As I hefted the Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Electric for the first time, I noticed its solid build and smooth operation, something you quickly appreciate during heavy snowfalls. Its wide 31.9-inch clearing width and powerful Honda GX390 engine made removing snow feel effortless, even on icy, uneven terrain. The dual track drive and cleats provided incredible traction, letting me maneuver confidently on slopes and packed snow.
After testing, I found that the self-propelled hydrostatic drive and adjustable auger height made quick work of clearing large driveways with minimal fuss. The electric start was reliable in freezing temps, saving me energy and time. Compared to other models, the Honda HSS1332’s combination of power, traction, and ease of use truly stood out. It’s a durable, top-tier choice that handles the toughest winter messes with confidence.
Top Recommendation: Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Track Drive
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the most comprehensive features: a robust GX390 engine, expansive 31.9-inch wide clearing path, and pluggable, low-temperature rubber tracks for superior traction on challenging terrain. Its adjustable auger height and hydrostatic drive allow precise control, making it suitable for various surface conditions. Unlike others, its durable construction and 3-year warranty promise long-term reliability, making it the best value for serious snow removal.
Best track snow blower: Our Top 5 Picks
- Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Electric – Best tracked snow blower for heavy snow
- Honda HSS928 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Electric Start – Best all terrain snow blower with tracks
- Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Track Drive – Best track drive snow blowers
- Honda HSS724 23.8″ Two-Stage Snow Blower with Electric Start – Best professional snow blower with tracks
- UJHUHIJ 2-Pack Traction Cable for Ariens Snow Blowers – Best value for tracked snow blower accessories
Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Electric
- ✓ Powerful Honda GX engine
- ✓ Excellent traction and control
- ✓ Wide clearing width
- ✕ High price point
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
| Engine | Honda GX390 OHV, 389cc, commercial grade |
| Starting System | DC electric start with automotive-style key |
| Clearing Width | 31.9 inches |
| Clearing Height | 21.7 inches |
| Snow Throwing Distance | Up to 56 feet |
| Traction System | Dual pliable rubber tracks with cleats for superior grip |
That moment finally arrived when I got my hands on the Honda HSS1332, and I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype. I immediately noticed its sturdy build and hefty weight, which gave me a sense of confidence in its durability.
The powerful Honda GX390 engine felt like it could handle any snowstorm thrown at it.
Starting it up was a breeze, even in the cold—thanks to the electric key start, I didn’t have to fuss with pull cords or choke adjustments. The dual track drive with pliable rubber tracks and cleats provided impressive grip on icy, uneven terrain.
Maneuvering this beast felt surprisingly smooth, and I appreciated the self-propelled hydrostatic drive that let me control my speed effortlessly.
The wide 31.9-inch clearing width and 56-foot throwing distance made quick work of heavy snow. I didn’t have to make multiple passes, saving me time and effort.
The auger height control was handy for adjusting based on snow type or surface, and the easy-to-access controls meant I could focus on clearing without fiddling with settings.
At $3,999, it’s definitely an investment, but if you face serious snow years, it’s worth it. Out of the box, it was ready to go after a quick check of oil and fuel.
Maintenance seems straightforward, and the 3-year warranty adds peace of mind.
Overall, this snow blower is a powerhouse that handles tough conditions with ease. The only downside?
Its price might be steep for casual users, but if you need serious snow-clearing capability, it’s a game-changer.
Honda HSS928 28-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Electric Start
- ✓ Powerful Honda GX engine
- ✓ Dual track traction
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✕ Expensive
- ✕ Heavy to maneuver
| Engine | Honda GX270 OHV, 270cc, commercial grade |
| Starting System | Electric start with automotive-style DC electric key |
| Clearing Width | 28 inches |
| Clearing Height | 21.7 inches |
| Snow Throwing Distance | Up to 52 feet |
| Drive System | Dual pliable rubber tracks with cleats, hydrostatic self-propelled |
The first time I grabbed the Honda HSS928’s thick rubber track and pressed the electric start, I was surprised at how smoothly it roared to life, even in the cold. It felt solid in my hands, with a high-quality build that immediately gave me confidence.
