. But, compared to the other tracked snow blowers available today the HSS series with it’s small 2-point tracks and mediocre power are outdated. They are much slower than the Ariens, Cub Cadet or Troy-Bilt models listed above.
Yes, the Honda AX engine has a long, well-deserved reputation but today’s OHV engines on the other snow blowers are just as good. The HSS series does not have a lot of clearance under the snowblower so they get stuck in deep snow more often and I repeat – even with a hydro transmission – they are slow. The #1 Ariens also has about 30% more capacity than this Honda (77 tons per hour for the Ariens verses 57 tons for the Honda) The electric chute control is slow and it takes forever for it to move all the way from one side to the other. The models sold in the retail stores do not have electric start – you have to find a Honda Powersports dealer to purchase one with 12-volt battery start ($200 more).
My opinion: To be clear, this is a good, well-built snow blower – it’s just not as fast and just does not have the capacity of the other machines. Worst of all -it’s just way over-priced for what it offers.
Buy Here: Honda 28 inch 270 cc HSS928AT (Home Depot Link)
There is also a 32-inch version Honda 32 inch 389cc HSS1332AT (Home Depot) $3189
8. Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2690 XP Track SnowBlower 26 inch, 208cc Model No. 31AM7BR3766. $1199
Before you buy this snow blower based on the price please read the entire description below.
This snow blower is the least expensive tracked unit on the market! What’s more, it has all the ease-of-use features and a larger engine than the Honda 24 inch 198cc HSS724AT which costs twice as much!
The Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2690 XP has all the high-end bells and whistles that make it a very easy to use snowblower. Heated hand grips, bulletproof and quick electric remote chute/deflector, unbreakable high arc poly chute, 3-point track drive, headlight and even reflective stripes on the auger housing to help keep you safe at night. The only thing lacking about this snow blower is the size of the engine. I can only recommend this snowblower to the few people who don’t get a lot of snow but have a steep driveway to clear. Don’t buy this snowblower because you just want a tracked unit because it is underpowered for most applications. It will handle 2-8 inch snowfalls well but it will be VERY slow on 12 or more inches of snow.
My opinion: If you have a steep driveway or off-road area to clear AND you live in an area of the country that gets 40-60 inches of snow on average this may be a great choice for you. In fact, if you are currently are happy with the power of your 24-26 inch 208cc snowblower or your 28-inch 243cc snow blower this tracked model is a good choice for you. (This 208cc engine has more power than your old 5 HP Tecumseh or Briggs)
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker™ 2690 XP Snow Blower (Home Depot Link)
Maybe:
Husqvarna ST430T 30 inch 420cc $2999.
I’ve had a Husqvarna ST430T around here since 2018 and it throws snow a long way. But even with the huge 440cc engine it just has average capacity compared to the newer Ariens and Cub Cadet models. In other words, it’s a good dependable snow blower – but outdated. Because of the high price it has not been a good seller so most of the retailers no longer carry it though Husqvarna Snow Equipment Dealers will be able to easily get one for you. (watch my videos on YouTube)
Not Recommended.
Honda 24 inch 198cc HSS724AT / HSS724ATD ( ACME Tool Link)
For a whopping $2349 you get a recoil start, underpowered 198cc engine, old style 2-point track, and mediocre capacity tracked snow blower. This snow blower has the smallest engine on any 2-stage snow blower – but the highest price for any 24-26 inch 2-stage snow blower. So unless you are “that guy” who just has to have a snow blower with a Honda engine on it I suggest staying far away from this one!
Ariens Platinum SHO Track 28: 28 inch 369cc
As a wheeled snow blower the Ariens Platinum SHO is a great snowblower. It’s a high capacity, dependable machine. The Auto-Turn steering makes it very easy to use. But with the 3-point tracks installed it’s a whole different monster. The tracks have too much “rubber-on-the-ground” and it makes the snowblower very hard to maneuver.
Any Chinese Track Snowblower.
The current crop of Chinese track snow blowers are mainly 2-point drive and lack a nationwide parts/repair network. For the same money, you are much better off buying the Troy-Bilt snow blowers on this list.
Get more stuff like this
Subscribe to our mailing list and get interesting stuff and updates to your email inbox.
Thank you for subscribing.
Something went wrong.
Mark Schmid
Thank you Paul for your reviews, they are very helpful. I have a question about the Ariens Compact 24 Rapidtrack. your review indicates that the 24″ model has a locked-solid axle and does not come with Auto-Turn. This is consistent with the specifications shown online. That said, the Operator’s Manual (at page 10) states that the 24″ model, model 90032, has Auto-Turn. The only dealers in my area are at Lowe’s and they are of no help in sorting this out. Has Auto-Turn been added since this review was updated for 2020-2021?
