Gasoline self-propelled snow blower: how to choose the best equipment

This article discusses a scheme for choosing such equipment for a country house as a gasoline self-propelled snow blower: design features, classification, advantages and disadvantages, scope, main selection criteria. Also here are detailed technical characteristics of popular models from the most demanded manufacturers of snow removal equipment on the market.

Gasoline self-propelled snow blower: features of choice

Owners of country houses with land plots are constantly faced with the problem of caring for the territory, both in summer and winter. Household plots with complex landscape design deserve special attention. In winter, to clear these areas, you can buy a gasoline snow blower, which will become an indispensable assistant in the fight against snow and ice.

The device of a self-propelled gasoline snow blower: which unit is better to buy

The most primitive tool for clearing snow drifts in the yard is a shovel. However, this method of snow removal is time consuming and requires significant human effort. Therefore, many consider it rational to buy a gasoline self-propelled snow blower than freeze for hours in the cold with a shovel in hand.

Externally, the design of a gasoline-powered snowblower looks like a cart driven by wheels. It houses a gasoline engine and additional equipment.

Note! Electric models of snow blowers can be found on sale, but they are less powerful and functional. Although they do win in terms of weight and price.

Gasoline models are divided into two categories by type of movement:

• self-propelled;
• non-self-propelled.

Features of non-self-propelled gasoline snow blowers

This category includes the largest number of models equipped with motors with an average power level. The capabilities of such an engine allow it to cope with the cleaning of freshly fallen snow cover. However, if the deposits are even slightly compacted, a more functional and powerful device will be required to eliminate them.

Another drawback of non-self-propelled structures is the limitation on the height of the snowdrifts. Sediments with a height of 0.5 m or more can become a serious obstacle in the path of a snow blower, since non-self-propelled units are equipped with only one auger. But there are no storage problems, since the device has compact dimensions and weighs about 40 kg.

Non-self-propelled snow blowers (NSU) constructions consist of:

• wheel drive;
• control unit;
• handles for a secure grip;
• snow gutter;
• fuel tank;
• an auger that processes snow into small fractions;
• bucket for capturing snow deposits.

With a non-self-propelled snow machine at your disposal, it is worth adhering to certain rules so that the unit justifies the costs. Rainfall must be carefully monitored. Don't wait for a lot of snow to build up in your yard. It must be cleaned on a regular basis and on time. This rule especially applies to the owners of summer cottages who come there exclusively for the weekend.

The non-self-propelled design is not able to cope with the weekly rainfall. In such circumstances, you should consider buying a self-propelled gasoline snow blower.

Note! NSOs provide high-quality clearance of areas up to 200 m². For larger areas it is recommended to take self-propelled modifications.

Features of self-propelled gasoline snow blowers

Self-propelled snow blowers (SSU) in the process of work move independently - without human effort. The operation process is very simple: it is enough to point the device in the required direction, after which the machine will independently continue its journey at a given speed. Most of the models of self-propelled gasoline snow blowers are tracked, due to this, an increased level of adhesion of the device to the surface is provided, which allows you to work on sloping areas.

Existing SSU models are divided into three categories depending on the weight of the structure:

1. L (light) - the weight of the device does not exceed 55 kg;
2. С (medium) - the maximum weight of the structure is 80 kg;
3. T (heavy) - the weight of the snow blower exceeds 90 kg.

In addition to weight parameters, structures are classified based on technical and performance characteristics. For example, medium-weight modifications can throw snow up to 15 m. While the lightest models offer increased performance in small areas.

With regard to the internal structure, this type of snow blower differs from NSO only a few nuances:

• the presence of several augers for processing snow;
• wheels or tracks can be responsible for movement;
• the presence of a headlamp to improve efficiency at dusk.

Note! When choosing a snow blower, it is necessary to take into account the design features of the machine, as well as the conditions in which it will be used.

How to choose a gasoline snow blower: general recommendations

The most important criterion for choosing a snow blower is the power of the gasoline engine. Other characteristics of the machine, for example, functionality and price, depend on this indicator.

The most inexpensive gasoline snow blowers are considered to be models equipped with an engine with a capacity of 3-3.5 liters. from. These designs are characterized by small dimensions and high maneuverability. The scope of their application extends to cleaning the paths in front of the building from freshly fallen snow, as well as the entrances to the house and the area around the garage.

Modifications with an increased power reserve, for example, 9 liters, are suitable for clearing areas with a large area. from. and more. Powerful units are designed to handle large objects.

Such objects include:

• private country estates and farms;
• territory of communal services;
• sports clubs;
• football fields;
• rollers, etc.