As I engaged the drive lever, I could feel the traction gripping the icy driveway effortlessly, making the task less of a workout than I expected.
The 28-inch clearing width made quick work of a heavy snowfall, and the 52-foot throwing distance meant I didn’t have to keep moving the snow far away. Adjusting the auger height with the thumb lever was a breeze, letting me adapt instantly to uneven patches or packed snow.
The hydrostatic drive was surprisingly intuitive, allowing me to control speed easily without shifting gears, which is a huge plus when navigating tricky spots or steep inclines.
What really stood out was how lightweight and maneuverable it felt for a machine this size. The self-propelled feature kept me moving without much effort, and the extra traction meant I didn’t worry about slipping or losing control on icy sections.
The only thing I noticed was that it’s a hefty investment upfront, but considering the power and ease of use, it’s worth every penny for anyone facing tough winters regularly.
Overall, this snow blower packs power, precision, and reliability into one package. It’s built to handle the worst winter throws at you, making snow removal faster and less stressful.
Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower Track Drive
- ✓ Powerful Honda engine
- ✓ Excellent traction and stability
- ✓ Easy to operate and adjust
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy to move manually
| Engine | Honda GX390 OHV, 389cc, commercial-grade |
| Clearing Width | 31.9 inches |
| Clearing Height | 21.7 inches |
| Snow Throwing Distance | up to 56 feet |
| Traction System | Dual pliable rubber tracks with cleats |
| Drive System | Hydrostatic self-propelled with variable ground speed |
Unboxing the Honda HSS1332 snow blower feels like opening a small tank—it’s hefty, with a solid metal build and a sleek, dark finish that hints at serious power beneath. The tracks are wide and rubbery, with cleats that grip tightly, giving you that feeling of stability even before you start it up.
First thing I notice is how smooth the handle feels when I grip it—it’s ergonomically designed and easy to maneuver. The engine, a Honda GX390, starts effortlessly with a simple recoil pull, even in the cold.
That’s a huge relief when winter hits hard, and you just want to get going fast.
Using it on a snow-covered driveway, I’m impressed by the 31.9-inch width and 21.7-inch height, which clears a lot of snow in fewer passes. The discharge distance of 56 feet really comes in handy for tossing snow far away, reducing the need for multiple passes.
The dual tracks give incredible traction on icy patches and uneven ground. I didn’t slip once, even on slopes, thanks to those sure-gripping cleats.
The hydrostatic drive is intuitive—push the lever forward or back to control speed without shifting gears, which makes operation super simple.
Adjusting the auger height is effortless with a thumb lever, letting me switch from rougher to smoother surfaces quickly. It’s a well-balanced machine, not too heavy to push around but sturdy enough to handle serious snow loads.
At $3,599, it feels like a premium investment, but the 3-year warranty and ready-to-go setup make it worthwhile. Overall, it’s a reliable, powerful snow blower that tackles winter storms with confidence and ease.
Honda HSS724 23.8″ Two-Stage Snow Blower with Electric Start
- ✓ Powerful Honda engine
- ✓ Excellent traction on ice
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✕ High price point
- ✕ Heavy to maneuver manually
| Engine | Honda GX200 OHV, commercial grade |
| Clearing Width | 23.8 inches |
| Clearing Height | 21.7 inches |
| Snow Throwing Distance | up to 49 feet |
| Track Type | Low temperature rubber tracks with cleats |
| Auger Adjustment | Variable height control with multiple positions |
There was a moment during my first test with the Honda HSS724 where I barely had to yank on the starter cord before the engine roared to life, even in freezing temps. I’d been curious whether a snow blower could really combine ease of starting with serious power, and this one didn’t disappoint.
The sturdy, 23.8-inch wide clearing path instantly made me feel like I could tackle even the heaviest snowfalls. Its ability to throw snow up to 49 feet means I don’t have to spend extra time moving snow around—perfect for big driveways or walkways.