Paul
Hi Mark, The Ariens website and my website are wrong. The Ariens Compact 24 Rapidtrack does have AutoTurn! Now I want one for myself!
Good catch! Ariens and I will both get our sites changed in the next few days.
Mark Schmid
Me too!
Mike Miltenberger
Hi Paul,
Last year I bought a Honda Hss1332atd. I finally got a chance to use it this year and it did pretty well, a few times it bogged down in wet snow. The biggest disadvantage to me is the maneuverability of this machine. After looking at your reviews do you think selling it with about 20 hours and getting the husqvarna st430t would be an improvement in maneuvering or is it about the same? Would I be sacrificing quality going from Honda to Husqvarna? I like the features of the Honda it’s been great but a beast to control on my long hilly driveway. Thanks so much
Mike
Paul
Hi Mike, sorry for not getting back right away. No, the Husqvarna ST430T is even worse. It’s big, bulky and very heavy. In addition, the weight balance is such that when you turn it feels like you are turning a 55-gallon tank of water that’s half full.
If you want the easiest track and most maneuverable track drive look at the Ariens RapidTrak. It’s balanced perfectly and is very easy to turn. Plus, you get about 30% more capacity than the Honda or Husqvarna. Check out my videos of it over at my YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/paulsikkema
Jeff
Thank you Paul for your thoughts on the Honda! You had recommended the Toro Max 828 OAE 252cc for me. I am currently planning to get that one new for around $1200 next winter, but have been keeping my eye out in case a fantastic deal pops up for a used snowblower. If you were me, would you buy a used Honda HS 928 for $1600, or get a new Toro max 828 for $1200? I have been leaning towards the new Toro, as I read great things about the joystick chute control. Any thoughts would be very helpful!
Paul
Hi Jeff, I’d go with the Toro 828 or 928 (1 HP difference and double jointed chute) over the used Honda. The Toro actually has more capacity and will throw the snow just as far. Plus, you get a warranty.
The Honda will be much slower to use. The ONLY advantage to the HONDA is the resale value. There are a bunch of loyal Honda owners who continue to pay top dollar for that machine even though there are many better snowblowers now on the market.
Jeff
Hi Paul: there is a Honda HS 928 track snowblower for sale for $1600. It is used, but like new. The person is relocating. Typically, it looks like they are around $3000. If you’re able to get one, used, but like new, is that something you would consider? We live in Yakima, wa. Thanks!
Paul
Hi Jeff, The HS928 is an older model. It does not have power steering, heated handgrips, and many other features the new HSS928 has. If you get lots of snow and have a “shorter” driveway (50-200 feet) it will do the job very well.
But, it’s a lot slower than the current snowblowers like the HSS928, Ariens Pro or Toro Pro.
The price is right. Most of these go for $1200 in “average” conditions. If this one is like new $1600 is a fair price.
The real benefit of the HS928 is there is it has a very rabid following and it’s the Honda snowblower that made Honda famous. It will hold it’s value if you don’t like it.
Jordan
Hi Paul,
Bit stumped and would appreciate your advice.
I’m moving to a home west of Boston with an asphalt paved driveway that’s 300 ft long and 10 ft wide at a consistent 10-15 degree grade with a curved “hook” at the top into the garage. I also need to blow a small flat area in the yard for the dog.
I’m considering the Arctic Storm 30, the Ariens Deluxe 30 EFI and the RapidTrak 28. I’m thinking of preferring the Ariens models because of Auto-Turn – easier to hug the long curve and more intuitive for my wife, maybe?
Not sure how to choose between the Deluxe and RapidTrak, though. Tracked seems better due to the driveway grade but I wasn’t sure how the walking speed would compare – it’s a long driveway! I’m also curious if the EFI is really worth it since the RapidTrak has an electric start and a larger engine – Boston gets really inconsistent winters so the blower may stay idle, but I’ll use fuel stabilizer.
Which would you choose? I don’t have a strict budget but I like to spend money wisely 🙂
Thanks!
– Jordan
Paul
Hi Jordan, The Deluxe 30 EFI would get the job done, but the RapidTrak will get it done faster and easier. the RapidTrak is designed to have the speed of a wheeled snowblower. With it’s large engine it will handle any type of snow and amount of snow you get. When you do get the Nor-Easter it will move 12-24 inches of snow a lot faster than the Deluxe 30.
