I spent some time today researching snowblowers. I didn't realize that some Toro single-stage machines can handle quite a bit of snow. I'm looking at the Toro Power Clear 518 ZR:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Toro-Pow...8472/205380014
You'll probably say it's too small for a 20' x 60' driveway and New Hampshire snow, but I here's what I'm thinking:
- It has very good reviews.
- It weighs 54 lbs, which I can handle in the driveway, compared to a 2-stage machine.
- If it snows more than 7" I can clear the driveway more than once during a storm. A 15" storm could be done in two passes.
The next size up, the Toro Power Clear 721, is a more effective machine but it weighs 84 lbs.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Toro-Pow...8472/205380014
My concern about a two-stage machine is not just the weight while using it, but the impossibility of getting it home and taking it anywhere for service since I have a compact hatchback.
Your thoughts?
And a question: I need some paths around my house (like to the electric meter and oil fill pipe). Would this machine tear up the lawn?