From Eveningsnews.com
How to Find the Right Snow Thrower for the Job
By Bob Vila
Sep 27, 2005, 22:27
(NUI) - A snow thrower can turn strenuous winter shoveling into a quick and easy job. Choosing the right one depends on the average snowfall in your area and the snow-removal requirements of your property.
Basically, two types of snow throwers are available: single stage and dual stage. Single-stage models work best for light duty chores, such as clearing snow from sidewalks, steps, patios and small drives. Dual-stage machines are designed for heavier duty applications - including removal of heavy, wet snow from drives that are 100 feet or longer.
Single-stage snow throwers by Craftsman, for example, have a front auger that rotates at high speed to sweep and throw snow up to 20 feet in a single action. Powered by 3.8- to 5-horsepower engines, they readily handle snow up to 10 inches deep and clear a path 21 inches wide. Rotation of the snow-gathering auger helps propel the machine, making it easier for the operator to maneuver. Single-stage snow throwers are compact, lightweight and easy to store.
For medium-duty operation, Craftsman recommends dual-stage snow throwers with 22- to 24-inch clearing paths and 5- or 5.5-horsepower engines. These power-propelled units can quickly remove snow up to 16 inches deep. Up front, saw-tooth auger blades break ice and collect snow. Behind the auger is a high-speed impeller that hurls the snow and ice through an adjustable chute away from the clearing path.
Handling big snowfalls up to 22 inches deep calls for heavy-duty, two-stage snow throwers equipped with 7.75- to 11-horsepower engines. These workhorses are built to clear paths from 26 to 30 inches wide. They are propelled by large wheels with deeply treaded tires.
Dual-stage, as well as some single-stage, snow throwers are powered by four-cycle gas engines, which are quieter than two-cycle engines and don't require mixing of gas and oil. Six forward and two reverse speeds are provided on most dual-stage machines because deep, heavy and drifted snow must be removed more slowly than light, even snow. Other desirable features include an electric start and a chute control mounted on the handle. Some even have a halogen headlight for early morning or evening snow-clearing jobs.
If properly maintained, a quality snow thrower that matches your climate and property requirements will provide many years of dependable service.
Bob Vila, who is celebrating 24 years in television, is the producer and host of "Bob Vila's Home Again," sponsored by Sears. He has been a spokesman for Craftsman tools for 14 years.
© Copyright by EveningsNews.com