Ariens SnowTech @ HD

[Milkman]

The local HD has Ariens "SnowTech" single stage snow blowers for sale at resonable price. Seem to be well made.

Any thoughts ????

 

[dparm]

They're the budget line. For limited use I think they'd be fine. Even if it dies in 5 years you'll get your money's worth.

A good Ariens will last 20+ years though. My dad had one for 25 years and only sold it because he wanted something for his new (bigger) driveway. It still ran perfectly.

 

[tdpark]

I have not heard good things about the snowteks; if you can get the orange ones- they last forever- my dad lives in the snow belt and he is going on 15 years with no problems.

 

[Milkman]

Really only want a single stage. Mrs Milkman may want to use it. Didn't want to spend $700 or $ 800 on a Toro or Honda.

Thoughts ???

 

[dparm]

There are cheaper Toros that would do fine. I think they have some "guaranteed to start" ones that are wife-friendly.

 

[flatlandtacoma]

I've never handled a single stage snow blower so I can't comment on them. The look really ........ small.

Do you not get much snow where you live? I always thought they would be outperformed by a good shovel.

 

[JTK]

I'm sure they're not bad given they can be had for the right price. IMO, there's 3 ranges to the single-stage, rubber auger jobs: 1) Honda, 2) Toro, 3) everything else.

Not to say 'everything else' is bad! I've used off brand ones and Craftsman 2-stroke models. They all worked well, it's just the #1's and 2's will throw harder/farther.

Joel

 

[webfors]

I purchased this unit over a month ago:

http://www.ariens.com/products_snow/sno_tek/sno_tek_24/Pages/default.aspx

Very pleased with it. Strong, starts easy, well made. I paid $630 here in Canada, so you should be able to get it for less down south.

 

[Smokescreen]

I heard the only difference between the full orange Ariens and the Snotek was the Ariens used B&S engines while the Snotek version used an LCT engine.

 

[JTK]

Originally Posted By: Smokescreen
I heard the only difference between the full orange Ariens and the Snotek was the Ariens used B&S engines while the Snotek version used an LCT engine.


Originally I thought the chassis was completely different between the two lines, but at a closer look it does look like they are the same! Here is an Ariens Delux 28 and a Sno-Tek 28. Regardless, we're going way OT given the OP stated he wants a SINGLE stage unit anyway.

Joel

 

[flatlandtacoma]

Originally Posted By: JTK
Originally I thought the chassis was completely different between the two lines, but at a closer look it does look like they are the same!
It "could be" the Sno-tek uses thinner gauge stampings for the auger housing etc. One would have to examine them side by side to know for sure.

 

[webfors]

I checked out the 24 inch models side by side at Home Depot in Canada. There was little difference between the two other than a $250 price difference. Almost identical.

 

[Milkman]

the Snotek version used an LCT engine

What is an "LCT Engine " ?

Thanks

 

[rshunter]

Originally Posted By: Milkman
the Snotek version used an LCT engine

What is an "LCT Engine " ?

Thanks


Liquid Combustion Technology

 

[JTK]

Originally Posted By: rshunter
Originally Posted By: Milkman
the Snotek version used an LCT engine

What is an "LCT Engine " ?

Thanks


Liquid Combustion Technology


I'm glad you posted this link! Finally a possible parts source for LCT engines? >> http://www.lctusa.com/page.cfm?sp=service

Joel

 

[webfors]

Originally Posted By: rshunter
Originally Posted By: Milkman
the Snotek version used an LCT engine

What is an "LCT Engine " ?

Thanks


Liquid Combustion Technology


Correct. My 24 inch Snowtek has this engine:

http://www.lctusa.com/page.cfm?sp=detail&i=8#2

 

[01rangerxl]

Originally Posted By: JTK
Originally Posted By: rshunter
Originally Posted By: Milkman
the Snotek version used an LCT engine

What is an "LCT Engine " ?

Thanks


Liquid Combustion Technology


I'm glad you posted this link! Finally a possible parts source for LCT engines? >> http://www.lctusa.com/page.cfm?sp=service

Joel


Stens used to be THE parts supplier for LCT, which is actually a good thing for dealers. Stens is on top of their stuff and very quick to ship orders. They don't supply the consumer market though, so you had to find a Stens dealer to get the parts.

I'm not sure where to order LCT parts from now. If I remember I will look into it at work next week.

LCT engines are actually pretty reliable overall. They are kind of like the Hyundai of small engines.

 

[dakota99]

Does anyone know who LCT models their engines after? I know companies like champion and lifan are honda clones, but after looking at an LCT engine at my local home depot, they look unique. Nothing to indicate a honda casting. Perhaps they are really their own engine who knows.

 

[Milkman]

So, LCT engines are Chinese ?

 

[dakota99]

Yes but i do believe by looking them over well, they seem to be of good quality. Similar to the champion clones. I would have no reservations buying an ariens with an LCT engine.