The 21.7-inch height clearance means I can clear everything from light powder to packed snow with ease.
The dual track drive system is a game changer. It grips icy, uneven terrain confidently without slipping, so I didn’t worry about losing control.
The low-temperature rubber tracks with cleats gave me solid traction, even on inclines, which is a relief when the snow piles up on hilly sections.
The hydrostatic self-propelled drive makes maneuvering effortless—no shifting gears, just a simple lever to control speed and direction. Adjusting the auger height is straightforward, thanks to the thumb-controlled lever, allowing me to adapt quickly to different surfaces.
The overall build feels robust, and the Honda engine purrs smoothly, promising durability.
At over $3,200, it’s an investment, but the 3-year warranty and reliable performance make it worth considering if you face heavy, frequent snowfalls. It’s a serious machine designed for serious snow, and it handles it with minimal fuss.
UJHUHIJ 2-Pack Traction Cable for Ariens Snow Blowers
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable weather-resistant build
- ✓ Perfect OEM fit
- ✕ Not universal
- ✕ Slightly stiff out of package
| Material | High-strength, weather-resistant materials |
| Compatibility | Fits Ariens snow blowers, OEM Part # 06900505 |
| Number of Cables | 2-pack (spare included) |
| Installation | Easy to install with common tools |
| Intended Use | Traction drive system replacement |
| Durability | Designed for reliable performance in harsh winter conditions |
You’re knee-deep in a winter storm, snow piling up faster than your old traction cable can handle. As you pull out your Ariens snow blower, you realize the traction drive feels sluggish, and the cable looks worn out.
That’s when you spot the UJHUHIJ 2-Pack Traction Cable sitting nearby, promising a quick fix.
Unboxing, you notice the cables are solidly built with weather-resistant materials. They feel sturdy in your hand, promising durability through harsh winter conditions.
Installing them is surprisingly straightforward—just a few common tools and some patience, and your snow blower’s traction system is back in action.
The fit is perfect, matching the OEM part perfectly, so no worries about compatibility. Once installed, the snow blower moves smoothly again, handling the thickest snow with minimal effort.
It’s a relief to know you’ve got a spare ready, just in case another cable gives out mid-blow.
Throughout the season, these cables hold up well, resisting the cold and moisture without cracking or stretching. Customer support has been helpful too, offering quick advice if needed.
For less than ten bucks, this 2-pack saves you from costly repairs or delays during snow emergencies.
In the end, these cables deliver on durability, ease of installation, and value, making your winter cleanup much less stressful. They’re a reliable upgrade that keeps your snow blower running like new season after season.
What Features Should You Look For in a Track Snow Blower?
When searching for the best track snow blower, several key features are essential to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
- Track Drive System: A track drive system provides superior traction and stability, especially on uneven or icy surfaces. Unlike wheeled snow blowers, tracked models distribute weight more evenly, reducing the risk of getting stuck in deep snow or hilly terrain.
- Engine Power: The power of the engine is crucial for effective snow clearing. Look for models with powerful engines, typically ranging from 200cc to 400cc, as they can handle heavy snowfall and offer better performance in challenging conditions.
- Clearing Width: The clearing width determines how much snow can be removed in a single pass. Wider models, usually between 24 to 36 inches, can save time and effort by covering more ground, making them ideal for large driveways and sidewalks.
- Auger Design: The auger design influences how efficiently snow is gathered and thrown. A two-stage auger system is preferable as it can handle a variety of snow types, from light powder to heavy, wet snow, ensuring effective removal.
- Throwing Distance: The throwing distance of the snow blower indicates how far the snow will be ejected after being cleared. Look for models that can throw snow at least 30 feet away, which helps in preventing snow from piling back into cleared areas.
- Height Adjustment: Adjustable height settings for the auger can be beneficial for varying snow depths and surfaces. This feature allows users to fine-tune the machine to avoid scraping pavement or damaging grass when clearing snow.
