We're purchasing a property that has a large driveway/parking pad
area, so will be getting a snow thrower. However, one section (about
50' long) has quite a steep slope to it, so I was wondering if it
makes sense to get one with a track drive? Who makes those and do they
give enough extra traction to deal with the hill?

--Welmoed

Welmoed Sisson wrote:

We're purchasing a property that has a large driveway/parking pad
area, so will be getting a snow thrower. However, one section (about
50' long) has quite a steep slope to it, so I was wondering if it
makes sense to get one with a track drive? Who makes those and do they
give enough extra traction to deal with the hill?


Google is your friend. Try "Snowblower track" for keywords.

Among others:
http://www.hondapowerequipment.com/snotra.asp

"Welmoed Sisson" wrote...

We're purchasing a property that has a large driveway/parking pad
area, so will be getting a snow thrower. However, one section (about
50' long) has quite a steep slope to it, so I was wondering if it
makes sense to get one with a track drive? Who makes those and do they
give enough extra traction to deal with the hill?

--Welmoed

Honda makes good ones although you'll pay a pretty penny for the
hydrostatic drive compared to some brands.

Craig

Craig wrote:
Honda makes good ones although you'll pay a pretty penny for the
hydrostatic drive compared to some brands.

VERY bad choice for cold weather. I have one on my tractor and the
transmission does not work well when the temp is very cold.

Honda makes good ones although you'll pay a pretty penny for the
hydrostatic drive compared to some brands.

VERY bad choice for cold weather. I have one on my tractor and the
transmission does not work well when the temp is very cold.

I can't say about tractors, but I have a Honda 928 snow blower with
hydrostatic drive and wheels (not tracks). The hydrostatic drive
works just fine in New Hampshire winters. I've had no problems
running it in single-digit temperatures. And it's great to be able to
select an exact speed to match the snow conditions. I did pay more
for the Honda than I would have for a Toro, Simplicity, or Ariens, but
it was definitely worth it.

--THC

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"Thomas Cormen" wrote...

Honda makes good ones although you'll pay a pretty penny for the
hydrostatic drive compared to some brands.

VERY bad choice for cold weather. I have one on my tractor and the
transmission does not work well when the temp is very cold.

I can't say about tractors, but I have a Honda 928 snow blower with
hydrostatic drive and wheels (not tracks). The hydrostatic drive
works just fine in New Hampshire winters. I've had no problems
running it in single-digit temperatures. And it's great to be able to
select an exact speed to match the snow conditions. I did pay more
for the Honda than I would have for a Toro, Simplicity, or Ariens, but
it was definitely worth it.

--THC

I'll agree, THC. I have the tracked smaller 724 and it works fine in the
cold. The infinitely-variable "gearing" seems a better idea to get the job
done quickly compared to a few fixed gears given the widely variable depth
and types of snow we get. I wonder if the fella with the tractor has a
lemon, one with a need for transmission servicing or something else.

Craig in Flagstaff (yes, it's Arizona, but you might be surprised at the
weather here at 7000')

Craig wrote:
"Thomas Cormen" wrote...

Honda makes good ones although you'll pay a pretty penny for the
hydrostatic drive compared to some brands.

VERY bad choice for cold weather. I have one on my tractor and the
transmission does not work well when the temp is very cold.

I can't say about tractors, but I have a Honda 928 snow blower with
hydrostatic drive and wheels (not tracks). The hydrostatic drive
works just fine in New Hampshire winters. I've had no problems
running it in single-digit temperatures. And it's great to be able to
select an exact speed to match the snow conditions. I did pay more
for the Honda than I would have for a Toro, Simplicity, or Ariens, but
it was definitely worth it.

--THC

I'll agree, THC. I have the tracked smaller 724 and it works fine in the
cold. The infinitely-variable "gearing" seems a better idea to get the job
done quickly compared to a few fixed gears given the widely variable depth
and types of snow we get. I wonder if the fella with the tractor has a
lemon, one with a need for transmission servicing or something else.

Craig in Flagstaff (yes, it's Arizona, but you might be surprised at the
weather here at 7000')

I am a reactionary and prefer manual trannies in my work truck. Bought
a 'lawn tractor' a few years ago and specified manual - been kicking
myself ever since for not going the extra cost for hydro. I have never
heard of anyone having a problem with them in cold weather.

Re track drive: I have heard, once from a small engine shop, that they
are a bear to turn in tight spots. Anything to that? I am debating
retiring my old MTD. One thing that a new one _must_ have will be a
powered spout adjustment.

Harry K