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Yard Machines 31A-2M1A700 21-Inch 123cc OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Single Stage Snow Thrower by Yard Machines
Product DetailsManufacturer: Yard Machines Brand: Yard Machines Edition: Lawn & Patio Model: 31A-2M1A700 Publisher: Yard Machines Studio: Yard Machines Music Label: Yard Machines Product features: - 123cc OHV 4-cycle gas engine for maximum power, performance and durability; no mixing of oil and gas required
- 21-inch clearing width, 10-inch intake height is ideal for clearing small driveways and sidewalks with up to 6-inch of snow
- Large handle design makes it easy to pull the engine cord wearing gloves
- Rugged 5-inch polymer chute adjusts easily and resists clogging, rusting or freezing
- Non-CARB Compliant/Not For Sale In California
Accessories:
Tools and Hardware Reviews of Yard Machines 31A-2M1A700 21-Inch 123cc OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Single Stage Snow ThrowerCustomer Review: Single or Two stage? Summary: 4 Stars
Gentlemen, I received this 31A 2M1A700 single stage snowthrower, as a "Christmas" gift from my wife. Living in PA I have now used the thrower three times. I have found the following: Very easy to start if you choke it and prim it before pulling the cord. The First day of use(3" snow)told me this unit is great on level paved surfaces. However, part of my driveway is paved and sloping down hill. Going down the slope is okay, but comming up the hill is next to impossible. After the third day of use, I concluded it is impossible to do while blowing snow. (My slope is very steep). I also noticed after the second day of forcing (lifting up hard on the handle) the unit up the sloping driveway the rubber wipers edges showed excessive wear. After the second day (3-4" snow) of use the middle rubber was down to where the metal support was hitting the pavement. Conclusion, My driveway is too steep for this unit, perhaps I need a self propeller unit.
On the thrid day (6-7"), I think I have found a solution to the sloping driveway issue. First, I go down the slope, then toss salt on that path, then pull or push the unit to the top of the drive (not blowing snow) and come down again, etc. and etc. until it is all cleared. I think this will also reduce the wear on all rubber surfaces. Before starting the third day I flipped the center rubber pads to prevent the center metal support from hitting the pavement (this worked well). I may need to purchase all new rubbers ($18) for next year.
The third day I also gave the unit a real test. My neighbor is out of town and his driveway has not been cleared for all three snow falls. The depth of snow was up to the top edge of the blowers inlet. I proceeded to clear his entire driveway including the sloping down hill (not as steep as mine) but I did push the blower to the top of the slope each time (no salt needed). This test also included the local snow plow build-up at the entry of his drive (heavy stuff and deep).
Summary: I am having seconds thoughts, do I keep it or trade for a larger more expensive self-propelled two stage unit? The seller "ACE hardware" has offered me a full refund to be used for the purchase of a self-propelled two stage unit. The single stage unit I have is great for level or slighty sloped driveways. The deeper the snow the greater it will throw the snow (10'-20'). The only other problem area is the left wheel is too close the main housing and the snow build up on the wheel sometimes prevents it from turning. If I decide to keep this single stage unit I will install a scraper to clean the snow from this wheel surface and hopefully prevent the left wheel from locking up. Very difficult to push or pull and control when the wheel is locked.
I am trully thinking of keeping the unit and making the adjustments discussed above. I can not be sure the self-propelled two stage unit will be able to make it up my driveway with-out slipping or need a set of chains. If I must push or pull the heavier unit up the sloping driveway it will mean a sure heart attack.
I would recommend to a friend with the above input.
Follow-up: (1/15/2011)
I went to "ACE Hardware" to check-out the two stage blower. WOW! two stage blowers are much bigger, heavier and this one was difficult to move and turn on the showroom floor. Perhaps it would be easier if it were running. The unit would take up 50% more space in my garage and is 50% heavier. If this unit was not able to get up my driveway then I would need to add chains or get a heart attack while trying to assist by pushing.
Conclusion: I will keep the original 31A 2M1A700 single stage snowthrower that I got for Christmas. Sometimes the size and how you use it does count. I hope this is some help to others considering the purchase of a single of two stage snow blower.
Description of Yard Machines 31A-2M1A700 21-Inch 123cc OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Single Stage Snow ThrowerMakes quick work of whatever Old Man Winter has in store. Great for clearing driveway, sidewalk and paths. U.S.A. Engine Displacement (cc): 123, Stage: 1, Start Type: Recoil, Clearing Width (in.): 21, Tire Size (in.): 7 x 1 1/2
Snowblowers Tools
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