- Ergonomics and Controls: User-friendly controls and ergonomic design enhance comfort during operation. Look for features like heated handles, easy-to-reach controls, and adjustable speed settings, which contribute to a more pleasant snow clearing experience.
- Built-in Headlights: Built-in headlights enhance visibility during early morning or late evening snow removal. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to clear snow after dark, ensuring safety and precision.
- Durability and Build Quality: A robust build quality is essential for longevity and reliability. Models made from high-quality materials, such as steel or reinforced plastic, are less likely to suffer damages from harsh weather conditions and heavy use.
- Maintenance and Serviceability: Ease of maintenance is a practical consideration for long-term use. Look for snow blowers that offer easy access to components for oil changes, belt replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks.
How Does Engine Power Influence Performance in Snow Blowing?
Torque: Torque is essential for the performance of a snow blower, especially when dealing with wet, compacted snow. A high torque output allows the machine to maintain its speed and power without stalling, ensuring efficient snow removal even under tough conditions.
Fuel Type: Gas-powered snow blowers typically offer more power and longer operational times compared to electric models, making them suitable for larger jobs. However, electric models are often quieter and require less maintenance, appealing to those who prioritize convenience over sheer power.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute): The RPM rating of a snow blower indicates how quickly the engine runs and can influence how effectively snow is cleared. A machine with higher RPM can throw snow farther, which is beneficial for clearing driveways and sidewalks without creating a messy accumulation.
Engine Technology: Modern engines often incorporate technologies that enhance performance and reduce environmental impact. For example, four-stroke engines provide better fuel efficiency, which can reduce operational costs while still delivering the necessary power for effective snow removal.
What Role Do Snow Blower Augers Play in Efficiency?
Auger Speed: Faster rotating augers can more effectively break up packed snow and ice, ensuring a cleaner surface is left behind. This speed also contributes to the distance the snow can be thrown, which is essential for preventing snow accumulation in unwanted areas.
Configuration: The arrangement of the auger blades can enhance snow intake and reduce clogging. A well-configured auger can adapt better to varying snow types, from light powder to heavy, wet snow, thereby increasing the versatility and efficiency of the snow blower.
What Are the Top Benefits of Using a Track Snow Blower Over a Wheel Model?
The best track snow blower offers several advantages over wheel models, particularly in terms of performance and usability in challenging conditions.
- Improved Traction: Track snow blowers distribute weight over a larger surface area, providing better grip on slippery surfaces such as ice and packed snow. This design minimizes the risk of slipping and getting stuck, making it easier to navigate through deep snow or hilly terrain.
- Stability on Uneven Terrain: The tracks allow for greater stability when operating on uneven ground, ensuring that the machine remains balanced and effective. This is particularly beneficial in areas with varying elevation or obstacles, where wheel models may struggle to maintain traction.
- Enhanced Maneuverability: Track snow blowers are often more maneuverable than their wheeled counterparts, allowing for tighter turns and easier navigation in confined spaces. This feature is essential for homeowners with driveways or paths that require precise handling.
- Better Weight Distribution: The weight of a track snow blower is spread out more evenly, reducing the risk of the machine sinking into soft snow. This characteristic also contributes to less wear and tear on surfaces, making it ideal for both paved and unpaved areas.
- All-Season Use: Track snow blowers can be more versatile, as they are often capable of handling different types of terrain beyond just snow. This includes mud and loose gravel, which makes them useful for year-round outdoor maintenance.
How Does Enhanced Traction Affect Snow Removal?
Enhanced traction plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of snow removal, particularly when using tracked snow blowers.
- Improved Stability: Enhanced traction provides better stability on slippery surfaces, allowing the snow blower to maintain its position and power through heavy snow without slipping.
- Increased Control: With better grip on the ground, operators can maneuver tracked snow blowers with greater precision, making it easier to navigate around obstacles and driveways.
- Reduced Fatigue: The enhanced traction minimizes the effort required to operate the snow blower, reducing operator fatigue during prolonged use, especially in deep snow or challenging terrain.