The second most important selection criterion is the size of the working area. This parameter consists of two indicators: width and height of the grip. In the simplest models, the gripping height varies between 30-35 cm, in more expensive modifications it is about 70 cm. Some designs have the ability to adjust the position of the runners, thereby adjusting the gripping height depending on the relief of the work surface. The width of the working area is about 50-100 cm.

Helpful advice! The larger the parameters of the working area, the faster the snow-covered area is cleaned.

The volume of the fuel tank determines the length of time during which the machine can work effectively without interruption for additional refueling. The minimum figure is 1.6 liters. Such a unit is able to work without interruption for 1.5-2 hours. If the volume of the fuel tank is increased to 6 liters, this time can be extended to 3 hours.

Choosing the best self-propelled gasoline snow blower: design features

The design features of the model can affect performance. The engine starting system has a direct impact on the comfort of use. Some models have a recoil starter to start the engine. The part is presented in the form of a lever, which must be pulled with effort several times. Due to this, the gasoline engine starts.

The disadvantage of a manual system is that the device may not start the first time. On the other hand, due to the simplicity of the handbrake, safety is increased during the starting process, which can be carried out in almost any weather conditions.

The engine is started with an electric starter with just one push of a button. The starting system is powered by an electric network or a storage battery. Weather conditions do not affect the effectiveness of the start, but this will definitely require a connection to an outlet located in the garage or house.

The most vulnerable structural components are the recycled sludge chute and the snow bucket. During operation, they are subjected to significant loads.

Helpful advice! When clearing the area from ice, tall snowdrifts and snow, large particles, getting inside the mechanism, can spoil the plastic chute. Therefore, experts recommend purchasing models with reinforced metal parts.

The price of gasoline snow blowers with a metal chute is much higher, but these costs are more than justified, since there is no need to buy spare parts. The metal gutter is designed for frequent use of a snow blower. On the one hand, it increases the total weight of the structure, on the other hand, due to its weight, it is able to withstand strong impacts, as well as exposure to low temperatures.

Rating of the best gasoline snow blowers for clearing backyard territories

There are many companies engaged in the production of snow removal equipment on the market. Each consumer, in addition to the general selection criteria, sets his own requirements for the snow blower.

Most often, the interests of buyers extend to models with the following characteristics:

• budget;
• powerful;
• reliable and persistent;
• practical.

In addition, consumers pay attention to the manufacturer, since the quality of the parts themselves and their assembly depends on this.

Choosing a gasoline snow blower: manufacturer rating

The most demanded and proven on the market are the following manufacturers:

• Husqvarna;
• Hyundai;
• MTD;
• Daewoo;
• Stiga;
• Honda;
• Champion;
• Patriot.

Husqvarna products are considered one of the best in Europe. The designs are distinguished by exceptionally high build quality, as well as the reliability of the filling. The entire range is equipped with Briggs & Stratton gasoline engines designed to operate in winter conditions at low temperatures. The motors of this series are able to work stably in any weather, they start quickly.

Related article:

Snow removal equipment for summer cottages and houses: an overview of the best manufacturers. Features of snow removal equipment for summer cottages and houses. Review of popular manufacturers and models, their advantages and disadvantages. Characteristics of snowblowers.

Husqvarna snow blowers have another significant advantage - warranty service provided in almost all service centers. The equipment of this manufacturer is considered the most reliable and most expensive.

Hyundai has a wide selection of snow removal equipment. Thanks to this variety, each consumer can choose a design that meets his requirements.

In the manufacturer's assortment, you can find machines designed for:

• laying of footpaths in the yard;
• clearing snow in a park area or in a garden;
• clearing the entrance for the car.

Note! The range includes modifications with an increased cross-country ability due to the caterpillar track, as well as the ability to adjust the speeds.

Brand name MTD snow blowers are functional enough to cope with jobs of varying difficulty levels.

Snowblowers MTD will help with cleaning various types of rainfall:

• ice;
• infusion;
• compressed snow masses;
• high snowdrifts.

This type of equipment is optimal for regions characterized by sharp weather changes, when the winter period can be accompanied by strong and prolonged blizzards, as well as frequent warming.

Petrol self-propelled snowblower: rating of the best models of the budget segment

In the budget segment (up to 50,000 rubles), the first place is occupied by Interskol SMB-650E. The model has good technical equipment, providing a large grip height (54 cm), which allows you to cope with the cleaning of tall snowdrifts without any problems. With the help of an impeller, this unit throws out snow masses at a distance of up to 10 m. Considering the low price, the capabilities of the SMB-650E are impressive.

