First of all, I rarely give 5 stars to any product - mostly because there are very few perfect products. However, this one made me stop and reassess my policy. I tried to think of ways in which this product could be better. Okay, here they are:
1) It could automatically remove the snow without me having to use it;
2) It could not throw snow in my face when the wind is blowing;
3) It could never clog in overly wet or slushy snow; and
4) It could know where I want the chute placed without me having to use the nifty joystick.
Other than that, this sucker works pretty darn well. Since I purchased it one month ago, I have used it to remove snow at least 6 times. One time I used it on 8 neighbors yards and the entire sidewalk on both sides of my street. It starts easily. Is simple to use. It does what you need it to do.
My neighbor has a fairly large, single stage (two cycle) unit that couldn't do anything with the heavy, icy stuff the snow plow left in our driveways. This thing goes through it - as long as you take it slow. The only thing that worried me was the plastic chute being hit at high speeds by pieces of ice. However, the thing is still holding up great. I unburied several neighbors' driveways from the snowplow attack with ease.
So far, only my back is more grateful for this Christmas present than I am.
Craftsman 208cc 26" path Two-stage Snowblower is recommended by SnowboundInUT
The Craftsman® 208cc two-stage snow thrower gives you top of the line features in a medium-duty unit. Experience the ease of single-hand operation with clutch lock and the easy to use 4-way joystick chute control. A large 26" clearing path and powerful engine makes quick and easy work of your snowy task. Handles fold for easy storage.
Brand Name
Craftsman
Product Name
208cc 26" path Two-stage Snowblower
Maintenance Agreement
Available
Model Number
07188970000
MPN
88970
Tags
Capacity:Clearing Path:26 in.
Chute System:Chute Material:Polymer
Chute System:Chute Rotation:Yes
Chute System:Directional Chute Control:Yes
Chute System:Maximum Chute Rotation:180 deg.
Color:Overall Color:Red
Controls, Safety:Safety Lock:Yes
Controls, Safety:Safety Override:Yes
Convenience:Headlights:Optional
Convenience:Starter Mitten Grip:Yes
Dimensions:Intake Height:21 in.
Drive System:Propulsion Type:Wheel engagement
Drive System:Speeds, Forward:6
Drive System:Speeds, Reverse:2
General Features:Auger Type:Curved blade
General Features:Impeller Diameter:12 in.
Handles:Handles Fold For Easy Storage:Yes
Installation Requirements:Setup:Fully assembled
Materials & Finishes:Auger Material:Steel
Motor Engine:Drive Type:Belt drive
Motor Engine:Electric Start:Yes
Motor Engine:Starter Type:Electric
Motor Engine:Type:4-cycle
Power:Type:Gas
Product Overview:General Warranty:2 year limited
Product Overview:Item Weight:215.0 lbs.
Product Overview:Stages:Two stage
Wheels & Tires:2 Wheel Size:15 x 5 in.
Wheels & Tires:Material:Rubber
Wheels & Tires:Type:X-trac