Craftsman 28-in. 357cc EFI+EGOV Two-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower

As someone who regularly battles heavy snowfall, I was eager to put the Craftsman 28-in. 357cc EFI+EGOV Two-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower to the test. With its robust specifications and a host of features designed to tackle even the most daunting snowdrifts, this snow blower seemed like a promising addition to my winter arsenal. However, my experience with the machine was a mixed bag of highs and lows.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the snow blower presents itself as a solid, heavy-duty machine. Weighing in at 219 pounds, it certainly feels substantial. The build quality, at first glance, appears robust, with large 16-inch tires and a sturdy frame that promises durability. However, upon closer inspection, some of the materials used, particularly the plastic components, seem a bit flimsy for a machine in this price range.

Starting Up and Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this snow blower is the PowerStart EFI Technology, which indeed makes starting the engine a breeze. Even in freezing temperatures, the machine roared to life without any fuss. The self-propelled drive, with its six forward and two reverse speeds, offers a decent range of motion, which is particularly useful when maneuvering through different types of snow and terrain.

The heated hand grips are a thoughtful touch, providing much-needed comfort during prolonged use. However, the overall ergonomics could use some improvement. As a taller individual, I found myself hunching over the machine, which led to some discomfort in my lower back after extended use. Adjustable handle heights would have been a welcome addition.

Performance in Different Snow Conditions

The Craftsman snow blower boasts a powerful 357cc engine and a three-stage mechanism designed to handle heavy, wet snow. In practice, the performance was somewhat underwhelming. While the machine handled light, powdery snow with relative ease, it struggled significantly with wet and heavy snow, often clogging up and requiring frequent stops to clear the chute.

The extended chute design is intended to provide better snow aiming and reduced blowback, but in heavy snow, the machine's throwing distance was disappointing. It barely managed to clear the width of my driveway, necessitating multiple passes to achieve a clean sweep. This was particularly frustrating when dealing with the dense, compacted snow left by the plows at the end of my driveway.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability is another area where the Craftsman snow blower falls short. The shear pins, which are supposed to protect the augers from damage, broke frequently, even in relatively light conditions. This not only interrupted my workflow but also added to the maintenance costs. Additionally, the auger belt showed signs of wear and tear after just a few uses, which was concerning given the machine's price point.

The transmission also posed some issues. Shifting into reverse was particularly challenging, and the overall feel of the transmission was not as smooth as I would have liked. These mechanical issues detract from the overall reliability of the machine.

Maneuverability and Control

On the plus side, the large tires and power steering make the snow blower relatively easy to maneuver, even on icy surfaces. The self-propelled drive system works well, allowing for smooth transitions between speeds. However, the chute control mechanism is another weak point. The manual chute often got stuck, requiring me to adjust it by hand, which was both inconvenient and time-consuming.

Fuel Efficiency

One area where the Craftsman snow blower does excel is fuel efficiency. The EFI system seems to optimize fuel consumption, allowing for extended use without frequent refueling. This is a significant advantage, particularly during long snow-clearing sessions.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman 28-in. 357cc EFI+EGOV Two-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower is a machine with potential, but it falls short in several critical areas. While it offers some useful features like easy starting, heated hand grips, and decent maneuverability, its performance in heavy, wet snow is lacking. The frequent clogging, durability issues, and ergonomic shortcomings make it difficult to recommend wholeheartedly.

For those who primarily deal with light, powdery snow, this snow blower might still be a viable option. However, if you regularly face heavy, wet snow or have a large area to clear, you might want to consider other options. The machine's high price point further complicates its value proposition, especially given the mechanical issues and maintenance concerns.

Ultimately, I cannot confidently recommend the Craftsman 28-in. 357cc EFI+EGOV Two-Stage Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower. There are other snow blowers on the market that offer better performance, durability, and user experience for a similar or even lower cost. Investing in a more reliable and efficient machine will save you time, effort, and frustration in the long run.