The snow chute is made of robust metal and is mechanically adjustable.The snow blower has a high efficiency rate thanks to the embossed auger, which is covered with teeth.

The second position in the ranking belongs to the Hyundai S 5560 model. The wide coverage of snow masses and a two-stage cleaning system provided this design with high efficiency, which attracted many consumers. Thanks to the large wheels, the snowblower is easy to move, eliminates high snowdrifts, so no significant effort is required in the process.

The Patriot PRO 655 E gasoline self-propelled snow blower is ranked third. The assembly of structures of this American brand is carried out in China and the USA. This modification has a combined system of simplified starting with an electric starter, it is conveniently controlled. The advantage of the snow blower is its high maintainability.

Comparison table:

Design characteristic	Models
	Interskol SMB-650E	Patriot PRO 655 E	Hyundai S 5560
Capture width, cm	57	62	60
Gripping height, cm	53,5	51	51
Throw range, m	10	10	10
Power, hp from.	6,5	6	5,5
Structure weight, kg	73	80	75

 

Note! All working parts of Hyundai S5560 (auger and impeller) are made of high-strength metal. For this reason, the Hyundai S 5560 snow blower can serve for a long time without the need for repair and replacement of parts.

Rating budget models: customer reviews

In the reviews, the SMB-650E self-propelled gasoline snowblower appears as a practical and easy-to-use model:

“I have been using the Interskol SMB-650E snow blower for a month and a half. The design is self-propelled, on wheels, so there are no problems with moving around a snowy yard. I usually do cleaning after work, it gets dark early in winter, so the presence of a headlight can be attributed to the significant advantages of this machine. The snow blower moves smoothly. I chose it because of the ability to adjust and adjust the speeds. "

Andrey Matyukha, Moscow

Among the advantages of the design, consumers also note:

• fast launch system;
• high reliability;
• low fuel consumption.

There are also negative reviews on the forums:

“There are no particular complaints about the work of SMB-650E. The price is not high enough to demand more. However, Interskol did not modify the design a little. It is very inconvenient to fill the car with oil - the neck is bad. In addition, it is inconvenient to change gears - the handle could be improved. "

Sergey Astakhov, Yekaterinburg

According to statistics, there have been no cases of contacting the service center due to a breakdown of the Hyundai S 5560 engine, which indicates the high quality of the functional content.

One of the forum reviews confirms this:

“Last year I bought myself a Hyundai S 5560 with a four-stroke engine. A powerful unit, I must say. Having at its disposal 5.5 liters. with., I calmly clear the packed snow in my yard. I am very pleased with my purchase. "

Igor Chernov, St. Petersburg

According to customer reviews, Hyundai S 5560 has the following advantages:

• acceptable cost;
• simple control system;
• high power level.

The most unfinished place, according to buyers, is the gutter fixation zone. The part is poorly fixed and requires constant cleaning.

Rating of self-propelled gasoline snow blowers in the middle price segment

Mid-range devices usually have a capacity in the range of 5 to 8 liters. from. The capture width is about 66 cm, and the capabilities allow you to clear areas of 15-20 hectare.

Note! The middle segment of prices covers constructions whose cost is within 100,000 rubles.

The scope of the technique applies to cleaning:

• adjoining territory;
• parking areas for cars;
• pedestrian sidewalks.

The constructions are designed to remove compacted snow with ice particles.

Technical parameters of the Huskvarna ST 224 petrol self-propelled snowblower

The first place in the rating of the middle class is taken by the Husqvarna ST 224 model, which has received the title of the most convenient snow blower with a comfortable adjustment system among consumers. The modification combines a high level of functionality, affordable cost and good power.

The unit is equipped with a two-stage cleaning system, due to which it effectively copes with the removal of snow deposits. The snow blower has an enlarged auger - 305 mm. It is covered with special teeth that increase the efficiency of crushing snow masses. This advantage is especially relevant when processing drifts covered with infusion.

For the manufacture of all working components, the manufacturer uses high quality steel. Durable metal significantly increases the service life of these parts, and, accordingly, the snow blower itself. The developers have also taken care of ergonomics. Only one hand is required to operate the device.

Simplified starting of the engine is possible due to the presence of an electric starter. All well-known brands equip snow removal equipment with a heated handle function. This model is no exception. The wheel unlocking function makes it possible, if necessary, to quickly and easily rotate the structure.

Note! As an optional extra, the model has a special blade for cleaning the socket. It is located on the back of the protective cover.