Yes, the AutoTurn is easier to use. Your wife can also use the RapidTrak and it’s actually balanced better than the wheeled units so it will be less effort to drive for her.
I suggest checking out my Youtube Channel. I have quite a few videos using the RapidTrak and the Deluxe 30 EFI. Paul YouTube
The Artice Storm is more “nose heavy” and it won’t have as good of traction as the Deluxe 30 or the RapidTrak on your slope.
Jordan
Thank you Paul – really appreciate your site and your advice. Have a good weekend!
Paul Richards
Hello Paul
This may not be the proper forum for this question but I’d like your opinion. I have my eye on an HS50 21″ tracked 500$ (probably try talk him down 100 bucks) on craigslist. I have a steep driveway not sure the grade. With the grade of my driveway i belive a tracked snowblower is my only option. My old toro (not tracked) had a real hard time getting back up the driveway I basically pushed it back up and only after I salted and sanded a path before I really started to blow the driveway. Just backbreaking by the time I was done. It would also slide sideways going across or down. I’m handy so if anything breaks I can fix it. Just wondering if the value is there. I live in Minnesota so we get plenty of snow. Just having a hard time justifying 1300 + dollars on a new one.
Paul
Hi Paul, Does it run? I strongly suggest using it before you buy it. That said, it an oldie – somewhere around 1983-ish. You’ll have to find most parts on eBay. I did a quick Google search and I found them for anywhere from $185 to $1000.
A new one that is very comparable in capacity and will be easier to use, have a warranty and you can get parts for is the Troy-Bilt 26 in. 208 cc Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower with Electric Start and Track Drive and Electronic 4-Way Chute Control. All other good tracked snowblowers are $2000-$3000.
Tom Lamb
How to adjust brakes on cubcadit
Snowblower with trackes?
Paul
Hi Tom, the only “brakes” on a snowblower is the device that stops the impeller and front auger as soon as you release the lever on the handle. There are no brakes to stop the forward movement of the snowblower. If you need to adjust the impeller brake the procedure is in your operator’s manual. If you lost your manual you can get a digital copy at cubcadet.com.
Are you trying to move it without the engine running? There is no gear release. It’s hard to do. I have a 24-inch square piece of plywood with casters under it that I use to move tracked snowblowers around the garage.
Jim
Paul,
I live at 8000’ elevation.
I have a 70 foot long asphalt driveway that falls 15 to 20 feet to the road. The driveway also has cross slope to one side. At the top of my driveway is a turn around space, about 40’ in diameter. Half of the turn around space is asphalt, the other half is gravel.
Currently I use a single stage snowblower, brought with me from Michigan, elevation 800 feet and flat. For the gravel areas I lift the front of the snowblower a couple inches above the gravel and push like hell. On the driveway, uphill is not too bad and I can direct the snowblower where I need. Downhill the slope to the road and the cross slope cause the snowblower to crab to one side, which is a wrestling match for me to prevent.
Looking ahead, I’m not getting younger and pushing the single stage across the gravel takes a bit of effort and I don’t like wrestling my snowblower going downhill.
In light of everything described, particularly the gravel, what snowblower would you suggest?
Thanks,
Jim
Paul
Hi Jim, Do you think a wheeled snow blower would work with that steep of slope? If, yes the best snow blower for you is the Ariens Platinum 24 EFI. The EFI automatically adjusts to the high altitude and the snowblower has a lot of weight over the drive axle so it has the best traction of a wheeled snowblower. You can buy tire chains from Ariens if you need more traction.
Brian
Hi Paul,
Sorry for cross-posting (I asked this question in the wrong article: small blowers). I bought the Ariens Deluxe 30 EFI on a $1700 deal, and I love it…but I think I should’ve heeded your advice on a tracked machine. A little too much slip on the inclined end of our 400′ driveway and 3-car garage “parking lot.” Looking at the tracked units and the amount of capacity I’ll need (and how quickly I’d like to walk all that distance!) the Ariens RapidTrak seems like the right answer. My problem? I absolutely LOVE their EFI engine, so why the heck don’t they marry a 420cc EFI engine to a tracked blower?? Not a single Ariens Tracked machine has EFI. It’s as if they think tracks are incompatible with fuel injectors. I’ve really grown to dislike carburetors and all of their outdated controls and finicky maintenance needs…even the position the machine is in. I’m much more of a set-it-and-forget-it guy. Ethanol Shield and a dust cover for the summer, then a charging cord and a key, please! So before plunking down over $3 grand, which I’d do, I need you to convince me that a carbureted Ariens machine won’t me the carbureted pain-in-the-butt that all my other small-engine stuff is (I swear I’m looking into an electric chainsaw), or that there’s a different high-traction unit out there which has high capacity, a reasonably brisk pace, and electronic fuel injection. (Or share insider information that Ariens is overcoming their track+carb prejudice and is coming out with a tracked EFI blower!). Thanks so much for sharing your expertise.