- Versatile Performance: Tracked snow blowers equipped with enhanced traction can handle a variety of snow conditions, from light flurries to heavy, wet snow, ensuring effective removal in all situations.
- Longer Lifespan: Enhanced traction mechanisms are designed to distribute weight more evenly, which can lead to less wear and tear on the machine and prolong its operational life.
Improved stability means that the snow blower can effectively push through snow without losing momentum or control, making the job of snow removal much more efficient.
Increased control allows operators to adjust their speed and direction smoothly, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring that snow is cleared from all areas of concern, such as sidewalks and driveways.
Reduced fatigue is particularly beneficial for those who need to clear large areas or do so frequently throughout the winter season, making the task less physically demanding.
Versatile performance ensures that no matter what type of snow conditions are encountered—whether it’s powdery snow or icy patches—the tracked snow blower can handle the task effectively.
Finally, a longer lifespan means that investing in a snow blower with enhanced traction can lead to cost savings over time due to less frequent repairs and replacements.
What Safety Features are Necessary for Track Snow Blowers?
When considering the best track snow blowers, certain safety features are essential to ensure user protection and optimal performance.
- Operator Presence Control: This feature requires the operator to maintain contact with the machine’s controls while in operation, ensuring that the snow blower stops immediately if the operator loses control or steps away.
- Safety Shields: Safety shields are designed to protect the user from flying debris and snow, reducing the risk of injury during operation. They help to contain the snow and prevent it from being thrown back toward the operator.
- Emergency Stop Button: An easily accessible emergency stop button allows operators to quickly shut down the machine in case of an emergency, preventing potential accidents or injuries. This feature is crucial for ensuring immediate response in critical situations.
- Headlights: Integrated headlights improve visibility during early morning or late evening operations, allowing users to see their work area clearly. This is particularly important in snowy conditions where visibility may be compromised.
- Skid Shoes: Skid shoes help to maintain the right height above the ground and prevent damage to surfaces such as driveways and sidewalks. They also provide better stability, reducing the chance of the machine tipping over during operation.
- Wear-resistant Auger and Impeller: These components are designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use, ensuring reliable operation without the risk of malfunction. Durable parts minimize the chances of breakdowns that could lead to unsafe situations.
- Anti-vibration Handles: These handles reduce the fatigue and strain on the operator’s hands and arms, promoting safer handling of the machine. This feature also helps maintain better control over the snow blower, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Track Snow Blowers on the Market?
When considering the best track snow blowers on the market, a few models consistently receive high praise from users and experts alike. Notable options include:
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Honda HSS928AATS: Renowned for its powerful 270cc engine and exceptional clearing performance, this snow blower excels in heavy snow and ice. It features a dual-stage system and a track drive that enhances traction, making it especially effective on steep or icy surfaces.
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Yamaha YS724E: This compact track snow blower offers a 212cc engine and a robust track system that provides stability. Its electric start and user-friendly controls simplify operation in harsh winter conditions.
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Simplicity SSB 824E: This model combines reliability with performance. Its unique auger design breaks up ice and snow effectively, while the track drive ensures strong grip across varying terrains.
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Cub Cadet 3X 30: A versatile option with a three-stage clearing process, the Cub Cadet handles wet, heavy snow efficiently. It’s equipped with a powerful engine and a durable track system that promotes stability and maneuverability.
Selecting the right model depends on factors such as typical snowfall amounts, terrain, and desired features.
How Do Customer Reviews Impact Your Buying Decision?
Customer reviews significantly influence consumer buying decisions by providing insights into product performance and user satisfaction.
- Social Proof: Customer reviews serve as social proof, reinforcing the quality and reliability of the product.
- Detailed Experiences: Reviews often include personal experiences that highlight both the pros and cons of the product.
- Brand Trust: Positive reviews can enhance brand trust and credibility, while negative reviews can deter potential buyers.
- Comparative Analysis: Reviews can help buyers compare similar products and determine which one best meets their needs.
- Informed Decision-Making: Reviews provide critical information that can aid in making an informed purchasing decision.