Benefits of the Champion ST1074BS petrol snow blower

Snowblower Champion ST1074BS got the second place in the rating of middle class equipment. The bucket size of the structure is 74 x 58.5 cm, which is higher than the previous device. The chute, designed to drain snow masses, can be rotated 200 °. This allows the recycled particles to be guided virtually in any direction.

Self-propelled model ST1074BS has 8 gears: two of them are responsible for moving backward, the remaining 6 - forward. The manufacturer recommends using different speeds for specific tasks:

• low speeds are designed for effective removal of packed snow;
• medium speeds are best used to clear loose sediment;
• high speeds are designed to move the snow blower through large snowdrifts.

The machine is highly efficient. The device is equipped with a four-stroke, single-cylinder Briggs & Stratton engine with an additional air cooling system. Thus, the motor is completely protected from overheating, sudden shutdown and premature wear. Especially for cleaning heavy snow, the design includes a screw covered with teeth.

Snowblower Champion ST1074BS can be used even in those cases when it is dusk or fog outside, since the unit has a powerful headlight. To start a gasoline engine at very low temperatures, you can use an electric starter, which greatly facilitates this process.

Advantages of the MTD SMART ME 61 self-propelled snowblower

In third place in the rating is MTD SMART ME 61. The model has a sufficient level of efficiency to cope with the main tasks that the owner of a country house may face in winter. This modification has quite an acceptable cost and the necessary technical characteristics.

Note! To adjust the position of the chute that throws snow, a mechanical-type lever is used, which is located directly on the control panel. Due to this rational arrangement, the process of removing the processed snow masses is under the full control of the operator, who can make adjustments during operation.

As with previous models, this design has a toothed auger. Unlike smooth, it copes well with crushing frozen snow with ice. Thanks to the four-stroke petrol engine, the SMART ME 61 snow blower is simply irreplaceable when cleaning tall snowdrifts. The motor belongs to the "winter" series of accessories. Therefore, even at low temperatures, the machine runs smoothly and starts up well.

Characteristics of self-propelled gasoline snow blowers: reviews of middle-class models

Mid-range models are considered optimal, therefore, negative customer reviews after their operation are rare:

“My family and I live in a country house. The yard and the entrance are constantly covered with snow, so last year I decided to buy a Husqvarna ST 224 snow blower. What I like about this model is that I can easily clear all types of precipitation. Large diameter wheels with drive, 6 gears. What else is needed for a normal technique? There is also a headlight for working in the dark. I recommend this manufacturer to everyone. Before buying, I read many reviews, so I decided to buy this particular model. I haven’t regretted a day ”.

Vitaly Govorun, St. Petersburg

“I recently bought a snow blower Champion ST1074BS. The machine keeps well on slippery and sloping surfaces, the design has an optimal weight distribution. I liked that the handles are heated. During work, fingers do not freeze. In my opinion, the unit is too noisy, but otherwise everything is fine. I'll see how the snow blower will show itself in the future. "

Alexey Demchenko, Moscow

“I would like to share my experience of using MTD snow removal equipment. I have a SMART ME model. In general, the device is reliable, copes well with the function of clearing snow. The fog lamp is another plus. On the downside, I would attribute the low quality of the component parts, in particular, the carburetor. The device is sensitive to fuel purity ”.

Sergey Golovko, Moscow

Comparison table:

Design characteristic	Models
	Husqvarna ST 224	Champion ST1074BS	MTD SMART ME 61
Capture width, cm	61	74	61
Gripping height, cm	53	50	53
Throw range, m	15	12	15
Power, hp from.	6,3	6	7
Structure weight, kg	90	93	79

 

Rating of premium class self-propelled gasoline snow blowers

Premium snow removal equipment deserves special attention. A distinctive feature of this category of snowblowers is the increased engine power reserve - from 8 liters. from.

Note! A large number of useful functions are found in such designs, due to which the efficiency increases significantly.

Snow throwers of this class cope with the elimination of:

• ice crust;
• snowdrifts;
• loose snow;
• ice.

This type of equipment makes it possible to handle large enough areas (up to 50-60 acres). Not all manufacturers of snow removal equipment produce machines with such power.

Features of the Husqvarna ST 330PT self-propelled gasoline snow blower

The Husqvarna ST 330PT takes the lead in the ranking of premium snow clearing equipment. This Swedish brand breaks almost all records for the quality and performance of its products.

The structure is driven by strong and massive tracks. This nuance provides the car with high cross-country ability where other models fail. The advantages of the Husqvarna ST 330PT include an oversized auger.The diameter of this part is 355 mm. Therefore, effective cleaning of the territory from packed snow is ensured.