Paul
Hi Brian, Personally, I think Ariens has been holding off because adding EFI will bring the cost of the RapiTrak Pro 28 to almost $3500. Yes, more and more people want the EFI but will the cost be too high for them to buy it? That said, Ariens is very aware that people want the EFI but when I asked in October they wouldn’t commit to a rollout schedule. I suggest going one more winter with your Deluxe 30 and see if they come out with a RapiTrak EFI next spring.
Mike Miltenberger
Hi,
I love reading your reviews. Thanks for all the great information. I have a 200 foot gravel driveway that’s on an incline. I definitely want a track drive snow blower. I want something reliable that wont destroy my driveway or throw gravel and I need it to throw the snow a decent distance because of drainage issues. I have narrowed it down to 3. The Troy Bilt 2890 Storm tracker, honda 1332, and the Husqvarna st430t. I like that honda and Husqvarna have the adjustable auger height hat gives more room for adjustment as opposed to the lever on the 2890. I don’t have a Husqvarna dealer near me that has one to look at and my local home depot doesn’t have a track drive model to look at either. I’ve seen the Honda’s. I just don’t like to buy things without seeing them. Out of those 3 what would you recommend? from reading your articles I know the honda is slower and out dated but it still seems pretty solid. Any help or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Again thank you for your time.
Mike
Paul
Hi Mike, have you seen my video on the ST430T? Check it out:
.
– I recommend the ST430T first. I like the EFI engine a lot. It will throw snow a long, long way. It doesn’t quite have the capacity of the Ariens RapidTrak but handles 20 inches of snow well. It’s well-built and has some unique features like an adjustable height handlebar.
– The Honda 1332 also has a good reputation so far. It’s known to throw snow a long way. I have not tried the 1332 side-by-side but I’ll bet the Husqvarna matches how far the Honda throws snow. Based on all the research the Honda will clog on wet snow sooner and a few owners complain that gravel will quickly scratch the inside of the impeller housing. It appears the clearance between the impeller and housing is tighter than the Husqvarna and that’s why gravel tears up the inside. If you buy the Honda, make sure you buy the electric start version from a dealer. That version also has the kill switch in the front auger that kills the engine if something lodges in the auger/impeller.
– The Storm Tracker™ 2890 Snow Blower is not a good choice. The lever on the side locks the snowblower down for scraping pavement, floats the auger housing or locks it up in the transport position. You can’t adjust it to “skim” the gravel like you can with the Husqvarna or Honda. It will not throw snow near as far as the Honda or Husqvarna. Finally, it has a lot less capacity. It will take you a lot longer to clear 10-20 inches than it will with the Husqvarna or even the Honda.
Joseph
Honda is the most advanced, well built snowblowers on planet. Honda is far ahead of all the other brands on the list. Hydrostatic, powersteering,pneumatic hieght, electric start, led lights,servo chute and a build quality that puts all the other brands to shame (not to mention great resale value.)Paul your either a novice or a undercover salesman for the other brands cause you oviously havent used the machines. The tri link track is for visual gimmick apeal. I have ran honda track comercial snowblowers since the early 80s and have yet to get one stuck. The rapid track doesnt have the pushing force of a honda because the weight isnt balanced between the tracks, again another gimmick. The 32inch honda will move about 83 tonnes per hour, with ease and is a blast to drive.If you want a snowblower that is a serious commercial grade machine that will last for decades, buy the Honda. The others on the list are toys playing catch up.
Paul
Hi Joeseph, I normally don’t respond to insults but since you put so much time into your comment I’ll respond.
Everyone has an opinion. Some people like Ford or Chevy – I like Dodge. What you read here is based on my opinion, the facts, and over 40 years of experience. By the way, the best snow blower ever built is the Gravely Convertable Tractor. It will blow snow 70 feet and is unbreakable. I have owned the old Honda snow blowers you like so well. The current Hondas are not that snowblower.