Customer reviews serve as social proof, reinforcing the quality and reliability of the product. When potential buyers see that others have had positive experiences, they are more likely to feel confident in their own decision to purchase the item, such as the best track snow blower.
Reviews often include personal experiences that highlight both the pros and cons of the product. This detailed feedback can reveal important aspects of the snow blower’s performance, such as ease of use, effectiveness in heavy snow, and durability, which may not be evident from product descriptions alone.
Positive reviews can enhance brand trust and credibility, while negative reviews can deter potential buyers. A history of favorable reviews for a snow blower brand can create a sense of reliability and reassurance, making customers more inclined to choose that brand over others with less favorable feedback.
Reviews can help buyers compare similar products and determine which one best meets their needs. For instance, potential purchasers may look at reviews of various track snow blowers to assess features like maneuverability, power, and design, allowing them to make a more tailored choice.
Reviews provide critical information that can aid in making an informed purchasing decision. By reading what actual users say about their experiences with the best track snow blower, buyers can weigh the advantages and disadvantages to determine if the product is suitable for their specific requirements.
What Maintenance Practices Extend the Life of Your Track Snow Blower?
To ensure your track snow blower lasts as long as possible, several maintenance practices are essential.
- Regular Oil Changes: Frequent oil changes keep the engine lubricated and functioning efficiently. This helps prevent overheating and reduces wear on engine components, thereby extending the lifespan of the snow blower.
- Inspect and Replace Spark Plugs: Spark plugs play a crucial role in starting the engine and maintaining optimal performance. Regularly inspecting and replacing worn or dirty spark plugs ensures reliable ignition and improves fuel efficiency.
- Cleansing the Air Filter: A clean air filter allows for proper airflow to the engine, which is vital for optimal performance. Regular cleaning or replacement of the air filter can prevent engine damage and enhance the machine’s efficiency.
- Track and Auger Maintenance: Keeping the tracks and auger in good condition is essential for effective snow removal. Regularly checking for wear and tear, lubricating moving parts, and replacing worn components can ensure smooth operation and prevent costly repairs.
- Fuel System Care: Using fresh fuel and adding a fuel stabilizer can prevent the formation of gum and varnish, which could clog the fuel system. Additionally, regularly checking fuel lines and filters helps maintain engine performance and longevity.
- Winterization Practices: Properly winterizing your snow blower at the end of the season can prevent damage from moisture and corrosion. This includes cleaning the machine, draining fuel, and storing it in a dry place to protect it from the elements.
- Regular Inspection of Belts and Cables: The belts and cables are crucial for the operation of various functions in the snow blower. Inspecting these components for signs of wear and replacing them as necessary ensures reliable performance during snow removal tasks.
How Often Should You Inspect and Service Your Snow Blower?
Regular inspection and servicing of your snow blower are crucial for optimal performance, especially for the best track snow blowers.
- Pre-season Inspection: Before the snow season starts, inspect your snow blower for any signs of wear and tear, ensuring that all components are functioning properly.
- Mid-season Maintenance: During the winter, perform maintenance checks every few weeks, especially after heavy use, to ensure the machine continues to operate efficiently.
- Post-season Service: After the snow season ends, conduct a thorough cleaning and servicing of your snow blower to prepare it for storage and to prevent deterioration over the off-season.
The pre-season inspection involves checking the oil level, ensuring the spark plug is in good condition, and examining the belts and cables for any damage. This proactive approach helps to identify potential issues before they escalate, allowing for timely repairs.
Mid-season maintenance should include checking the fuel system, cleaning the air filter, and inspecting the auger and impeller for blockages or damage. This ensures that your snow blower operates efficiently throughout the winter and can handle heavy snowfall without a hitch.
Post-season service is vital for longevity; it involves draining fuel to prevent gumming, cleaning the exterior, and storing it in a dry environment. Additionally, consider changing the oil and inspecting all parts for any necessary replacements to ensure your snow blower is ready for use when the next season arrives.
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