The structure has a well-developed design that allows you to operate the snow blower with one hand. In extreme cold, the operator can use the heated grips to make their work even more comfortable. The two-stage cleaning system increases the performance of the mechanism.

The machine is designed for clearing large and medium-sized areas. Easily handles the processing of snow of various densities. Easy starting of the engine is provided by an electric starter. The auger, made of metal, crushes the packed snow covered with an ice crust.

Features of the self-propelled snowblower SNAPPER SNM924E

The next in the ranking of premium designs is the SNAPPER SNM924E snowblower. In comparison with the previous position, the cost of this snow blower is almost 2 times lower. But it cannot be said that SNAPPER SNM924E is significantly inferior to the Husqvarna ST 330PT in terms of performance.

Note! The snow chute is electrically adjusted, which is rare. The control is located on the operator panel.

The efficiency of the equipment is ensured by a robust metal impeller and a two-stage cleaning system. In large areas, this model can throw snow at a distance of up to 12 m. The augers have special tines that crush dense crust and ice. The model is completely self-propelled. So that the operator does not experience any inconvenience during work, the machine provides for 8 gears: 2 reverse and 6 forward. Thanks to them, the structure moves and turns smoothly.

Features of self-propelled snow blower HONDA HSM1390IKZE

Snowblower HONDA HSM1390IKZE entered the top three premium designs in the rating. The hybrid design of this device is highly efficient. The snow blower can move up to 83 tons of snow in just 1 hour.

This productivity is due to the increased size of the bucket, capable of a width of 92 cm. Thanks to this, even large areas with the help of the HONDA HSM1390IKZE will be efficiently cleaned in the shortest possible time. Snow is thrown up to a distance of 18 m through a durable metal chute. Its position is regulated by an electrically powered actuator. The operator can control this entire process from his console.

In order to improve the cross-country ability of the structure, the manufacturer equipped it with tracks. This element of the machine is driven by electric motors installed there specifically for this.

The advantages of the HONDA HSM1390IKZE are high performance, excellent build quality and a reliable four-stroke motor.

Note! The equipment can work continuously for 2 hours, clearing large areas. All this is made possible by the large fuel capacity. The tank can hold 5.7 liters of gasoline.

Premium gasoline snow blowers: customer reviews on the forums

Not everyone decides to purchase premium snow clearing equipment, since its cost is much higher than that of lower class models. But on the forums, there are still reviews of buyers who managed to appreciate all the advantages of powerful equipment:

“I have lived all my life outside the city, I have my own farm. In winter, it is quite difficult to move around, as the objects are scattered across different parts of the territory. The question was to buy a mini-tractor or a snowblower.My choice fell on the HONDA HSM1390IKZE, since I already have a lawn mower of this brand in my arsenal and I know firsthand about the quality of products. For two years of operation, I revealed only one drawback - the price. Otherwise, there are no complaints about the work. Even the Swedish company Husqvarna cannot compare with the throwing distance of 18 m. "

Alexander Simachev, Moscow

“I have long wanted to buy a snowblower for my home. I was saving up for several years, because I wanted to buy a really powerful and high-quality unit. I liked the Husqvarna ST 330PT model. It works relatively quietly, in cold weather there are no problems with starting the engine. Great thing. "

Roman Savin, St. Petersburg

Comparison table:

Design characteristic	Models
	Husqvarna ST 330PT	SNAPPER SNM924E	HONDA HSM1390IKZE
Capture width, cm	76	61	92
Gripping height, cm	35,5	51	58
Throw range, m	15	12	18
Power, hp from.	12,2	6,9	13
Structure weight, kg	157	89	246

 

Prices of gasoline self-propelled snow blowers: rating models

Finally, you should compare the prices of the rating models to get a complete picture.

Prices for gasoline self-propelled snowblowers:

Manufacturer	Model	price, rub.
Budget snow blowers
Interskol	SMB-650E	44220
Hyundai	S5560	41490
Patriot	PRO 655 E	40450
Mid-range snowblowers
Husqvarna	ST 224	98990
Champion	ST1074BS	85800
MTD	SMART ME 61	73200
Premium snow throwers
Husqvarna	ST 330PT	229990
SNAPPER	SNM924E	139990
HONDA	HSM1390IKZE	455510

 

Taking into account the models reviewed earlier, their technical characteristics, prices and customer reviews, it can be concluded that the highest quality products belong to the companies Husqvarna, Champion, MTD and Honda.

In each category, you can choose a reliable and practical design, regardless of its cost and class. After all, the optimal device is the one that meets the capabilities of the wallet and the needs of the owner of the suburban area.