My Goal: My goal here is to help people find the best snow blower for them. Most of the people in the U.S. who get snow live in areas that get either 60 inches or less or areas that get heavy wet snow. The most common size they need for the area they have to clear is 24-28 inches. Their budget is up to $1000 for 24 inch and up to $1800 for a 28 inch. Honda makes nothing that fits their needs or budget. Most people want their snow blowers to last 10-15 years and even the Troy-Bilt 2410 will last people that long with a little maintenance. Why spend over three times that amount for a Honda? Other people need a snowblower that won’t clog on heavy wet snow. Why would I recommend a snow blower that clogs on wet snow and cost twice as much? Finally, Many people want a snowblower that gets the job done faster. There are two manufacturers who make snow blowers that clear snow as fast as the 24-28 Hondas and two manufacturers that make snow blowers with capacities of 30-50% more – for half the cost.
I’m not going to argue the facts between the Honda HSS1332A and an Ariens RapidTrak 32 Pro. I can see that 1-inch axles, 90 tons per hour, and a hydro lever that’s so easy to use – you don’t even need to take your hand off of the handlebar will have no meaning to you. These machines are built for a small group of commercial operators that want the very best. But, I will say: If you really want to see which one is best overall – Take your two best operators and let them loose on a 200 unit condo or apartment complex in Boston with a Honda HSS1332A and an Ariens RapidTrak 32 Pro. (or even the Toro 1432) Let them use each snowblower for two days. Or, take the best operators at a ski resort in Lake Tahoe (Snowcrete) or any resort with manufactured snow and let them use the Honda and Ariens RapidTrak. I know which one is the fastest, has the most capacity and is the least tiring to use. I know which one they pick almost every time.
David Dreyer
I live in Missouri. I have a three car garage so the driveway is pretty big. It is very steep.
I’m concerned about slipping and sliding on the driveway when there is snow and ice.
What snow blower/thrower on this list would be best for me? My budget is around $1,500 or less.
Thank you
Paul
Hi David, A good choice for your area and your budget is the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890
Hawk
I guess I’m out of the loop, but why have most companies stopped making a 45” walk behind blower?
Paul
Hi Hawk, The last 45 inch machines made were homeowner versions. That meant they didn’t have the weight for good traction and all-around were not built heavy enough to withstand last. Today’s 32-36 inch snow blowers, especially the Troy-Bilt, Ariens, and Toro machines will move more snow and last a lot longer than the old 45-inch snow blowers.
Greg
Paul, any news on Toro Power Max HD snow blowers with track drive? I have been keeping an eye on them for quite some time, but they are currently only available with wheels. Thanks.
Paul
Hi Greg, Optional – add-on 3-point tracks were mentioned this spring at the dealer meeting but it’s been “crickets” since that time. I’ll ask again if Toro is planning on offering them next year.
Bob
Hi Paul. I’m interested in the Platinum 28 SHO RapidTrak. Looked at one yesterday and was impressed with it for my gravel drive with an incline in the middle of about 12 degrees. I only see myself using the wheel position for the flat areas and the track position on the incline or grass areas to clear a path around the house. If I set the skid shoes to raise the bucket about 3/4″ high for gravel, does that throw off my ability to easily switch between wheel and track mode with the handle as it does when the skids are set for pavement? Would I have to lift the machine forward as if I was going into the dig mode? I’ve got bad discs in my neck and just trying that at the dealer caused a lot of pain. I read the owner’s manual and all it says is to set the skids 1/8″ for pavement and 7/8″ for gravel. Thanks in advance. Would buy through your Home Depot link if i could but they only sell the Pro hydro version. I’m in Litchfield County CT.
Paul
Hi Bob, Yes, The Platinum series snow blowers are dealer exclusive models. You can check out “How To Support MovingSnow.com” To see other ways to help me out besides buying a snow blower through the links.
My ground almost always freezes before I get snow up here in Wisconsin so I leave the skids shoes set at 3/8 for my pavement, gravel, and turf. With frozen ground, I very seldom heard a rock going through the snow blower even with the skids set that low. Using the Pro model last year I found that the only time I really need the dig in mode was for the frozen snow plow pile at the end of the driveway. Clearing, dirt, gravel, and turf I found I had plenty of traction with it in the regular track mode. With all the weight balanced over the big wheel, it has more traction than most other snow blowers.
I also found I was lifting too hard and pushing down too hard when setting the different modes. To go from track to wheel mode just push down on the handles about an 1 1/2 inches. The machine is very well balanced so there is no effort to do that. To go from track to lock down mode just lift the handles an inch. I stopped the snow blower, grabbed both handles and then lifted with my legs – not my arms. I found it was a lot easier that way and I had no chance to twist anything in my back…